Currently playing at Epsom Playhouse, Kipps: The New Half a Sixpence Musical, presented by Epsom Players, is an accomplished and thoroughly engaging production that captures the enduring charm of this classic British musical. With performances running until Saturday 21st March, this production offers audiences in Surrey the opportunity to experience a well-crafted and confidently delivered piece of musical theatre.
Blending humour, romance, and social commentary, Kipps tells the story of Arthur Kipps, an ordinary draper’s assistant whose life changes overnight when he unexpectedly inherits a fortune. What follows is a thoughtful exploration of class, identity, and belonging. Elements that this production handles with clarity and care.
From the moment the curtain rose, it was clear how much heart, dedication, and talent had gone into this show. Sarah Morrison’s direction is assured and well-judged, guiding the production with a clear and consistent vision. Her approach to storytelling allows the narrative to unfold naturally, ensuring that character relationships remain at the forefront. The pacing is particularly effective, with scenes transitioning smoothly and maintaining audience engagement throughout.
Musically, the show is a real highlight. Under the direction of Dennis Clark-Hooker, the score feels lively, polished, and full of energy. Well-loved numbers such as “Half a Sixpence,” “Money to Burn,” and “Flash, Bang, Wallop!” are delivered with confidence and enthusiasm, creating some of the most memorable moments of the evening. The musical numbers never feel like they interrupt the story. Instead, they enhance it, helping to move the narrative forward while keeping the audience fully engaged.
This is further enhanced by Aimee Clark-Hooker’s choreography, which brings a real sense of movement and life to the production. The dance numbers feel purposeful and well integrated, adding energy without ever overwhelming the storytelling. Group scenes are especially effective, giving the show a sense of scale and helping to build the world around the characters in a way that feels both engaging and visually dynamic.
Vocally, the production is particularly strong. Matt Barnett leads as Arthur Kipps with a performance that is not only warm and likeable but also vocally assured. He brings a natural charm to the role, making the character instantly likeable, while also capturing the uncertainty that comes with Kipps’ sudden change in circumstances. His performance feels sincere throughout, allowing the audience to connect with his journey from beginning to end.
Andie Curno’s Ann Pornick provides a beautiful emotional core to the show, with strong, controlled vocals that add depth and sincerity to their performance. Their performance feels nuanced and heartfelt, bringing a gentle strength to the role that perfectly complements Kipps. The connection between them feels authentic and grounded, creating a believable on-stage dynamic that forms the emotional core of the production. Their scenes together carry a real sense of honesty, subtly reminding the audience of what truly matters beneath the surface of status and wealth.
Sarah Jane Pullen also impresses as Helen Walsingham, delivering a polished vocal performance that reflects the refinement of her character. Embodying the expectations and refinement of her social standing with precision. The contrast between these characters is particularly effective, highlighting the production’s central themes of class, identity, and belonging.
Michael Lock brings a welcome burst of energy and humour as Chitterlow, with strong comic timing that lifts the production at just the right moments. His performance adds a lively dynamic without ever feeling exaggerated, striking a balance that keeps the humour natural and engaging.
The supporting cast plays a crucial role in establishing the atmosphere and scope of the production, and here they deliver consistently strong performances. Alex Boyall (Sid) Isabella Breslin (William) Malachy Jensen (Jack) and Eloise Hogben (Flo) help create a vibrant and believable world on stage. Sally Jones and AJ King bring strong character work to the roles of the Walsinghams. Karen Paterson (Lady Punnet), Geoff Brown (Mr Shalford) and Paul Falconer (Mr Carshot) each add their own presence and individuality. Caron Warner alongside Steve Cox bring warmth and humour as Aunt Susan and Uncle Bert. Melanie Dunn and Susanne Sinisalu add elegance and presence as Lady Dacre and Lady Bindo-Botting, complementing the central cast while enhancing the world of the story.
The ensemble as a whole support the larger musical numbers with energy, precision, and a sense of fun, particularly in dance-heavy sequences. Their collective timing, strong vocals, and enthusiasm give the production its scale and spectacle, helping to make every scene feel full and lively.
Behind the scenes, the production runs with impressive precision, thanks to Stage Manager Jo Epps and the dedicated S.W.A.T stage crew. Their hard work ensures smooth scene changes and seamless transitions, allowing the story to flow naturally without a single moment of disruption. Richard Pike’s lighting design is another standout element. His subtle yet effective choices enhance the atmosphere of each scene, helping to define mood and focus without ever distracting from the action on stage. The lighting supports the storytelling beautifully and adds an extra layer of polish to the production.
Overall, Kipps at Epsom Playhouse is a joyful, high-energy, and thoughtfully crafted production that succeeds on every level. It’s a show that brings together strong performances, impressive choreography, and exceptional vocal work. All while maintaining warmth, humour, and heart throughout.
From the standout leads to the ensemble and supporting cast, every performer contributes to creating a vibrant, engaging, and cohesive theatrical experience. It’s a show that leaves you smiling, humming the songs on the way home, and appreciating the dedication and talent of everyone involved, both onstage and behind the scenes.
For anyone searching for a feel-good night out, this is a production well worth seeing. With performances continuing until Saturday 21st March, audiences are strongly encouraged to catch it while they can! Kipps is a lively, heartwarming, and thoroughly enjoyable theatrical experience that deserves to be celebrated.
