Review: The Time Traveller’s Wife The Musical

An enchanting and mesmerizing experience awaits at The Time Traveller’s Wife The musical at the Apollo Theatre in London. This production is a joyful, achingly romantic, and desperately heartbreaking musical that takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions from start to finish.

The Time Traveller’s Wife The Musical trailer

The adaptation of Audrey Niffenegger’s beloved novel The Time Traveller’s Wife into a musical was a bold undertaking, and the production team managed to capture the essence of the story beautifully. The story of Clare and Henry’s unique love, complicated by Henry’s time-traveling ability, was brought to life with grace and sensitivity.

The outstanding performances by David Hunter, Joanna Woodward, and Ross Dawes are truly remarkable. Their chemistry on stage is captivating, adding depth and authenticity to the story. Additionally, the young performer, Holly Jade-Roberts, delivered an excellent performance that truly impressed.

David Hunter in The Tmie Traveller's Wife on Screen One — *David Hunter in The Time Traveller’s Wife*

The music and lyrics were well-composed, and the songs were emotionally resonant, effectively conveying the feelings of love, longing, and the passage of time. Joss Stone for her first crack at stage musical alongside Eurythmics Dave Stewart have brought some powerful but tender songs that translate astoundingly from the source novel.

The songs themselves swirl around theatre and absorb into your ever pore. The devastatingly beautiful “I See Her” a father and son duet between David Hunter and Ross Dawes pulls at your heartstrings akin to that opening montage in Disney/Pixar’s Up. “Masterpiece” and “I’m In Control” allow Joanna Woodward’s incredible vocal performance to reverberate around the Apollo and leave you in doubt that The Time Traveller’s Wife The Musical is her true arrival in theatreland.

David Hunter’s performance is truly understated but explodes into life during the aforementioned “I See Her” and the visually stunning “Journeyman“. Such a soothing tone to his voice makes him a perfect West End leading man opposite Joanna Woodward. Their co-stars in Tim Mahendran and Hiba Elchikhe, while not given a lot to do, grasp every scene with both hands.

Joanna Woodward in The Time Traveller's Wife on Screen One — *Joanna Woodward in The Time Traveller’s Wife*

The set design and special effects were yet another highlight. The seamless transitions between different time periods were executed with creativity and precision, immersing the audience in the time-traveling experience. Not at any moment do you have a feeling of confusion or sitting there, taken out of the story trying to work out what’s going on, much to the power of Lauren Gunderson’s writing. The clever use of lighting, sound, and projection added depth and dimension to the production.

Also, the amount and rate of speed of costume changes throughout the The Time Traveller’s Wife should be acknowleged here. The Wardrobe dept. (Charlotte Stidwill, Corrie Darling & Jemimah Whittaker) and Dressers (Briony Chandler & Julia Palala) who are the real unsung heroes of this production.

Joanna Woodward & David Hunter in The Time Traveller's Wife on Screen One — *Joanna Woodward & David Hunter in The Time Traveller’s Wife*

Not to be overlooked are the stage illusions (Chris Fisher) which are nothing short of spectacular. They’re enough to give the likes of ‘Back To The Future: The Musical’ and ‘The Phantom of The Opera’ a run for their money. The seamless integration of these effects elevates the storytelling, creating a visually stunning and immersive experience.

This adaptation was a brilliant homage to the original story, translating its complexities and love across time beautifully onto the stage. The music, the performances, and the stagecraft all combined to create an immersive and enchanting experience that will stay with you for a long time.

Overall, The Time Traveller’s Wife musical is a must-see for anyone seeking a compelling narrative intertwined with exceptional performances and the breathtaking stagecraft. It’s an unforgettable journey that lingers in your heart long after the final curtain call.