review: Bonnie & Clyde at the Wales MILLENNIUM CENTRE

© Richard Davenport

The Wales Millennium Centre recently played host to the thrilling musical saga of America’s most notorious outlaws, Bonnie and Clyde. With a limited run from March 26th to March 30th, the production promised a riveting experience and it delivered just that, with a blend of romance, rebellion, and raw emotion.

Alex James-Hatton and Katie Tonkinson took on the titular roles of Clyde Barrow and Bonnie Parker, respectively, bringing to life the tumultuous tale of the criminal duo whose love story is as infamous as their crime spree. The chemistry between the two leads was palpable, igniting the stage with a fiery passion that matched the intensity of their performances.

© Richard Davenport

James-Hatton’s portrayal of Clyde was both charismatic and complex, his voice lending a buttery richness to songs that demand a strong vocal presence. Tonkinson’s Bonnie was equally compelling, capturing the audience’s imagination as she transformed from a small-town girl with big dreams to a woman willing to risk it all for love.

The supporting cast was not to be overshadowed, with standout performances that offered both comic relief and poignant moments of introspection. The set design and costumes transported the audience back to the dusty roads of the Great Depression, while the lighting and sound design amplified the tension and drama inherent in Bonnie and Clyde’s fateful journey.

© Richard Davenport

In conclusion, the musical “Bonnie and Clyde” at the Wales Millennium Centre was a testament to the enduring allure of the bad-boy-meets-good-girl trope, wrapped in a historical context that still resonates today. It was a performance that captured the spirit of the times and the hearts of the audience, leaving them with a lingering sense of the tragedy and romance that defined Bonnie and Clyde’s legacy. Tickets are on sale here.