Expert Review: Why Benjamin Button Is An Inventive Marvel

4.5
★★★★★

Expert Rating

The Verdict

This musical adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald's extraordinary short story brings fresh theatrical magic to the tale of a man who ages in reverse. The production successfully tackles the complex emotional and philosophical themes while creating an intimate, moving experience that celebrates the beauty and tragedy of time itself.

What Makes It Special

  • Innovative Storytelling: Creative staging and musical arrangements that capture the unique challenge of portraying reverse aging on stage.
  • Emotional Depth: A deeply moving exploration of love, mortality, and what it means to live a life out of sync with time.
  • Intimate Setting: Ambassadors Theatre's smaller venue creates a perfect environment for this personal, character-driven story.
  • Original Score: Beautiful, haunting melodies that reflect the bittersweet nature of Benjamin's extraordinary journey.

Perfect For

Fans of thoughtful, character-driven musicals, literature enthusiasts, couples seeking a romantic yet poignant evening, and anyone who appreciates innovative adaptations of classic stories. The themes make it suitable for ages 10+.

Everything You Need to Know

A Life Lived Backwards

Benjamin Button is born as an elderly man and ages backwards, growing younger as those around him grow older. This extraordinary circumstance creates a life full of unique joys and heartbreaks as he experiences love, loss, and the passage of time in ways no one else can understand. His relationship with Daisy, the love of his life, becomes the emotional heart of the story as they meet at different points in their reversed timelines.

What to Expect

  • Innovative theatrical techniques to portray aging in reverse
  • A deeply romantic yet bittersweet love story
  • Philosophical reflections on time, mortality, and acceptance
  • Intimate staging that brings you close to Benjamin's extraordinary journey
  • A story that asks profound questions about what makes a life meaningful

Musical Highlights & Themes

  • "Backwards" - Benjamin's opening number about living life in reverse
  • "Time Stands Still" - The romantic duet between Benjamin and Daisy
  • "Growing Down" - A poignant reflection on aging backwards
  • "The Dance of Years" - An ensemble piece about the passage of time
  • "Meeting You Again" - The emotional climax of their relationship

Central Themes: The musical explores time, love, acceptance, and the precious nature of every moment we have with those we care about, regardless of whether we're moving forward or backward through life.

Practical Information

Show Times

  • Tuesday - Saturday: 7:30pm
  • Wednesday & Saturday: 2:30pm & 7:30pm
  • Sunday: 3:00pm
  • Monday: No performances

Getting There

  • Tube: Leicester Square (2 minutes walk)
  • Alternative Stations: Piccadilly Circus, Covent Garden
  • Bus: Multiple routes to Leicester Square area
  • Parking: Limited - public transport recommended

Venue Information

  • Historic West End theatre opened in 1913
  • Capacity: 444 seats
  • Intimate venue with excellent sightlines
  • Wheelchair accessible with advance notice
  • Bar and merchandise available