A Night with Janis Joplin | Short Review
Alun Hood
Wednesday, August 28, 2024
A legend is reborn in this raucous, remarkable musical tribute featuring an authentic star playing a star
If the Peacock Theatre wasn’t underground then there’s every chance this rabble rousing Broadway import would rip its roof off. Tony nominee Mary Bridget Davies doesn’t so much impersonate Janis Joplin as channel her, and she’s backed by a stellar quartet of singers (including Bat Out Of Hell, Six and The Cher Show alumna Danielle Steers) and a world-class band.
This concert/musical theatre hybrid features some of the most enthralling vocals on any current London stage as it commemorates not just Joplin’s musical legacy but that of the iconic women who inspired her. It’s dramatically sketchy but the quality and excitement of the music make A Night With Janis Joplin pretty hard to resist.
A Night with Janis Joplin by Randy Johnson (book), Janis Joplin (music)
Peacock Theatre, 27 August 2024
Starring Mary Bridget Davies (Sharon Sexton at certain performances), Kalisha Amaris, Georgia Bradshaw, Choolwe Laina Muntanga, Danielle Steers et al
Directed by Randy Johnson
A Night with Janis Joplin is playing at the Peacock Theatre until 28 September 2024 – for more information and tickets, visit anightwithjanisjoplin.com
You can read our full review in the October issue of Musicals magazine out on 27 September – consider subscribing today!
