Let the Sun Shine | Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre

Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre has accumulated a versatile programme this year, with Let the Sun Shine being one of the four offerings of its summer outdoor theatre programme. Written by Helen Radcliffe and directed by Rob Green and Lucy Thatcher, with almost the same casting as Robin Hood: An Outlaws Story (which is also running as part of the programming), audiences are transported back to the 1960s when a colourful music festival crashes into a quaint village in order to save a struggling local farm.

Whilst Greengrocer Arthur (David Ahmad) wishes for more traditional means, his wife Veronica (Rebecca Bainbridge) and son Harry (Lucas Button) are more open to the times changing. When Cloud (Annabelle Aquino) stumbles into the family shop to gain traction for the festival, she convinces Harry to to chase his dreams of a bigger life beyond the family business.

Whilst Radcliffe's script attempts to explore necessary themes which are both relevant in the 1960s and modern times, the introduction of too many subplots and a wealth of characters unfortunately leads to Let the Sun Shine feeling undeveloped. Important and necessary conversations take place almost too quickly before they are brushed aside, leaving much to be desired in terms of a gripping storyline or a strong emotional impact. That's not to say that there aren't some lovely subplots, particularly Joan learning to live again after the loss of her husband and son as a result of the war, and Harry chasing the life that he truly wants, yet the narrative does slightly lose focus, particularly in the second act as it shifts between its many strands.

Green and Thatcher's direction ensures that the audience are swept along in the atmosphere, with plenty of audience interaction and participation, yet the show at times did lack some pace. However, with the design elements and musical direction, the show still feels like a joyous and uplifting evening at theatre, which is sometimes exactly what is needed.

Green's musical direction allows audiences to revel in some of the 60s greatest hits, which undoubtedly sets the tone for this vibrant and joyous celebration of togetherness. The selection of songs helps to elevate the storytelling, infusing the show with infectious energy and heart. However, Button's original song Written On My Mind proves to be a particular highlight; beautifully performed and emotionally resonant, it brings the needed emotional depth.

Charlotte Murphy's design is a triumph, perfectly setting the story in its era with vibrant costume design and props, breathing life into the story. The costume design perfectly captures the era and brings additional layers to the characters, creating a sense of optimism and hope amongst the hippy era. Ieuan Reeve's lighting design seamlessly transforms the space and is beautiful in the outdoor space.

Where Let the Sun Shine truly shines is through the overall performances from the entire cast, who work tirelessly throughout fully committing to the material. Button is charming as Harry, and Aquino impresses vocally. Robert Wade as PC Hamer is a riot, using expressive physicality and well-judged comedic timing to inject plenty of humour into the production. Abigail Middleton does an impressive job of getting an apprehensive audience on side with audience participation without using a single word.

Lawrence Hodgson-Mullings captures the idealism and rebellious spirit of the era with confidence, and Zoe Lambert ensures that she makes every appearance count. Kate Milner-Evans does a wonderful job in bringing the emotional depth to her character of Joan, ensuring that the piece feels grounded when surrounded by so much comedy. Ahmad and Bainbridge do well to portray the bickering parents, both wanting different things for their son.

Storyhouse Young Company (SYC)'s Lauren Lees and Owen Ellis are a joy to witness on stage, both given the opportunity to make their mark with their characters. Making their professional debuts, both performers are undoubtedly destined for successful careers in the industry.

Sorrel Jordan and Perry Moore are as Sonny and Claire are an absolute standout. Moore is hilarious with his youthful exuberance as Sonny, and his inebriated priest is a delightful watch. Jordan impresses musically and the natural rapport with Moore allows plentiful moments of good natured banter and light-hearted fun, making them a joy to watch.

Whilst Let the Sun Shine doesn't quite hit its full potential due to the ambitious inclusion of too many plots, it succeeds in delivering a joyous and uplifting evening of entertainment, due to its dedicated cast and vibrant musical presentation. The overall arching themes give much food for thought, and the undeniable magic of sitting beneath an open sky watching a production burst with colour and energy makes Let the Sun Shine a production worth watching.

Let the Sun Shine is part of the Grosvenor Park Open Air Theatre's programme, which is running in the heart of Chester up until 23rd August - tickets and more information can be found here.

★★★★☆ (4*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Mark McNulty