Miss Saigon: A Legend Reborn | Venue Cymru

From the creators of Les Misérables (Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil) comes Miss Saigon, a meta-musical of epic scale with emotionally charged storytelling through song. Originally written back in 1989 and inspired by Puccini's opera, Madama Butterfly, Miss Saigon tells the story of the turbulent relationship of two people during the Vietnam war and the years that follow, exploring many tragic and powerful themes such as the impact of war, the expectations of the American Dream, power and exploitation, and identity and belonging. 36 years after its initial premiere, producers Cameron Mackintosh and Micheal Harrison have teamed together to bring Miss Saigon: A Legend Reborn to the stage in an attempt to make it more accessible for modern audiences.

Set towards the final days of the Vietnam War in 1975, we meet Kim, a young woman who is new to working in 'Dreamland', a brothel under management of the sleazy Engineer who sells off women to American soldiers in attempt to get a visa to live out the 'American Dream'. Kim meets an American GI Chris, who falls in love and wants a better life for Kim, yet when Saigon falls, they are violently separated and are forced to live very different and separate lives, with Kim being forced to confront the long-term consequences of war, including uncertainty about the future and abandonment.

Ultimately, Miss Saigon is a tragic tale which makes its mark through its epic score and lyrics, with each song serving its purpose in driving the story forward and taking audiences through the emotions. Under the direction of Ben Mark Turner, the twelve-piece orchestra perform the score with a powerful richness that lends a hand to the dramatic scale of the production. It's a delightful experience to hear these contemporary musical theatre numbers which have been infused with Asian musical elements.

However, if there is one slight criticism to be made, it's that it sometimes feels that the orchestra is too powerful for the vocals, which leads to some lyrics being missed which could be detrimental in the storytelling of a musical that is sung through.

Julianne Pundan makes her professional debut in the role of Kim, with a performance that is steadfast and hefty, her performance never wavering from its emotional impact. Pundan becomes the anchor of the show, with audiences taken on her journey as she makes her character's struggles and sacrifices deeply felt. Jack Kane's Chris is emotionally grounded with standout vocals throughout, and there is good chemistry between Kane and Pundan that makes their relationship feel authentic and equally heartbreaking. Dom Hartley Harris gives another standout performance as John, Chris' best friend, with soulful vocals and a commanding stage presence. Seann Miley Moore gives a self-indulgent take on The Engineer, which is magnetic and unforgettable. Often providing the comedic relief that the show needs, Moore adds an additional depth and freshness to this problematic character, with sharp satire and a humour that makes their character more likeable, even with the questionable decisions that they make.

Andrew D Edwards' set design works effectively for a touring musical, with a revolve weaving multiple locations together. Moving metal frames and layered levels create the sense of a war-torn bustling city. Aided by Director Jean-Pierre van der Spuy and Choreographers Chrissie Cartwright and Carrie-Annie Ingrouille, the momentum and pacing of the show is kept at all times, engaging and stimulating the audience. Large ensemble pieces create the sense of urgency and momentum that maintains the grittiness of the storyline, and this is balanced perfectly against the moments of quiet and contemplative moments.

Bruno Poet's lightning design provides a stark contrast between the grittiness of the wartime scenes to the false pretense of the neon lights of Dreamland. George Reeve's projection design is cinematic, providing a deepened emotional impact to the harsh realities that these characters were facing.

Whilst there are still important conversations to be had about the themes presented as well as the portrayal of Asian Women during this time, Miss Saigon is undoubtedly one of the most powerful theatrical experiences in modern times. Driven by a sweeping score and incredibly impactful and emotionally driven performances, Miss Saigon is the perfect example of when theatre is at its very finest.

Miss Saigon plays at Venue Cymru until Saturday 10th January 2026 before continuing on its UK tour.

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★★★★★ (5*)

Gifted tickets in return for an honest review | Photography by Danny Kaan