Review of ‘The Little Big Things’: “A brush of energy”

Henry Fraser’s uplifting story rolls into the stage in this new British musical currently celebrating its world premiere in the heart of the West End. Guillermo Nazara shares his views on the show, to let us know all the details about a piece where struggle only means opportunity.

They often say that in this world there’s two kinds of people: those who see what fate brings as a excuse for self-pity, and those who prefer to take it as a challenge. The story of Henry Fraser doesn’t seem to fit any of those boxes, though. There’s no wonder that he’s a fighter, and if there is something that defines his character is his inability to quit. But after getting to know deeper about his background, it appears he is not the kind that takes his own obstacles as something to overcome – but instead, something to draw inspiration from. And more remarkably, to inspire every one of us.

The Little Big Things has jumped from the canvas to the page – and now, to the London stage (no rhyme intended). Based on Fraser’s autobiographical book, this original musical recounts the dramatic events surrounding his teenage accident, and the encouraging future that’s to enroll for a man that embraces life day after day. Becoming an extremely accomplished painter after becoming paralyzed from his neck down, Henry’s unfortunate past would however prompt him to only move forward – turning into a beacon of light that would illuminate both his path and those around him.

With music by Nick Butcher and lyrics by Butcher and Tom Ling, the piece features quite a bracing, enjoyable score that, despite a few derivative excerpts, still manages to voice a sound of its own. The melodies may not as catchy as to get stuck in your head after the performance, but the numbers in general are highly amusing – some of them even refreshingly moving.

The weak component, in this case, are the lyrics. Though thoroughly serving the plot all the time, there’s nonetheless a handful of scansion problems. When some of the tunes’ lines are repeated, they often include additional notes that don’t really look intentional, but more out of need to accommodate a verse that couldn’t match the original theme. On the other hand, the structure of some of the songs seems disorganized – not fully following the characters’ arc but instead zigzagging back and forward as they attempt to move from one point to another.

Those are, however, no big hurdles that could prevent the narrative to properly work – let alone, connect with its audience. A huge contributor to this achievement is Joe White’s exceptional book (without a doubt, one of the finest I’ve recently seen in the genre), filled up with wit, sharpness and phenomenal timing. Furthermore, Luke Shepard’s vibrant staging (aligned with Colin Richmond’s colourful and quite imaginative set design) create a visual explosion of liveliness and, all in all, feel-good stamina – in other words, working together to deliver in every of its aspects what the show is truly about.

With an extremely competent cast, their love for the piece and for each other being the most notable trait of their performances, there’s still a few individual mentions to be made. As for the supporting roles, Jamie Chatterton makes a memorable impression in the role of Tom (Henry’s brother), exuding charm and a touching scent of fragility in spite of the supposed toughness of his character, thus endowing him with further humanity. On the other hand, Malinda Parris takes the house by storm with her friendly, hilarious portrayal of Dr. Graham. However, the greatest praise is deservedly earned by Ed Larkin in the lead part of Henry Fraser, developing a quiet yet resounding rendition whose magnetism does not only stay in our minds, but also in our hearts.

With rather clever writing, lovely tunes and and profound story to be taken by, The Little Big Things has opened the autumn season with electrifying strength. It may not be perfect, but its quality goes undoubted. And that’s a more than fair reason to come see a piece whose greatest accomplishment is to celebrate someone’s (and anyone’s) grandest achievement: to never surrender. Something this show shouldn’t do in any case either. At the end of the day, it does have a few little things to call it a big success.

All pictures credit to Pamela Raith.

The Little Big Things plays at London’s Soho Place until 25 November. Tickets are available on the following link.

By Guillermo Nazara