Review: Dogmum (Ventnor Arts Club, Ventnor Fringe)

Amy Ambrose’s musical rom-com Dogmum made its debut at Ventnor Fringe and I was pleased to be able to review it. Billed as 'a musical rom-com for anyone whose Prince Charming turned out to be a cockapoo', Amy not only wrote the show but also starred in it herself.

As the show was introduced, Amy let us know that she was filming the show to pitch it to a film director, and that most of her band members (who also doubled as actors) “missed their ferry” so she was stuck with some friends helping her out. Musical Director Lindsey Miller was on keyboards, Jonty Peach played numerous roles - including rather hilariously, several dogs, and another friend (Eugene Evans) turned up later for the second half after “ushering on another show”.

This introduction brought forth the charming hecticness you need in a rom com, and from start to finish the levels of chaotic energy remained, keeping the audience entertained throughout. The show was not lacking a voiceover narrator or two, with hilarious moments coming from their presence.

As our protagonist briefly touched on her disastrous dating history, and detailed the positives of finding a dog to give unconditional love to, we had some of the usual tropes you’d find in a rom com – discussion of types (in this case via star signs relating to breeds) and the need to have conversations included with other female characters. Her “understudy friends” then became these women, before switching back into other outfits and characters in the blink of an eye.

Musically there were some familiar songs, just as you’d expect in a rom com, and other music which was perfect for the show.

The audience was boosted by a number of family members, so naturally felt on side from the start, however the production was not quite what I was expecting due to the fact that everything about it was so polished. The cast and crew was made up of highly skilled professional performers - all apart from one, who had a cameo role; the adorable Alfie who won Amy’s heart.

It feels like a real privilege to have seen the debut of this show, and the fact that so many elements were packed into it – including multiple costume changes, musical numbers, and many comedy moments shows great planning from the creative team, including choreographer Cameron MacDonald who enabled some dance moves to take place in such a tiny performance area.

I think this is just the start for Dogmum. I, for one, would love to see it again. It would not be out of place on tour or even in London if that is the way the creatives behind it wish to go.

I am pleased I was at Ventnor Fringe at the right time to see the debut of this well constructed musical.  I can’t wait to see where it goes from here.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

If you would like to see my curtain call photographs from this and other shows, please visit my Instagram.

I was gifted a ticket for this show in exchange for an honest review.