The legendary Stephen Sondheim, who died in November 2021, was one of the most important and influential figures in 20th-century musical theatre. His smart, acute lyrics – which Limelight’s Editor-at-Large Clive Paget once described as “a reassuring trove of eloquence, wit and insight” – are matched by unforgettable music that is unmistakably his.

Whenever you see Sondheim’s work, you are reminded of his brilliance. Not surprisingly, his songs proliferate across the cabaret world and there have been numerous tribute shows celebrating his talent.

So, it’s good to see Being Alive, The Music of Stephen Sondheim – a brand-new concert of his songs at the Hayes Theatre Co – include a few lesser-known numbers in the program, while taking something of a fresh approach.

Raphael Wong, Blazey Best, Lincoln Elliott and Kala Gare in Being Alive at the Hayes Theatre Co. Photo © John McRae

Directed by Sonya Suares, with musical direction by Michael Tyack and musical supervision by Luke Byrne, there’s a rehearsal vibe at play in the show’s presentation.

As the audience enters the auditorium, three of the cast (Blazey Best, Kala Gare and Raphael Wong) are onstage,...