101 Dalmatians, the beloved tale of love, adventure, and a villainous woman with a penchant for fur, has made its way back to the stage with a fresh and vibrant musical adaptation. This latest iteration, touring the UK in 2024, charms audiences with its delightful mix of puppetry, catchy tunes, and a dash of canine mischief.
The plot remains faithful to Dodie Smith’s original story: Pongo and Perdita, two Dalmatians, fall in love and have a litter of puppies. However, their idyllic life is threatened by the nefarious Cruella de Vil, who has a sinister plan to turn the puppies into a fur coat. The stakes are high, the humour is plentiful, and the audience is in for a treat as the dogs embark on a daring rescue mission.
The puppetry, designed by the renowned Jimmy Grimes of War Horse fame, is incredible. Each dog puppet is imbued with personality, from the energetic Pongo to the sweet and nurturing Perdita, making them feel like real characters rather than props.The choreography is lively and engaging, capturing the essence of the dogs’ playful nature. The ensemble cast, consisting of human actors and puppeteers, works seamlessly together, blending dance and movement that brings the story to life. The choreography is particularly effective during the scenes in the dog home, where the dogs interact with each other in a playful manner, creating a joyful atmosphere that resonates with children and adults alike.
The character development in this musical is commendable, particularly in how it portrays the relationships between the dogs and their human counterparts. Kym Marsh (Faye Tozer or Kerry Ellis in some locations) shines as Cruella de Vil, embodying the character’s flamboyant and villainous traits with gusto. Her performance is filled with charisma, and her stage presence is undeniable. The character of Cruella is given depth, showing not only her ruthless ambition but also her moments of vulnerability, making her a more complex antagonist. Pongo and Perdita, played by Linford Johnson and Emma Thornett, respectively, are the heart of the show. Their journey from being two love-struck dogs to determined parents is beautifully portrayed. The heartfelt ballad, “Take Me Home,” captures the dogs’ longing for a family, while Perdita’s nurturing spirit shines through in her emotional performance of “A Thousand Kisses,” where she expresses her love for her puppies. The chemistry between the two is palpable, and their character arcs grow as they navigate the challenges posed by Cruella. The supporting characters, including the bumbling henchmen and the quirky cat Tabby, add charm to the narrative. The ensemble cast brings a lively energy to the stage, with each character contributing to the overall whimsy of the production. The comedic timing is spot on, and the interactions between the characters are often laugh-out-loud funny.
The musical score features a selection of catchy tunes that complement the story well. Songs like “Animal Lover” performed by Cruella, are entertaining, although they may not linger in the mind long after the curtain falls. One of the highlights of the show is the ensemble number “Puppy Power” which showcases the talents of the entire cast. The choreography is energetic, and the playful interactions between the dogs and their human counterparts create an infectious, joyous atmosphere.
The lighting design also deserves recognition. The transitions between scenes are smooth, aided by well-timed lighting changes that reflect the emotional tone of the narrative. During the more intense moments, such as the puppies’ kidnapping, the lighting shifts to create a sense of urgency and danger, effectively heightening the drama. Conversely, the warm, golden hues during the romantic scenes between Pongo and Perdita evoke a sense of comfort and love, drawing the audience into their world.
The 2024 UK tour of 101 Dalmatians is a delightful family-friendly production that captures the charm of the original story while adding a fresh twist. The combination of innovative puppetry, engaging choreography, and a talented cast leads to an inevitably entertaining evening at the theatre, filled with warmth, humour, and a touch of adventure. For families looking for a fun outing, this musical is a perfect choice. Your kids will be enchanted by the singing dogs and the playful antics, while adults will appreciate the clever humour and the nostalgic nods to the classic story.
