‘Curious Case of Benjamin Button’ review: A sweet and folksy musical that wants to go to Broadway

The Public Theater in New York City has introduced a fresh musical adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s renowned story, “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” with hopes of eventually reaching Broadway. This production, featuring a new American cast, offers a distinctive interpretation by relocating the narrative from Baltimore to coastal Cornwall, England, and shifting the timeline to post-World War I, beginning in 1918.

This temporal and geographic adjustment adds layers of historical resonance. Set amid the aftermath of the First World War, a period marked by widespread loss for British families and a rapid maturation of the younger generation, the story’s exploration of time and aging acquires new poignancy. The choice to anchor the musical in this era also informs its musical style, which draws inspiration from the acoustic, melancholic pub music characteristic of the period, infusing the score with a Celtic flavor.

Composer Darren Clark, in collaboration with director and book writer Jethro Compton, who also co-wrote the lyrics, reimagines the life of Benjamin Button, a man who ages backward—from an elderly infant to a newborn. Andrew Durand portrays Benjamin throughout his unique life journey, delivering a performance that captures the character’s complex emotional landscape without resorting to overt exaggeration. His portrayal is both nuanced and grounded, enabling the audience to engage deeply with Benjamin’s experiences.

Opposite Durand is Kelsee Kimmel as Elowen, Benjamin’s enduring love. Kimmel’s performance stands out for its earthy sincerity and emotional depth, contributing significantly to the production’s emotional core. Their chemistry lends authenticity to the romantic storyline, elevating the musical beyond conventional theatrical tropes.

The narrative initially presents some challenges, particularly in its first act, which spans Benjamin’s life from age 70 to 44. The storytelling features verbose and folk-inspired exposition, including ensemble numbers that can feel overextended. The complexity of the plot, covering Benjamin’s time at sea and his service in the Royal Navy during World War II, results in a dense tapestry of events. This section introduces numerous characters, which at times complicates the audience’s ability to track the unfolding drama.

Visually, the production employs evocative stage design by Compton, featuring elements reminiscent of a sunken fishing boat, complemented by floating buoys that transform into stars, creating an atmospheric setting that supports the maritime and coastal themes. Costume design by Anna Kelsey reinforces the period authenticity, with attire that echoes early 20th-century working-class aesthetics.

As the show progresses into its second act, it sheds some of the earlier narrative clutter, focusing more intently on Benjamin and Elowen’s relationship. This shift allows the musical to delve into themes of love, loss, and the preciousness of time with greater intimacy and clarity. The performances become more emotionally resonant, highlighting the maturity and depth of the romantic leads.

The musical’s score maintains a consistent melodic charm, though some repetition is noted. Among the songs, Benjamin’s reflective solo “A Little Life” stands out, capturing his optimistic spirit despite his unusual condition. The storyline also confronts darker family dynamics, notably Benjamin’s strained relationship with his mother Mary, portrayed by Sachiko Mae, whose antagonism introduces a somber tone early on.

Brandon J. Ellis plays Roger, Benjamin’s father, whose resentment adds further complexity to the familial relationships depicted. These tensions juxtapose the enduring love between Benjamin and Elowen, underscoring the production’s exploration of human connection amid adversity.

Ultimately, this musical adaptation offers a heartfelt and earnest retelling of a well-known narrative. While the production takes time to find its footing, particularly in balancing exposition and emotional engagement, its strengths lie in the compelling performances of Durand and Kimmel and its thoughtful integration of historical context and musical style. As the show continues to evolve, it holds promise as a distinctive addition to the contemporary musical theater landscape.