Devilish!’s writer and lyricist Chris Burgess claims that his most recent work takes inspiration from a John Ruskin quotation, HG Wells’ The Wonderful Visit, and Bruegel’s famous depiction of Icarus falling from the sky after soaring too near the sun. Whilst this list of stimuli appears intellectual and solemn, Devilish! is anything but. It’s a musical comedy staring comic book like characters, whose enthusiasm- whilst admirable – is sometimes over exaggerated for the intimate venue of the Landor Theatre.

The plot is intriguing and original. An angel falls to earth and is desperate to become a “real man” (parallels to Pinocchio are apparent). However, he becomes exploited by a failing TV station, and faces the challenge of discerning his real friends from those who are utilizing him for fame and fortune. Alex Green portrays Angel comically, making his first appearance onstage in nothing but boxers and stereotypical fluffy wings. He successfully displays characteristics of mindless innocence and naivety, constantly talking through smiles and exhibiting placid facial expressions. However one wishes that these mannerisms faded as the play progresses, and as his character gets closer to jaded humanity.

The supporting characters and ensemble are just as – if not more – impressive than the protagonists. Whilst the chorus attack the fun filled musical numbers with ebullience and vigour, Louie Westwood delivers stand out comedy performances in the roles of a failed ‘Brummie’ TV magician (as a proud native of the West Midlands I can testify to his accent accuracy) and a lisp afflicted, sycophantic television presenter. Humour is also derived from clever, relatable contemporary references such as one character exclaiming “we’re on twitter… we’ve gone viral!”

However, despite the contemporary setting, it is disheartening that the portrayal of female characters remains reminiscent of the early twentieth century. The chorus girls appear shallow and overtly sexualised, proclaiming that they take one look at angel and “ovulate”, one of them spending the night with the protagonist just to sell the story to the media. The supporting role of Maddie doesn’t seem to worry much about sleeping her way to her dream of weather girl, or undergoing plastic surgery to become famous. Even her eventual decision not to go under the knife is initiated by the flattery and approval of a male doctor, whom she marries soon after, abandoning her dreams of a career.

The female lead, Ruth, does at one point declare an erotic photoshoot of Angel for female teenage fans as “tacky and sexist”. However, it does feel disappointing that contemporary musicals don’t seem to take the opportunity to combat musical theatre’s traditionally shallow and overtly sexualized portrayals of women.

Yet this does not spoil the charm of Devilish! which is an amusing evening of entertainment. It combines considered lyrics, enjoyable music and a strong ensemble of characters to produce an original new musical that one cannot help giggle along with.

Devilish! is playing The Landor Theatre until 29 May 2016. For more information see The Landor Theatre website.

Photo: Scott Rylander