Review of Coram Boy at The Lowry by Natalie Anglesey

Chichester Festival Theatre’s production of Coram Boy, is at The Lowry until June 29. Review by Natalie Anglesey. 

Ignore any previous reviews you have read of Coram Boy, prior to its current stay at The Lowry this week. My advice is to see it yourself and make up your own mind. I'm certainly glad I did. The majority of reviews have so far been negative with only a few comparing this mammoth work with that of the great Charles Dickens. However, if like me you're a fan of the famous author, you may agree because the themes are concerning corruption of the worst kind.

This powerful piece which received a rapturous reception, also features Handel’s glorious music throughout this astonishing production.  Helen Edmundson’s stage adaptation of Jamila Gavin’s Whitbread Award-winning novel, premiered at the National Theatre in 2005 before transferring to Broadway. Prepare to be impressed – as I certainly was - when I saw it at The Lowry. 

The time period is the 18th century with fantastic sets and costumes. It may look good, but more importantly it’s a vivid retelling of the vilest form of corruption. There are goodies and baddies in this dark tale . Thomas Coram is one of the goodies. Shocked by the extent of child poverty in London, he instigated a Foundling Hospital after securing financial aid from none other than the famous composer George Frederick Handel. 

Set in Gloucester Cathedral, we witness the fate of two young boys who discover similarities in their stories. Just to alert you there are some sex changes in casting throughout which are slightly confusing. Alexander Ashbrook, played by Louisa Binder, has a glorious voice heard throughout. Ashbrook's heart is set on becoming a composer however his stern father refuses to listen and flight appears his only option. That is until he bonds with Toby, played by Jewelle Hutchinson, the orphan son of a slave. 

Darker conflicts emerge when stern housekeeper Mrs Lynch, played by Jo McInnes, becomes in league with the son of brutal Otis Gardiner, played by Samuel Oatley. They prey on desperate young unmarried mothers promising to deliver their babies to Coram’s new Foundling Hospital - but instead they endure a terrible fate and their money is stolen. 

Simon Higlett’s interesting set has a hint of Georgian church architecture and the choral singing is fantastic. Cleverly directed by Anna Ledwich, this stage adaptation has already been nominated for several Olivier and Tony Awards, and it has already won the Time Out Live Award for Best Play. 

This stage production features angels, abandoned children, glorious music and murder most foul throughout this enthralling and moving story. As Mrs Lynch remarks: “All wealth is built on the suffering of others".  

Recommended for ages 12+.  Coram Boy is at The Lowry until June 29. Tickets are available at https://thelowry.com