A Fan’s Guide: 6 Essential Moments in Starlight Express
Andrew Lloyd Webber’s award-winning musical, Starlight Express, is currently delighting audiences at the Troubadour Wembley Park Theatre in London. A roller-skating extravaganza packed with innovative costumes, high-energy musical numbers and a heart-warming story about self-belief, Starlight Express puts a modern twist on the classic story that first opened in the West End back in 1984. Here are six essential moments from the Starlight Express show that any super fan should know.
1. The Opening Race - “Starlight Express”
Starlight Express starts with a bang and sets the tone and energy from the very beginning. As soon as the curtain lifts, the actors in their spectacular train costumes zoom around the track, immediately transporting the audience into a whole new world. This is the only musical in the world performed on roller skates and this is both acknowledged and celebrated from the start with the help of the much-loved anthem - “Starlight Express”.
2. Rusty’s First Race - “Rusty”
As the show’s protagonist, Rusty is a young and inexperienced steam train who dreams of racing to glory and beating more modern locomotives such as Electra. Being an underdog with low self-esteem, Rusty embarks on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth; and his first race is a pivotal moment in the story. The song “Rusty” is an emotional high point, signalling the moment when Rusty gets his confidence back. In true Starlight Express theatre style, the heartstrings of audience members are very much pulled here.
3. Electra’s Performance - “Electra”
Electra is cool - and he knows it. Sleek, powerful and with a magnetic presence, his song is delivered in a thrilling performance that leaves a lasting impression. The electric train is the stark opposite of Rusty, exuding confidence and presence. This is a key moment in the show, as it emphasises the challenges Rusty faces to realise his dream.
4. The Love Triangle - “I Do”
Believe it or not, the Starlight Express musical even features a love triangle between Rusty, Pearl (a very glamorous female train) and Electra. Will she choose the high energy, super modern and powerful train with all the confidence in the world - or an inexperienced underdog? The song “I Do" showcases the complexity of Rusty’s feelings as he tries to win Pearl’s affection. This song also breaks up the intense racing scenes with a touch of sentiment.
5. The Triumph of Starlight - “Light at the End of the Tunnel”
The song “Light at the End of the Tunnel” celebrates Rusty’s victory while acknowledging his journey of self-realisation and overcoming doubt. It captures the essence of what Starlight Express is all about - perseverance, self-belief and the power of the heart. Starlight Express might be a high-energy, action-packed show, but it’s also designed to be heart-warming and emotive.
6. The Grand Finale - “Starlight Express” (Reprise)
Andrew Lloyds Webber’s famous Starlight Express number is reprised for a dramatic finale. The trains reunite in celebration of Rusty’s victory and the musical is concluded with plenty of spectacular skating and intense choreography. Fans can cheer along with the cast as the curtain closes, ending on a high.
Book your tickets to see Starlight Express with KX Tickets today and discover the magic of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s award-winning theatre show.
