I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change, is the second-longest running Off-
Broadway musical in history. The Wolverhampton Grand Theatre’s production,
currently at the Space Surgeon’s Hall, is truly one of the greatest versions I have
ever seen. It can often be seen as an uninspiring, done-to-death fringe staple. Yet
the team have a 4-strong cast that manage to bring back the spice, joy, and brilliance
of the musical afresh.
It unfolds as a series of short and hilarious vignettes, each documenting a
fantastically observed aspect of dating, love and marriage in the modern age. I’d bet
that every single person has experienced at least one of the scenes played out
before you; it’s that relatability, coupled with an astonishing cast performing catchy
songs, that makes this musical pure magic.
The simple staging was masterful, avoiding distraction and so allowing the story to
speak for itself. We experience relationship after relationship that leaves the
audience repeatedly relate to. One by one, I could see the people around me beam
with knowing smiles that betrayed the fact they recognised the scene from their own
lives. The entire audience was transformed into a litter of cheshire cat grins as their
delightfully cringeworthy memories reappeared, mingled with the cast’s hilarious portrayals.
I especially enjoyed Bradley Walwyn’s ‘Manliest Man’ and Sarah Pearson’s ‘Working
Girl’ who just can’t find the time for date 1, never mind dates 2 and 3. Both actors are
comedy gold – it was a real joy to see them perform. Honourable mention to Sam
Willison who had every woman and man in the crowd falling at his feet as he
serenaded each and every person in the front row. Completing the quartet, Megan
Carole’s delicious vocals proved to be the show’s cherry on top.
The entire ensemble made it look effortless. Completely at ease, with each other and
the audience, they were clearly having the time of their lives on stage. This
translated into an effervescent, energetic, life-affirming experience – an astonishingly
fresh experience considering it is such a well-told musical.
I urge each and every one of you to go and see WGT’s production of ‘I Love You,
You’re Perfect, Now Change’ before the fringe closes. You’ll have the time of your
life. The only regrets will be the ones you find yourself mockingly reliving from your
own love live misadventures.
I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change is playing at theSPACE Surgeon's Hall until 24th Aug, tickets available at www.edfringe.com
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