Stiletto is a new musical featuring music and lyrics by Matthew Wilder and a book by Tim Luscombe. Both Wilder and Luscombe are well known for their previous work, and they came together to bring Stiletto to life at Charing Cross Theatre in March 2025. Set in 18th-century Italy, the show follows Marco, a young castrato singer trying to find his place in the world of opera. When he meets the confident and determined Gioia, his life begins to change as he sets out to showcase her talent to the rest of Italy. However, in a society shaped by racism and misogyny, that goal proves far more difficult than he first expects.
I had the chance to see Stiletto during its Charing Cross run in April 2025, as part of a two-show day alongside The Curious Case of Benjamin Button. Even then, it stood out as something truly unique, with compelling music, a talented cast, and a set that perfectly suited the story. Now, Matthew Wilder has released a pro-shot of the production, filmed during its Charing Cross run last year. With the bank holiday giving me some time to sit down and revisit it, I couldn’t resist watching it again. So, here are five reasons why Stiletto is a must-watch right now!
1: A Standout Cast and Performances
One of the key strengths of Stiletto is its incredible cast. Jennie Jacobs takes on the role of The Voice: representing Marco during the operatic moments. While this creative choice may feel slightly unusual, Jacobs’ vocals are undeniable, delivering a powerful and polished performance throughout.
Jewelle Hutchinson also stands out as Gioia, portraying a confident and determined young woman with ease. Her talent is evident both within the show and beyond it, with her performance of “God Given Gift” being a clear highlight. Alongside them, Jack Chambers brings charisma to the role of Marco, leading the show with a strong and engaging presence.
2: A Fascinating Score
The score is central to shaping the identity of Stiletto, telling the story of a young castrato singer navigating the world of Venetian opera. The blend of contemporary musical theatre with operatic influences creates a distinctive and memorable sound.
Composer Matthew Wilder clearly understands how to capture the emotional beats of each moment, weaving them effectively into the music. While not every song is instantly memorable, the score as a whole supports the storytelling well. The opening number, “Every Day Of Your Life,” is a particular standout: introducing the world of the show with energy and ease, and setting the tone beautifully.
3: Capturing the Stage Experience
Pro shots play an important role in preserving a production beyond its original run, but they should also enhance the experience and Stiletto succeeds in doing both. The filming is handled thoughtfully, using a range of camera angles to highlight details that may have been less visible during its run at Charing Cross Theatre. These choices allow the audience to fully appreciate both the performances and the staging, resulting in a version of Stiletto that feels complete and carefully presented.
4: Themes That Resonate With Modern Audiences
Although set in the 18th century, Stiletto explores themes that still feel relevant today. The story delves into identity, ambition, and the cost of pursuing success, particularly when you don’t quite fit into the world around you. These ideas run strongly throughout the production, encouraging audiences to reflect on their own experiences and the pressures that can hold people back, regardless of talent. While the narrative can become complex at times, there is still plenty for viewers to connect with and take away.
5: You Can Finally Watch It Anywhere
Perhaps the biggest reason to watch the Stiletto pro shot is its accessibility. Its original run at Charing Cross Theatre was limited, meaning only audiences who could get to London had the chance to see it live. Now, with the show available online, a much wider audience can discover and enjoy it. This kind of exposure not only allows the production to reach new fans, but could also help build momentum for a future revival or a revised version elsewhere.
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