"Identical," directed by the legendary Trevor Nunn, brings Erich Kästner’s beloved 1949 novel "Lisa and Lottie" to life in a fresh, musical adaptation at The Lowry. Known for his work on classics like Les Misérables and Cats, Nunn delivers a show that blends charm, nostalgia, and a touch of modernity. This production, though set in a post-war period, feels timeless in its exploration of family, identity, and the uncanny coincidences that shape our lives.
The heart of "Identical" lies in its charming yet emotionally resonant story of twin sisters Lisa and Lottie, who, unbeknownst to each other, are separated shortly after birth. Raised in different cities—Lisa in Vienna with their father, Johan, and Lottie in Munich with their mother, Lisalotte—the girls grow up oblivious to the existence of their twin. Fate intervenes when both are sent to the same Alpine summer camp at the age of ten. Their initial meeting is marked by hostility and rivalry, but as they get to know one another, they are shocked to discover their identical appearance, shared birthday, and the fact that they were both born in the same hospital.
This revelation leads to the concoction of a daring plan: the girls decide to swap places to experience life with the parent they’ve never known. Lottie, pretending to be Lisa, heads to Vienna to live with Johan, a workaholic composer whose life revolves around music. Meanwhile, Lisa, assuming Lottie’s identity, goes to Munich to stay with their mother, a loving but busy writer. The story is filled with humorous and heartwarming moments as the girls navigate the challenges of their new lives, trying to keep their secret under wraps while growing closer to their estranged parents.
However, the plot thickens when Johan announces his engagement to Miss Gerlach, a prima ballerina who seems to have little interest in children. This development pushes the twins’ plan to its limits, as they must not only maintain their charade but also figure out how to prevent their father’s impending marriage, which threatens to complicate their already delicate situation. The story ultimately explores themes of family, identity, and the bonds that transcend time and distance, making "Identical" not just a fun and entertaining musical, but a deeply touching tale that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Robert Jones' set design, coupled with Douglas O’Connell’s video projections, creates a visually stunning backdrop that seamlessly transitions between the picturesque Alpine camp, bustling Munich streets, and the elegant Viennese apartment. The use of high-tech video designs adds depth and realism, making the stage feel alive with movement and change. The costumes are period-appropriate, adding to the authenticity of the production while allowing the characters' personalities to shine through.
The cast is a highlight of the show, particularly the real-life twins Kyla and Nicole Fox, who play Lisa and Lottie. Their performances are nothing short of delightful, bringing a natural chemistry and mischievous energy to the stage. Emily Tierney as Lisalotte and James Darch as Johan deliver solid performances as the girls’ estranged parents, portraying their characters with depth and sincerity. Special mention goes to Gabrielle Lewis-Dobson as Miss Gerlach, who adds a layer of complexity to what could have been a one-dimensional character.
"Identical" at The Lowry is a heartwarming, beautifully crafted musical that both entertains and tugs at the heartstrings. While the nearly three-hour runtime could benefit from some trimming, the show’s strong performances, stunning visuals, and memorable songs more than make up for it. Whether you’re familiar with Kästner’s original novel or The Parent Trap films, this production offers a fresh, engaging take on the classic story. A must-see for families and musical theatre fans alike!
Identical is on at The Lowry until Saturday 3rd September 2022, you can purchase tickets by clicking on the button below.
If you would like more information about the show and see where it will be touring to please click the button below for the show's official website.
Photo Credit - Pamela Raith
*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review.
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