By Genevieve Dammery
A notebook that kills people may not sound like musical theatre material, but Death Note: The Musical at the Barbican makes it work, and then some. Running for 50 performances only, this adaptation of one of the most successful Mangas ever published manages to satisfy devoted fans while remaining accessible and exciting to newcomers. Combining a gripping psychological story with an unexpectedly powerful score, the production delivers an evening that is both entertaining and thought-provoking.
The plot follows Light Yagami (Xander Pang), a brilliant student who discovers a supernatural notebook that allows him to kill anyone simply by writing their name within its pages. Convinced he can create a better world by eliminating criminals, Light embarks on a mission that soon attracts the attention of the enigmatic and brilliant detective L (Colin Ryan). What unfolds over the next two hours is a tense cat-and-mouse game that explores justice, morality, and the corrupting influence of power.
The biggest surprise of Death Note is how naturally the story translates into musical theatre. Frank Wildhorn’s score combines ballads with catchy ensemble numbers, giving emotional weight to the characters’ internal conflicts while maintaining the pace of the narrative. The cast throws themselves wholeheartedly into the material. Light is portrayed with charisma and intensity, making his descent into obsession both compelling and unsettling. L provides the perfect counterbalance, bringing eccentricity and humour to an otherwise dark story.
Visually, the production is stunning. Clever staging and dynamic projections create a world that feels both contemporary and supernatural. The presence of Ryuk (Telly Leung), the apple-eating Shinigami (death god) who sets the story in motion, adds a welcome element of dark comedy and spectacle, often stealing scenes with his larger-than-life personality.
If there is any criticism, it is that the pace occasionally feels rushed as it attempts to condense an intricate story into a single evening. Some supporting characters receive less development than they deserve. However, these are minor issues in a stunning production that remains consistently engaging.
Overall, Death Note: The Musical proves that even one of the most unconventional source materials can become compelling musical theatre. Whether you’re a longtime fan or completely new to the world of Death Note, this production is well worth seeing.
The show runs until September 12. For more info: https://deathnotethemusical.com/
Photo credit: Manuel Harlan
