Road Show ★★★☆☆

Road Show was Stephen Sondheim’s final musical.  It is a wild ride through the ups and downs of ambition, family ties, and that ever-elusive American Dream. Set in the early 20th century, it tells the story of brothers Addison and Wilson Mizner as they stumble through a series of misadventures in their quest for success. The show is a mashup of drama and musical storytelling that gives you a front-row seat (in the tiny Upstairs at the Gatehouse pub in Highgate) to the chaos of brotherhood and the pursuit of wealth.

Road Show has had a bit of an identity crisis over the years, originally popping up in the 1990s under various titles like Wise Guys, Gold!, and Bounce. It took more than a decade for it to settle into its final form. Sondheim was inspired by articles in The New Yorker about the Mizner brothers. Collaborating with John Weidman, Sondheim wrote a tale that not only reflects the Mizners’ lives but also dives into broader themes of aspiration and failure in America. Despite its rich history, Road Show has never made it to Broadway or the West End in its full glory; its most notable production took place at the Public Theatre in 2008. So every small revival (like this one) feels like a rare gem—like finding a dollar bill in your old coat pocket.

At its heart, Road Show follows Addison Mizner, an architect who dreams of recognition, and his brother Wilson, a charming con artist who’s always looking for his next big score. The story kicks off with their father’s deathbed advice to use their talents to shape America. From there, they embark on a journey that takes them from the Californian gold rush to Florida’s real estate boom. Along the way, they encounter a colourful cast of characters and face setbacks that would make anyone question their life choices.

Addison’s journey is filled with failed business ventures and personal heartbreaks, including his tumultuous relationship with Hollis Bessemer, an aspiring artist who becomes his lover and muse. Meanwhile, Wilson’s schemes take them deeper into moral murkiness as he manipulates everyone around him for personal gain. The climax is poignant—Addison must decide between his brother’s toxic influence and his own aspirations, leading to an ending that resonates with themes of regret and reconciliation even after death.

Oliver Sidney, playing Addison, brings a vulnerability that makes you want to hug him one minute and shake him the next—a man caught between family loyalty and personal ambition. His rendition of ‘Addison’s Trip’ is striking; as he reflects on his failures while collecting meaningless souvenirs from his travels, you can practically feel his longing for purpose radiating off the stage.

Then there’s Wilson, played by Reece Richardson—he’s got charisma oozing out of every pore. His ability to manipulate situations is portrayed with such charm that you might find yourself rooting for him despite knowing he’s up to no good. A standout moment occurs during ‘Get Out’ when Wilson desperately clings to Addison, showcasing their fraught relationship filled with love and betrayal—a classic case of I love you but I really can’t stand you right now.

Director Amanda Noar knows how to keep things moving at a brisk pace that keeps you engaged while emphasising emotional stakes. The choreography enhances storytelling; movements are not just there for show but serve to amplify the characters’ emotional journeys. During chaotic business dealings or familial confrontations, characters often move in circles or clash against each other like they’re stuck in some bizarre family game of Twister.

The technical aspects of Road Show are integral to its storytelling. The set design cleverly evokes various locations across America—from bustling cities to serene landscapes—using minimalistic yet effective transitions that keep the focus on character interactions. Costumes reflect the era while also hinting at each character’s personality; Wilson’s flashy attire contrasts sharply with Addison’s more subdued choices—it’s like one brother is dressed for success while the other is just trying not to get caught.

The Mizner brothers’ relentless chase for prosperity mirrors contemporary societal pressures where ambition often overshadows integrity—a reminder that sometimes chasing your dreams can lead you down some pretty shady paths.  And who doesn’t have that one family member who drives them up the wall? Moments of tension build as you witness Addison’s struggles against Wilson’s manipulations.