If I Had You

By Ryan

A bored teacher flies from America to Rome to hunt down a crush he had at 10 years old... and that's completely normal and romantic?

Although labelled as a romantic musical comedy, I sadly left not remembering any songs from the uninspired score or having laughed throughout this workshop presentation. While the premise seems to be reminiscent of a 90s Rom/Com storyline that would have starred Hugh Grant, it doesn't work and especially not in 2025.

A plot centred around a teacher who keeps thinking about a "beautiful" 10 year old he remembers from 3rd grade, fails to appear as anything other than bizarre and creepy. Moreso when the people around him agree that it must be true love and he should stalk her down and confess his love for her!

Unfortunately this show requires a lot more research and development before I would see it again. Star-crossed lovers who reunite after decades apart is a classic love story, but not in this way. Especially when there is no memorable song after leaving the venue, there needs to be a lot more development before it goes further.

Emma Kingston was on great form as always, with an incredible voice and she even noted during the awkward "dance breaks"... "Insert timestep here" which was arguably the only comedic moment of the show.

Although the cast tried their best with the material, the characters were bland and predictable with a completely forgettable score which lacked any memorable musical moments.