A Song of Songs at Park 200 [Pamela Wraith Photography]

A SONG of Songs is a mixed bag. A mawkish script (inspired by the eponymous biblical poem) and an overcooked central performance are saved by the sensational live band.

These world-class musicians are led by Daniel Gouly on clarinet alongside renowned flamenco guitarist Ramon Ruiz (Gypsy Kings), percussionist Ant Romero, upright bass Ashley Blasse, and Klezmer violinist Amy Price.

Israeli actress and composer Ofra Daniel, making her UK stage debut, garnered plaudits for her performance in San Francisco where the show won The Critics Award for best new production. However, as a star vehicle it feels a little self-indulgent at times and is hindered, I suspect, by her writing, directing and starring in the musical play.

Daniel plays Tirzah a young woman who enters a loveless marriage with an older man, a fishmonger (Matthew Woodyatt). When they fail to have children together she embarks on a passionate affair with an enigmatic  admirer (Joaquin Pedro Valdes) conducted through a series of letters. Eventually, reality closes in and Tirzah flees the city and her husband.

Frustratingly, the show favours style over substance and this tale of thwarted desire lacks subtlety and depth. Although the cast’s singing range is impressive, some of the lyrics are repetitive. Tirzah is not particularly sympathetic, and Daniel’s interpretation occasionally descends into caricature, relying on agonised expressions, arm gestures, hair shaking and emphatic hip-rolls.

The ensemble adopts a similar acting style. Fortunately, this settles down in the second half, or we become inured to it, and several exhilarating dance sequences (choreographed by Billy Mitchell) match the band’s energy.

Daniel’s production needs tightening, to curb its theatrical excesses, but if you go for the music (co-composed with Lior Ben-Hur) and soaring vocals you won’t be disappointed.

Until June 15
parktheatre.co.uk/