New Tom Jones musical What’s New Pussycat had its opening night in Birmingham this week and the show has been met with brilliant reviews from critics and audiences alike. Directed by Luke Sheppard, with lighting by Howard Hudson, the show draws on the classic picaresque Henry Fielding novel, The History of Tom Jones, and transplants it into 1960s London, soundtrack by some of the greatest hits by the legendary Welsh crooner. Here’s a round-up of what critics have had to say:
***** Whats On Stage
“What’s New Pussycat? is just what theatre needs right now”
***** The Telegraph
“Luke Sheppard … provides a booming night for the Boomers … both nostalgic and reinvigorating”
***** The Reviews Hub
“From the first notes of the opening number through to the finale, this world premiere of What’s New Pussycat fizzes with energy.”
**** The Guardian
“sheer, high-voltage fun”, “dazzling lighting by Howard Hudson”
**** Birmingham Mail
“From start to finish, What’s New Pussycat? is filled with sass and fun.”
What’s New Pussycat runs at the Birmingham Rep until 14th November. The rest of the creative team includes:
Written by Joe DiPietro
Directed by Luke Sheppard
Choreography by Dame Arelene Phillips DBE
Musical Direction / Orchestration by Matthew Brind
Set Design by Jon Bausor
Lighting Design by Howard Hudson
Costume Design by Janet Bird
Sound Design by Gareth Owen
Video Design by Akhila Krishnan
Musical Direction by Josh Sood