I’ve never read The Lord of the Rings or seen the films, but you shouldn't need prior knowledge to enjoy a show, and that’s exactly why I was excited to see Lord of the Rings - A Musical Tale. I was curious how 1,200 pages of epic fantasy would be adapted into a three-hour musical, and even more intrigued by how this world would be conceived in theatre.
Visually, the production is captivating. Simon Kenny’s set design draws the audience into Middle-earth with subtle, seamless transitions as the story moves through various landscapes. The use of puppetry to bring creatures and enemies to life is a standout feature, cleverly used to build tension and horror within the limits of live performance. The costumes and make-up are consistently eye-catching and detailed, with the Orcs' imposing black outfits and masks particularly effective in conveying menace and power. Gollum is another highlight that convincingly displays what centuries of living underground can do to someone's face and body. Meanwhile, Galadriel’s golden robes convey the ethereal radiance and otherworldly presence of the Elven queen.
