Knights of the Rose at the Arts Theatre, London

I have to say I throughly enjoyed Knights of the Rose at the Arts Theatre, London.

I don’t think it will be everyone’s cup of tea but it has lots of potential.

It’s has Knights and Princesses, singing and sword fights. With a talented cast and famous songs this new musical is a very enjoyable watch.

At times I did think it may have been better if it had its own original songs.

Its great that you know the songs but you know them to well. Some of them did fit perfectly but I found that in the more serious moments the songs didn’t quite hit the mark.

If this was a comedy/musical I think it could (would) work but as far as I’m aware it’s not suppose to be?

With songs like Don’t Speak being used in an arguement between the Princess and her Knight you could tell the audience didn’t know if they were suppose to laugh or not, with a few giggles escaping from the crowd.

I think the songs are too well known to be used in the serious way they were.

Putting that aside I still found Knights of the Rose to be very enjoyable, it has a great cast with fantastic voices.

My favourites being Prince Gawain and Sir Hugo played by Andy Moss and Oliver Saville.

Oliver Saville’s voice alone is worth a watch of this musical.

Also Sir Palamon played by Chris Cowley makes the perfect villian with a conscience.

The narration of the play comes from John, a Knight in training he keeps us up to date with who’s who and what’s what, with his own eager ambitions to one day be a Knight played wonderfully by Ruben Van Kerr he brings a lovely innocence to the character.

I also have to give a mention to Katie Birtill for her amazing vocals and presence on stage.

All the cast shine with their talent and I love the costumes and the traditional romance of prince/princess and knights, it was all very romantic.

I think the musical has potential to become very popular but it needs to lighten up a just little so that the songs work or it needs its own music to go with the feel of the story they are trying to portray.

I would definitely recommend seeing Knights of the Rose for its talented cast and good story telling.

The stage setting is impressive too with its rotating set and great props all blending in with the fantastic choreography by Racky Plews, it built the atmosphere right up especially in the opening scenes.

I did fall in love a little and I think another visit is in order!

I need to find me a Knight!

Big thanks to London Box Office for giving me the opportunity to review Knights of the Rose.

For tickets go to: www.londonboxoffice.co.uk

Knights of the Rose is at the Arts Theatre, London.

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