Elvis Costello’s satirical musical on populism at Young Vic

Elvis Costello and playwright Sarah Ruhl have adapted the 1957 film 'A Face in the Crowd' into a musical, which premiered at the Young Vic. The story follows Lonesome Rhodes, a drifter who rises to fame as a populist demagogue, reflecting on the nature of celebrity and politics. Ramin Karimloo portrays Rhodes, while Anoushka Lucas plays Marcia Jeffries, a local DJ who discovers him. The production aims to critique the rise of populism, drawing parallels to contemporary political figures. While the adaptation features a variety of musical styles, including folk and gospel, it has been criticized for lacking the depth and seriousness of the original film. The production's tone is described as somewhat sentimental, failing to fully engage with the darker aspects of its subject matter. Critics note that the musical does not reach the levels of absurdity seen in real-life politics today, making it feel less impactful. The songs, composed by Costello, are a highlight, showcasing a range of American musical traditions. However, the overall execution has been deemed uneven, with the narrative not fully trusting the audience to draw connections to current events. The adaptation's reliance on familiar tropes of the American dream raises questions about its effectiveness as a satire. Ultimately, the production's inability to match the extremity of its real-life inspirations leads to a sense of nostalgia rather than a sharp critique. This raises concerns about the purpose of the satire if it does not challenge its audience or provoke deeper reflection on the issues it addresses.