BWW Reviews: I LOVE YOU, YOU'RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE, Above The Arts, July 11 2015

I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change is a musical comedy with a history over two decades. Since premiering Off-Broadway in 1996, it has been seen internationally and is currently playing Above The Arts in London, starring Julie Atherton, Gina Beck, Samuel Holmes and Simon Lipkin.

The show is in director Kirk Jameson's more than capable hands and he does a fantastic job in extracting the best out of the remarkable foursome. The show, in a nutshell, is about relationships and showcases various scenarios that commonly occur over the course of a relationship. Couples generally wouldn't admit to being THAT person when dating or after years of marriage but everyone can relate in some way or another to the material; although on face value, it seems that it has a predominantly female appeal but this couldn't be more wrong. Equally as many men were keeling over due to the side-splitting humour dealt by Joe DiPietro's book and witty lyrics. In such a small space of time, the nuances that Jameson and the cast have found within the text is superb.

One of the greatest strengths is the emotional connection that the company have with the text. Atherton is particularly spectacular at this during 'I Will Be Loved Tonight' and in the dating video of Rose Ritz scene where by her character is still reeling from the effects of her recent divorce. Equally her comic timing is perfection and she shines during 'Stud and a Babe' with Samuel Holmes. The 'Satisfaction Guaranteed' scene also enables all four actors to demonstrate their comedic abilities.

Holmes is particularly brilliant and very charming in 'I Can Live With That' alongside Gina Beck as two single oldies whose partners have passed away and hilariously deadpan during 'On The Highway of Love'. Beck's operatic qualities within her vocals are stunning and thoroughly complement the group harmonies. Equally her Dolly Parton-esque vocals during 'Always The Bridesmaid' are very enjoyable. She works brilliantly with Simon Lipkin in the 'Marriage Tango' which features some sexy choreography by Sam Spencer-Lane; Lipkin, in particular, shows real artistic flair and exquisite lines! Lipkin always attacks every role he plays showcasing his full capabilities. The 'Scared Straight' scene is hysterical and he even catches himself and his colleagues out at one point!

The four-strong company have wonderful chemistry and have been expertly cast for this production. It may have been performed in a small room above a theatre but the quality of performance is on a massive scale.

I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change plays Above The Arts until July 18 2015.