REVIEW Stalled: A New Musical at the Kings Head Theatre

By Jude

What do women really do when they go to the bathroom? The answer is far more than just using the toilet. Stalled: A New Musical, now playing at the King’s Head Theatre, explores the women’s bathroom as a multifaceted safe space. Written by Liesl Wilke and directed by Vikki Stone, this melodic and uplifting production promises a brilliant and inspiring story.

The musical follows Maggie (Lauren Ward), a cleaner in a women’s bathroom who, while grappling with her own personal challenges, tries to help the many women who pass through—each carrying their own struggles and stories. Ward delivers a captivating performance as the ‘motherly’ figure to many of these characters, and her journey towards realising her own brokenness is both raw and deeply affecting.

The cast embodies a variety of characters, each facing relatable struggles—grief, unexpected life changes, mental health battles, the pursuit of perfection, parental pressure, and self-discovery. The songs beautifully explore these themes, giving each character a distinct voice and emotional depth—so much so that I found myself wanting to enjoy the songs long after the final bows.

The set, designed by Emily Bestow, is simple yet effective, seamlessly transporting the audience into a striking Seattle bathroom.

The show could benefit from some refinement in its character narratives. A central mystery surrounds one character’s role in the bathroom, eventually adding complexity to the story. However, rather than sparking curiosity, her initial presence creates confusion, making it feel as though something has been missed rather than building intrigue. Additionally, the plotlines often lean towards the predictable, resulting in a narrative that invites observation rather than suspense. The ending, while heartfelt—there were moments that brought tears to the eyes—felt somewhat incomplete. Some character arcs reached satisfying resolutions, while others remained open-ended, leaving unanswered questions. Expanding the musical beyond its current 90-minute run could allow for greater depth and a more fulfilling conclusion.

Another aspect that raised questions was the portrayal of characters of Asian descent, the Latino character, and the neurodivergent character. While representation is always welcome and encouraged, it was unclear whether these depictions were the result of thorough research or if they leaned into familiar stereotypes. A more nuanced approach could strengthen these portrayals and make them feel more authentic.

With a bit more time and refinement, Stalled could truly flush out its full potential.

3 stars.