A heart wrenching but hilarious tale, The Little Big Things stands out as a true masterclass in storytelling.
★★★★★
The fifth show at theatreland’s new venue, @sohoplace, immerses the audience in an emotional and uplifting adventure into a true story of recovery and its effect on life afterwards.
When I first was given the opportunity to go see the Little Big Things in the theatre, I had no idea what to expect. It was a rather silly name for a show, I thought, and given the option, I like to go into shows like this completely blind. What I came out of the theatre with, however, was an experience so good I had to go see it again. Twice.
“To extend friendship, to sustain others during dark times, is the very best of human nature.”
-Henry Fraser
In essence, The Little Big Things is an all-British musical which lays bare the extraordinary life of Henry Fraser, a young aspiring rugby player who suffers a grave accident while on holiday with his brothers. He is rushed to hospital to find out that he is paralysed from the shoulders down. This sets the stage for what follows: a raw and realistic retelling of not only his physical recovery, but the impact it had on his mind, his family dynamics, and his relationships with others.
The casting choices further elevate this production. It features a cast of largely disabled actors, such as Amy Trigg, a wheelchair-bound performer with an extensive portfolio, and Gracie McGonigal, an amputee who plays Henry’s love interest, Katie.
If you love musicals, You will love The Little Big Things. Its songs are catchy, and it will have you laughing and crying in quick succession. Even if you’re a bit of a theatre newbie, it’s got a story that will stick in your mind well after you’ve left the theatre.