Chiswick Resident Co-Produces West End Summer Comedy Hit

'It happened In Key West' centres on the theme of undying love

A Chiswick resident has co-produced a musical on the theme of undying love which has been a hit in the West End.

“It Happened in Key West” is set in 1930s Florida and tells the unlikely story of eccentric doctor Count Carl Von Cosel who believes that he has e found the woman of his dreams, only to diagnose her with tuberculosis and then find out she is married.

The plot, staging, and the production were hatched and honed in eateries and pubs around Chiswick over the past two years.

Local resident Cameron Smith, co-produced the musical, which is currently playing at the Charing Cross Theatre until 18 August.

Cameron is a businessman working in global logistics which seems initially like an unlikely connection to theatre. When asked why he started producing he said, ‘I have always appreciated the arts for how they enhance personal development and community building, but after I began traveling internationally I realised how important they are for cultural exchange and arts fuelled commerce.

"This show has a story that speaks to all peoples. It models acceptance, kindness and humour. All things I believe we need more of in the world right now.’

Described as "hilarious and absurd", the plot follows the doctor's desperate attempts to save the life of his patient at all costs, and focuses on the undying love he displays when she succumbs to her illness. Dead though she may be, watch Elena come alive with Carl as he lives out their fantasy beneath the palm trees and sunshine of Key West. Some of the reviews say:

Watch out for discount tickets here.

July 13, 2018