Colour and Light: The Art of Sondheim (Watch This) - 90 minutes, plus interval

Emotion rings true as five supremely talented performers (including the music director) celebrate the extraordinary legacy of American composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim.

The breadth of his artistry rings true in a collection of his works that number in excess of 30.

I speak of material drawn from noteworthy musicals and some lesser-known works.

Mentored from an early age by Oscar Hammerstein II, Sondheim was a master craftsman who was feted the world over as he delved into the human experience.

His accolades included eight Tony Awards, eight Grammys, an Oscar, an Olivier Award and the Pulitzer Prize.

On a stylish, sophisticated set designed by Rob Sowinski, music director and arranger Dr Trevor Jones takes centre stage on piano (and occasional vocals).

It is where the four soloists soar in an intimate setting, in which the lighting cues help establish the mood.

What distinguishes the quartet is their vocal excellence and dexterity, tackling the heartfelt to the cheeky and cheery, for this is a show with pathos and humour.

Yidya Makan, Johanna Allen, Nick Simpson-Deeks and Jacob Rozario are expressive and sensitive, melodic and full throated. 

Individually and collectively, in duets, trios and full chorus numbers, they delight us and excite us with their repertoire.

Songs are drawn from Sunday in the Park with George, Merrily We Roll Along, Sweeney Todd, Into The Woods and A Little Night Music.

Follies, Assassins and a Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The Forum are also sources, among others.

The showcase, which is broken into two Acts, moves along at pace, seamlessly transitioning from tune to tune.

Directors Melanie Hillman and Dean Drieberg has been inspired by the artistic principles that Georges Seurat cites in Sunday with the Park with George.

Order, Design, Tension, Balance and Harmony are the tenets that serve as the spine of the revue.

Aptly titled Colour and Light, the Watch This production ticks all the boxes for musical and theatrical excellence.

It is on at Theatre Works until 27^th September, 2025.