The musical version of the 1991 Academy Award winning film, ‘Silence! The Musical’ is a hilarious take for fans. With the same plot, but added songs and comedy, this parody is definitely a memorable experience.
Rookie FBI agent Clarice Starling (Phoebe Panaretos) is asked to investigate a series of murders, by Buffalo Bill (Jake Anthony), with the aid of infamous Hannibal Lecter (Mark Oxtoby) who is currently imprisoned in a maximum-security facility. As Starling and Lecter converse, it is clear Lecter knows the identity of the killer but without negotiation and “quid pro quo” is reluctant to help.
Then another victim falls for the Bundy-like charms of Buffalo Bill, Catherine Martin (Catherine Millsom) – a senator’s daughter, escalating the urgency for Starling to gain Lecter’s corporation.
This 2005 show takes the film and moves through it swiftly, capturing all the relevant scenes and telling the story almost identically. The biggest difference is the parodic take, heightened by a chorus of singing lambs that are ever so present on stage. The musical takes the film’s absurd lines and transforms them into songs. Some catchy, some forgettable. Instead of the sinister nature already known to the film, this account explores the vulgarity featured in it. With scenes of nudity and songs with strong language, it’s not for everyone.
The rendition at the Turbine Theatre is done particularly well. With a perfectly cast ensemble, both Panaretos and Oxtoby perform as Starling and Lecter brilliantly. Starling is shown with an enhanced lisp, likely to emphasise her original southern accent. Panaretos’ face is brilliant to play the parody version because it has that expressive element needed to engage the audience. Oxtoby also embodies his character well, with similar traits to Anthony Hopkins. Lecter was arguably more humanised in the musical version, as the songs show his inner dialogue and desires – rather than the stone-cold character we see in the film. Nonetheless, it was executed well.
The standout performance was Buffalo Bill (Jake Anthony), who was surprisingly creepier than the film version. Perhaps this is due to the intimate nature of a small venue or the very fact that he is in front of you, either way it was an impressive act. The eeriness that exuded from his character was very much noticeable, and Anthony had a knack for making the audience feel uncomfortable.
Everyone had lovely vocals, with Jenny Naima who plays Starling’s friend Ardelia showing particular talent. Despite a small role, she made an impression that lasted.
Overall, a very enjoyable experience that is unique to itself whilst doing justice to the film. Time flew by which is always a good sign. However, one should note that this is not a typical musical with high production value and exceptional dancing – actually, almost no dancing. Regardless, I’d recommend.
Book by Hunter Bell based on a screenplay by Jon Kaplan and Al Kaplan
Music and Lyrics by Jon Kaplan and Al Kaplan
Director & Choreographer: Christopher Gattelli
Cast includes: Mark Oxtoby, Phoebe Panaretos, Tome Giles, Matt Bond, Jake Anthony, Paul Ryan
Venue: Turbine Theatre
Review by Sofia Moran