Bonnie & Clyde the Musical: Live
Rating: ★★★★★
Venue: Streamed online
Cast: Jeremy Jordan, Frances Mayli McCann, Natalie McQueen, George Maguire, Trevor Dion Nicholas and Liam Tamne 

Let's raise a little hell this summer. Starring Tony-Nominee Jeremy Jordan and Olivier-Nominee Frances Mayli McCann, this cult-favorite Broadway musical re-tells the unbelievable true story of America's most infamous couple, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow. Captured in stunning, world-class quality, ain't no way you won't remember us.

Pro-shots of musicals are becoming increasingly popular with fan-favourites such as Hamilton, Heathers and Come From Away hitting streaming platforms in recent years. Now's the time for a show I've seen (and reviewed) many times, Bonnie & Clyde. This particular concert pro-shot was the start of Bonnie & Clyde's reign in the West End and was filmed at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane back in January 2022. Bonnie & Clyde is based on the infamous outlaws of the same name, and is composed by Frank Wildhorn, has lyrics by Don Black and a book by Ivan Menchell.

Bonnie & Clyde tells the desperate tale of Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow, and gives the audience a glimpse into their explosive journey of crime, adventure and love. Set in the 1930's during the Great Depression, the duo's path cross and it's love at first sight. They quickly descend into a chaotic life of robbery and murder together.

The staging from Philip Witcomb is stripped back and bare, besides a few essential props, which works well for a show that's set during the Great Depression as it almost feels reflective of the era. The lighting from Zoe Spurr complemented every scene in a way that heightened every word and action throughout. The lighting was particularly effective during slower songs such as "How 'Bout a Dance". 

Before the production even begins, the opening credits take centre stage and it adds an almost movie-like quality to the proshot, with close-ups of props within the show, and showcasing the incredible cast of the concert. As well as this, there was an additional introduction to the backstory and history behind the show from the characters, which is such a great idea, and would have worked well in the many future iterations of the show.

One of the main aspects I loved about the production was the ultra smooth transitions, varying angles and all-round impeccable camera work. It's a proshot that looks as though it was always supposed to be filmed, rather than haphazardly thrown together. There were also some beautiful split screen shots during "Love Who You Love", which was a stunning shot choice and a great juxtaposition between our two female leads.

Having seen many interpretations of Clyde, Jeremy Jordan's is the first that I've found unlikeable, but in the very best way. Jordan has both the grit and rawness needed for Clyde. "Raise a Little Hell" has to be one of the best songs in musical theatre history and Jordan's take on it is equal parts unhinged and exceptional. The depth and edge he brings to the role is nothing short of hypnotising. The chemistry between Frances Mayli McCann and Jeremy Jordan is electrifying and believable.

Natalie McQueen wows with her iconic portrayal of Blanche Barrow. The humour and charm she brings to the character is unmatched. Liam Tamne plays Ted, the wounded unrequited lover incredibly well and offers the most beautiful, smooth vocals. A mention must also go to Bea Ward (young Bonnie), who is an absolute star in the making.

The soundtrack is simply stunning and peaks with numbers such as, "When I Drive", and "Raise a Little Hell". However, "Bonnie" is a quietly beautiful moment among the chaos, and "Dyin' Ain't So Bad" is the perfect song to highlight McCann's outrageously talented vocals. Having McQueen and McCann's, "Love Who You Love" immortalised forever is a true treasure for the musical theatre world.

My only slight criticisms were the cheering during inappropriate moments or scenes, which caused a disconnect between the viewer and the scene and caused it to feel less impactful, such as mid-song cheering through "Dyin' Ain't So Bad". And the early version of the production that I received had no access to subtitles, which I hope is something that is sorted as you read this.

A pro-shot that has garnered one of the most sensational casts, and when paired with the timeless music from Frank Wildhorn and Don Black, it makes for an unforgettable piece of theatre. While the West End production will always be precious to me, this proshot will fill the Bonnie & Clyde shaped-hole in your heart.

You can stream Bonnie & Clyde the Musical: Live, here.