Review: Titanic The Musical at Birmingham Hippodrome - a big show with a big heart

There was a thundering thud, followed swiftly by a sudden flash of blinding light - and an icy chill in the air.

Silence fell across the auditorium as the audience realised this was that fatal moment when more than 2,000 passengers on board the triumphant Titanic faced death. The ginormous, glamorous ship - famed for its chandeliers and Champagne - had hit an iceberg in the Atlantic Ocean on its maiden voyage from Southampton to New York.

The heartbreaking terror faced by those on board more than a century ago became real once more as the cast of Titanic The Musical brought their memories to life in the latest production at Birmingham Hippodrome.

It was a big ship, which created a big story which still resonates today - and this was a big show to re-enact that fateful voyage. There were many themes that resonate with modern day life as the discrimination between the first, second and third class passengers was highlighted- especially when places on the lifeboats were given out.

Power struggles among the crew as to the speed the ship should be taking, and its ability to counter icebergs, and the Edwardian women and children first drill also shone a light on human failings and compassion.

One of the most poignant scenes is the full stage size listing of those people who lost their lives - when there were 450 lifeboat places unfilled. It was a remarkable performance by Danielle Tarento in association with Mayflower Theatre, Southampton and Harmonia.

The simple, but effective, set shows both the gaiety and trama of the voyage. The music and singing swells through the theatres with passion and drama - with many memorable moments as the characters behind the tragedy unfold.

The musical by Maury Yeston based on a book by Peter Stone was first performed on Broadway in 1997 - two years after James Cameron’s film began production starring Leonardo DiCpario and Kate Winslett - and just like the film, it’s well worth a watch today.

Titanic The Musical is at Birmingham Hippodrome until Saturday April 22 as part of it’s 10th anniversary tour. To get your tickets go to: Titanic The Musical at Birmingham Hippodrome