Lovestuck - A New Comedy Musical
‘Worst Date Ever’ is a bold statement to make but the viral 2017 true story of a girl who, on a first date, becomes wedged upside down inside a window whilst trying to dispose of her own faeces has got to be a strong contender. It’s often been said that you can write a musical about just about anything but in choosing to base a brand new one on this particular story is brave, however, the writers (James Cooper, Bryn Christopher and Martin Batchelar) not only succeed but do so magnificently.
With assured direction from Jamie Morton – who collaborated with Cooper on ‘My Dad Wrote A Porno’ – this is a modern rom-com that delivers.
Over the course of 2 hours, we follow Lucy (Ambra Caserotti) & Peter (Shane O’Riordan) on their journey to that fateful date and its aftermath. Both actors are perfect in their roles – particular priase should go to Caserotti who replaced Jessica Boshier in the role when Jessica sustained an injury the prior week – she was a natural ‘Lucy’.
The course of true love never does run smooth, along the way we’re introduced to Lucy’s boss (and gay best friend) Reece (Marcus Ayton) who injects humour with every word and facial expression without slipping into cliché or stereotype and Peter’s ‘friend’ David (Johan Munir) who’s unpleasant toxic masculinity channels Nasty Nick and Andrew Tate without becoming the pantomime villain of the piece.
Perhaps more innovative is the role of Cassandra/Miseraie (Bridgette Amofah) who portrays Lucy’s old school friend (Cassandra) who outwardly has it all and appears to be living the perfect life and Miseraie who embodies all of Lucy’s inner negative thoughts and self-doubt like a modern Jiminy Cricket – her performance of the song ‘Cat Lady’ in an outfit that made Michelle Pfiefer in Batman look demure - had me questioning my sexuality for its duration.
The inclusion of the legendary Alison Steadman as the narrator (albeit pre-recorded rather than in person) was a further touch of genius.
Credit must also be given for the rest of the ensemble – Jessica Hunt, Callum Connolly and Holly Liburd who along with Munir and Ayton effortlessly switch between multiple roles throughout the show.
The set and costumes by Tom Rogers took a simple palette of mostly yellows and purples to create a powerful visual impression without detracting from the actors.
What could have easily been a show of poop-puns and potty humour instead explores the reality of dating in your thirties - the insecurity, the influence of apps and how we present ourselves both to others and ourselves.
It’s noticeable that without exception every one of the 19 songs works – there isn’t a dud amongst them (it was noticeable that every song received applause – unusual for a press night) and that this was a carefully and tightly constructed piece with no flab or filler.
It was no surprise the audience leapt to their feet for a standing ovation at the end – despite what it could have been – this is anything but a sh*t show!
I have a feeling this isn’t the last we’ll see of this welcome addition to the musical theatre canon.
This show was reviewed on the 17th June 2025 at Stratford East Theatre, London where it runs until the 12th July 2025. Tickets available here: Lovestuck: A New Comedy Musical
Review written by Mike Stocks
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Photo credit : Mark Senior
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