Bedknobs and Broomsticks The Musical At Leeds Grand Theatre Review

Reviewed by Kat Harrison

This week, I had the opportunity to review Bedknobs and Broomsticks The Musical at Leeds Grand. The film of the same name has always been on my radar but is one I’ve never watched. I was happy about this as I didn’t want to compare this live show to a film; I was happy to judge it on its own merit. And in the words of my six-year old daughter, “It was magic!”

The musical tells the tale of three orphaned children, evacuated to the country and housed with ‘Apprentice Witch’ – Eglantine Price. After a rocky start, they all join forces to find the spell that will stop a future attack… and so, the adventures begin, not least, visiting a magical kingdom on a flying bed!

This is a real feel good story, one that also comes packed with emotion. For those wanting to visit the theatre this festive season but are looking for something different to Panto but equally as fun, you’ve found it.

The acting is superb across the board (not least the roles taken on by the three youngest members of the cast), with some amazing choreography to boot. The way props are used to transform a flat stage into scenes where the children are travelling by train, climbing the stairs and bumping around on a motorbike are so clever. The performers and props move around the stage in harmony, making for seamless and captivating set changes.

Some events, most notably the opening scene are told through movement and action rather than through narration and it’s superbly done. It’s a feast for the senses but the real little ones in the audience may need a quick word in the ear to help them piece it altogether. My daughter may not have been quite up to speed with the plot but it certainly didn’t affect her enjoyment.

A real joy in this production is the puppetry. The show features a mini-Eglantine flying (and crashing) her broom, a spectacular trick where Eglantine turns eldest child Charlie into a rabbit and some fantastic scenes with the creatures on the island of Nopeepo.

The show’s illusions, including a disobedient broomstick, shoes that walk on their own and of course, a flying bed are amazing. When my daughter asked me how it was all done, I really believed my own answer of, ‘Well, it’s magic of course!’ There have been several technical issues but when you’ve got a bed flying high above the stage with five people onboard, a hiccup or two could be expected but not one that you particularly want. Fingers crossed the production has a smooth ride forthwith.

The show certainly has a strong ensemble. Dianne Pilkington is stand-out superb as Miss Price. Her rendition of “A Step in the Right Direction” whilst trying to master the art of mounting a broomstick, was a real highlight for me.

All in all, Bedknobs and Broomsticks is a well-put together production; one that all the family will enjoy. You’ll find it hard to pick out just one favourite bit; it’s packed full of fun, frolics and fantasy. A welcome and hugely exciting escape!

Rating: 4 out of 5

For more information about Bedknobs and Broomsticks, touring dates and ticket prices, visit https://www.bedknobsonstage.com

Bedknobs and Broomsticks is on at The Leeds Grand Theatre until 2nd January 2022, tickets £19-£52.

To book, visit https://leedsheritagetheatres.com/whats-on/bedknobs-and-broomsticks

The Leeds Grand is a stunning theatre. Conveniently situated in the city centre, it’s easy to reach, has a team of friendly and helpful staff and a good selection of pre-show/interval snacks and drinks.