42 Balloons

If you tied 42 balloons to a lawn chair, how high could you fly? Is it possible? Is it legal? 42 Balloons is the true story of one man's dream to be a pilot and fly high. On the 2nd of July 1982, truck driver Larry Walters defied all the odds (and FAA airspace regulations) to make his lifelong dream a reality and fly above the city of Los Angeles.

Charlie McCullagh and Evelyn Hoskins lead the cast as Larry Walters and his long-suffering partner Carol Van Deusen. McCullagh is perfectly geeky as the shy young Larry who dreams big; but it is Hoskins' Carol that we feel for, as she realises Larry's dream is everything he lives for, and if she wants to be part of his life, she needs to support him. And what a voice - she pitches every note and emotion perfectly. The vocal talent extends to every member of the cast who hit each beautiful harmony. However, the standout performance has to go to Gillian Hardie as Carol's Mom - an hysterical performance as she belts out Somebody's Story; she may not agree with her daughter's choice of man, but stands by her decision.

This is a faultless production, cleverly directed by Ellie Cote, choreographed by Alexzandra Sarmiento (with moments reminiscent of Icelandic Eurovision) with Milla Clarke's scenic design making the most of a limited space. The cracking 1980s inspired score by Jack Godfrey (who also wrote the script) is foot-tappingly infectious. The lyrics are clever, funny, and heartfelt - a soundtrack that takes you through all the emotions.

Flying high at the Lowry - do not miss this extraordinary 5* world premiere before it hits the world outside Salford by storm.

Quays Theatre, Lowry: April 18th – May 19th, 2024

Garry Thomas-Lowde for Canal St Media

Savings at the bar too for holders of Canal St Card.

Detail and tickets 

Published: 4-May-2024 (7469)