Benjamin Button Musical Hits All The Right Notes

Most film-to-stage adaptations succeed by staying true to their cinematic roots—but The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, which originally debuted at Southwark Playhouse and now plays at the Ambassadors Theatre, proves that diverging from the source material can create something truly magical.

This musical tells the story of Benjamin Button, a man born old who ages backwards. First penned as a short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald in 1922, the tale is perhaps best known from the 2008 film adaptation starring Brad Pitt and Cate Blanchett. While the film is set in the United States and features Daisy, a ballerina, as Benjamin’s love interest, the musical takes a different path. Relocated to the Cornish coast, it introduces Elowen—a spirited barmaid—as the romantic lead, infusing the story with a uniquely British, folk-inspired charm. As Benjamin lives life in reverse, he must navigate the full spectrum of human experience—childhood, first love, marriage, fatherhood—all while appearing a different age to those around him and choosing who to trust with his secret.

With 14 actor-musicians playing over 30 instruments, the production celebrates musical storytelling at its finest. The folksy score and intelligent lyrics invite toe-tapping and emotional connection in equal measure. The pace is brisk and keeps the audience engaged, though the occasional strong accent or rapid delivery may leave some straining to catch every word—but it never detracts from the overall impact.

The set design by Jethro Compton (who also serves as writer and director), alongside associate stage designer Anna Kelsey, beautifully transforms the space into a rustic seaside world. With fishnets, wooden staircases, buoys, atmospheric blue lighting (designed by Zoe Spurr), and the ambient sounds of the sea, the production transports the audience completely. Single-set shows can sometimes feel static, but here, the stage shifts fluidly between a lively pub, a rocking ship, a vibrant village, and more—never once losing momentum.

While the West End is becoming increasingly saturated with movie-to-musical adaptations—and audiences continue to crave fresh, original material—Benjamin Button stands out as a rare example of an adaptation that feels both inventive and necessary. Benjamin Button is a warm, lyrical, and emotionally resonant production that tugs at the heartstrings and showcases the extraordinary versatility of its cast. And if that’s not reason enough to book a ticket, it’s now a three-time Olivier Award–winning musical: Best New Musical, Outstanding Musical Contribution (Darren Clark and Mark Aspinall), and Best Actor in a Musical (John Dagleish).

Currently booking until August 2025. Book tickets here!

★★★★