The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

© Marc Brenner

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button at the Ambassador’s Theatre has recently extended its run in the West End, following its overwhelming reception and popularity since opening in October last year. Audiences eagerly anticipated this production after its award-winning run at Southwark Playhouse in 2023.

Jethro Compton and Darren Clark's production bares few similarities to other adaptations of the original story by F. Scott Fitzgerald besides the concept of a man, Benjamin Button, born elderly & aging backwards. Compton and Clark's version of events takes place on the Cornish coast in the 1900s that suitably fits the heavily folk influenced music that succeeds in setting the scene; particularly within a central location within the show, ‘The Pickled Crab’ pub.The production exudes an intimate, warm atmosphere much in thanks to its music reminiscent of sea shanties perhaps sung by Cornish fishermen in an establishment like 'The Pickled Crab' perfectly fitting the setting and tone of the show.

Immediately this musical sets itself apart with the entire orchestration being played by the actor-musicicans making up the ensemble and principle cast. Each member of the cast exceptionally navigates the ability to simultaneously act, sing, dance and play for the duration of the show which is undeniably impressive. Whether it be percussion, string, brass or keys, the cast navigate every performance element of the show together from the first to last beat of music.

Secondly, the most awe-inducing element to this production is the story itself, the book by Jethro Compton successfully curates a true-to-life world in which we see well rounded and complex characters surrounding The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. Benjamin, being the centre of the story sees all the ups, downs and complications of a life one might expect from someone aging backwards, but moreover the depiction and exploration of how those around him handle the strange circumstances feels well considered and impactful. In what feels very a satisfying conclusion, by the end of the 2nd act it truly feels as though every character has reached their own resolution and that no stone in this plot has been left unturned and the story is tied in a cleverly constructed and neat bow.

The show delves into powerful themes of home, love, and family, offering heartwarming, larger-than-life lessons even as it confronts heavier, darker moments with depth and sensitivity. The choice of particular moments chosen to portray over the lifespan of this unusual life presents limitless possibility and yet those chosen feel relatable and extremely human, allowing for focus on the shows core, the importance of human connection. The repeated motif of the wider ensemble who collectively portrayed a series of humorous and archetypal characters, narrating simple and seemingly inconsequential moments in life and the ripple effect of how these grew to accumulate to course changing moments in Benjamins journey felt witty, lighthearted and very smart, decisively world building with memorable and quirky characters astutely contrasted with Benjamins stories as we saw them age whilst Benjamin continued to get younger with each new chapter of the performance.

Symbolism also plays a crucial role in the production, with recurring motifs of the sea, the tide, the moon, and time subtly reinforcing the narrative. A particularly standout moment that demonstrates this is the love song “The Moon and the Sea,” in which Benjamin and Elowen express their feelings for one another through the metaphor of the tide -the inescapable pull of between the moon and the sea despite distance and difference. This symbolism was also echoed in the set design, also by Compton, by integrating fishing nets, old wood, ropes and other nautical equipment to depict and suggest the look of the moon, waves and water.

Leading the exceptional ensemble, John Dagleish as Benjamin Button and Clare Foster as Elowen Keene delivered standout performances, infusing the story with depth, heart, and compassion. Their portrayal of a relationship spanning over 50 years was nothing short of captivating. Dagleish, effortlessly ageless, brought Benjamin to life across multiple stages of his life, skilfully conveying a 60-year lifespan with subtle shifts in physicality and vocal delivery. Thanks to these nuanced changes, it was easy to suspend disbelief and fully engage with each of Benjamin's ages, without relying on prosthetics or heavy makeup. His voice, rich and clear, blended seamlessly with the beautiful choral ensemble moments, perfectly complementing the folk-inspired score.

Clare Foster, too, effortlessly aged throughout the show, maintaining an infectious youthful energy that remained central to Elowen’s character. Her performance made it clear why Benjamin was so utterly enamoured by her charm. Their onstage chemistry was joyful, and their relationship, portrayed with such tenderness and authenticity, became the emotional backbone of the production. It was evident that both Dagleish and Foster were deeply immersed in their characters & their connection enriching the story and enhancing its emotional weight.

Like their fellow cast members it is clear that the entire ensemble, truly adore this production and the message at its core. Their enthusiasm and commitment to every moment on stage were palpable, and it’s easy to understand why The Curious Case of Benjamin Button has been hailed by many as one of the best new British musicals in years - an accolade that is sure to be followed by many more as this remarkable show continues to resonate with audiences.