Post-lockdown, it can be overwhelming as a theatregoer to determine which shows are worth your hard-earned money when there is so much to choose from. 42 Balloons is more than worth every penny. And what other show out there will leave you questioning, ‘What makes somebody want to fly in a lawn chair?’

Whilst there are some fantastic productions on offer at the moment, this one will give you all the feels from the aptly named Prologue through to curtain call and beyond. (I cannot stop listening to the recently released EP!)

Based on the true story (you can look it up) of Larry Walters and his dream of flying, writer of book, music and lyrics, Jack Godfrey- with direction from Ellie Coote- has created a production that doesn’t just fly, it soars. In what marks Godfrey’s first musical written in a professional capacity, it’s ironically wonderful to be able to witness this first foray into a career where it’s evident that the sky isn’t the limit- it’s just the beginning.

Taking on the role of Larry is Charlie McCullagh, who has the audience in the palm of his hand throughout. Through his stunning vocals, awkward dance moves and a distinctive authenticity, McCullagh pilots the audience’s ascent through Larry’s journey- one that will stay with you long after leaving the theatre.

Evelyn Hoskins pitch-perfectly portrays Larry’s long-term girlfriend, Carol, with powerful vocals that reach altitudes most could only dream of. Immaculately played throughout, it’s the greatest pleasure to witness this beautifully crafted character develop- pushing through the shadows cast by life’s trials and tribulations, whilst building into the production’s melancholy finale. It’s no mean feat to create a role which leaves others feeling inspired to hold onto their own dreams- and Hoskins does this with ease.

In a supporting role, Gillian Hardie whole-heartedly embodies ‘Carol’s Mum’. With exquisite tonal qualities to her voice- so rich with soul- I could have listened to her sing her way through an aviation manual.

But here, the devil’s in the details- and the whole ensemble is non-stop in delivering an effortless performance, whilst barely leaving the stage. Beautiful harmonies blend through their soaring vocals, with slick moves (from choreographer Alexzandra Sarmiento)- masterfully commanding Milla Clarke’s impressive spherical staging.

Olivier Award winning Bruno Poet’s frankly glorious lighting design pairs flawlessly with stunning video and animation design by Tony winner Andrzej Goulding. Here, they take the production to oxygen reducing heights, with gasp inducing visuals and an audible, ‘wow’, spilling from a neighbouring audience member- this is a job very well done.

Paired with Godfrey’s aforementioned music and lyrics, Joe Beighton’s arrangements inflate the score with 80s-inspired pop synths, ballooning with cleverly orchestrated motifs which offer a familiar yet fresh sound- the sounds of a modern-day classic in the making.

Your friends may question, ‘why did you go and see a musical about balloons?’, but 42 Balloons is a first-class production- reminding us, always- if you want it, you can get it!

42 Balloons runs at The Lowry until 19th May. Tickets and further information available here.

Gifted in exchange for an honest review.

Photography by Pamela Raith.