Book: Joe Tracz
Music and Lyrics: Joe Iconis
Director: James Edge
Following a successful run of exciting and innovative productions last year, the Old Joint Stock returns with another equally ambitious and bold choice for their summer show.
Be More Chill is exciting, colourful and full of energy; and it’s all packed into a delightful three hours inside Birmingham’s iconic, intimate pub theatre.
Following its premiere in New Jersey, Be More Chill transferred to Broadway before a London debut followed in 2020. As the show battled its way to relative success, a loyal following has developed to support its growth further. Now the small, yet exceptionally creative team at the Old Joint Stock have revived this growing musical for all of Birmingham to enjoy.
Jeremy is awkward, very awkward. He makes the easiest social situations look hard as he battles with angst to find recognition and popularity in his high school years. Confronted with bullies and a possessive crush, what can Jeremy do to change his fortunes in this ruthless world? The musical uses a blend of comedy and darkness to explore the realities of social anxiety and the dangerous power of influential technology to give us what we desire.
The storyline might appear to be predictable and lack originality as its themes and content bear resemblance to the multitude of modern-day musicals that also delve into the challenges of teenage life. While this is strictly true, it would do a disservice to say this musical lacks its own identity. The themes, American high school corniness and vibrant numbers do compare with many that have graced the stage before, but there is a reason these are successful. Be More Chill at the Old Joint Stock should enjoy similar acclaim.
The cast certainly meet the demands of this fast-paced script as the smaller performance space is no barrier to the energetic choreography and movement. The intimacy of the venue helps bring the audience closer to Jeremy’s journey from rejection to recognition. It may seem insulting to say that Tom Dickerson does a tremendous job in portraying the loser that is Jeremy, but such is his ability to create that connection with a character that no doubt many watching will relate to.
Steven Rostance is no stranger to productions at the Old Joint Stock and once again does a stellar job in a range of roles that include the exasperated drama teacher and trouser-less father. Maya Jade Frank and Ailsa Erskine bounce off each other well as the flirtatious and rather troubled best friends, while Shannon Bourne demonstrates endless talent in the role of the much desired Christine. The whole cast display wonderful vocal skills as they make their way through a catalogue of catchy and electric songs that are enjoyable, if not always memorable. The standout number is ‘Michael in the bathroom‘ which is performed with power and vulnerability by Jack Carr.
The creative and production teams behind the show have also injected a touch of innovation into the musical with an eye-catching array of television screens that complement the science-fiction elements well. Lighting and sound design are similarly effective, in particular at the times ‘The Squip’ is introduced.
While the show hasn’t hit the heights of similar teen misfit musicals, it certainly has the potential to grow further with a cult following due to its relatable themes and exceptional vibrancy. The creativity on display from this Old Joint Stock production could be the key in helping to elevate it to the next level. There is a certain level of irony in the fact that this musical – just like Jeremy – is trying to reach the levels of popularity that others have enjoyed, but instead of making critical comparisons, maybe we should just let it find its own way and ‘Be More Chill‘.
Runs until 31 August 2025
The Reviews Hub Star Rating
80%
Vibrant and Colourful