Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) Review

Last night I had the pleasure of attending the Press Night for the West End production of ‘Two Strangers (Carry a cake across New York) at the Criterion Theatre.

‘Two Strangers (Carry a cake across New York) follows the story of a British man named Dougal travelling to New York for his estranged father’s wedding, when he meets Robin, a less excitable American who just so happens to be his father’s fiance’s sister. We watch the ups and downs of their newly formed relationship as the big wedding approaches swiftly.

From entering the auditorium the atmosphere and ambiance is set immediately as whilst you find your seat, flick through your programme and grab a drink - as aeroplane take-off sounds and airport announcements played frequently, setting the mood perfectly for the opening of the performance.

The set, designed by Soutra Gilmour upon first glance is simple yet effective, as two large stacks of suitcases don the stage making for two luggage mountains. However as the performance goes on Gilmour’s true genius is revealed as each suitcase opens up to create another set piece for the scene. My mind was blown at this absolute wizardry as another dropped down to create a chinese restaurant.

The script, written by Jim Barne and Kit Buchan, is a delightful, fast-paced and witty adventure. It is punchy, funny and each moment of emotion and comedy hits the spot - I thoroughly enjoyed this clever writing with both British and American humour as these two wonderfully written characters collide in ‘the big apple’. 

Barne & Buchan’s marvellous partnership doesn’t end there - as this is paired with a great score with some incredible songs that are both lovely to listen to, and incredibly catchy. You can listen to their EP now - which features many of these amazing songs but you must go and see the show for yourself to discover the songs that aren’t on there - because they alone are worth it.

‘Two Strangers’ is a two–hander which means both performers only have each other to keep this show on its feet - and I couldn’t imagine a greater pairing than Sam Tutty and Dujonna Gift-Simms. They both have a wonderful stage presence that could hold the attention of an audience whether they are sharing the stage or doing a scene alone.

Sam Tutty plays Dougal Todd, an excitable Brit who is extremely thrilled to be in New York City, but also to meet his father. Tutty tackles this larger than life role brilliantly. His excellent characterisation fits the role perfectly and his vocals are sublime. Sam Tutty’s rendition of the first number ‘New York’ is truly unforgettable and was one of many standout moments in this brilliant show for me.

Dujonna Gift takes the role of ‘Robin’, an American woman tasked with picking up her Sister’s Fiance’s long lost son from the airport. She is very much the opposite of Dougal and definitely doesn’t have his positive, excitable ideas of New York. Gift is wonderful to watch. This role displays perfectly the talents that she has to offer and her beautiful vocals gave me literal goosebumps. This was a truly magnificent performance.

I think this show is a must-see as it has a bit of everything. It's got romance, comedy, emotion, and range of genres throughout the show’s score. I really enjoyed this show and I think that it is a great example of what a new musical can be. It was exciting from start to finish and I couldn’t think of an ounce of criticism to change this show and make it better because for me it hit all the right spots and that makes it a production deserving of a 5 star rating!

Go and see ‘Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York) Now!! Running at the criterion theatre in London’s West End until 14th July (currently). https://twostrangersthemusical.com/

24th May 2024

Robbie Davies | Robbie’s Backstage Bants