Black Sheep Theatre Productions’ mission has been “Art with a point. Art that matters and art that connects with the human experience, in its glories or its pain.”

Mission accomplished in this outstanding production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, directed by the founder of Black Sheep Theatre Productions, Matthew Peter Clare, who was also the musical director of the superb 13-piece band. This mostly musical version of Victor Hugo’s classic had me under its mesmerising spell right from the beginning with its raw emotion and compelling choral work. Only those with a heart of stone could fail to connect and be much moved as the story followed Quasimodo, the deformed and deafened bell-ringer of Notre Dame, who was kind-hearted but society chose to shun him because of his appearance.

Act One opened with a most effective stark scaffolding set, with the ensemble cast presenting the gargoyles under and around the scaffolding, as well as standing at church pews at each side of the stage. A beautiful stained glass window hung centrally, and the haunting mood was set magnificently. Then a big ensemble singing and dancing number, The Bells of Notre Dame, burst into life (brilliantly choreographed by Charlie Clarke), led by charismatic and Puck-like James Robert Ball, playing Clopin Trouillefou; he lit up the stage with his energy and presence whenever he appeared.

It was an inspired touch to have two Quasimodos; Jack James Fry gave the performance of his life as the deaf Quasimodo, with his use of British Sign Language adding to his character’s vulnerability, and Dan Poppitt’s rich singing voice resonated in the ‘Cathedral’ in many musical numbers – “Out There” particularly touched the soul.

Quasimodo Photo: Ryan Healey

Quasimodo Photo: Ryan Healey

Jack Hooper sent shivers up my spine in his chilling performance as tormented Claude Frollo; his rendition of ‘Hellfire’ was masterful and manic, supported by atmospheric sound (Ollie Nash) and lighting (Adam Kirkwood) design.

Ayana Beatrice Poblete brought deep compassion and spirit to her role as Esmeralda, in touching scenes with Quasimodo, and was most authentic in the tender moments with soldier Phoebus de Martin, played with great earnestness and feeling by Robbie Wallwork.

Victor Hugo’s message of compassion and tolerance rang out loud and clear; it is as relevant today as it was then.

A well-paced, powerful production delivered with passion. I honestly thought I was experiencing a West End production.

Bravo!

Musical : The Hunchback of Notre Dame is on at Joseph Rowntree Theatre York, until Saturday 18th October 2025