Most of us have heard of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, either from the original story or the blockbuster film. It leaves us with so many questions:
How did his mother give birth to a fully grown, elderly man—already dressed?
How did he become so knowledgeable without ever attending school?
And, let’s be honest, can his age-reversing genes be bottled and sold? (Asking for a friend.)
In case you don’t know the story, Jethro Compton’s musical adaptation (he’s also the director, stage designer, and writer) of The Curious Case of Benjamin Button tells the story of a couple, the Buttons, in the early 1900s. They can’t wait to welcome their first child, but things take a strange turn when he’s born as an elderly man (so many questions!). Horrified ad embarrassed, the Buttons keep their son Benjamin (John Dagleish) hidden in the attic and promise to keep his existence a secret, known only by the midwife, who fears for her reputation.
Haunted by shame and confusion, Mrs. Button tragically takes her own life, leaving Mr. Button to care of Benjamin alone. Hoping that Benjamin will pass naturally from old age, Mr. Button chooses to wait instead of forming a bond. But things don’t go as planned – Benjamin outlives him. Each year Benjamin spends in the attic, he grows younger. By age 55, he ventures outside, meets Elowen (Clare Foster) at a local pub, and they begin a romance. What Benjamin doesn’t know is that Elowen is the daughter of the midwife who helped deliver him. She forbids their relationship, just as Benjamin’s father had forbidden his with her.
Benjamin’s life leads him to work on a boat and later serve in the war, all while growing younger. He eventually reconnects with Elowen; they marry and have two children. Over time, Benjamin loses many people he loves, as he grows younger while they age and pass on. And although Benjamin has youth on his side, he isn’t immortal. Eventually, he returns to infancy and, finally, becomes no more.
Set against the backdrop of an old-school barn, the full cast – dressed in early 1900s folk-inspired costumes (designed by Anna Kelsey), greets the audience with vibrant energy and undeniable talent. From powerful vocals to skilful folk instrument performances, the cast brings pure talent, fully transporting the audience into Benjamin’s world.
Though I’d seen the movie years ago and knew the story, I didn’t remember all the details, so I was curious to see how it would play out on stage. While waiting in line, I overheard two women chatting about how they’d already seen the musical three times since it premiered a few weeks ago, which made me think it must be a fantastic show! Personally, once was enough for me, but if you’re a fan of folk music, I can see why you might want to experience it more than once.
While I enjoyed the musical, I found myself wishing the set had evolved in the second half to offer more visual variety. It would have also helped if Benjamin’s dramatic age changes were a bit clearer. I really had to stretch my imagination to believe he was getting younger.
I also hoped to see more diversity, especially behind the scenes. Aside from two talented cast members of colour (Oonagh Cox and Damien James), the cast was predominantly white. And when I looked through the programme, which included baby photos of the creative team, I noticed no Black or brown faces. I recently read an article by artistic director Lynette Linton, who said, ‘I don’t want to see any more shows where [the creative team is] not diverse. We need people from different backgrounds and all walks of life making work.’ I couldn’t agree more, and was genuinely disappointed by the lack of diversity.
What really stole the show was the cast – every person on stage was exceptional, working their socks off to keep the audience fully engaged and wanting more. I especially loved the relationship between Benjamin Button and Elowen Keene; it felt playful, genuine, and authentic. It was nice to see so much talent on stage. These actors were not only singing, dancing, and acting, but also playing instruments including guitars, cellos, violins, and the piano -such a well-cast and talented ensemble!
Overall, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is a fun musical with plenty of catchy songs and great acting. If you love the story, enjoy folk music, and want a family-friendly musical, this is the play for you!
Need to know: The Curious Case of Benjamin Button is playing at the Ambassador’s Theatre until Sat 15 Nov 2024
