REVIEW: THE GARDENING CLUB @ THE STUDIO AT NEW WIMBLEDON THEATRE

🎭 The Gardening Club

📍 The Studio at New Wimbledon Theatre, 93 The Broadway, Wimbledon, London, SW19 1QG

🗓 Monday 22nd September 2025

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

A CULT HIT

Anyone who knows me knows how much I love musical theatre so was thrilled to be invited to watch THE GARDENING CLUB, a brand-new musical which has come to London direct from the Edinburgh Fringe Festival where it is playing a sold out run in the Studio at New Wimbledon Theatre.

Although set in 1960s Georgia the narrative feels timely and relevant, especially with the political state of the West. The story follows a group of women who take matters into their own hands when access to birth control is limited to married women only. Under the pretence of a gardening club, these defiant women distribute the pill to anyone who needs it.

The story is as entertaining as it is empowering and the pop-rock edge to the music gives great energy to the piece. I thought that the writing here was exceptional being heartfelt, powerful and clever. Bella Wright and Carleigh McRitchie have created something that has the potential to emulate the success of shows such as SIX (which also started life as a Fringe production) with a catalogue of catchy songs and a fast-paced, engaging storyline.

There is so much warmth and heart in this show, which fills the room with an unapologetic energy that takes the breath away. There's a real mix of nostalgia and freshness which feels vibrant and exciting. For all its frivolity and comedic value, there is a real depth to the story which is inspiring as it joyfully celebrates female friendship and empowerment. I particularly liked the reference to the historic Roe v Wade case which was a stark and poignant reminder of the injustice women faced then, and still do today.

The entire cast here were absolutely flawless throughout and delivered sensational vocals. Olivia Taylor Quinn opened the second act as Betty with a comical expression of self love which had the audience rolling in the aisles with laughter. Her powerful vocals were awe-inspiring and the freedom and joy she exuded were breathtaking.

As Maggie, Emma Espada lived every single emotion with honesty and sensitivity while Lola Garlick and Richie Paisley gave energy and purity to the delightfully cute blossoming relationship between Vicki and Miles. Hannah Greensmith was believable and courageous as Sheila while Emma Wallace really shone as Pheobe tried to break through in a profession domintated by men.

For me personally THE GARDENING CLUB is a work of genius which can only blossom over time. I would love to see a production of this with a live band as I believe that would really lift it more and the sublime cast could really show off their amazing vocal talents.

There were a few technical issues which meant that there were occassions where during the musical numbers it was difficult to hear the lyrics being sung. I found this particulaly true during Feathers By Morning which was a shame because it was such a heartfelt moment fuelled with lots of emotion.

Overall though it's safe to say that I LOVE THIS SHOW! This is what theatre is all about, tackling social issues whilst being entertaining and engaging. The creative team here are as remarkable as the cast and deserve for this show to be a resounding success with a big future. I cannot wait to see it grow.

This run is completely sold out but THE GARDENING CLUB returns to London, playing on the main stage at the New Wimbledon Theatre, for one night only on Thursday 13th November 2025, followed by an online stream the next day. Click here to secure your tickets now. This show is something special which is not to be missed.

Neill Kovacic-Clarke

All views are my own and I pride myself on being honest, fair and free from influence. Theatre is subjective and it is important to remember that all views expressed are just those of one person.

My ticket for this performance of The Gardening Club was gifted by New Wimbledon Theatre who invited me to watch the show in exchange for my honest review. The fact that my ticket was gifted played no part in the content of my review or the star rating given.

CAST LIST:

Emma Wallace as Phoebe Larson; Olivia Taylor Quinn as Betty Collins; Hannah Greensmith as Sheila Watson; Emma Espada as Maggie Martin; Lola Garlick as Vicki Martin; Harry Belton as Cliff Watson; Isaac Moore as Luke Barnes; Richie Paisley as Miles Bourne; Jasmine Bates as Ensemble; Callum Bultitude as Ensemble; Rebecca-Jo Roberts as Ensemble

RUNNING TIME (approx):

1 hour 45 minutes, including interval

CONTENT WARNINGS:

Themes of sex and abortion; Mature language and situations

AGE GUIDELINE:

14 +