THEATRE REVIEW: Nelly - The King's Arms Theatre, Salford.

'Nelly' is not, as yet, a finished product. What was presented to us this afternoon at The King's Arms Theatre in Salford, was very much a work-in-progress. It is therefore very difficult to review in terms of what I saw: a live 4-piece folk band at the back of the stage and two actors, reading from the script and dressed in modern black clothing, speaking the words in front of them. What would possibly be of more use to both reader and company alike, would be to pass a few thoughts on the concept itself, and try and envisage how this would have worked as a full production.

'Nelly' is a new musical, based on the life of Nell Gwynne, and written by Graham Hopkins. The folk styled music for the show was written by Jo Freya, Robb Johnson, Reg Meuross, Lucy Ward, Boff Whalley, and Dave Wilson. In this afternoon's rehearsed reading, the part of Nell Gwynne was read by Helen O'Hara; all the male roles by Conor Lynam, and the other female roles by Kip Winter. The band was Robb Johnson, Reg Meuross, Kip Winter, and Winter Wilson.

There is already a Musical of Nell Gwynne, and at least two plays about her. Her life is well documented, and there has even been a hit TV series and at least one film too. I have to ask therefore, why another? What makes this show different and stand out from all the others?  We were informed before the start of this afternoon's presentation that everything within the script is factual and historically accurate, so maybe that is the pull; however if that is the case, why were we being presented - nay bombarded - with some of the most groanable puns and Carry On style seaside postcard humour throughout (except the end). Is it the use of profanity and strong language which would gain this musical an X-rating which sets it apart? Or is it that the music is folk music - perhaps a more authentic genre for the subject matter, and was actually very lyrical and pleasing. The lyrics, like the libretto, were of the same ilk however. 

The Musical charts the life of Nell Gwynne in the first person; she narrates her own story directly to the audience, and even tells us of her death before she actually dies on stage. It's a little odd, and it did feel a little like a history lesson at times. Starting very much in the Carry On style (even with a lot of out-of-date popular references which would go completely above the heads of a modern audience), it takes a long spiral down to her death and ends very much in a tragic and contemplative mood. The music does not further the narrative, as it does in most modern shows, but simply compliments it. And despite it being very easy to listen to, there's not a fast jig or up-tempo showstopper among them either.

So does the Musical work? In my opinion, the mix of antiquated styles would make it appeal only to those who grew up in the 1970s who have a liking for folk music. The combination of bawdy punnery, combined with the swearing, the narrative style, and folk music is a very niche audience bracket!

Reviewer - Matthew Dougall

on - 19.9.21