They are ably supported by a 14-strong, excellently-drilled company that breathes unexpected depth and honour into Marc Acito, Jay Kuo and Lorenzo Thione’s book while also ensuring the lyrics of Jay Kuo never fail to hit home.
Watch for stand out performances from Aynrand Ferrer as Kei Kimura, Sammy’s wonderfully maternal older sister, who is a delight, and Masashi Fujimoto, whose portrayal of Kimura patriarch, Tatsuo, is another anchor of the piece.
From Wishes On The Wind, to With You, and the joyous Stronger Than Before, not forgetting the glorious Our Time Now, Andrew Hilton and Charlie Ingles’ orchestrations flow and soar under musical director Beth Jerem, while Tara Overfield Wilkinson’s dynamic and considered direction ensures the action never falters.
In his programme notes, Takei voices his desire that we all ‘overcome our prejudices, fears’ and ‘allegiances’ to ‘discover our common humanity’. That is the legacy he hopes Allegiance will leave in the hearts and minds of all who see it, and as the musical builds to its stunning denouement, only the hardest of souls and coldest of spirits will remain untouched by this heart-wrenching but ultimately magnificent celebration of the resilience of the humanity.
This exciting production deserves to sell and be seen. It will. And remember, bring a handkerchief. It’s emotional.