Saving Mozart at the Other Palace

Premiering at the Other Palace Theatre for its short UK summer run, Saving Mozart is a coming-of-age retelling of the story of legendary Austrian composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Starting in childhood, the story begins with a young Mozart, played by the adorable Izzie Monk and his older, imaginative sister Nannerl (Aimie Atkinson) teaching the young boy the ropes of composing.

Director Markus Olzinger provides the audience with a new perspective on Mozart’s life told through song and first-person narration by the prodigy himself (Jack Chamberts). Themes of family, death, power and music dominate the show.

To say the least, Olzinger’s direction is daring, offering interesting insights into why Mozart could’ve behaved the way he did. Particularly compelling is the relationship between Mozart and Nannerl. It comes to a head in the second act as she boldly proclaims through I Don’t Believe You that her relationship with Mozart is lost. Nannerl appears to resent her brother, as in 18^th-century society, he was allowed to flourish as a musician while she was not.

What is great about Saving Mozart is that the music drives the production. The stage is adorned with a big white M for the production’s subject, but the lack of props keeps the focus on those around Mozart, and not just him. A piano is also present, used by the cast and moved during many music numbers.

However, what the production may lack in staging, it makes up for in choreography. The ensemble cast is there from the onset, moving in slow motion, but as the conflict rises, their movements grow quicker, voices louder, and the choreography becomes elaborate. Where they shine is in the bolder, sassier tracks, such as act two’s Know Your Place and Because of You/Move On at the end of act one.

Another highlight of the production is the stunning 18^th-century style costumes by Julia Pschedezki. Psheshezki blends modern dress with time-accurate clothing of the time. A highlight of the costume design is Nannerl’s light-coloured corset, blouse and big skirt, representing her repression in society. Notably, Nannerl remains in that costume for the rest of act two, showing she did not break out of her chains until the end.

Throughout Saving Mozart, the cast show their chemistry and the ability to engage audiences. Nannerl is the feminine heart of act one, pushing Mozart to see things imaginatively. On the other hand, Leopold is cold and stern, although he loves his son in his own way. The contrast between his family members and their relationships give the audience emotional clarity on where Mozart is in his life and musically.

Later, Constanze (Erin Caldwell), Mozart’s wife, proves she is his twin flame and encourages his dream in the stunning and soulful This Won’t Break Me. Constanze’s introduction feels a little late, but her impact on the story never wavers. Neither does that of Mozart’s rival, Salieri (Jordan Luke Gage), as he wins Mozart’s dream music position.

Saving Mozart is a story of courage, music, love, and learning to follow dreams, even if they seem impossible.

Sophie Humphrey
Photos: Danny Kaan

Saving Mozart is at the Other Palace from 6^th until 31^st August 2025. For further information or to book,

visit the theatre’s website here.

 

Watch the trailer for Saving Mozart at the Other Palace here: