Based on the novel by: James Jones
Director: Tamara Harvey
Cast: Robert Lonsdale, Siubhan Harrison, Darius Campbell, Rebecca Thornhill, Ryan Sampson
Synopsis: Set in the months leading up to Pearl Harbour, when the troubled Private Prewitt (Robert Lonsdale) falls for the kind hearted escort club girl Lorene (Siubhan Harrison), and when his platoon sergeant, Warden (Darius Campbell), embarks on an affair with his commanding officer’s wife, Karen (Rebecca Thornhill), the lives of both men are set on a course they cannot control. As war approaches, the worlds of the lovers and the soldiers of G Company are dramatically changed forever.
From Here to Eternity has almost everything you want from a musical: style, catchy songs and an engaging storyline. Whilst the older generation might remember the 1953 film and the 1979 television mini series, the musical actually bears more resemblance to the James Jones novel on which all three are based. The differences are quite drastic and include scenes set in a brothel and a gay club that were considered too raunchy for the film and the television show.
The two main couples both have terrific chemistry that was felt by the audience, particularly during duets. Private Prewitt combines his singing and musical talents by playing the guitar that emphasizes the Hawaiian theme running throughout the musical. You’ll see a blast from the past when Sergeant Warden comes onstage, played by Darius Campbell, who came third in the first ever series of ‘Pop Idol’. He has a strong voice but it stands out somewhat when he sings alongside his co-stars, as it unfortunately lacks the booming delivery of those theatrically trained.
While the show had its stars, the stand out performer and one to watch out for is Ryan Sampson, who plays the role Angelo Maggio (and the role for which Frank Sinatra won the Best Supporting Actor Oscar). He is the smallest but liveliest member of G Company who sadly lacks the respect of his colleagues. As the only star without a love interest, the audience resonates with Maggio as they observe the scenes through his eyes and sympathize as he attempts to build a friendship with Prewitt. He has perfected the Italian-American New York accent and was rightly cheered when he bowed at the end of the performance.
With a fantastic variety of songs that will have you singing along, From Here to Eternity is a truly gripping musical not to be missed.
From Here to Eternity is out now at the Shaftesbury Theatre
