Review; Miss Saigon
Miss Saigon at Mayflower Theatre, Southampton, 29 January – 7 February
A new production of the legendary Miss Saigon is currently captivating audiences at Mayflower Theatre in Southampton. This hauntingly beautiful show grips you from the moment the dramatic opening notes play out, setting the tone as we are taken on an emotional journey from start to finish. This is not a show for the faint-hearted; be prepared to be taken to the heights of every emotion, from laughter to tears and back again – and I am not ashamed to say there was even the occasional sob!
The story is well known, but with its recent resurgence it may be unfamiliar to some. For those who need a little teaser:
As the Vietnam War draws to a close, 17-year-old Kim is compelled to work in a Saigon nightclub run by the cunning and morally dubious Engineer. There, she forms a powerful bond with Chris, an American GI, and the two fall in love. Their happiness is cut short when the fall of Saigon violently separates them. Over the next three years, Kim embarks on a harrowing journey of survival and hope, determined to reunite with Chris — unaware that he has left behind a son he never knew existed.
This show packs a punch! Every song is loaded with emotion, the intensity of love and loss breathed into every word and every note. Complimented by an outstanding cast; each performer leaves everything on stage, singing with such passion and pain that it reverberates around the theatre, resonating deep in the hearts of the audience.
The character of the Engineer is exquisitely brought to life by Seann Miley Moore. Full of confidence and flamboyance, they take ownership of the stage, exuding an unwavering commitment to the role – entertaining the audience with every playful gesture and sassy quip. Despite the underlying unscrupulous nature of the role, they weave undertones of humour into the serious subject matter, breaking up the intensity with bursts of laughter.
Making her professional debut, Julianne Pundan is simply stunning as Kim – crafting a compelling and endearing character who captivates the audience as she fights through hardship and suffering, purely motivated by love and hope. She pours her heart out through her breathtaking vocals and has the ability to conjure raw emotion, repeatedly bringing me to tears as my heart broke while witnessing her happiness and pain unfold before my eyes.
Jack Kane gives a striking portrayal of Chris, a tortured soul who finds fleeting moments of happiness with Kim, only to be brutally torn apart and lost to each other. His effortless yet powerful delivery enriches the show as we watch him battle his inner demons, scarred by the past. He delivers a character that wrenches at the heartstrings as he tries to navigate an impossible situation.
At times, the staging feels like watching pieces of art come to life before your eyes. The cast master the fluid nature of the set, with moving parts that are seamlessly integrated into the choreography; the creativity displayed in depicting elements of the story is simply masterful.
This is a show not to be missed. The powerful nature of the story makes for an unforgettable experience. Playing at Mayflower Theatre in Southampton until 7 February, there is still time to book your tickets.
Words by Vicky Anscombe
Photos by Danny Kaan
