The newest revival of See What I Wanna See has Michael John LaChiusa’s musical making its London debut. Having premiered in New York’s Public Theatre in 2005, the cast is introducing the show to English audiences at the Jermyn Street Theatre in Picadilly Circus.

The show interlinks three short stories based on ‘Kesa and Morito’, ‘The Grove’ and ‘The Dragon’ by Japanese writer Ryunosuke Akutagwa. The first story is set in feudal Japan, where lovers Kesa and Morito are plotting each other’s deaths in order to escape their ill-fated relationship. For Kesa, murdering Morito will cleanse her of the guilt and disgrace she feels, but for Morito it will give him back his honour. The second story is set in New York in 1951, shortly after a body has been found. We watch as suspects including ‘the janitor’ (Jonathan Butterell) and ‘the thief’ (Marc Elliot) each tell their side of the story. The characters’ different versions of events are so far from each other, it is impossible for the audience to work out the truth. The final story is also set in New York but in 2002, where a priest who is struggling with his faith tries to disprove the existence of God. He knows those in need of a miracle will put all of their hopes in the hoax he has created, but what ends up happening truly surprises him.

All three stories thematically explore the concept of truth versus lies, which works well with the intimacy of the Jermyn Street Theatre. The cast makes connections with audience members as we try and investigate who is truly telling the truth. Faith, greed, redemption, sex and murder are all involved in these tales, but for a plotline that sounds complicated, Adam Lenson’s direction ensures clarity and separation of each story and scenario. The different settings and time periods allow for a fusion of different musical styles throughout the show including jazz, salsa, soul and classical. Michael John LaChuisa’s score continuously surprises and is unpredictable in its beauty.

The range of vocal abilities amongst the cast is obvious, but in moments where this is lacking, the accomplished band draw focus to the complex and wonderful melodies. Particular musical triumphs include ‘No More’ (Cassie Compton), as well as Sarah Ingram’s ‘The Greatest Practical Joke’ and ‘There Will Be A Miracle.’ Mark Goldthorp gives a standout performance; his vocal quality is exceptional and he has tremendous stage presence.

See What I Wanna See is playing the Jermyn St Theatre until 3rd October. For more information and tickets, see the Jermyn Street Theatre website. Photo by Jamie Scott-Smith.