Prepare for the unexpected with Little Piece of You: An Atypical Musical In Concert. Set against a backdrop of modern pop rock tracks, this show delves into themes of mental health, depression, and suicide. The performance begins spectacularly as US teen singer Kjersti Long makes her West End debut as Sydney Hill, delivering a powerful number alongside an ensemble of diverse dancers.
However, the narrative of this European Premiere takes a tragic turn when troubled pop star Hill is found unresponsive in a hotel, sparking speculation about whether she took her own life despite appearing to lead a perfect life. Sydney’s death sends her super fan Britt, played by Dujonna Gift, into a downward spiral. Gift delivers a rare vulnerability that resonates with the audience, yet the story deviates from the conventional exploration of the complexities of fandom.
Instead, it intriguingly shifts focus to Britt’s mother, Shannon, and her struggle with depression. Enter powerhouse vocalist Mica Paris, whose soulful energy shines in the role of Shannon, creating a courageous mother-daughter duo. Gift’s stunning vocals blend beautifully with Paris’s, easily one of the show’s highlights. Together, they confront their family’s multi-generational struggles and embark on a journey of self-discovery through art.
Unfortunately, the narrative often takes a backseat to the music, which features compelling tracks written by Long to help herself and others work through good, bad and dark emotions. She evokes an Avril Lavigne vibe, all backed by a lively band. Her father and the show’s lead producer, Jeremy Long explains: “It’s more than just a musical, it’s a celebration of life’s complexities woven together by an artist whose voice is truly distinct.”
The lack of narrative nuance feels like a missed opportunity though, particularly considering the talented cast, which includes rising star Gift, who received rave reviews in the hit musical Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York), triple Olivier Award recipient David Bedella as the father Ethan, and British soul legend Paris.
The dialogue is interspersed with songs, some performed by Paris and Gift, and others by Long herself, who impressively composed most of the tracks at just 14-years-old. The second act, lasting only 40 minutes, feels rushed, and the combination of songs and a clunky plot can make the story difficult to follow. The complex characters lack enough depth for the audience to fully empathise with them, and they do not get enough room to develop throughout the musical.
The abrupt ending depicts Paris and Gift overcoming their mental health struggles with joy and resilience, but many narrative threads remain unresolved. Ultimately, the show centres around the music, but the decision to write the tracks first and build the narrative around them was a risky gamble. For a 17-year-old American rock prodigy to open a musical at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, renowned for its centuries of Royal credentials, is no small feat and deserves recognition – and an extra star!
Need to know: Little Piece of You played at Theatre Royal Drury Lane from 31 Oct – 1 Nov 2024
