2020 The Musical – Ed Fringe 2023

2020 The Musical: Underbelly, Bristo Square – Cowbarn

23rd August 2023

★★★★★

Telling the true stories of everyday heroes from the West End Stage to the shelves of Lidl, 2020 The Musical is a brand-new musical written by Natasha Mould that celebrates human resilience. It’s billed as a ‘reflection of events, including bizarre government decisions, emotional ups and downs and overcoming the unpredictable.’

2020 The Musical is a comedy show with heart. It manages to fit most of the COVID-19 pandemic into just one hour ranging from lockdown 1, 2 and 3, zoom meetings, Captain Tom Moore, ‘party gate’ and even loo roll shortages. The show centres on characters, Emily (Natasha Mould) and Adam (Tom Watson), who have just embarked on their new jobs in a West End show when the first lockdown comes into action. The show follows these two main characters as they embark on new careers in Lidl and a caring home.

2020 The Musical manages to mix some hilarious comedic moments, such as Oly Britten’s delivery of Boris Johnson’s many lockdown speeches with heartfelt, moving moments; raising some issues such as dementia and the care of the elderly and the value that we place upon those who work with them. At its heart, this is a show about caring for others and romance.

The original score by Richard Vanryne has catchy melodies and cleverly written lyrics. Samantha Richards as the observer/busker, narrates in a lyrical fashion which works really well to move the plot on. The ensemble members take on the various roles and do so very well.

The choreography, by Natasha Mould, mixes a range of modern, lyrical styles but at times feels a little crowded or unnecessary on a small stage. However, a particular highlight of the show is the tap sequence between the elderly couple at Emily’s new nursing home, which manages to both be visually impressive and extremely moving at the same time.

2020 The Musical will have audiences laughing one minute and tearing up the next. With Covid and lockdowns being so recent it definitely draws in a crowd and does not disappoint. This new show, from writer and director Natasha Mould, is still in its infancy but certainly has a bright future. Definitely one to enjoy at this year’s Fringe.

For information and tickets click here.