REVIEW | From Here to Eternity, Charing Cross Theatre

 

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Written by Annie King. 

I had the pleasure of attending the press night for the latest revival of Brayson & Rice’s highly anticipated “From Here to Eternity” at the Charing Cross Theatre. It has been brought to the stage by Aria Entertainment, Bill Kenwright and Heartaches Limited. From Here to Eternity returns to London for the first time in a new limited-time production. It is fair to say it’s undoubtedly worthy of its anticipation. 

With the powerful storyline focusing on the days leading up to the Pearl Harbour attack in 1941, the show takes you on a journey through the lives and traumas of the US army’s G - Corp. I couldn’t think of a better time for such a story to be revived; with a focus on both queer treatment and the mental challenges faced in war, themes which seem as prevalent as ever to address in our current society. 

The show beautifully explores the destruction of human relationships as a consequence of the war, and the score beautifully narrates this. I particularly loved the juxtaposition of “Love me forever” followed closely by “I love the Army, " which prevents the show from sinking into romantic territory. 

The scenery is simple but hugely effective, and the use of the round really enables both the cast to shine and the story to do all the talking. Although few props are used, they are beautifully choreographed into the show. The score is a wonderful mixture of military-like marching beats and blues-toned solos - which lend further to the trauma and hardship of the story. The cast offers nothing but stunning vocals and exquisite harmonies. 

Jonny Bentley leads the cast as Prewitt with roaring success, instantly managing to get the audience to love Prewitt, which makes his final scenes even more painful. Bentley has stunning vocals which held the audience on the edge of their seats and is wonderfully supported with harmonies from the ensemble. Cathabel & Bentley provide a believable love story and offer beautiful moments of to the overarching urgency and anxiety of the show. 

A standout performance for me was Jonny Amies in the role of Maggio. He beautifully blended moments of light which ultimately led to his very dark ending. 

Although there was limited choreography, I found the use of staging clever and effective. I feel like although more complex choreography was perhaps expected the simplistic use really enabled the songs to highlight the show's story and leave the audience entranced from start to finish. 

A powerfully painful production, with nothing but stunning performances to support. 

From Here to Eternity is performing at Charing Cross Theatre until 17 December 2022. Ticket prices range from £25.00-£54.50. Ticket information is here.