Starlight Express review

It’s a musical that barely stops moving, yet Sheppard unlocks its drama like a seasoned showman. The story is slight but themes of respect, self-belief and friendship thrive in the middle of this muscular production. That’s due in no small part to its young cast, many of whom are making their professional debuts. An extremely likeable Jeevan Braich as Rusty brings an innocence and warmth to the title number. Standing in for Kayna Montecillo, Ashlyn Weekes is an angelic Pearl, with a light, mezzo voice that warms to ballad Make Up My Heart.

Another innovation involves gender switching, so that the gritty diesel locomotive Greaseball is played with swagger by Al Knott and the veteran steam engine Poppa is now Momma, played by Jade Marvin, who resolutely nails the gospel fervour of Light at the End of the Tunnel. Tom Pigram is a wonderfully vain, preening Electra and introduced with this production, Jaydon Vijn is an excitable Hydra, a freight truck with an eye on the environment. It’s also refreshing to see a mix of young performers lined up the play the pivotal role of Control. On this press night, Shaniyah Abrahams makes an impact despite the giants on wheels that surround her.

It’s worth remembering that the German production of this show has been running in a purpose-built theatre since it opened in 1988. The Troubadour might not be in the West End, but Sheppard’s production, with assured musical direction from Laura Bangay, has all the style, talent and energy to become a long-term piece of destination theatre.