It’s hard to say whether the musical adaptation of the much-loved 2004 rom-com, 13 Going On 30 is anticipated or yet another unnecessary albeit nostalgic attempt to get more people to the theatre. I guess two things can be true.
Penned by the movie’s writers, Josh Goldsmith and Cathy Yuspa, the book tells of Jenna Rink, who, at her disastrous and humiliating 13th birthday party wishes she was “30, flirty and thriving”, a sprinkle of magic dust later and now Jenna has everything she ever wanted, or has she?
The plot, on paper, is everything you want from a movie perfect for a hyggeligt Sunday afternoon, however, despite the undeniable chemistry (and soaring vocals) from leads Lucie Jones (Jenna) and David Hunter (Matt), the journey Jenna takes becomes less sentimental and more passive, with the book being faithful to a fault. There are moments of hilarity, particularly from Grace Mouat as Lucy, who, after recently starring as Karen in Mean Girls, now gets to play the HBIC and she does so with ease. The book is occasionally boosted by songs from Alan Zachary and Michael Weiner, however, there doesn’t seem to be much synergy between the book and the lyrics. Musicals work best when there’s a harmonious integration between the dialogue and the songs, however at times the preceding dialogue is then repeated in the number. The music is at its best during the upbeat, boppy numbers, particularly the phenomenal young company, ‘Team Thirteen’ who never miss a beat in Jennifer Weber’s peppy, joyous choreography. Special mention to Max Bispham as ‘Young Matt’ who has an incredible voice, I look forward to following his career.
Colin Richmond’s set design is brought to life by Howard Hudson’s evocative and bold lighting, further bolstered by George Reeve’s video – an example of how video can support a production and not take over. The initial transformation from 13 to 30 is a perfect example of a team effort, resulting in a trippy but magical experience – the standout scene from the show.
The lack of fluidity is mirrored in other parts of the production, a scene in Jenna’s closet for example, has the potential to be fabulous and sleek, but comes across as the need for a filler song during a costume change, take notes from 2007’s Legally Blonde – the pinnacle of movie-to-musical adaptations. Likewise, other creative choices further lack finesse (such as the hand smeared glass of the Poise offices.), or leave more questions in the minds of the audience; why does Jenna’s boyfriend lean in on being Canadian (even if it sounds more Scottish)? Why is the aforementioned and Lucy at the wedding finale? Why does Richard take out a bottle of pills for a cheap gag at overdosing?
Ultimately what this production needs is more time to grow, rather than get to the finish line, enjoy the journey – the irony is not lost on me either. The skeleton is in place and has masses of potential, and, with some tweaks could be as memorable as its predecessors.
13 Going On 30 plays at Manchester’s Opera House until Sunday 12th October. Further information and booking can be found here.
Tickets received in exchange for an honest review. #AD
Photography by Pamela Raith.
Stagey Reviews 