BILLY THE KID: A NEW MUSICAL – National Youth Music Theatre (Download)
Star rating: five stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Again the National Youth Music Theatre has proved there is nothing to fear about the future of the musical theatre in the UK. The talent included in this wonderful new musical would put some professional productions to shame – and it has been recorded live.
Written by Ben Frost and Richard Hough, this sparkling new musical comedy has definitely hit the spot. The story concerns a quiet, shy, young boy called William who, in the modern day, suffers bullying at school and dreams of being a cowboy hero of old who defeats the baddies and makes the world a better place. Can those dreams come true? Starting off at school, the musical soon goes into ‘dream mode’ and becomes a rollicking adventure story – and, along the way, shows that it is possible to get along with one another if we work together instead of against each other.
The music ranges from ballads to hoe-downs to full-scale production numbers – it is one of those shows that, when it gets going, will not stop and pulls the listener in. I’m sure that, on stage, it looked absolutely amazing.
I mentioned this already, but it is a live recording. This sort of threw me, I have to admit. I was expecting a live recording at a performance with audience reaction etc which would have only added to the atmosphere. However, it has been recorded live without an audience! I’m sure there is a good reason for this but, for the life of me, I can’t think what it could be. A minor quibble.
The young cast is exemplary, as usual with the NYMT. Thirty very talented youngsters, ranging from the age of 13 to two very old people at the age of 21 (!), bring this show to high energy life. The cast includes: Josh Barnett, Aliyah Odoffin, Frasier Jacobs, Justina Aina, Sophie Boardman, Ethan Le Beouf and someone who is going to be a talent to be reckoned with in later years – Ben Lewis as Billy the Kid.
I hate pointing out individuals in ensemble pieces such as this, so I want to make it clear that every single voice on this recording is outstanding for their age and contributes immensely to its success. Not only that but the orchestra is also made up of excellent young talent who handle the orchestrations brilliantly under the direction of Charlie Ingles.
It thrills me every time I hear something new from the National Youth Music Theatre and to know that such extraordinary young talent is being given the chance to shine at an early age – long may it continue.
Nick Wakeham
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