A CONSUMPTION OF COSTUMES

By Tom Ffiske · With assistance from Paula Godinez | Immersive Wire ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Press Invite

Miuccia Prada, an Italian fashion designer, once said that fashion is instant language. I agree. It speaks in its own flow and intonations, communicating what it needs. It can be loud or bombastic, setting the scene for a joyful production; or quiet and demure, taking someone’s hand with a kind touch. Frank’s Closet takes this to the extreme, where dresses destined for the V&A come to life to advise Frank on one thing – how to calm his eve-of-wedding jitters. 

Frank (Andy Moss) starts to feel doubts before tying the knot with his love. To help, seven divas from history step into the limelight bearing the costumes which he has collected over the years – fabrics interwoven with the stories of his past. The story unwinds and reveals whether the day is saved, or Frank’s insecurities push him to escape. 

Frank’s journey, from an Abba fan in Cleethorpes to nervous fiancé, is marked by stellar performances from the cast. Andy Moss provides an all-star presentation as Frank, singing a range of tunes for almost the entire duration of the production. The supporting divas enrich the presentation, adding flair and fun to all of Frank’s actions. And the lead is supported by The Diva (Luke Farrugia), who plays with a wide range of musical styles from England and Sweden (yes, you can guess the band). The duo weave a tale of inner turmoil, grappling with shame, and potentially embracing themselves through love and acceptance. 

The story hits with wonderful lines, such as how we are all made with starlight and glue. It’s therefore a shame that the powerful songs and ballads are slightly drowned out by the music (Stuart Wood). The production started with its notes and tunes as a commissioned show from 2009. That musical heart still beats as the heart of Frank’s Closet, though it sometimes dwarfs the powerful character moments that sing its verses. Acoustics in one of the last music halls in England becomes a detriment to seeing the whole picture. 

Despite this, the theatrical production wears its heart with such proud flair and pomp that the audience is swept by the tale. The story of love, both past and present, has a simple touch which lends itself to the deeper complexities of Frank’s turmoil. Frank’s Closet is a heart-warming ballad which leaves the audience joyful for the lives they have – a note that Stuart Wood probably wished to end on. 

Frank’s Closet is playing from 3 – 14 September in Wilton’s Music Hall. 

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Photo Credit: Mark Senior