The Grand Opera House in Belfast is currently playing host to a lively and visually striking adaptation of the classic tale, 101 Dalmatians. Running until Saturday, 17th August, this production brings to life Dodie Smith’s beloved story with a mix of impressive puppetry, vibrant set design, and a performance from Kym Marsh that truly commands the stage.
Kym Marsh, best known for her roles in Coronation Street and as a member of the pop group Hear’Say, steps into the shoes of one of literature’s most notorious villains, Cruella de Vil. Marsh’s portrayal of Cruella is nothing short of exceptional. From the moment she strides onto the stage, she captures the audience’s attention with a performance that is both chilling and captivating. Her portrayal balances the character’s flamboyant malevolence with a touch of dark humour, making Cruella as charismatic as she is terrifying.
One of the standout aspects of this production is the costuming, particularly for Cruella. The elaborate designs reflect her character’s obsession with fashion, with each outfit more outrageous and stylish than the last. Marsh’s performance is further elevated by her musical numbers, which are undoubtedly the highlights of the show. The songs written for Cruella are sharp, witty, and delivered with powerful vocals that showcase Marsh’s talent.
However, while Cruella’s numbers soar, some of the other musical performances fall a bit flat. This seems intentional, perhaps to underline the contrast between Cruella’s larger-than-life persona and the more subdued, “ordinary” lives of the show’s protagonists, Thomas and Danielle. While these moments are less engaging, they serve to make Cruella’s scenes even more impactful.
The set design deserves special mention for its ingenuity and flexibility. The transitions between scenes are smooth and creative, keeping the audience engaged throughout the performance.
Logan, an 11-year-old audience member, noted how much he appreciated the interactive nature of the show. He was particularly impressed by the dramatic set changes and the innovative way the dogs were portrayed. The puppetry used to bring Pongo, Perdi, and the other Dalmatian puppies to life is a testament to the creativity and skill of the production team. The dogs are charming and expressive, adding a layer of warmth and affection to the story that resonates with both children and adults alike.
The show, written by Douglas Hodge (music and lyrics) and Johnny McKnight (book), from a stage adaptation by Zinnie Harris, manages to balance the darker elements of the story with light-hearted, family-friendly humour. The choreography is lively and complements the energy of the musical numbers, adding to the overall spectacle of the production.
101 Dalmatians at the Grand Opera House is a must-see for fans of the original story and theatre-goers looking for a well-crafted, visually appealing production. Kym Marsh’s performance as Cruella de Vil is a tour de force, and while some of the musical numbers may not leave a lasting impression, the overall production is engaging and entertaining. For families, especially those with young children, this is a show that promises to be both fun and memorable.
Logan, our young reviewer, summed it up well: “It’s really interactive and very dramatic. I really loved the way they showed the dogs and how they changed the sets between scenes.” His enthusiasm reflects the spirit of a show that, despite a few minor flaws, successfully brings this classic tale to the stage in a fresh and exciting way.
Book your tickets from goh.co.uk/whats-on/101-dalmatians