King of Pangea at King’s Head Theatre
In the intimate setting of the King’s Head Theatre, King of Pangea emerges as a stunning debut folk musical, rich with emotion and charm. Created by Martin Storrow and inspired by his personal experience with loss, the production transports audiences into the magical realm of Pangea – an “unbroken place free from fear” – where imagination offers comfort after reality falls short.
The story follows Sam Crow, a young man grappling with the passing of his mother from cancer. Through a series of journal entries, treasure maps, and childhood memories, Sam rediscovers the mythical land of Pangea, an imaginary world his mother once created for him. As his journey in finding the island unfolds, Sam uses Pangea as a way to process loss. The narrative cleverly unfolds across dual timelines, where an older and younger Sam interact, reflect, and ultimately help each other come to terms with the pain and find peace. These intergenerational exchanges are at the emotional core of the production, especially in the poignant musical number Time Rises, where the younger Sam gives guidance and emotional support to his older self in a deeply moving climax.
Under the direction of Richard Israel, the show handles themes of grief, nostalgia, self-discovery and hope with both sensitivity and humour. The script walks a fine line between heartfelt sentiment and light-hearted levity, using dry wit and lyrical storytelling to explore Sam’s emotional turmoil. In the close-knit venue, piano, cello, percussion, and guitar wash over the audience with surprising power, amplifying poignant moments without overwhelming them. This immersive soundscape allows King of Pangea to excel in musical storytelling, with songs that both accompany and drive the plot, from comedic interludes to soul-searching ballads that give the story rhythm and momentum.
At times, the flow leans heavily on back-to-back songs, offering little pause, but this approach suits the folk genre’s emotional style. Storrow’s score showcases his knack for crafting catchy yet meaningful melodies that linger long after the final note.
The performances feel genuine throughout. Alfie Blackwell as Older Sam delivers emotional depth, showing restrained grief with powerful subtlety, especially in moments reading his mother’s journal or struggling with unresolved guilt. Tayt Joshua Silvester-Stoller brings warmth and energy as Younger Sam, supplying moments of hope and a lighter touch to the play. Their chemistry is evident, especially in scenes where they decode how to “get back” to Pangea, a touching metaphor for healing.
Minimal yet suggestive, the set design includes simple elements like a green forest backdrop to evoke Pangea, while relying on symbolic and imaginative staging that invites the audience to fill in the gaps, and invites them to participate in Sam’s psychological journey.
The audience response was deeply felt, with laughter, sniffles, and prolonged applause marking the conclusion. King of Pangea is a thoughtful, musically rich exploration of grief and the redemptive power of memory and imagination. It is especially resonant for those who have lost someone, but its themes of connection, childhood wonder, and resilience are universally felt.
Dionysia Afolabi
Photo: Steve Gregson
King of Pangea is at King’s Head Theatre from 12th June until 6th July 2025. For further information or to book, visit the theatre’s website here.
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