The Story of my Life
Music and Lyrics by NEIL BARTRAM
Book by BRIAN HILL
Stage Door Theatre, 10 Sep – 19 Oct 2024
Best-selling author Thomas Weaver has come back to his hometown to deliver the eulogy for his childhood friend, Alvin Kelby, but finds himself desperately scrambling for something to say. His reality is shattered by the memory of Alvin who takes him deep into Thomas’s mind cluttered with a lifetime of stories.
Nominated for four 2009 Drama Desk Awards, including Outstanding Musical, The Story of My Life is a Broadway rarity: an intimate musical that candidly explores the simplicity of human need and the complexity of emotions under which it lies buried.
Composer-lyricist Neil Bartram and librettist Brian Hill have created an authentic and affecting work, told through a series of songs – in turn playful, touching and dramatic. The Story of My Life inspires us to reconnect with those who were part of the earliest chapters of our own life stories.
The Story of My Life follows the friendship of Alvin and Thomas, two men from a small town. These lifelong friends are reunited after Alvin’s mysterious death. In the abstract world of his mind, Thomas struggles to write Alvin’s eulogy while recounting the many turns that their lives have taken since meeting as children. Alvin searches through the manuscripts and stories in Thomas’ mind to lead him on a journey of remembrance. Through music and song, these two friends recount their adventures, explore their past dissonance and ultimately discover what is at the base of every strong friendship…love.
Reviews
“A thing of beauty, an urgent, romantic score that captures every nuance of the story, complemented by intelligent and insightful lyrics”
★★★★★ (Paul Vale – The Stage)
“A heartwarming and heart wrenching musical that will thaw even the coldest of hearts with its beautiful collection of moments, music, love and friendship. The intimate staging, deliberate creative choices, beautiful music and brilliant cast create a musical that’s nothing short of pure theatrical bliss.”
★★★★★ (Adventures in Theatreland)
“The Story of My Life is one of the most moving shows I have seen this year. The chemistry between Markus Sodergren and Tim Edwards is outstanding.”
★★★★★ (Theatre and Tonic)
“it is a top-notch performance…a true celebration of Life”
★★★★★ (London Living Large)
“stunning songs and a casting match made in heaven”
★★★★★ (Tab in the City)
“this well-produced piece of intimate theatre is wonderfully performed”
★★★★★ (Curtain Call Reviews)
“directed with artistic precision, this production is a feast for the soul”
★★★★★ (Aline Waites Reviews)
“cleverly directed by Robert McWhir who brings out every possible nuance, small in scale but big on sheer talent”
★★★★★ (Theatre-News)
“There’s something truly magical about stumbling upon a captivating new show in an equally enchanting venue. This production is a hidden gem -a piece of theatre magic that’s waiting to be discovered. Don’t miss the chance to experience it for yourself.”
★★★★★ (Plays to See)
“sensational performances”
★★★★★ (Jack the Lad Magazine)
“an absolute triumph”
★★★★★ (London Born and Bred)
CAST
Markus Södergren — Thomas Weaver
Tim Edwards — Alvin Kelby
CREATIVES
Robert McWhir — Director
Aaron Clingham — Musical Director
David Shields — Designer
Richard Lambert — Lighting Designer
Janet Huckle — Costume Designer
Ben Armstrong — Casting Director
LAMBCO Productions — Producer
Writers
Neil Bartram — Music & Lyrics
Brian Hill — Book
Band
Aaron Clingham — Piano
Becky Hughes — Oboe, Clarinet & Triangle
Pippa Mason — Cello
Additional Credits
Steve Caplin — Graphic Design
Kaitlin Marino — Marketing
Mark Magill — Production Assistant
Peter Davies — Production Photography
