50 First Dates: The Musical review – Could this be the most charming musical yet?

by

A star rating of 4 out of 5.

Many people consider Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore’s ‘50 First Dates‘ to be one of the best romantic comedies of the past few decades, and I’d have to say I agree with them.

It was a must-see, so we quickly went to The Other Palace to experience the musical adaptation, starring Georgina Castle (known from Mean Girls) and Josh St Clair (from Ghost) as Lucy Whitmore and Henry Roth.

Those who enjoyed the first film will be happy to know the core story – about Lucy, an artist who forgets things, and Henry, a man afraid of commitment who falls for her – is still intact, though there are a few small changes to what Henry does for work.

Okay, I’ll be honest, I was a little thrown when they didn’t make Henry a typical marine vet. Instead, he’s this travel vlogger who just happens to be passing through Key Largo, Florida, on his way to a big European trip. And, of course, that trip gets completely derailed the moment he meets Lucy!

And it truly delivers. The songs, written by David Rossmer and Steve Rosen, are as heartwarming and delightful as the film’s romance, quickly winning over even the most critical viewers – including me.

There’s a clear and instant connection between Castle and St Clair’s characters – they fall in love quickly after spending just one day completing Lucy’s list and enjoying what seems like a perfect date. Both actors are well-known for their previous roles, with appearances in popular productions like Mamma Mia! and Kinky Boots.

The story of these two characters unfolds through catchy songs like “They’re Not You” and “Good Morning, Lucy,” and you quickly find yourself hoping they end up together, even though you’ve only just met them.

As with most musicals, both in London’s West End and elsewhere, a strong ensemble cast is essential, and that holds true for 50 First Dates.

Whether it’s the stunning power ballad ‘Key Largo,’ featuring the incredible vocals of Chad Saint Louis (known from ‘Spring Awakening’), or Aiesha Naomi Pease performing any song, their voices are simply breathtaking and uplifting.

What makes this musical – and the movie it’s based on – so touching is the deep love Lucy receives from the people of Key Largo, her family, and ultimately, Henry.

A heartwarming theme throughout the musical is the love between the characters – whether romantic, friendly, or, in the case of Henry’s manager Delilah (played with great humor by Natasha O’Brien, known from *Mamma Mia!*), a bit complicated.

The Other Palace is an ideal venue for ’50 First Dates,’ and the set design and projections enhance the show’s heartwarming and intimate atmosphere.

Adapting a movie for the stage is often challenging, but this production has been a passion project for everyone involved, and they’re all incredibly proud of what they’ve accomplished.

“50 First Dates isn’t just a typical romantic comedy,” Rosen explained. “Beyond the charming love story between Henry and Lucy, there’s a much more profound message at its heart.”

Rosen explained that the story centers on community and how far people will go to help loved ones facing unfair circumstances, and the musical, 50 First Dates: The Musical, effectively conveys this message.

If you’re after charm, wittiness and charisma, 50 First Dates could just be the musical for you.

50 First Dates: The Musical is at The Other Palace until Sunday 16th November.

Don’t forget to explore top West End shows, and read our review of Evita! Plus, we’ve got a guide on finding affordable tickets to Cadbury World.

Read More

2025-09-26 03:05