This is a remarkable show and performance by the whole cast. I am blown away. There’s
not many times when I wished it could have been longer or that I could go back and see it all
over again tomorrow. I want to hear the songs again.
You can always expect to see a good show at Charing Cross theatre, as it’s just off the main
theatre streets in London and presents some fabulous up and coming new shows. It’s a
great place to test the waters of the London audience. But I wasn’t expecting such a
performance from these young bright stars. Stiletto is introducing some incredible talent to
the London stage as well as a fantastic new musical.
Set in Venice in the winter of 1730-1731, we see how money, power and influence play such
a large part in the indulgent top end of society. Where counts, countesses and cardinals
expect to be entertained by their proteges at the expense of morality and the law. Where
young men with beautiful voices are castrated to ensure that they keep their voice intact.
Where African slaves are treated with scorn and help in low esteem. A story of love, racism,
intrigue and misplaced honour and morality.
Marco, a beautiful young, castrated man who was traded by his poverty stricken family for
his voice to raise money for their upkeep, is played by Jack Chambers. He is loved by
Faustino, his guardian and teacher, Niccolo, his trusty friend and assistant and Gioia
daughter of African Slaves. By the end of the show myself as well. Jack Chambers played
Marco with passion and intelligence, not a particularly likeable character at the beginning,
but as the story unfolds you discover who he really is and how he has risen from humble
beginnings, realising that he has hidden depths and secrets. He meets his match in Gioia,
performed by Jewelle Hutchinson. Oh my, she has the most incredible voice, and my only
gripe is that I wished she had more songs. This voice is both angelic and rich. I loved Gioia’s
voice in ‘The Wanting’ and ‘What Makes a Man a Man?’
I can say that there was not a member of the cast who was misplaced. It is imperative to
mention the beautiful voices of Kelly Hampson (Azurra) and Jennie Jacobs (Mezzo
Soprano). Also Greg Barnett playing the tormented and jealous Faustino. Who else could
have played Don Ricci, the Cardinal, than Alex Anstey with humour and as the Magistrate
with a huge and commanding stage presence. The young Connor Wood as Niccolo who
finds his voice in time to speak up for what is right and save an injustice, the perfect choice.
Also, Sam Barrett as Luigi and Douglas Hansell as the self-important and corrupt Pietro. The
ensemble did not put a foot wrong throughout the performance and the opening song of Act
Two: ‘Did You See That?’ showcased the talent of the team working and enjoying being
together. I am sure they know this is a hit as it can be seen in their passion and delivery. All
the musical numbers are perfect, not a dull one among them.
This is a fabulous story with a memorable and resonating score by Matthew Wider and
Orchestrated by Simon Nathan. The costumes are stunning and all credit to Anna Kelsey,
costume designer, with Laila Jam making the cloak and Jess Jones who made the mask. I
am sure it will go on to bigger stages and I can even envisage this as a film – we all love
success stories like a phoenix of rising from the ashes. But for now, get a ticket and catch it
while you can.
Stiletto is recommended as only suitable for audiences of 12 and older, but I think maybe
14/15 would be more advisable as it comes with a trigger warning of racism, suicide, murder
and deceit.
Music and Lyrics by Matthew Wilder (Oscar and Grammy nominated)
Book by Tim Luscombe
Directed by David Gilmore
The production runs from 24th March until 14th June 2025.
Reviewer - Penny Curran
On - 31st March 2025
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