Review: Two Strangers (Carry A Cake Across New York)!, at the Criterion Theatre, London

Whew! Made it! May have taken almost two weeks (sorry!) to get all these thoughts down out of my brain, onto paper, and then onto the computer; but after a marathon fuelled by tea that may as well be sponsored by Bird & Blend and Yorkshire Tea, I finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. 

The question is, have I possibly saved the best till last?

The last, was a Sunday matinee (I had no show Saturday night, instead having a well needed catch up and pint with some London mates), and was another new British work, an ongoing theme with my choices: Two Strangers (Carry A Cake Across New York). 

(I will be referring to it as Two Strangers from now on...)

Originally playing at the Kiln Theatre, and with even earlier iterations bearing it under a different name, Two Strangers is now playing at the Criterion Theatre (which is celebrating its 150th Anniversary this year). It has earnt critical and word-of-mouth praise across the board. It has become a quick favourite among the theatre-going community, garnering so much excitement. Along with Operation Mincemeat and Kathy & Stella, this one is said to be at the top of new British musical writing. 

And oh boy does Two Strangers deserve all the success it has been getting because it is sublime!

Two Strangers is a two-handler, following Dougal, a young Brit spending 48 hours in New York for his estranged father's wedding. He meets Robyn at the airport, and the two form a connection as they explore New York, deliver wedding cake, face some hard truths. 

The music is written by Jim Barne and Kit Buchan and gives very strong Pasek and Paul vibes, particularly to Dear Evan Hansen, as well as having notes of Dogfight. It's not only melodically strong, but lyrically, it is beautiful. 

The book is also incredibly well thought out and developed, having strong moments of both heart and humour. It very much has a feeling of a Richard Curtis film, turned musical. 

But what elevates this material is the dual performance of Dujonna Gift and Sam Tutty 

It's these two that really make the show for so many people, particularly their chemistry. It sizzles off the stage, while keeping a cosy element of cuteness. From the moment they meet, they are electric together. While they do have their own moments to reflect and express themselves, it is when they are together when you see the true magic. 

The show wouldn't work if you didn't fall in love with Dougal and Robyn the instant you met them: with these two at the helm, it is impossible not to, despite the weird relation that would befall them following the wedding (it is Robyn's elder sister who is marrying Dougal's father, making Robyn his sort-of-step-aunt). 

Tim Jackson's direction and choreography makes this gem flow much smoother than Dougal's pick up lines 

This has been a very good year for Jackson: as well as the success Merrily We Roll Along has had in New York (which he has been choreographer for since the Maria Friedman-directed hit started at the Menier Chocolate Factory), but he has also added Dr Who to his resume, being the Neil Patrick Harris' choreographer for The Giggler special episode. Everything from the timing of the revolve, which suitcase is to be opened to reveal the right bit of set and right props is perfectly executed. 

Two Strangers is a show for everyone. But especially for anyone who loves their romcoms, stories with humour and heart, and also for anyone who wants to try something new. 

Actually for the latter, there is a lot of choice for that; and as a side-track, I am so happy to see so many new British musicals getting recognition, and their risks paying off. Obviously, there's what I have been able to catch on this trip, but there is also Babies at the Other Palace which is about to end its run. Notably, written by the same chap as the wonderful 42 Balloons, which I am very hopeful will get a future life post its Salford run. 

Anyway, I really hope Two Strangers gets an opportunity for more to see it, as it truly is a gem

Whether it's another London run, a UK tour, or a run in New York - the city does love playing love letters to itself. 

I am also very hopeful for Two Strangers when it comes to awards season. We will of course have to see, but I have a hunch it is going to rather well. I certainly hope so.