THE WITCHES OF EASTWICK IN CONCERT | London, Sondheim Theatre

Based on John Updike’s 1984 novel and the 1987 Oscar-winning movie, the West End musical adaptation delighted London audiences for a year and half 2000-2001, earning five Olivier Award nominations along the way. Directed by Maria Friedman (who created the role of Sukie), screaming fans of the show flocked to see this sold-out, one-night-only performance in concert, only to be met with what could almost pass for a fully-staged production.

Conductor Isaac McCullough led the on-stage orchestra of fifteen in an absolutely bombastic sound: Dana P. Rowe’s rich, dramatic score stands out for its uptempo, brassy numbers, and absolutely every number is a showstopper.

John Partridge, openly gay and known for playing Rum Tum Tugger in the official film production of Cats (1998), is unusual casting for Darryl Van Horne, famously portrayed by Jack Nicholson. But as a lithe imp, playing with the witches, Partridge plays the devil very well indeed. As Jane Smart, Eastwick’s uptight amateur cellist, Laura Pitt-Pulford’s sexual awakening brings the house down.

As an encore, fans were delighted to hear Maria Friedman and Carrie Hope Fletcher sing through “Loose Ends”, a beloved number from the original production that has now been cut. Dana P. Rowe himself joined the curtain call, telling us of his immense pride and gratitude for the entire cast and creative team behind such a special concert.

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