Apparently there are 250 babies born every minute; productions of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Evita can’t be far behind. One wonders how a show that is so stupendously successful around the globe that even kids know the words to songs about wayward fiscal policy can keep itself fresh. Jamie Lloyd and company have managed it in the open air of Regent’s Park.
That Tim Rice’s songs have become ubiquitous requires each separate element to work harder, which is where superb lighting and design come into their own. As does Fabian Aloise’s choreography, which as well as the typical tango and salsa styles also nods to the Thriller dance and b-boying. White canvas pumps, worn by the whole cast, slide across the stage in moonwalks.
Trent Saunders is superb and charismatic as disillusioned narrator Che, and it’s clever costuming to have him wearing one of those red Che Guevara T-shirts (think: Camden market or your university boyfriend), which he briefly exchanges for a Peronism tee when swept up during A New Argentina.
Every sinew of the ensemble is on display here, all knocking it out of the park. Samantha Pauly in the title role nails all the comic touches, leaving it late to transform into the blond Eva of the popular imagination, her change of style aided by cast members wielding spray cans.
Lloyd’s Evita isn’t as high-emotion as some can be, but it’s a work of screaming fun, from the flares and ticker tape to the booty-shaking and the knicker-throwing. On a more serious note, it’s an interesting time to watch an exploration of a divisive figure straddling politics and entertainment when the world is currently ruled by them. Still, I’m not sure Ivanka: the Musical would have the same impact.
• Evita is at the Regent’s Park Open Air theatre, London, until 21 September
