Review of ‘Emerald Storm’: “Adam Garcia’s show builds a tap-estry of Irish folk beauty, but its structure fails to strike”

The show is concluding its tour with this one-week run at London’s newly opened Emerald Theatre. Guillermo Nazara shares his views on the show to let us know if this explosion of Gaelic culture managed to catch lighting in a bottle.

It may be ugly to draw comparisons with Adam Garcia’s previous cabaret appearances when reviewing his theatrical concoction — it might even be as terrible as throwing someone to wolves, or coyotes. It would also make very little sense. For those hoping to see arguably one of the most popular heart-stoppers in the early 2000s, let me give you a slap (of reality) and remind you that he’s just the mastermind behind this Irish-themed montage — not that he shall be missed in it, anyway.

That should have come across as a compliment, even if you don’t believe I’m capable of ever producing those. It might not be the strongest show in town. From a structural perspective, it has a few problems. But does it deliver its promise in terms of artistic quality and choreographic spectacularity? The ongoing raucous reaction on their first night in the West End (ish) may answer your question. It’s quite an enjoyable piece of entertainment, paying a beautiful homage to Irish folk through exquisitely executed performances of tap, minor acrobatic stunts, and high-powered singing.

There is a lot to praise about the renditions, most of which boast exceptional finesse and impassioned deftness. Some of the numbers are visually striking — intricately coordinated and exuding such electrifying stamina that it’s impossible not to be compelled by the rapport, technical prowess, and virtuosity some members of the cast flaunt. The score’s Celtic flavour (sadly, using prerecorded instrumental tracks), combined with the lighting’s alternation of green and orange shines and blueish haze, solidifies the Gaelic atmosphere the show effortlessly plunges its audiences into.

But despite its subtle nods to the Banshee lore, the spell doesn’t remain unbroken for the whole of the evening — fading away several times as a feeling of repetitiveness quietly begins to emerge. Though every interpretation is laudable, the sense of cohesiveness among the show’s component is noticeably missing. There is no logic or cadence in the way each part is connected, which ultimately leads to this slightly chaotic array of overly similar renditions, featured for no other reason than to be featured.

The production makes a discernible attempt at bringing some fresh air through alternative aesthetics. The troupe’s plain-looking black clothes and patent-leather shoes transition into an 80s fantasy with the addition of jaded grey denim jackets. Simultaneously, the choir’s long, robed costumes contribute to the rare mystical moments the show also alludes to. Yet, those three options keep coming back over and over again, eventually wearing out the element of surprise and innovation, and in some manner, accentuating the piece’s weaknesses in this department.

At the same time, there’s hardly any storyline to follow. A thin plot device concerning a janitor dreaming of being a professional tap dancer materialises throughout both acts. However, it’s explored in such haste that it vaguely makes an effect. Unfortunately, the rest of the performance feels like a regurgitation of the same material. There’s nothing new, and in the end, it all turns into a terribly predictable experience, where the entertainment lives on but the excitement is withered down almost completely.

Carried out by a remarkably talented ensemble but built upon a rough idea in much need of a good polish, Emerald Storm proves there’s thunder in both the creatives, dancers and singers’ souls through the rapturous energy the piece emanates as a whole. Yet, it’s still a few bolts down before electrifying viewers on the same level. Its germinal idea may stem from the concept of dinner theatre or an old-fashioned pub gathering. But when the show has the potential to become a background facet, that’s when you know the green in the title might not mean it’s ready to go.

Emerald Storm plays at London’s Emerald Theatre until 7 September. Tickets are available on the following link.

By Guillermo Nazara