Review: Zambezi Express, Hackney Empire

REVIEW
"The happiest show on Earth" is quite a billing for any production.

Add in the fact the musical in question comes from Zimbabwe, via Wookey Hole Caves in Somerset, and the tagline seems even more surprising.

The wafer-thin plot features the tale of aspiring footballer Mzili (Makhula Moyo), who dreams of being the next Ronaldinho rather than a miner like his brothers.

He takes the Zambezi Express train from the township of Bulawayo to pursue his ambition and play for the Big City Chiefs team in South Africa.

But the story, which accompanies the mix of traditional Zulu and 21st century song and dance, only really kicks off as the first act closes and drags in a number of places. What little dialogue there is also leaves a lot to be desired.

In fact, the company would have done well to strip out the shaky plot and padding songs and make a shorter production showcasing the 30-strong Zimbabwean theatre company's obvious talents.

The dancing is also undeniably good and executed with amazing athleticism and beaming smiles - this is seemingly the happiest cast on Earth.

However, their posturing for applause in the middle of songs did grate slightly and break up the momentum. It is just a shame the story was not as engaging as the footwork.