Although the Headgate Theatre has a long tradition of staging musicals, this is the first one to be produced by Headgate Theatre Productions, and it’s quite a gem.

A contemporary take on dating in New York, we follow two “will they won’t they” couples as they try not to commit to each other, and the lyrics and book by Ryan Cunningham plays homage to Jane Austen in the character names, and it’s hilarious.

With multiple scene changes and locations, the show is a challenge to stage, but director Shannon Hannah has brought out terrific performances in her cast.

Austen, a strong and winning performance by Thomas Pleasant, catches his girlfriend, Catherine, cheating, and then tries not to fall in love with Marcy.

Holly Bird could have pushed the quirkiness of Marcy a bit further, (think Phoebe in Friends), but is delightful and a perfect foil for Austin.

Gazette: Review of Headgate Theatre's musical I Love You Because. Picture: Sally Parkinson PhotographyReview of Headgate Theatre's musical I Love You Because. Picture: Sally Parkinson Photography

Helen McCraw is her usual excellent self as not so world wise Diana, and Adam Duarte-Dias steals the show as commitment phobic Jeff, whose malapropisms had the audiences in stiches.

They are complimented by a strong ensemble and band, led by Musical Director Oliver Wood, who make the complex music sound easy. (As with many small cast American modern musicals, the shadow of Sondheim looms large.)

The production is undermined slightly by the endless scene changes, which could have been streamlined further, (if you don’t use it, don’t bring it on!), and the musical feels more like a screenplay in places with it’s chopping of scenes.

Gazette: Review of Headgate Theatre's musical I Love You Because. Picture: Sally Parkinson PhotographyReview of Headgate Theatre's musical I Love You Because. Picture: Sally Parkinson Photography

The cast also come way too far downstage when there were metres of empty space behind them.

That said, it’s a highly enjoyable night at the theatre, and the talent on stage are not to be missed!

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