Petra Shepherd recently enjoyed Zorro The Musical, London’s latest feel-good musical which tells the story of the masked hero, El Zorro fighting for justice and freedom
I recently caught this immersive, thrilling and headily sensual new production at The Charing Cross Theatre.
Set in the sizzling heat of 1805’s California, a pueblo is under attack from its autocratic leader. When the danger is at its greatest, a masked crusader appears from nowhere and saves lives. Who is he? Will he be their champion? The production, includes ‘get-on-your-feet’ music, featuring international hits by The Gipsy Kings including Bamboleo, Baila Me and Djobi Djoba, alongside original music to express a fresh new tale of love, hope and courage. Full disclosure, I’m a massive Gipsy Kings fan, their music has been described as gypsy rock and salsa-flamenco fusion. For me, it’s a joyous beat that has driven me up many a mountain as I’ve trekked around the world. Theirs is a music that extends through generations, (I took along my 28-year-old god-daughter who loved it) whilst Gypsy King groupies like myself will also not be disappointed.
Not only is the music upbeat and exuberant but the audience is also seduced into the story, witnessing the thrills and spills as Zorro battles for all he holds dear. Spanish Gypsy pride and fire runs deep throughout this explosive show with murderous encounters and flamboyant flamenco choreography.
Have you got the post Easter Holiday bank holiday blues and fancy a bit of Californian heat then this is the show for you? Go with a good sense of humour, it’s pretty silly and at times has rather a pantomime feel to it. However, Phoebe Panaretos (she made international headlines after being hand-picked by Baz Lurhmann to play the lead role of Fran in the World Premiere of Strictly Ballroom the Musical) particularly stood out, bringing sensational dancing and personality to the role of Inez. Along with Paige Fenlon playing Luisa a lively match to Benjamin Purkiss’s Zorro. I also loved the bright colours and multi layers of the distinctive gypsy look and the extraordinary aerial acrobatics and spectacular sword fighting.
Sadly, the production is currently only set to run in a limited season until 28th May so I’d catch this sizzling show whilst you can but don’t take it seriously.
Charing Cross Theatre
The Arches
Villiers Street
London
WC2N 6NL
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