tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23539328006142872852024-03-18T09:48:12.540+00:00Rewrite This StoryThe UK Blog Award winning site, covering all things Arts and CultureUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger838125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-39919149019453469692024-03-17T22:55:00.004+00:002024-03-18T09:05:56.689+00:00Instructions for a Teenage Armageddon at the Garrick Theatre REVIEW: Charithra Chandran makes a moving stage debut<div style="text-align: justify;"><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNHDsOjPqhGakjar4DuNUWwi4UjH5krglq4OD1aF5oE3Ywx_RzR5XnmalPyZcf4QCf9tZ7_DX89qcXHWrycJhbrpCPOXg3pMp8H_ll4mS_2O5bCfkx8Oul1Aws2-X_gob7fvsOTUfYobWZdzlfJ-5qh50LJ94fupbvCy8bfor4BNj8yKVgBxiUwe0gsKk/s888/Instructions%20for%20a%20Teenage%20Armageddon%20Charithra%20Chandran.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="888" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNHDsOjPqhGakjar4DuNUWwi4UjH5krglq4OD1aF5oE3Ywx_RzR5XnmalPyZcf4QCf9tZ7_DX89qcXHWrycJhbrpCPOXg3pMp8H_ll4mS_2O5bCfkx8Oul1Aws2-X_gob7fvsOTUfYobWZdzlfJ-5qh50LJ94fupbvCy8bfor4BNj8yKVgBxiUwe0gsKk/s16000/Instructions%20for%20a%20Teenage%20Armageddon%20Charithra%20Chandran.jpeg" /></a></div><b><br /></b></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>Instructions for a Teenage Armageddon</b></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Garrick Theatre</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">★★★★</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In a transfer from the Southwark Playhouse to to the Garrick Theatre, <i>Instructions For a Teenage Armageddon</i> sees <b>Charithra Chandran</b> making her stage debut after her notable appearance on screen in Bridgerton.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Written by <b>Rosie Day</b> (who previously starred as Girl), <i>Teenage Armageddon </i>revolves around a witty, introspective teenager coping with the loss of her sister amidst the tumult of teenage betrayal, manipulation, and trauma. Despite the dark undertones, Day lightens the mood by framing each section with the protagonist's quest for new scout badges. The story is moving, if at times predictable and is a good way of supporting teens and putting them at the forefront of a story.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In this 75-minute journey directed by <b>Georgie Staight</b>, Chandran deftly navigates through a poignant social satire, tackling a myriad of emotional themes. Her characterisation is good, breathing life into a variety of personas throughout the performance. While her comedic and emotional timing may not always deliver the biggest punch, Chandran's portrayal remains commendable, particularly given the emotional depths demanded by the role; and it's highly impressive that her first foray into theatre is with a one-girl-show.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Having seen the show in its previous iteration I knew what to expect but this version certainly felt different. Mainly in terms of staging, the show has moved away from the campfire setting as it's main framework and instead the action physically takes place in a muted bedroom which doubles as all the other locations. Video projections by <b>Dan Light</b> add depth and interest, especially with the extra on screen characters played by <b>Shelley Conn</b> (Mum), <b>Philip Glenister </b>(Dad) and <b>Isabella Pappas</b> (Ella). At times the show does feel a little too staged and as though its lost some of the real childishness which was so charming during its last run, however it retains it's heart and sincerity which really make it sparkle.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The show is adorned with quick, clever prose and such dark humour, you never quite feel certain you should be laughing as loudly as you are. The play is a poignant exploration of real childhood trauma, with relatable themes that will certainly resonate with audiences, particularly girls and women navigating societal pressures and concealing pain behind humour.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>Instructions For a Teenage Armageddon</i> serves as a cautionary tale, urging for open conversations about mental health and the importance of supporting one another. Chandran's performance is really admirable and the show's West End transfer is a testament to <b>Rosie Day</b>'s brilliant writing.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Reviewed on Sunday 17th March 2024 by Olivia</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Photo Credit: Danny Kaan</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}</i></b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-80877702529987190462024-03-09T22:24:00.002+00:002024-03-09T22:28:51.545+00:00Reneé Rapp 'Snow Hard Feelings' Tour in London and Intimate Acoustic Show REVIEW<div style="text-align: justify;"><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vQQtyy-pLf_8PeV-DTtdSaMjdO2JPlIEchgGRrdsU4N8syLbDZdwBympkuhuG__Fp6Imr49n1x1We3Q4W7tQQmcn-mVqtZYNacZKX3OOJSdTcX9WMxyLr_1eQ0EIoGEVTF6jFlL4GZDHZ3U-4a8M7L4fMwylOC2Tt3PoDX3rkcjfjkbuakcvxhydJ3c/s2048/renee%20rapp%20london%20review%20photo%20credit%20olivia%20mitchell.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6vQQtyy-pLf_8PeV-DTtdSaMjdO2JPlIEchgGRrdsU4N8syLbDZdwBympkuhuG__Fp6Imr49n1x1We3Q4W7tQQmcn-mVqtZYNacZKX3OOJSdTcX9WMxyLr_1eQ0EIoGEVTF6jFlL4GZDHZ3U-4a8M7L4fMwylOC2Tt3PoDX3rkcjfjkbuakcvxhydJ3c/s16000/renee%20rapp%20london%20review%20photo%20credit%20olivia%20mitchell.JPG" /></a></div><b><br /></b></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>Reneé Rapp's Snow Hard Feelings Tour</b></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Eventim Apollo, Camden Roundhouse and Banquet Records</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Having followed <b>Reneé Rapp</b> since 2018 and attending her debut London show last year, I snapped up tickets for her London residency in an instant and waited with extreme levels of excitement to see her perform again. It's funny having watched someone for so long, you feel a strange sense of pride without even knowing them personally. Perhaps with Reneé it's even stronger because of her connection to us fans that makes her feel almost like a friend, even on the other side of the Atlantic. So, going into the weekend I knew it was going to be special, but it turned out to be so much more than that.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">From her breakout role as Regina George in <i><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/2018/10/mean-girls-august-wilson-theatre-review.html">Mean Girls</a></i> on <a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search/label/broadway">Broadway</a> and then the recent film adaptation, to her portrayal of Leighton in the charmingly relevant <i>The Sex Lives of College Girls</i> series, to her acclaimed debut album, Rapp has grown from strength to strength, gaining an adoring fanbase along the way, and always staying true to her values of honesty and integrity. Last year her first full length album was released to much critical acclaim (snubbed by the Grammy's, but we move) and this tour was a testament to her evolution as an artist, and a celebration of her impressive musical intuition and writing skills. I won't go into depth because we'd be here forever but for me it's a no skip album that perfectly blends elements of pop, rock, and theatre to create a spellbinding journey. Lyrically it hits hard and musically it offers variety and so much melodic interest whilst still retaining a very Reneé feel.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Watching last year's concert, with music from Rapp's EP 'Everything to Everyone' it was hard to imagine it could get better but with time, it seems Renee has grown in confidence and truly proves to be born for the stage. Two of the shows I saw (Hammersmith Apollo and Camden Roundhouse) were part of the Snow Hard Feelings Tour, which included a mixture of songs from both releases. During these full production concerts, Rapp commanded attention with her dynamic vocals and infectious energy, delivering unforgettable performances, supported by her brilliant band and excellent lighting and video design. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But it was Rapp's acoustic performance at Banquet Records that truly showcased her vocal prowess and artistry. Stripped of elaborate production, Rapp delivered soul-stirring renditions of her songs, allowing her powerhouse vocals to take centre stage. With each note, she demonstrated remarkable control and nuance, effortlessly navigating through intricate melodies and emotive lyrics. Her performance was a masterclass in vocal performance, with faultless transitions between delicate falsetto and powerful belting.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1i3gHS6yGi4PcuQ3RutpIr4m8M45QgI3kM7kYGFappMqk0ItuD1KOZAnT31FQEnSs4iuYnpPY4MAFgzSKEiGAJw5dWm9hISZ8gmjbJ0nakSM12cm3fwnKaGgjWSq6mFaI92SX8SwN1MPo3kLj3MbYbBE4LI9aTvercYi2mYrmsRTWqH2w7bB31m7Ch-o/s5472/renee%20rapp%20concert%20banquet%20records%20photo%20credit%20olivia%20mitchell.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="427" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1i3gHS6yGi4PcuQ3RutpIr4m8M45QgI3kM7kYGFappMqk0ItuD1KOZAnT31FQEnSs4iuYnpPY4MAFgzSKEiGAJw5dWm9hISZ8gmjbJ0nakSM12cm3fwnKaGgjWSq6mFaI92SX8SwN1MPo3kLj3MbYbBE4LI9aTvercYi2mYrmsRTWqH2w7bB31m7Ch-o/w640-h427/renee%20rapp%20concert%20banquet%20records%20photo%20credit%20olivia%20mitchell.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I've always been in awe of Reneé's vocal technique, from her rounded vowels, to her impeccable breath control, phrasing and healthy belt, so getting a chance to witness it close up felt really special. Vocally she shone in all three shows, but there's really something magical about an acoustic show, with only a few hundred people all living in the moment and experiencing someone's innate talent. This show's version of 'Snow Angel' will go down as one of my favourite live vocals I've ever heard. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Throughout the shows, Rapp's authenticity and vulnerability were palpable. Whether sharing personal stories or engaging in playful banter with the crowd, she created an intimate connection that made everyone feel like old friends. Despite the occasional interruptions caused by fainting fans, Rapp handled each moment with grace and humour, turning potential disruptions into endearing anecdotes. Plus, her ability to convey emotion through her vocals and infuse each lyric with depth and sincerity, creates an intimate connection with her audience. Part comedy show, part concert, you're sure to be laughing out loud and probably crying during a <b>Reneé Rapp</b><i> </i>concert.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Music is such a community former, and these shows were testament to that. From standing in the queues to waiting in the venue for the concert to start, I got chatting to so many people and felt like I was in a room of likeminded people who just wanted to have a good time. The ethos of acceptance and friendship which Reneé fosters, trickles down to her fans, allowing the creation of a brilliantly welcoming environment. There are also a number of excellent audience chants which when screamed out, really unite the crowd, and I must say, as a Brit I feel like we really excel at these, thanks to our years of assemblies and pantomimes. The signs held up by fans added to the sense of community, but unfortunately there were many which veered into objectification. Sign culture and boundaries is a whole topic of it's own but Reneé navigated these situations with poise, reminding fans of the importance of respect; let's just hope people chill out for her next performances.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNeACY8w-cBRgSJUAo-aMNaU0aWYIVL5e-keUdH6gj6mmIF-cz7NYaciogQLhqdPAzDANILQoP3jiVgRirtnX2EmrXRr8F5u_Tl2aHWEK35L_mUChP5YezA1xTCQmPuG3Wyibrn-iZS70rFi07Hua8aMtY8nSzsLGxl_MwqHm8FW321xbjYJ8MCsEvhhM/s5472/renee%20rapp%20at%20hammersmith%20eventim%20apollo%20photo%20credit%20olivia%20mitchell.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3648" data-original-width="5472" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNeACY8w-cBRgSJUAo-aMNaU0aWYIVL5e-keUdH6gj6mmIF-cz7NYaciogQLhqdPAzDANILQoP3jiVgRirtnX2EmrXRr8F5u_Tl2aHWEK35L_mUChP5YezA1xTCQmPuG3Wyibrn-iZS70rFi07Hua8aMtY8nSzsLGxl_MwqHm8FW321xbjYJ8MCsEvhhM/w640-h426/renee%20rapp%20at%20hammersmith%20eventim%20apollo%20photo%20credit%20olivia%20mitchell.JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The support acts, <b>Towa Bird </b>and <b>Sekou</b>, brought their own energy to the stage, setting the perfect tone for Rapp's captivating performances. <b>Towa Bird</b>, with their soulful melodies and infectious energy, warmed up the crowd with their genre-bending sound, seamlessly blending elements of indie-pop and R&B. Their dynamic performance left a lasting impression, showcasing their undeniable charisma and artistry. Meanwhile, <b>Sekou</b> captivated audiences with his powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, delivering an electrifying performance. At only 19 years old, he's sure to go from strength to strength and I can't wait to see him flourish in the music industry.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As the final notes of 'Snow Angel' echoed through the venues and confetti rained down, it was clear that Rapp's London shows had left an indelible mark on all who were lucky enough to witness them. With her unparalleled talent, genuine connection to her fans, and unwavering authenticity, <b>Reneé Rapp</b> has proven once again why she is a force to be reckoned with. And as London basks in the afterglow of her triumphant performances, one thing is certain: the star of <b>Reneé Rapp</b> is only just beginning to rise. Bring on the Reneésance.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>★★★★★</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Reviewed on 1st, 2nd, 3rd March by <a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/p/editor-olivia-mitchell.html">Olivia Mitchell</a></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Photo Credit: <a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/p/editor-olivia-mitchell.html">Olivia Mitchell</a></b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-43193990753103741452024-03-01T14:00:00.004+00:002024-03-01T14:11:35.144+00:00Standing at the Sky's Edge at the Gillian Lynne Theatre REVIEW: A Perfect Tale of Hope and Connection<div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1c8NmSbgf9YXelyV66WaLvjbMuXTPVVL8CJ77VY9WMYN3vBV5v3cBqoT97CDyWy6gWHg22WcvrmCeqHgb06mYuKmLHkZLVZYaGft1oTkdnY8EydG64ZNA678v223q0ICNzT_xnNilHB3xYxO5FhmSVq0kTu8eX6QBLZkED_KIEB9WbiOqx1af_QdcS9A/s6720/Standing%20at%20the%20Skys%20Edge%20Review.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4480" data-original-width="6720" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1c8NmSbgf9YXelyV66WaLvjbMuXTPVVL8CJ77VY9WMYN3vBV5v3cBqoT97CDyWy6gWHg22WcvrmCeqHgb06mYuKmLHkZLVZYaGft1oTkdnY8EydG64ZNA678v223q0ICNzT_xnNilHB3xYxO5FhmSVq0kTu8eX6QBLZkED_KIEB9WbiOqx1af_QdcS9A/s16000/Standing%20at%20the%20Skys%20Edge%20Review.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></b></div><i><b>Standing at the Sky's Edge </b></i><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Gillian Lynne Theatre </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>Standing at the Sky's Edge </i>is a captivating journey that swept me off my feet and left me utterly spellbound. From the moment the lights dimmed and the first notes filled the air, I was transported into a world where every emotion felt raw and real.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The story, set across three generations, unfolds with such grace and authenticity, drawing the audience into the lives of the characters living in Sheffield's iconic Park Hill estate. Through their joys and struggles, their dreams and disappointments, I found myself rooting for each one of them as if they were old friends.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Whilst this is technically a jukebox musical, it doesn't feel clunky as is so often the case. <b>Richard Hawley</b>'s compositions, with <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Tom+Deering">Tom Deering</a>'</b>s orchestrations are a beautiful fusion of rock, folk, and soul, each melody weaving its way into the narrative to really capture the essence of the musical. The lyrics are so poetic and heartfelt, they brought tears to my eyes and chills down my spine. This is a masterfully crafted musical that is so different to other West End offerings, in all the best ways.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Set wise, <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Ben+Stones">Ben Stones</a></b> has done a glorious job, bringing the industrial feeling of Park Hill to life, but also capturing the warmth which filled it. <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Mark+Henderson">Mark Henderson</a></b>'s fantastic lighting design also contributes to this realistic feeling, with even the first scene literally brining the sunrise to life. From the bustling streets of Sheffield to the towering heights of Park Hill, every detail is so meticulously crafted that I felt like I was actually there, witnessing the story unfold before my eyes. In my opinion this is a show which needs multiple visits because there's just so much to see, every nook of the stage is filled with action and there are so many stories going on that you could watch ten times and still spot something new!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But what truly struck me was the way this musical resonated with me on a personal level. Despite never having set foot in Sheffield, I felt a deep connection to the characters and their journey. Their struggles felt familiar, their triumphs felt like my own and whilst I didn't directly relate, the emotions portrayed are so genuine and truthful, you can't help but be moved by the tales of hurt and hope.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">These intense feelings are a testament to the vast ensemble cast who are outstanding in every way. <b>Elizabeth Ayodele</b> as Joy brings subtle but effective character growth that melds to her surroundings, whilst <b>Samuel Jordan</b> is every level of charming as Jimmy, both also give brilliant vocal performances, a common theme throughout the cast. Opening the show, <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Jonathon+Bentley">Jonathon Bentley</a> </b>sets the tone for the piece and showcases his beautiful voice which equally shines during his other solo moments. Perhaps the character with the biggest arc is Harry, portrayed with such nuance and integrity by <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Joel+Harper-Jackson">Joel Harper-Jackson</a></b>. Mesmerising is a word which gets thrown around a lot but Joel's performance is utterly the embodiment of it, as he brings to life a character that feels so multi-dimensional and showcases his innate acting ability. As his loving housewife partner who slowly finds her voice, <b>Rachael Wooding</b> is a powerhouse, with another slow burn performance that peaks in the second act and has sniffles filling the auditorium. <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Laura+Pitt-Pulford">Laura Pitt-Pulford</a> </b>gives one of my favourite vocal performances of the show with 'Naked in Pitsmoor' and again, brings to life her character Poppy perfectly. <b>Lauryn Redding</b> is her ideal counterpart, serving some wonderful vocals, especially during the title song and also bringing some lightness amongst the heavy themes of the show. The entirety of the cast bring this world to life and they're all stars. Mention must also go to the booming bassist who growls and grounds the Act two opening number 'Standing at the Sky's Edge'.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the end, <i>Standing at the Sky's Edge</i> isn't just about the music or the set design – it's about the human experience. It's about love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit. It's a reminder that no matter where we come from, we're all connected by our shared humanity.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>Standing at the Sky's Edge </i>touched me in a way that few musicals ever have. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and the magic of theatre. If you have the chance to see it, don't hesitate – it's an experience you won't soon forget, and the act one opening is one of the best theatrical moments possible to see on stage right now.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>★★★★★ </b></div><div><b>Reviewed on Thursday 29th February 2024 by <a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/p/editor-olivia-mitchell.html">Olivia</a></b></div><div><b>Photo Credit: Brinkhoff-Moegenburg</b></div><div><br /></div><div><i><b>{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}</b></i></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-48210453208667918462024-02-23T19:41:00.008+00:002024-02-23T19:53:15.229+00:00Just For One Day at the Old Vic REVIEW: Pitch Perfect Peformances<div style="text-align: justify;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddgwMj5Ws6zrWQ2BFbH5I_Sf8cAygElaDLFvtVX37J4KkCEDsBWZCnSIcip3ncDziAvejyTlbjFiNVMRBJ2nGL10q3_L9xJzCLct_nYajn0op4vsqeC9CbvqwiqlS-lwvz7O7WtCY-33bvJGRTHX37dIJqzUxzcsb8HXQdQ5tnW-olYvwuVBESVUJ5BM/s1280/just%20for%20one%20day%20live%20aid%20musical.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjddgwMj5Ws6zrWQ2BFbH5I_Sf8cAygElaDLFvtVX37J4KkCEDsBWZCnSIcip3ncDziAvejyTlbjFiNVMRBJ2nGL10q3_L9xJzCLct_nYajn0op4vsqeC9CbvqwiqlS-lwvz7O7WtCY-33bvJGRTHX37dIJqzUxzcsb8HXQdQ5tnW-olYvwuVBESVUJ5BM/s16000/just%20for%20one%20day%20live%20aid%20musical.jpeg" /></a></div><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>Just For One Day: The Live Aid Musical</b></i></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>The Old Vic</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span face="Söhne, ui-sans-serif, system-ui, -apple-system, "Segoe UI", Roboto, Ubuntu, Cantarell, "Noto Sans", sans-serif, "Helvetica Neue", Arial, "Apple Color Emoji", "Segoe UI Emoji", "Segoe UI Symbol", "Noto Color Emoji"" style="background-color: white; color: #0d0d0d; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Written by <b>John O'Farrell</b>, <i>Just For One Day</i> transports audiences back to 1985, to the historic Live Aid concert held simultaneously at Wembley Stadium and JFK Stadium. Through the eyes of various characters, including musicians, organisers, and fans, the musical captures the spirit of unity and hope that defined this iconic event. Against the backdrop of global issues and personal struggles, the show celebrates the power of music to inspire change and bring people together.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">With direction by <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Luke+Sheppard">Luke Sheppard</a></b>, the musical is a poignant homage to the legendary Live Aid concert, offering a nostalgic journey through one of music's most iconic moments. While the musical may not reach the heights of the original event, it nonetheless succeeds in capturing its essence and paying tribute to the artists and activists who made it possible. It's definitely a musical that can appeal to and appease a wide range of audiences; as someone who wasn't alive during the original concert, I completely felt the importance and excitement that surrounded it, whilst my mum who regaled her story of watching the concert on a tiny screen in Cyprus during her honeymoon, wholly felt the nostalgia and related in a different way.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The strength of <i>Just For One Day</i> lies in its stellar cast, who deliver powerful performances that breathe life into the characters they portray. <b>Craig Els</b> leads the show as Bob Geldof and does a stellar job, bringing a brilliant amount of humour but also a sense of gravitas when discussing the atrocities of the Ethiopian famine which put the whole thing in motion.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Danielle+Steers">Danielle Steers</a></b> shines every moment, bringing her usual astoundingly soulful vocals, whilst <b>Jack Shalloo</b> is a complete standout as Midge and <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Abiona+Omonua">Abiona Omonua</a></b> is charming as Amara. At this performance Margaret Thatcher was played by <b>Kerry Enright</b> who is absolutely fantastic, providing some of the most hilarious and well characterised moments of the show. Vocally this is a cacophony of powerhouses, with everyone providing killer moments but special mention goes to <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Olly+Dobson">Olly Dobson</a></b> and <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Collette+Guitart">Collette Guitart</a></b> who really shine, I wish they got more solo moments! <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Rhys+Wilkinson">Rhys Wilkinson</a></b> also brings fantastic characterisation to all of the roles he plays.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Unsurprisingly, the musical's soundtrack is another highlight, featuring an array of classic hits from the 1980s that have audiences tapping their feet and singing along. Accompanied by a talented live band, the music transports viewers back in time, evoking the same sense of excitement and camaraderie that defined the original Live Aid concert.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Where the show doesn't quite work is with it's book. The production takes a deliberate approach to steer clear of hero worship towards Geldof, opting instead to spotlight the unsung heroes who contributed behind the scenes. However, while the inclusion of fictionalised narratives aims to showcase the efforts of everyday individuals, these characters often come across as shallow and their dialogue occasionally falls into clichéd one-liners. The sentiment is lovely, but it's not hugely impactful. However, the way music is woven into these stories is really admirable; songs aren't just shoehorned in, they're used to develop the stories being told and even seem to take on new meaning in the context of the show.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Another aspect which falls flat is the actual trauma which prompted the concert. There are some attempts at highlighting the pain and horrors of the famine but it feels a bit sanitised and brushed over, so as not to detract from the feel-good feeling the show pushes. Of course no one wants to fetishise the suffering of others, but in omitting a lot of the horrors, it doesn't allow the show to have quite as strong of an emotional impact.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Visually, this show is a feast for the eyes, with dynamic staging (<b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Soutra+Gilmour">Soutra Gilmour</a></b>) and vibrant costumes (<b>Fay Fullerton</b>) that capture the spirit of the 1980s. Creative use of multimedia elements (<b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Andrzej+Goulding">Andrzej Goulding</a></b>) and striking lighting (<b>Howard Hudson</b>) further enhances the experience, immersing audiences in the sights and sounds of the era. This is a show that really lends itself to touring and could certainly thrive and develop in that capacity, it will be interesting to follow where it goes after this initial run.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>Just For One Day</i> may not be without its flaws, but it's a heartfelt tribute to Live Aid and its message of hope and solidarity make it a worthy addition to the stage. For fans of 1980s music and those who fondly remember the original concert, this musical is sure to strike a chord.</div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>★★★</b><b>★</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Reviewed on Thursday 22nd February 2024 by <a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/p/editor-olivia-mitchell.html">Olivia</a></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Photo Credit: Manuel Harlan</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}</i></b></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-81092133996539709382024-02-22T08:40:00.003+00:002024-02-22T16:15:58.558+00:00Hadestown at the Lyric Theatre REVIEW: A Soul-Stirring Journey to the Depths of Hell<div><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwgvhBGY0ovxYUA2GwMcIDaB0vGcMC7j_vWCfySiW1ys02tQkfHCWKhdGCG7flVlWNBxecC6Hx7l_xzT5WaVW41H-n0gZVOPJLlocNKeFRWYVKCSFPUJ52pyw6ehJefBtUw5rRIMX6_ns3TKrYtLE-dQdPBxM7S7sREeW0PGIvZDzCk1bVwSOtDT33KVc/s4850/Hadestown%20West%20End.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3233" data-original-width="4850" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwgvhBGY0ovxYUA2GwMcIDaB0vGcMC7j_vWCfySiW1ys02tQkfHCWKhdGCG7flVlWNBxecC6Hx7l_xzT5WaVW41H-n0gZVOPJLlocNKeFRWYVKCSFPUJ52pyw6ehJefBtUw5rRIMX6_ns3TKrYtLE-dQdPBxM7S7sREeW0PGIvZDzCk1bVwSOtDT33KVc/s16000/Hadestown%20West%20End.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></i></div><i><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>Hadestown</b></i></div></i><b><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Lyric Theatre</b></div></b><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There are musicals that touch your soul and for me that’s <i>Hadestown</i>. I first saw the show in 2018, where I went in completely blind and came out gob smacked and awed. Tonight after the official West End opening night, I feel equally awed as well as inspired, moved, astounded, heartbroken and overjoyed. There really aren’t adjectives to describe how heartfelt and special this show is. Not only is it a piece of fantastic quality theatre but it’s also a poem, a concert, a celebration of life and humanity, an ode to music and above all, a love story.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="font-style: italic;">Hadestown</i> tells the tale of young Orpheus and Eurydice as their tales intertwine. It's a musical retelling of the ancient Greek myth of the duo and follows the journey of Orpheus as he descends into the underworld, determined to rescue his beloved Eurydice from the clutches of the charismatic but menacing Hades. Despite the various iterations and productions this musical has gone through, one constant is how scarily relevant the themes it explores feel in our modern world. Hades, ruler of the underworld and the mines, ostensibly grants "freedom" through employment while simultaneously confining his subjects behind a barrier. Why We Build The Wall is certainly one of the most pertinent songs of the production, its relevance hits all too close to home in the current world.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The musical borders the line between acting as "the world we live in, and the one we dream about", in thanks part to <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Rachel+Hauck">Rachel Hauck</a></b>'s set. Scaled down slightly from the <a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/2018/11/hadestown-national-theatre-review.html">National Theatre</a> production, it still evokes Depression-era vibes and cleverly frames the story. <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Bradley+King">Bradley King</a></b>'s lighting literally highlights some of the most astounding moments of the show, especially during Hades' peak moments, as well as casting shadows to create an almost cinematic feel; overall it's just an incredibly cohesive show that has a vibe and aesthetic that matches it so well.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This undefined world is perhaps best showcased by <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Ana%C3%AFs+Mitchell">Anaïs Mitchell</a></b>'s incredible score which combines so many styles a creates such special storytelling. The intricate lyrics allow layers upon layers of emotions to form as Anaïs weaves a musical tapestry that is charming and delightful at times, but gritty and painful at others. Mitchell has truly crafted a musical masterpiece that transcends time and genre and creates a theatrical experience like no other.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Director <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Rachel+Chavkin">Rachel Chavkin</a></b> has meticulously pored over each performer, set element, musician, and lighting effect to craft a production that leaves us suspended between despair and hope. This version of the show also feels perfectly tweaked for the West End, with the use of the performer’s natural accents making the whole thing feel very real and grounded, an inspired change! <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=David+Neumann">David Neumann</a></b>'s precise choreography fits seamlessly with the revolving stage, continually moving between frenetic energy and poignant stillness that works so well. This is a piece which is so reliant on balance, the balance between good and bad, love and hate, light and dark, loud and quiet, beauty and pain, among others, and the entire cast and creative team have perfectly understood and managed this balance to form a musical that leaves you not quite sure what emotion you're experiencing, but 100% sure you experienced something special.<div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">At it's core this is a story about people, and the people who lead it are wonderful. As the headstrong Eurydice, <b>Grace Hodgett Young</b> is everything you could ask for in a leading lady, her calm is as strong as her passion and she fills every moment with charisma. There’s often mention of “stage presence” but it’s rare you see the phrase as outwardly displayed as with Grace who commands even the smallest of moments. Of course she’s also vocally dreamy, showcasing all layers of her voice and perfectly bringing the vocal grit that’s so necessary for the role. Her easy swagger and playfulness is a perfect balance to Orepheus' more nervous persona. Taking on the role of this heartstrong counterpart, <b>Donal Finn</b> is delightfully whimsical and charming. Donal's Orpheus truly comes into his own during act two when his passion for his partner and also his music are on full display and his voice becomes a beacon of hope cutting through the darkness of despair. It's utterly heartbreaking when we reach the expected conclusion, a testament to the emotion the cast pour out to get us to that point.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As the enigmatic Hermes, <a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Melanie+la+Barrie"><b>Melanie La Barrie</b></a> is all parts wonderful, her presence commanding the stage with every word and gesture and bringing humour and gravitas in equal measure. Her performance weaves together the threads of myth and legend with an all knowing wisdom that seems to transcend time, she truly gives everything on stage and is a marvel to behold.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>Hadestown</i> is more than a musical—it's an experience, a testament to the enduring power of art to touch the very depths of our souls. It's a rare gem that shines brightly in the landscape of contemporary theatre, a reminder that sometimes, even in the darkest of times, there is still beauty to be found.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the hallowed halls of the Lyric Theatre, you can bear witness to something truly extraordinary. Hadestown is a triumph in every sense of the word and it needs to be seen.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>★★★★★</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Reviewed on Wednesday 21st February 2024 by <a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/p/editor-olivia-mitchell.html">Olivia Mitchell</a></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Photo Credit: Marc Brenner</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}</i></b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-28469405904837474232024-02-17T16:20:00.003+00:002024-02-17T16:29:34.590+00:00The Addams Family Concert at the London Palladium REVIEW | A Kooky Show with a Killer Cast<div style="text-align: justify;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWN3zpeuBmoXeY2D362B-tVbNQCoVzRFpAUJkipLoK9EAr9mpY1cyMWO3Bv7OAcfd3noM1ovF7P3uQ8zat-A7ExhFa3A8HlcbmP-s4HqQF0oP02a8yeMJtN3pCL03pGTR5TXv3LcH98yNxVhuNamrJBBJFx6KYxCSu_WDLd1WLsJz6sTxV6-YXZtMTbKE/s3500/The%20Addams%20Fmaily%20with%20Michelle%20Visage%20Review.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2401" data-original-width="3500" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWN3zpeuBmoXeY2D362B-tVbNQCoVzRFpAUJkipLoK9EAr9mpY1cyMWO3Bv7OAcfd3noM1ovF7P3uQ8zat-A7ExhFa3A8HlcbmP-s4HqQF0oP02a8yeMJtN3pCL03pGTR5TXv3LcH98yNxVhuNamrJBBJFx6KYxCSu_WDLd1WLsJz6sTxV6-YXZtMTbKE/s16000/The%20Addams%20Fmaily%20with%20Michelle%20Visage%20Review.jpg" /></a></div><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>The Addams Family</b></i><b> in Concert</b></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>London Palladium </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Since premiering in the UK in 2017, <i>The Addams Family</i> has been somewhat of a regular feature on our theatre scene with a number of tours that garnered great reviews and a fanbase who couldn't help but be charmed by the kooky family. This week, the London Palladium housed the latest iteration with three concert versions of the show that told the wacky, romantic tale so many have grown to adore.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Witnessing their daughter Wednesday fall in love with a "normal" boy, the Addams family finds themselves grappling with the challenge of acceptance. In an effort to bridge the gap, Wednesday takes it upon herself to arrange a dinner party, inviting both families to come together. What unfolds is a delightful blend of hidden secrets, eccentricity, and a whirlwind of kooky chaos, showcasing the unique charm and humour of the Addams family universe.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As is the case with many "concert" versions, this was really an almost fully staged production, complete with costumes, sets, choreography and more. These sort of shows are always a real testament to the hard work of the entire team both onstage and backstage, to put together such sleek, well-rounded performances, with extremely limited rehearsal time.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This was a wonderfully sleek production, framed by <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Ben+Cracknell">Ben Cracknell</a></b>'s fantastically striking lighting and <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Diego+Pitarch">Diego Pitarch</a></b>'s suitably outlandish set and colour matched costumes. Taking most of the elements from the touring production, the whole concert embodied the vibes of the unconventional Addams family, highlighting the important parts of the storyline and making the whole thing feel much more elevated than a traditional concert. Having not had a permanent home, the show has had to create a design that fits within the confines of moving around the country every week so I do think if it were to find a permanent home in the West End, it could really lean into the lavish grandeur of the Addams Family, and perhaps bring Central Park to life a bit more, to really step things up and give it the wow factor.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In terms of casting this was a star studded affair. <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Ramin+Karimloo">Ramin Karimloo</a></b> took on the role of Gomez Addams, the suave protective father who just wants to do right by his family; giving a performance that was nothing short of wonderful. With hilarious line delivery and of course those smooth, powerful vocals we all know and love, Ramin showcased a hilarious side that I'd love to see more of. We must also mention the collective audience gasp when he took his blazer off, if you know, you know! As his partner in crime, <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Michelle+Visage">Michelle Visage</a> </b>made Morticia Addams her own. Whilst her performance wasn't always the most exciting, with the dialogue being a little one note (even for Morticia), her look and the way she carried herself was perfect for the role. Just Around the Corner was a really brilliant theatrical moment and I think given time, Michelle could really develop and refine her Morticia. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As the love struck teens, Wednesday and Lucas, <b>Chumisa Dornford-May</b> and <b>Ryan Kopel </b>were wonderfully paired. Having only recently graduated Chumisa already has an impressive resume and it's certainly set to expand, given her absolutely out of this world vocals. She not only hit every note perfectly but her tone and diction were noticeably brilliant and everything sounded so healthy, I can't wait to see her succeed and shine! The role of Lucas isn't particularly developed but Ryan did a wonderful job of bringing him to life and created some lovely moments. Another stand out was <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Kara+Lane">Kara Lane</a> </b>who astounded as mother Alice Beineke, giving vocals that pretty much blew the roof off of the London Palladium. <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=samuel+buttery">Sam Buttery</a></b> was charming as Uncle Fester, <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Nicholas+McLean">Nicholas McLean</a> </b>a great addition as Pugsley and <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Dickon+Gough">Dickon Gough</a></b> a wonderful dose of comedy. The rest of the ensemble brought the other characters and ancestors to life really well and helped form the world of Addams.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Book wise I do think this is a show with flaws and the pacing isn't always perfect but it has heart, charm and a number of earworms that make it a really easy watch that you go back to again and again. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It's not the most sophisticated piece of theatre but, <i>The Addams Family </i>in Concert was a ghoulishly delightful experience. With outstanding performances, this concert truly captured the essence of the Addams Family legacy. Whether you were a die-hard fan or new to the Addams universe, this concert provided a spooky, kooky night of fun and paved the way for the show to continue enrapturing audiences.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>★★★</b><b>★</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Reviewed on Tuesday 13th February by Olivia</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Photo Credit: Pamela Raith</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}</b></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-31640976713710309652024-02-12T17:54:00.003+00:002024-02-12T17:54:31.859+00:00Initial Casting Announced for Spring Awakening Reunion Concert<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvTvLB_dh6_9anZQUqPeEwkFG66ZMXQPye_VRgWPErh_PcpUCtntJzjG722UD4-vIVjpASghiFCI0x3R8N8SQ6qNBWoyvhBw9yRThDo0Rg4_NLIu3waMPJwFjnsY3qCaYdbZ11aFbBrk6rlbk_4gKKF0vUguHvi5nkpuUp9sRn0zF4KFdY5JmCoCwBf7c/s1074/Spring%20Awakening%20Reunion%20Concert.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="547" data-original-width="1074" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvTvLB_dh6_9anZQUqPeEwkFG66ZMXQPye_VRgWPErh_PcpUCtntJzjG722UD4-vIVjpASghiFCI0x3R8N8SQ6qNBWoyvhBw9yRThDo0Rg4_NLIu3waMPJwFjnsY3qCaYdbZ11aFbBrk6rlbk_4gKKF0vUguHvi5nkpuUp9sRn0zF4KFdY5JmCoCwBf7c/s16000/Spring%20Awakening%20Reunion%20Concert.jpeg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Producers <b>Jack Maple</b> and <b>Evelyn Hoskins</b> are thrilled to unveil the initial cast for the 15th Anniversary concert of the groundbreaking West End production of </span><i>Spring Awakening,</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> the acclaimed musical by <b>Steven Sater</b> and <b>Duncan Sheik</b>, based on <b>Frank Wedekind</b>’s iconic play.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This special event, marking the 15th year since the original London production, will reunite many of the beloved original cast members for a one-night-only celebration on Sunday, June 2, 2024, at the Victoria Palace Theatre. Tickets are available for purchase now.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Returning to the stage from the original West End production are <b>Lucy May Barker</b> as Ilse, <b>Natasha Barnes</b> as Anna, <b>Harry McEntire </b>as Ernst, <b>Hayley Gallivan </b>as Martha, <b>Evelyn Hoskins</b> as Thea, <b>Edward Judge</b> as Otto, <b>Jamie Muscato</b> as Melchior, <b>Jos Slovick </b>as Georg, and <b>Charlotte Wakefield </b>as Wendla. Additionally, <b>Chris Barton</b>, <b>Natalie Garner,</b> <b>Mona Goodwin</b>, <b>Gemma O’Duffy</b>, and <b>Richard Southgate </b>will reprise their roles.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The original London band, including <b>Huw Davies</b>, <b>Don Richardson</b>, <b>Matthew Senior</b>, <b>Vicky Matthews</b>, <b>Charlie Brown</b>, and <b>Rachel Robson</b> under the musical direction of <b>Nigel Lilley</b>, will accompany the cast.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>Spring Awakening</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> chronicles the tale of adolescent rebellion against societal constraints, set to a captivating score that has enthralled audiences worldwide.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Originally premiering on Broadway in 2006 and subsequently transferring to London in 2009, </span><i>Spring Awakening</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> has garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, including Tony and Olivier accolades.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Duncan Sheik</b> expressed his excitement about the anniversary concert, reminiscing about the joyous memories of the original London production. Steven Sater shared his gratitude for the opportunity to bring back the beloved show for this special occasion.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In addition to celebrating the musical's legacy, this concert will serve as a fundraiser for <b>Imogen Kinchin</b>, a pivotal figure in the original production, who is battling Stage IV Bowel Cancer. The company of </span><i>Spring Awakening</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> has generously decided to donate the proceeds from the concert to Imogen's Fund.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Directed by <b>Jamie Armitage</b> and featuring musical direction by <b>Nigel Lilley</b>, <i>Spring Awakening</i> promises to be a poignant and unforgettable event, honouring both the musical's impact and the resilience of its community.</span></div></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-3435972753731862882024-02-08T13:28:00.001+00:002024-02-08T13:28:50.807+00:00Kathy and Stella Solve A Murder! transfers to the West End<p style="color: #333333; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidTBBGbon5xTH8U6jLAAZ3szIN2suldBlOzMDjBDP701ZCyEB9w1-AuPtsmajg0IR_frAzPw1rRugXdBwrYTUW2Z_1r19i34XE3J7qEKQU5Zy2De4TWqsMS2zAXLPrzRFIcd3F1j-YsFCnAwThm_iduUA0IE6vOSEuKCt3K67Xcsd_a0R_aHzMfOr6XpE/s3600/Kathy%20and%20Stella%20Solve%20A%20Murder!.jpeg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidTBBGbon5xTH8U6jLAAZ3szIN2suldBlOzMDjBDP701ZCyEB9w1-AuPtsmajg0IR_frAzPw1rRugXdBwrYTUW2Z_1r19i34XE3J7qEKQU5Zy2De4TWqsMS2zAXLPrzRFIcd3F1j-YsFCnAwThm_iduUA0IE6vOSEuKCt3K67Xcsd_a0R_aHzMfOr6XpE/s16000/Kathy%20and%20Stella%20Solve%20A%20Murder!.jpeg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Francesca Moody Productions, Kater Gordon, Wessex Grove and Fiery Angel are delighted to announce that award-winning smash-hit murder mystery musical <i>Kathy and Stella Solve A Murder! </i>will transfer to the Ambassadors Theatre in the West End for a strictly limited season from 25 May - 14 September after thrilling audiences in Edinburgh, Bristol and Manchester. Tickets are now on-sale at <a href="http://www.kathyandstella.com">www.kathyandstella.com</a> with 5000 under £25 and a ticket lottery to be announced. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Bronté Barbé</b> and <b>Rebekah Hinds </b>will reprise their roles as Kathy and Stella alongside <b>Imelda Warren-Green</b> who will once again play Erica. Further casting is to be announced.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Originally brought to the stage by Francesca Moody Productions and Kater Gordon Kathy and Stella Solve A Murder! won Musical Theatre Review’s Best Musical Award at the Edinburgh Festival 2022. The production reunites the writing and musical talents of Jon Brittain - Book and Lyrics / Co-Director and Matthew Floyd Jones - Music and Lyrics who previously collaborated on the critically acclaimed, Fringe First award-winning A Super Happy Story (About Feeling Super Sad). Fabian Aloise Co-Directs and Choreographs.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">BFFs Kathy and Stella host Hull's least successful true crime podcast. When their favourite author is killed they are thrust into a thrilling whodunnit of their own!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This big-hearted, laugh out loud musical follows the unlikely crime-fighting duo as they put their friendship on the line to become part of the story. Can they crack the case, (and become global podcast superstars) before the killer strikes again…?</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-11762417051184538652024-02-08T13:04:00.004+00:002024-02-08T13:05:50.979+00:00Todrick Hall to play Sean and Michael Mather will play Jackson in Burlesque The Musical<div style="background-color: white; color: #242424; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCCzPBlUFqVi5OUmBaWXy07aNN3ECC4mHtdeEw4AmYCXST66mZGyQVEaDGam_P2XosvHBk6Ri-8np7hamF1t8cz1TIRZnhgPEIHw1F6RtflRkwwLnX0RRgk9BHFMHw6b2W1OzU3rDUd3gd8uIDMqpoda3JkdV55Gg6ANpFd74c7IKcX_YkGxNDz6Ant4g/s627/Burlesque%20the%20Musical.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="448" data-original-width="627" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCCzPBlUFqVi5OUmBaWXy07aNN3ECC4mHtdeEw4AmYCXST66mZGyQVEaDGam_P2XosvHBk6Ri-8np7hamF1t8cz1TIRZnhgPEIHw1F6RtflRkwwLnX0RRgk9BHFMHw6b2W1OzU3rDUd3gd8uIDMqpoda3JkdV55Gg6ANpFd74c7IKcX_YkGxNDz6Ant4g/s16000/Burlesque%20the%20Musical.png" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;">Todrick</strong><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">and</span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><strong style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;">Michael</strong><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">join the already announced</span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><strong style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;">Jess Folley</strong><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">as Ali Rose, Olivier Award-winning</span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><strong style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;">George Maguire</strong><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">as Vince,</span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><strong style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;">Billie-Kay</strong><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">as Sophia, </span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><strong style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;">B Terry</strong><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">as Georgie,</span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><span color="rgb(33, 33, 33) !important" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">West End favourite and TikTok and social media sensation</span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><strong style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;">Jess Qualter</strong><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">as Daphne,</span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><strong style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;">Yasmin Harrison</strong><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">as Brenda/Dance Captain,</span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><strong style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;">Lily Wang </strong><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">as Fifi,</span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><strong style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;">Hollie-Ann Lowe</strong><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">as Summer and</span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><strong style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;">Alessia McDermott</strong><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">in the Ensemble. </span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><em style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </em></div><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Other cast members announced today are: </span><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span color="rgb(33, 33, 33) !important" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><strong><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Ope Sowande</span></strong><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> as Trey, </span><strong><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Lewis Easter</span><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span></strong><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">in the Ensemble, with </span><strong><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Callum Aylott</span><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">, </span><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Lucy Campbell</span></strong><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> and </span><strong><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Amber Pierson</span></strong><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> as Swings.</span></span></span></div></span></span></div><div style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #242424;"><br /></span></div><span style="color: #242424; font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;">Steven Antin</strong><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">said:</span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span></div></span></div><div style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424;"></span></span></span><blockquote style="text-align: justify;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #242424;">"</span><span style="color: #212121;">Todrick Hall’s kinda genius is singular. The kind you rarely see. His work is prolific and masterfully entertaining. The songs he wrote for the show are in a word…iconic. The role of Sean is an anchor/entertainer who has poetry and is wickedly funny. So it was abundantly clear we had to get Todrick to play Sean. And sometimes I dunno if I wanna kiss him or slap him. </span></span></span><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span color="rgb(33, 33, 33) !important" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">❤️</span></span><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span color="rgb(33, 33, 33) !important" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-style: inherit;"> But I DO know I’m a very lucky guy to have him in our show. Very."</span></span></span></blockquote></span><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><em style="color: red; font-family: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </em></div></span><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><strong style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;">Todrick Hall, </strong><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">who has also written brand new songs for this new production of</span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><em style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">Burlesque the Musical</em><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">added:</span><strong style="color: inherit; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit;"> </strong></div></span></span></div><div style="background-color: white; color: #242424; text-align: justify;"><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span color="rgb(33, 33, 33) !important" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><em><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></em></span></span></span></div><div style="background-color: white; text-align: left;"><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span color="rgb(33, 33, 33) !important" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></span></span></span><blockquote style="color: #242424;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #212121; font-family: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">“The movie of Burlesque was so iconic to so many of us — to now be working with both Steven Antin and Christina Aguilera who are reuniting for this new musical is a dream come true.</span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #212121; font-family: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span></div><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #212121; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">I am beyond excited to be returning to my first love, musical theatre, in such a special way. My first original role and my theatrical composing debut. To be able to bring music that I wrote to life, to share the stage and the writing credit with the star that is Jess Folley is a dream come true! I'm blessed, honoured, flattered and ready to dust off the old heels and let the kids have it 8 shows a week!”</span></div></span></span></blockquote><span><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #212121;"><br /></span></div><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><em style="color: #212121; font-family: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </em></div></span></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-30883284644789385092024-02-08T12:35:00.000+00:002024-02-08T12:35:03.084+00:00War House to Embark on New UK Tour<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix8gPtMHrAzaDhVkvl-Ai45Eb1CszXRmzV_MkJUkePut7IEjjtWU0UbMlPKm8npVQpFtwV9sdnl9a5I7JQnHNHUfq2AaJrEMqLRzP2sb0CIxe9eCnfpugA4XahDML9Rz5P020huMFOCdMkXXrRX7mt8jcbGUrxr3987dN_V5OLUBwjBWQ3rat_9U4fcmM/s1200/War%20Horse%20UK%20Tour.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="774" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix8gPtMHrAzaDhVkvl-Ai45Eb1CszXRmzV_MkJUkePut7IEjjtWU0UbMlPKm8npVQpFtwV9sdnl9a5I7JQnHNHUfq2AaJrEMqLRzP2sb0CIxe9eCnfpugA4XahDML9Rz5P020huMFOCdMkXXrRX7mt8jcbGUrxr3987dN_V5OLUBwjBWQ3rat_9U4fcmM/s16000/War%20Horse%20UK%20Tour.jpeg" /></a></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The acclaimed <i>War Horse</i> production, adapted from Michael Morpurgo's beloved novel and originally directed by Marianne Elliott and Tom Morris, is set to embark on an extensive 18-month UK Tour starting from September 5, 2024, and continuing until 2026.</span></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></div><div style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Opening at the New Wimbledon Theatre from September 5 to 14, the tour will then move to various venues including The Lowry in Salford (September 18 to 28), Mayflower Theatre in Southampton (October 8 to 19), The Marlowe in Canterbury (October 22 to November 2), Sunderland Empire (November 5 to 16), Theatre Royal Plymouth (November 26 to December 7), and New Theatre Oxford (December 10, 2024, to January 4, 2025), with additional dates and locations to be announced.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;">This captivating story follows young Albert and his horse Joey against the backdrop of World War I. War Horse, celebrated for its innovative puppetry by South Africa's Handspring Puppet Company, has garnered more than 25 major awards and has been witnessed by over 8.3 million people globally. Co-produced by Michael Harrison, Fiery Angel, and Playing Field, this new tour promises to deliver the same awe-inspiring experience.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">Led by <b>Tom Morris </b>and revival director <b>Katie Henry</b>, with redesigned sets by <b>Rae Smith</b> and additional music by <b>Adrian Sutton</b>, the production features puppetry by <b>Basil Jones</b> and <b>Adrian Kohler</b>, lighting design by <b>Rob Casey</b>, and movement choreography by <b>Toby Sedgwick</b>. Animation and projection design are by <b>Nicol Scott</b>, while <b>John Tams </b>provides musical contributions and <b>Christopher Shutt</b> manages sound design. Casting details are yet to be announced.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Having premiered at the National Theatre in 2007, <i>War Horse</i> has since captivated audiences worldwide, with productions spanning across continents. For more information and ticket bookings, visit WarHorseOnStage.com. The tour will also include visits to Theatre Nation Partner venues, such as The Lowry in Salford and Sunderland Empire, with assisted performances available throughout the run at each venue.</span></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-12386916700832180542024-02-06T11:57:00.002+00:002024-02-06T12:10:03.504+00:00Cruel Intentions: The 90s Musical extends its season at The Other Palace<div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguElTBQyz18tCZUI60FQNrVhqtoDfrVqynNoM0UaNzgs-t57LZCdkl_2Hd3FoisYXFk3ynUq_d-gpJFM29QE4o9fQEmXE0d8a_Vvu7UYK6-bm2LpzpwsvUFLCA3FhxeQSwfk1d9g68SnFjexGFZjjez5jj2nn5wXeYyVEmikUHxqmgx06smKEgW5yfXVY/s933/cruel%20intentions%20musical.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="753" data-original-width="933" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguElTBQyz18tCZUI60FQNrVhqtoDfrVqynNoM0UaNzgs-t57LZCdkl_2Hd3FoisYXFk3ynUq_d-gpJFM29QE4o9fQEmXE0d8a_Vvu7UYK6-bm2LpzpwsvUFLCA3FhxeQSwfk1d9g68SnFjexGFZjjez5jj2nn5wXeYyVEmikUHxqmgx06smKEgW5yfXVY/s16000/cruel%20intentions%20musical.png" /></a></div></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Bill Kenwright Ltd is delighted to announce that the London premiere of Cruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical (“Sexy, smirky... a fast, funny guilty pleasure” - Evening Standard) will extend its acclaimed season at The Other Palace by 5 weeks to Sunday May 19th.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span><br /></span></div><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">The cast of <i>Cruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical</i> is led by <b>Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky</b> and <b>Daniel Bravo</b> as manipulative step-siblings Kathryn and Sebastian.</span><br aria-hidden="true" style="background-color: white;" /><br aria-hidden="true" style="background-color: white;" /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">It also features Abbie Budden as Annette and Rose Galbraith as Cecile, Josh Barnett as Blaine, Jess Buckby as Ms Bunny Caldwell/Dr Greenbaum, Nickcolia King-N’Da as Ronald and Barney Wilkinson as Greg, with an ensemble of Craig Watson, Nathan Lorainey-Dineen, Charlotte O’Rourke and Verity Thompson.</span><br aria-hidden="true" style="background-color: white;" /><br aria-hidden="true" style="background-color: white;" /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">Step-siblings Sebastian Valmont and Kathryn Merteuil, manipulative monsters flushed with their own sexual prowess, engage in a cruel bet: Kathryn goads Sebastian into attempting to seduce Annette Hargrove, the headmaster’s virtuous daughter. Weaving a web of secrets and temptation, as the two set out to destroy an innocent girl - and anyone who gets in their way - their vengeful crusade wreaks havoc on the students at their exclusive Manhattan high school and the diabolical duo become entangled in their own mesh of deception and unexpected romance, with explosive results...</span></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-51731304802087397742024-02-06T11:53:00.005+00:002024-02-06T12:12:10.910+00:00Tom Holland to Play Romeo in Jamie Lloyd's Romeo and Juliet<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6nXjcu8aTVQC_KBz0J555bvI7Cq8blwFpL_hX1LazHGo2AVgeVSmKW8YncTatRUyj02KAMkUswybeymgK4O0Ot6atEt3RjfUcYls_4tdNRwJXJQ1vFu8jXl4glcNafAGmhtWTn91G3C-fZyrg5BHOtaxK8RdB6nvRh4oOXHLaBX8P_rYu3hEX8q188uA/s1920/Tom%20Holland%20Romeo%20and%20Juliet.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6nXjcu8aTVQC_KBz0J555bvI7Cq8blwFpL_hX1LazHGo2AVgeVSmKW8YncTatRUyj02KAMkUswybeymgK4O0Ot6atEt3RjfUcYls_4tdNRwJXJQ1vFu8jXl4glcNafAGmhtWTn91G3C-fZyrg5BHOtaxK8RdB6nvRh4oOXHLaBX8P_rYu3hEX8q188uA/s16000/Tom%20Holland%20Romeo%20and%20Juliet.jpg" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><b style="font-family: inherit;"><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">The Jamie Lloyd Company</span></b><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> today announces its new West End production of Shakespeare’s <b><i>Romeo & Juliet</i></b>, starring <b>Tom Holland</b> as Romeo, and directed by <b>Jamie Lloyd</b>. <i>Romeo & Juliet</i> runs at the <a name="x_x__Hlk157003743" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Duke of York’s Theatre</a>, Saturday 11 May – Saturday 3 August 2024.</span></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;"><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span></div><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Further casting to be announced. Tickets go on sale to those signed up for priority booking and ATG+ members on </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Tuesday 13 February at 8am</span></b><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">; general booking opens on </span><b style="font-family: inherit;"><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Tuesday 13 February at 12pm</span></b><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">.</span></div></span><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span></div></span><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Sign up for priority booking here: </span><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><a data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="2" href="http://www.romeoandjulietldn.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;" target="_blank"><b><span lang="en-GB" style="border: 0px; color: black; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">www.romeoandjulietLDN.com</span></b></a></span></div></span><span style="background-color: yellow; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: bold; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration-line: underline; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span></div></span><span color="inherit" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;">The Jamie Lloyd Company also continues its commitment to accessibility, offering 10,000 tickets priced at £25 and under, with 5,000 of these exclusively for under 30s, key workers and those receiving government benefits. Further information to be announced. </span></div></span><span color="inherit" style="background-color: white; border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span color="inherit" style="font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant-caps: inherit; font-variant-ligatures: inherit; font-weight: inherit;"> </span></div></span></span><br /><b>Jamie Lloyd</b> said today:</div><div style="margin: 0px;"><br /></div><div style="margin: 0px;"><blockquote>“Tom Holland is one of the greatest, most exciting young actors in the world. It is an honour to welcome him back to the West End.”</blockquote><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /> </span></div><div style="background-color: white; margin: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Text edited by <b>Nima Taleghani</b>; Set and Costume Design: <b>Soutra Gilmour</b>; Lighting Design: <b>Jon Clark</b>; Sound Design; <b>Ben and Max Ringham</b>;<b> </b>Video Design and Cinematography: <b>Nathan Amzi and Joe Ransom</b>; Composer: <b>Michael 'Mikey J’ Asante</b>; </span><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Casting Director:</span><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span><b><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Stuart Burt CDG</span></b><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">;<b> </b></span><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Movement Directors: <b>Sarah Golding & Yukiko Masui (SAY)</b>; Intimacy Coordinator:<b> Ingrid Mackinnon</b>; Associate Director: <b>Jonathan Glew</b>; Associate Designer:<b> Rachel Wingate</b></span><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><span color="inherit" lang="en-US" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> <br /></span></span><i><span color="black !important" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"><b>Violent delights have violent ends.</b></span></i></span></div><p style="background-color: white; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt; margin: 0px;"><i><span color="black !important" face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-size: 11pt; font-stretch: inherit; font-style: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; font-weight: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;"> </span></i></p></div><div><b>Photo Credit:<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i> <span style="background-color: white;"><span color="inherit" style="border: 0px; font-feature-settings: inherit; font-kerning: inherit; font-optical-sizing: inherit; font-stretch: inherit; font-variant: inherit; font-variation-settings: inherit; line-height: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">Isaac Anthony / AUGUST</span></span></i></span></b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-18838958752404498422024-02-05T13:49:00.006+00:002024-02-05T13:49:54.546+00:00Cara Delevingne and Luke Treadaway to join the cast of Cabaret | THEATRE NEWS<div style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlU198FLHVXmh7-68KPABDzfotlqdYycnoGBvHzGtaTifmiglkx32MtgnDFAIGBPKq5YjGYm6SanHCVWlgdcFFdhTBV-OwYHeltXDlm9D8bh6MYc4U_j9fP1emX3ESTZJ696_d8dGs6CdjYtBAY2eiTdhgDnRuBPbbfjwIX2pYjEnzl_ZkoerEUrgDbtk/s3785/Luke%20Treadaway%20and%20Cara%20Delevingne%20Cabaret%20Photo%20credit%20Jay%20Brooks%20and%20Emilio%20Madrid.png" style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlU198FLHVXmh7-68KPABDzfotlqdYycnoGBvHzGtaTifmiglkx32MtgnDFAIGBPKq5YjGYm6SanHCVWlgdcFFdhTBV-OwYHeltXDlm9D8bh6MYc4U_j9fP1emX3ESTZJ696_d8dGs6CdjYtBAY2eiTdhgDnRuBPbbfjwIX2pYjEnzl_ZkoerEUrgDbtk/s16000/Luke%20Treadaway%20and%20Cara%20Delevingne%20Cabaret%20Photo%20credit%20Jay%20Brooks%20and%20Emilio%20Madrid.png" /></span></a></div><span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The award-winning West End production of Cabaret at the Kit Kat Club is thrilled to announce that actress and model <b>Cara Delevingne</b> will play Sally Bowles, and Olivier Award-winning actor<b> Luke Treadaway</b> will take on the role of The Emcee from March 11 to June 1, 2024. Delevingne expressed her excitement about making her stage debut, while Treadaway is thrilled to join the Kit Kat Club production.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The show is booking until February 2025, and Cara Delevingne will have specific dates when she won't be performing*. They join Michael Ahomka-Lindsay as Clifford Bradshaw, Beverley Klein as Fraulein Schneider and Teddy Kempner as Herr Schultz. Nic Myers plays the role of Sally Bowles once a week.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Completing the company are Wilf Scolding as Ernst Ludwig, Jessica Kirton as Fraulein Kost/Fritzie, Liv Alexander as Texas, Natalie Chua as Frenchie, Taite-Elliot Drew as Hans, Damon Gould as Victor, El Haq Latief as Helga, and Travis Ross as Bobby, joining Laura Delany as Rosie, Grant Neal as Herman/Max and Hicaro Nicolai as Lulu. The cast is completed by Rebecca Lisewski, Ela Lisondra, Nic Myers, Andy Rees, Toby Turpin and Patrick Wilden.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The prologue company are Rachel Benson, Ami Benton, Onyemachi Ejimofor, Joseph Hardy, Liz Kamille, Andrew Linnie, Aine McLoughlin, Jack William Parry, Jazmyn Raikes, Oliver Stockley and Ena Yamaguchi.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Cabaret, praised as the ultimate theatrical experience, opened in December 2021 and won seven Olivier Awards in April 2022. The Broadway production featuring Eddie Redmayne and Gayle Rankin is set to open at the Kit Kat Club in April.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Transforming the theatre with an in-the-round auditorium and reimagined spaces, the Kit Kat Club invites guests to enjoy pre-show entertainment, drinks, and dining. The musical, featuring iconic songs like "Wilkommen" and "Don’t Tell Mama," is directed by Rebecca Frecknall, with set and costume design by Tom Scutt and choreography by Julia Cheng. The production promises a unique and immersive experience for audiences.</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">*Cara will not be performing on the following dates - Wednesday 13 March (matinee), Thursday 21 March (evening), Wednesday 27 March (matinee), Thursday 4 April (evening), Tuesday 9 April (evening) Wednesday 10 April (matinee and evening), Thursday 11 April (evening), Friday 12 April (evening), Thursday 18 April (evening), Wednesday 24 April (matinee), Thursday 2 May (evening), Monday 6 May (evening), Tuesday 7 May (evening), Wednesday 8 May (matinee and evening), Thursday 16 May (evening), Friday 17 May (evening), Saturday 18 May (matinee and evening), Wednesday 22 May (matinee) and Thursday 30 May (evening).</span></div></span><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><i>Photo credit: Jay Brooks and Emilio Madrid</i></b></span></div></span></span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-6986669357534291702024-02-01T20:30:00.005+00:002024-02-01T20:57:03.274+00:00Bronco Billy the Musical at the Charing Cross Theatre REVIEW | A Delightful Musical Romp<div style="text-align: justify;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2GhMHiJuF6wCFut_1Xul1wyxWTZ1j_DPQzUWIiXu6-zOOEPTTVZUepJ7QfPFu24Q1frYA8RZNKYTDiYCbWmo5q4O9nPr7bXgaAheLZ3TJpwuqE-KrAYAoM4dssKcY18UjintvYJwktA_3nHGxu-c6oPC7CnNRAmF-HaLD_hkd42gBKr5iETzH5DUMtY8/s7536/The%20cast%20of%20Bronco%20Billy%20The%20Musical.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5026" data-original-width="7536" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2GhMHiJuF6wCFut_1Xul1wyxWTZ1j_DPQzUWIiXu6-zOOEPTTVZUepJ7QfPFu24Q1frYA8RZNKYTDiYCbWmo5q4O9nPr7bXgaAheLZ3TJpwuqE-KrAYAoM4dssKcY18UjintvYJwktA_3nHGxu-c6oPC7CnNRAmF-HaLD_hkd42gBKr5iETzH5DUMtY8/s16000/The%20cast%20of%20Bronco%20Billy%20The%20Musical.JPG" /></a></div><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>Bronco Billy the Musical</i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Charing Cross Theatre</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>Bronco Billy the musical</i>, is a rollicking ride through the Wild West, that brings a unique blend of sincerity and high camp to the Charing Cross Theatre. It's a show so full of heart, you can't help but be charmed by it, as it provides a theatrical escape that is genuinely marvellous.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As the title suggests, the musical tells the tale of Bronco Billy, a performing Cowboy as he leads his troupe around America, aiming to make enough money to keep them afloat. Along the way he meets Antoinette, an heiress who's on the run from her money grabbing stepmother and a host of other characters wishing for her demise. It's as random and wacky as it sounds but truly it's a tale of heart, friendship and dreaming, all wrapped up to create a rootin' tootin' good show that thrives through it's melodramatic highs.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The cast are full of absolute joys. Star on rise, <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Emily+Benjamin+">Emily Benjamin </a></b>shines as the chocolate heiress on the run, Antoinette, injecting the role with gumption, charm and vulnerability, plus sweltering vocals to match. Her delightful partnership with <b>Tarrin Callender</b> as Bronco Billy, provides some of the show's standout moments. Callendar's effortless charisma and soaring baritone vocals fill the Charing Cross Theatre, making it evident why the troupe is so drawn to him, and showcasing a performance that is beautifully vulnerable and volatile.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The leading duo are complemented by a supporting cast of well-defined characters, each with small arcs and interests that really bring them to life. Between them, the group also showcase a variety of killer circus tricks, from juggling, to supremely impressive rope-wielding and magical wild-west wizardry. A big part of the show is the aspect of found family and the entire cast do a really fantastic job of portraying this loving unit, and together bring some sweet, sincere moments to an otherwise wild show.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Heaps of praise must go to <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Victoria+Hamilton-Barritt">Victoria Hamilton-Barritt</a></b> portraying the gold digger, murderess stepmother, Constance, as she delivers a performance that is nothing short of perfection. Her comedic timing rivals the best in the business, and her astounding physicality, faultless facial expressions, and hilarious vocal inflections create a dynasty-esque portrayal that keeps the audience in stitches. Barritt's magnetic stage presence draws in the crowd, and she expertly milks every moment for maximum laughs and somehow still leaves us yeehawing for more.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Amy+Jane+Cook">Amy Jane Cook</a></b>'s set design and <b>Sarah Mercade</b>'s costumes are commendable, wonderfully capturing the essence of the Wild West with authenticity and providing some surprising moments whilst utilising all of the limited space available. <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Alexzandra+Sarmiento">Alexzandra Sarmiento</a></b>'s choreography is undeniably fun and while there's potential for more in a larger space, it fits the Wild West vibe exceptionally well and is two-step away from perfection, though I'd trade my hat for an encore tap dance number.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The upbeat score by <b>Chip Rosenbloom</b>, <b>John Torres</b> and <b>Michelle Brourman</b> is continually engaging, with a number of quirky ear-worms and vocal gems. It may not be a musical masterpiece, but it's intelligent and inventive enough to fit perfectly with the style of the show and deliver exactly what it needs to.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>Bronco Billy </i>is a delightful musical extravaganza that successfully balances sincere moments with high camp theatrics. It isn't groundbreaking, but with charismatic leads, touching found family dynamics, and a hugely fun Wild West atmosphere, it is a silly stampede of a show that guarantees you'll leave with a prairie sized grin and joy to share. Who knew that what London theatre needed was a disco cowboy musical?!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">★★★★</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Reviewed on Wednesday 30th January 2024 by <a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/p/editor-olivia-mitchell.html">Olivia</a></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Photo Credit: The Other Richard</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}</i></b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-59595041052259801062024-01-26T09:00:00.005+00:002024-01-26T09:00:00.119+00:00Here & Now a Musical by Steps to Debut This Year<div style="text-align: justify;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxax7LvOSU2IiXO2xUdJaPmhWNcPyiDyofTIc_gdUiZUbNZSWmmxjYLDWwMSEPZptKmVRnl9c1SFG9X6UE4YUr-m6298QpZdmlDV81Ez9u3ta2hdKdE5Weo4Bko0tdMiuO5PxU6PO_gcIY2o3IbWvFwTy3Y4n2HKHJoWQ-52rxREPzsQAE23yoEOf-3QQ/s2477/Untitled.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1629" data-original-width="2477" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxax7LvOSU2IiXO2xUdJaPmhWNcPyiDyofTIc_gdUiZUbNZSWmmxjYLDWwMSEPZptKmVRnl9c1SFG9X6UE4YUr-m6298QpZdmlDV81Ez9u3ta2hdKdE5Weo4Bko0tdMiuO5PxU6PO_gcIY2o3IbWvFwTy3Y4n2HKHJoWQ-52rxREPzsQAE23yoEOf-3QQ/s16000/Untitled.png" /></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">UK pop sensation <b>Steps</b> is over the moon to reveal the world premiere of their fresh musical, <i>Here & Now</i>. Set to the beats of their iconic music and featuring an original storyline by <b>Shaun Kitchener</b>, the musical will debut at The Alexandra, Birmingham, running from November 9 to 24, 2024. Produced by Steps and ROYO with <b>Pete Waterman</b>, directed by <b>Rachel Kavanaugh</b>, and choreographed by Olivier Award winner <b>Matt Cole</b>, <i>Here & Now</i> promises a spectacular showcase of <b>Steps</b>' timeless hits.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Casting details are yet to be unveiled, but here's a sneak peek into the musical's plot: Step into the lively aisles of seaside superstore Better Best Bargains on a Friday night, where the atmosphere is electric, and everyone's dancing. However, when Caz discovers that the shelves are filled with deceit, the anticipated Summer of Love turns into a heartbreaking tale. Will they miss their shot at 'happy ever after,' or does love have another twist in store?</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></div><blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Steps members (Claire Richards, Faye Tozer, Ian ‘H’ Watkins, Lee Latchford-Evans, and Lisa Scott-Lee) expressed their excitement about the musical, sharing, “We’ve searched for the perfect story for our music, and we’ve found it in the aisle of a seaside superstore. It’s a story of friendship, romance, and community, packed with our biggest hits. We can’t wait to see you there!”</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"></div></blockquote><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">With 14 top five singles, 4 number one albums, 22 million record sales, 500 million streams, and 11 sold-out national arena tours, Steps is the UK’s most successful mixed-sex pop group. Their chart-toppers like Tragedy/Heartbeat, Stomp, One For Sorrow, Better Best Forgotten, 5,6,7,8, Last Thing On My Mind, Love’s Got A Hold Of My Heart, and Chain Reaction will be featured in the musical.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Steps'</i> 2017 comeback tour was a massive success, selling out all 300,000 tickets, and the band has continued to make waves with new music. Their 25th-anniversary celebration included a headline summer tour and the release of the #1 album Platinum Collection, solidifying their status alongside ABBA, Rolling Stones, and Stereophonics as one of the few groups to score #1 albums in four consecutive decades.</span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Join Steps for a journey filled with laughter, tears, and dance in the aisles.</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-56586558177333102442024-01-18T12:11:00.003+00:002024-02-04T19:11:32.505+00:00Rehab the Musical at Neon 194 Review: Struggles to Find Its Narrative Harmony<div style="text-align: justify;"><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcrMxH2N62Ur6YN-7ZgNmEMDuVCxKOTOZmLz8ImlLLeqySjGM4o1N9EXNVKqeVJkm6jIg05F2dA36ZqY3cNV0jOgzeo7wMT8aKSKx4opHUnTqdDlSWr7qpoxF4FIai9Y-L8fasLuHPp3P0fQ1jpX_keYuF5NGtqQOH2YWL_tH7jst4nzC6_9JabQ9i6AA/s7932/Rehab%20the%20Musical%20Review.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5291" data-original-width="7932" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcrMxH2N62Ur6YN-7ZgNmEMDuVCxKOTOZmLz8ImlLLeqySjGM4o1N9EXNVKqeVJkm6jIg05F2dA36ZqY3cNV0jOgzeo7wMT8aKSKx4opHUnTqdDlSWr7qpoxF4FIai9Y-L8fasLuHPp3P0fQ1jpX_keYuF5NGtqQOH2YWL_tH7jst4nzC6_9JabQ9i6AA/s16000/Rehab%20the%20Musical%20Review.jpeg" /></a></div><b><br /></b></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>Rehab the Musical</b></i></div><b><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Wyndham's Theatre</b></div></b><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Written by <b>Elliot Davis </b>with music and lyrics from <b>Grant Black </b>and <b>Murray Lachlan Young</b>,<i> Rehab the Musical</i> follows<i> </i>26-year-old pop star, Kid Pop (<b>Christian Maynard</b>), who finds himself in court, after being caught red handed in a drug fuelled tabloid sting. A judge gives Kid the choice between jail time or a rehabilitation centre for six weeks. Kid chooses to go the Glade rehab centre where he meets a host of characters and has to face some harsh realities about himself.</div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">The musical tries to seamlessly weave together an array of elements that, unfortunately, leave the overall production feeling a bit scattered. The emotional journey is a rollercoaster, evoking heartfelt moments that pull at the audience's heartstrings, only to be swiftly followed by chaotic, feverish musical interludes that seem to materialise out of thin air. This tonal inconsistency gives rise to an emotional whiplash, making it a bit challenging for the audience to fully immerse themselves in the unfolding narrative.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Amidst the theatrical mosaic are intriguing plot line crumbs, teeming with the potential for impactful developments. Regrettably, these narrative threads are left hanging, never fully explored or developed. The overarching structure of the production yearns for a more streamlined approach, as the multitude of introduced ideas creates an unfocused and somewhat in-cohesive storyline. The musical teeters between being sincere and heartfelt, whilst also really leaning in to over the top humour, a balance which in this instance doesn't quite work.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">However, within the ebb and flow of its narrative, <i>Rehab the Musical</i> has some luminous moments. The production sparkles with genuinely hysterical instances and unforgettable one-liners, thanks to the standout comedic performances by <b>Keith Allen</b> (Malcolm Stone) and <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Jodie+Steele">Jodie Steele</a> </b>(Beth Boscombe). Steele's solo number is particularly striking, a testament to her vocal prowess, even though the character she portrays lacks the nuanced depth required for a fully rounded portrayal.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The undeniable chemistry between <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Maiya+Quansah-Breed">Maiya Quansah-Breed</a> </b>(Lucy Blake<b>) </b>and <b>Christian Maynard</b> (Kid Pop) adds a dreamy allure to the stage. Both actors deliver performances that resonate, yet the dialogue between their characters falls short of allowing for a fully realised emotional connection. That being said, their duets and solos are truly some of the high points of the show, with vocals that float and soar around the venue.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Commendation is due to the set design (<b>Simon Kenny</b>), which functions seamlessly in the round. Stairs metamorphose into drawers, and a minimalist aesthetic facilitates smooth scene transitions, preventing the physical aspects of the production from feeling cumbersome. It's not particularly inventive or exciting but really works in the confines of the space. On the flip side, while the choreography (<b>Gary Lloyd</b>) offers visual interest from every angle, it fails to weave itself significantly into the overarching action or storyline, missing an opportunity to enhance the narrative through movement.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b style="font-weight: bold;"><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Mica+Paris">Mica Paris</a></b>, once again, graces the stage with a stellar vocal performance but finds herself in a role that echoes with underdevelopment. Her undeniable talent radiates- especially in her duet with Maiya, Museum of Loss which is a true theatrical treat- but again, the character lacks the narrative depth necessary to fully showcase Paris's abilities.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">A standout moment in the production is the glorious gospel song that concludes the first act Letters Goodbye/Don't Eat Your Feelings, etching itself into the collective memory of the audience. It underscores the musical's potential for powerful and emotionally resonant moments. </div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">While <i>Rehab the Musical </i>boasts strengths, including comedic brilliance, dreamy performances, and impressive set design, it falls short of deciding what sort of show it wants to be and fails to achieve a cohesive narrative.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">★★★</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Reviewed on Wednesday 17th January 2024 by Olivia</div><div style="text-align: justify;">Photo Credit: Mark Senior</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}</div></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-75440740776509580872023-12-17T21:25:00.007+00:002024-02-04T20:55:50.110+00:00Stranger Things: The First Shadow, Phoenix Theatre London | REVIEW <div style="text-align: justify;"><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvW1OlTjm221rt1kyTEvrMO0Mtn9SIh-n6rezWAU9MxCqQ6Frf9mbumCjcOXlaAG-3xGrQRyYTc93CuL1HFdnM6dZbdYtghSwOi4JwKff5pC9GLzkf-WrVxQM30L7KJ6OG-pjyR2U4qkdR8s7ncpxLYrov10ASdk0_3LD5IjoGanPf3kWuHKUyk6WRMJk/s6144/Stranger%20Things%20The%20First%20Shadow%20Play%20Review.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="5031" data-original-width="6144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvW1OlTjm221rt1kyTEvrMO0Mtn9SIh-n6rezWAU9MxCqQ6Frf9mbumCjcOXlaAG-3xGrQRyYTc93CuL1HFdnM6dZbdYtghSwOi4JwKff5pC9GLzkf-WrVxQM30L7KJ6OG-pjyR2U4qkdR8s7ncpxLYrov10ASdk0_3LD5IjoGanPf3kWuHKUyk6WRMJk/s16000/Stranger%20Things%20The%20First%20Shadow%20Play%20Review.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>Stranger Things: The First Shadow</b></i></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Phoenix Theatre </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As someone who ventured into the realm of <i>Stranger Things: The First Shadow</i> without much prior experience with the series, aside from watching a few episodes and a recap, I was pleasantly surprised and thoroughly captivated by this spectacular supernatural spectacle. The <b>Duffer Brothers</b>, with <b>Jack Thorne</b> and <b>Kate Trefry</b> have crafted a story that effortlessly drew me into the mysterious world of Hawkins, Indiana, even as a newcomer to the<i> Stranger Things</i> universe.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">From the very first applause inducing scenes, I found myself immersed in the gripping narrative that skilfully combines elements of suspense, nostalgia, and the supernatural. The show's ability to seamlessly introduce me to its characters and the intricacies of their relationships made it easy to connect with the story, and I was quickly invested in the fates of these intriguing personalities.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The prequel introduces both beloved characters and fresh faces, each receiving substantial development and individuality. The performances are exceptional, characterised by universally nuanced and emotionally charged portrayals.<b> Louis McCartney</b>, in his striking West End debut as Henry Creel, delivers a chilling performance that combines twisted actions with an alarming charm. McCartney's masterful physicality, full of spasms and contortions, adds an extra layer of intensity to the role- I can only imagine how much physio he'll need during the run! <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Isabella+Pappas">Isabella Pappas</a></b> embodies Joyce with fierce brilliance, seamlessly incorporating Winona Ryder's iconic traits while infusing the character with her own spin. Pappas creates a captivating, headstrong persona that garners unwavering support. Alongside her, <b>Oscar Lloyd</b> portrays James Hopper Jr. with suave charisma, delivering witty one-liners and exuding an aura that captivates throughout.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The brilliance of this show lies in the meticulous attention and craftsmanship dedicated to shaping the intricate backstories of every character. Each member is endowed with distinct intentions and personality traits, allowing for intrigue at every turn. There isn't a single weak link to be discovered, but special recognition is deserved for the performances of <b>Christopher Buckley</b> as the endearing Bob Newby and <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Michael+Jibson">Michael Jibson</a></b>, who delivers haunting moments as the tormented Victor Creel. <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Max+Harwood">Max Harwood</a></b> as Alan Munson, injects copious amounts of humour, energy, and vitality into the narrative, fashioning a persona that practically begs for its own enthralling spin-off storyline; whilst <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Patrick+Vaill">Patrick Vaill</a></b> brings eerie menace to the stage as Dr Brenner.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In the hands of <b>Stephen Daldry</b> and <b>Justin Martin</b>, the play unfolds like a blooming flower, or more aptly, the opening mouth of a demogorgon. It moves seamlessly between the whirlwind of action and the rich tapestry of each thoughtfully crafted scene. High-school hallways and bathrooms, the mundane backdrop of everyday life, transform into breathtaking alternate worlds in the blink of an eye, all thanks to the nimble touch of <b>Miriam Buether</b>'s set design.<b> Jon Clark</b>'s lighting is like a choreographed dance, shifting between mysterious shadows and warm sunlight, mirroring the transformative journey of the characters.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The story takes a deep dive into the shadows, embracing a genuinely dark undertone with jumps and eerie sounds reminiscent of horror films, all expertly blended into the production by <b>Paul Arditti</b>'s exceptional sound design. Yet, within the darkness, there's a contrasting brightness—a nostalgic, retro Americana that permeates the air. Sprinkled with snippets of song, it adds layers of emotion and complexity to this multidimensional theatrical experience, making it a journey that feels both supernatural and believable.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i style="font-style: italic;">Stranger Things: The First Shadow</i> is a testament to the storytelling prowess of its creators. As someone unfamiliar with the series, I can confidently say that this instalment stands alone as a brilliant and engaging piece of theatre. It has ignited my curiosity about the series as a whole, and I am now eager to explore the it to uncover the mysteries that follow this captivating chapter. Whether you're a seasoned fan or a newcomer like myself, this show is a spectacle that you must see. Full of drama, amazing performances and genuine sincerity, it's a Creel-y Creel-y great piece of theatre.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"><b>★★★★★</b></div><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"><b>Reviewed on Friday 15th December 2023 by Olivia Mitchell</b></div><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"><b>Photo Credit: Manuel Harlan</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: 700;"><br /></span></div><i style="font-weight: bold;"><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}</i></div></i></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-25953013480118019832023-11-28T23:26:00.007+00:002023-11-29T19:08:50.821+00:00Pretty Woman on Tour at the New Victoria Theatre Review: A Perfect Night Out<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsgOYPIJtzyA8epSrw3OhZ5pmAr66xiT-Tzga7wfvjVn5rfGAqEyn0Nn3_wZzW4mnsLVT83s4ZkzhL6AvUfDHADwB_8Wo7MmwHCp1s73P7rkNMsLfJrNZ45dFmCI2R93FUhUfS2QGqgV2fX48JChzStJiCcQOoeMN_RhdNX9cR4H-vNUbsEYmUDd6VaCU/s5578/Pretty%20Woman%20Review.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3719" data-original-width="5578" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsgOYPIJtzyA8epSrw3OhZ5pmAr66xiT-Tzga7wfvjVn5rfGAqEyn0Nn3_wZzW4mnsLVT83s4ZkzhL6AvUfDHADwB_8Wo7MmwHCp1s73P7rkNMsLfJrNZ45dFmCI2R93FUhUfS2QGqgV2fX48JChzStJiCcQOoeMN_RhdNX9cR4H-vNUbsEYmUDd6VaCU/s16000/Pretty%20Woman%20Review.jpeg" /></a></div><div style="font-style: italic; font-weight: 700; text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>Pretty Woman</b></i><b> (Tour) </b></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>New Victoria Theatre </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">A night of laughter; this sexy, fun and wonderfully performed musical grabs attention from the off! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Based on the famous 1990 film, the show tells the story of Vivian, a prostitute falling on hard times in Beverly Hills. By pure chance, she catches the attention of a Billionaire, Edward. Their instant connection prompts Edward to offer residence to Vivian, in exchange for her services for one week whilst he stays at the famously opulent Beverly Wilshire Hotel. Both are certain that no feelings could grow during this business deal. It seems they are both to be proved wrong…</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The leading role of Vivian Ward was of course made famous by Julia Roberts. Needless to say, this iconic role is a hard one to fill. <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Amber+Davies">Amber Davies</a></b>, who gained public attention with her 2017 Love Island win plays the role with brilliance and proves she's much more than a reality star. Her acting, singing and dancing is on point, a true triple threat! Whilst delivering iconic lines from the movie, Amber makes the role her own and creates a charming character who the audience root for. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Oliver+Savile">Oliver Savile</a></b> portrays the role of Edward Lewis excellently, which is no surprise considering his extensive theatre experience! Edward’s closed-off attitude and need to hold everyone at arms length, slowly wavers as Vivian wins his affection. The strong chemistry between Amber and Oliver is more than apparent, especially in the few raunchy moments throughout the show. It's a pleasure to see them act together. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Natalie+Paris">Natalie Paris</a></b>, who plays Vivian’s best friend Kit De Luca is a true standout with the most incredible vocal range! A continual scene stealer, her ‘Rock and Roll’ style is effortless, and she brings the witty character to life superbly. The rest of the killer ensemble do a fantastic job of keeping energy high with their multiple dance numbers and general presence. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">With music <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Bryan+Adams">Bryan Adams</a></b> and <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Jim+Vallance">Jim Vallance</a></b>, a book by <a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Garry+Marshall"><b>Garry Marshall</b></a> and the film’s screenwriter<b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=+J.F.+Lawton"> J.F. Lawton</a></b> and direction and choreography <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Jerry+Mitchell">Jerry Mitchell</a></b>, the magic of the show is there from the start, and stays throughout. <i>Pretty Woman</i> on tour is a fantastic screen to stage adaptation that has all the moments the audience know and love from the smash hit film, with extra theatrical additions to make it an utterly engaging experience.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The overall design of the show fits the era and flavour of the musical well. The use of bright background lighting (<b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Kenneth+Posner">Kenneth Posner</a> </b>and <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Philip+S.+Rosenberg">Philip S. Rosenberg</a></b>) during song and dance numbers keep the overall feeling of the show light and fun. Equally <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Tom+Rodgers">Tom Rodgers</a></b>'s costume design really represents the story well; of course the iconic red ballgown from the movie makes its appearance alongside a number of other fun costumes. <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=David+Rockwell">David Rockwell</a></b>'s set is simple but effective- one minute you are looking at dingy Hollywood street corner, the next you are in the Penthouse suite of the Beverly Wilshire! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Overall, the lightheartedness of the story and the fantastic talent onstage makes for a perfect, adult-only night out. I highly recommend a trip to Hollywood via Woking! </div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>★★★★★ </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Reviewed on Monday 27th November 2023 by Grace Dickinson</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Photo Credit: Manuel Harlan</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}</b></i></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-80354123072407513962023-11-28T22:41:00.004+00:002023-11-28T22:41:59.276+00:00He Sang to Me by Casey Tyler book review: A Delightfully Cheesy Ode to Broadway Romance<div><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZVKNkNW-Zej8QGes1N-YFRQ-OvJ86TOuypNqjWAb7jIywSFP_ILwaY1FfLidG76KEHY7DXrmH87PSuPNdNmuuUBQRjhAtx7_xVYnhu9Gj-OGAB2uvRPd4LfMga88b9LTaKY21ancga3mVNpf1yg99OrHzesmp763n-I_7e1W8p8Ez7V9cMPMwEcZ6Ds4/s2290/He%20Sang%20to%20Me%20by%20Casey%20Tyler%20Book%20Review.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1527" data-original-width="2290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZVKNkNW-Zej8QGes1N-YFRQ-OvJ86TOuypNqjWAb7jIywSFP_ILwaY1FfLidG76KEHY7DXrmH87PSuPNdNmuuUBQRjhAtx7_xVYnhu9Gj-OGAB2uvRPd4LfMga88b9LTaKY21ancga3mVNpf1yg99OrHzesmp763n-I_7e1W8p8Ez7V9cMPMwEcZ6Ds4/s16000/He%20Sang%20to%20Me%20by%20Casey%20Tyler%20Book%20Review.jpeg" /></a></div><i><br /></i></b></div><b><i>He Sang to Me</i> by Casey Tyler<br />Self Published: 3rd October 2023 by Truelove Publishing</b><br /><br /><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Casey Tyler's debut novel, <i>He Sang to Me</i> is a book that unabashedly caters to the delulu girlies, and as a self-proclaimed member of that tribe, I found myself both cringing and grinning through its pages. This 320 page tale, is reminiscent of a sweet and charming fanfic; intertwining the enchanting worlds of Broadway and romance – two of this reader's, favourite things.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The narrative unfolds amidst the hustle and bustle of New York City, and the author's vivid descriptions and location name drops skilfully bring the city to life. As well as this the pages are dotted with stagey references that act like hidden treasures for theatre enthusiasts like myself. The book really evokes the frenetic energy of the theatre district and certainly sparked my desire to hop on a flight back to New York to explore every corner of the city.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>He Sang to Me</i> follows Sunday Truelove, an aspiring actress who moves to New York to pursue her dreams. Within moments she wins tickets to the hottest show on Broadway and whilst she's there has a magical encounter with the leading man and famous British actor, Tyler Axel. From here the two enter a fairytale romance and discover whether they're truly meant to be.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Honestly, it's as cheesy as it sounds and I kind of loved it. There are all the classic tropes, from being spotted by paparazzi to caring for the sick partner and in a way it's pretty iconic. On the other hand, it's pretty basic. The characters aren't particularly developed, Sunday has extreme 'not like other girls' energy which is a little grating and the book, at times, tips into self-indulgence and lacks a grounded narrative. Despite the characters being in their late twenties and thirties, their personalities and emotional journeys comes across quite immature and lean towards a younger audience. It's clear that a bit more editing and development could add a layer of realism to their characterisations. Some of the British aspects were also inaccurate and took me out of the world a little but these are definitely things that could be tweaked and edited for future prints. Nevertheless, the book shines in capturing the essence swooping romance and is a sweet stagey story, with some charming moments.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGBJpAxBv8SuIiHwo-hNFMaSqzpbCTyMOLnooRq5UHxgpG_BwCpasn7yG_KPtivJAvR4TIf-6iut15bxpzpUrhp7zU-339wzqBzb-2AusZj2c7dKzWQlDqjAjmB8T0Ql7Kuc9gv66Bv1lF-IXOD2e6uZjMgbkaf_F7E_q_7g8IYrzrYeijrTcDCSf-x_s/s1744/He%20Sang%20to%20Me%20by%20Casey%20Tyler.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1163" data-original-width="1744" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGBJpAxBv8SuIiHwo-hNFMaSqzpbCTyMOLnooRq5UHxgpG_BwCpasn7yG_KPtivJAvR4TIf-6iut15bxpzpUrhp7zU-339wzqBzb-2AusZj2c7dKzWQlDqjAjmB8T0Ql7Kuc9gv66Bv1lF-IXOD2e6uZjMgbkaf_F7E_q_7g8IYrzrYeijrTcDCSf-x_s/w640-h426/He%20Sang%20to%20Me%20by%20Casey%20Tyler.JPG" width="640" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There are elements of the characters that I truly enjoyed such as Sunday's bright eyed optimism and Tyler's love for his family and his craft. I know I would fall for an ex-Fiyero with a killer voice, although in my experience they're never quite as unproblematic as Tyler! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br class="Apple-interchange-newline" />The rest of the characters, while somewhat idealised, form a found family that's lovely to discover. The friendships and relationships are sprinkled with relatable moments, creating a sense of nostalgia for those who have ever dreamt of having a dreamy friend group.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The musical theatre aspects of the story are really fun but I do think it would be interesting to include more of the backstage aspect of Broadway. With both of the leads being so heavily ingrained in the world, it would be easy to explore but a lot of the plot points surrounding it are quite surface level and because of the idealised world they are living in, the challenging realities of the Broadway business don't get a light shone on them. I definitely think this is a story that could benefit from a sprinkle of grit to elevate it to the next level.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Casey clearly has a love and talent for writing and whilst I found the initial chapters a bit heavy-handed with unnecessary descriptions, the writing blooms and improves throughout and it's quite wonderful that she's has taken the plunge to write and self publish the story, I'll certainly be keeping an eye our for future (hopefully stagey) treats.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In a nutshell, <i>He Sang to Me</i> offers a quick and enjoyable escape for fans of theatre, celebrity/normal dating dynamics, and the allure of found family tropes. While it may not be a polished piece of literature, its endearing charm, lively New York setting, and relatable theatrical moments make it a worthwhile indulgence for those in need of a cosy break from reality.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><b>★★★<br /> Reviewed by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/oliviamitche">Olivia</a></b></div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><a href="https://www.instagram.com/caseytylercreative/">Follow Casey</a> to keep up with her writing journey</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div></div><div><b><i>{AD PR product- book gifted by author}</i></b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-49681936832070939872023-11-28T13:32:00.005+00:002023-11-29T12:22:12.027+00:00My Neighbour Totoro at the Barbican Centre Review: Whimsical, Enchanting and Idealistic<div style="text-align: justify;"><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1HKcoXOyojTaclS5vOTwYKgxjtyJaV-fVeCEFhPzkgEP-hOhoSGYnYrbB1-BJmdz8Bguu5RmyGnu9cyHQDZgbnIyNE86mO5gew-XSl2UFDJMciCFZhubRSyvgV6KFr2KOUua0qKoxHe7u3fTTM_70XWGFsonAXCkAAaVM154Of5pMWl2Fvpr8nexYzms/s1400/my%20neighbour%20totoro%20review.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="990" data-original-width="1400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1HKcoXOyojTaclS5vOTwYKgxjtyJaV-fVeCEFhPzkgEP-hOhoSGYnYrbB1-BJmdz8Bguu5RmyGnu9cyHQDZgbnIyNE86mO5gew-XSl2UFDJMciCFZhubRSyvgV6KFr2KOUua0qKoxHe7u3fTTM_70XWGFsonAXCkAAaVM154Of5pMWl2Fvpr8nexYzms/s16000/my%20neighbour%20totoro%20review.jpeg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>My Neighbour Totoro</b></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Barbican Centre</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">After a hugely applauded and successful run last year, <i>My Neighbour Totoro</i> has returned to the Barbican Centre and is as highly anticipated as ever. The 1988 Japanese animated fantasy film is much loved around the globe, but having never seen it personally I was intrigued how this stage adaptation would affect me. Thankfully I was blown away by the story and staging and can see why it's a tale so close to people's hearts.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Brought to the stage by producers <b>Joe Hisaishi</b> and the <b>Royal Shakespeare Company</b>, the show is a perfect combination of animation style moments and theatrical wonder. As a whole, it does a masterful job of capturing the essence of childhood wonder and innocence in a way that's relatable to adults and children alike. The colours are vibrant, the details meticulous, and the animation style timeless. From the moment the logo comes to life, the enchanting world of Totoro wakes up and takes the audience on a whimsical, wonderful journey.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The story, a heartfelt tale of two sisters, Satsuki and Mei, and their mischievous encounters with forest spirits, is simple but encompasses a range of emotions. The emotional depth and universal themes of family, friendship, and the magic of nature are portrayed with a subtlety and grace that I'm learning is very typically, <b>Studio Ghibli</b>. It's not the most intriguing of tales and is definitely more of a visual treat but the pacing is perfect, and allows the audience to savour every moment whilst keeping engaged throughout.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Tom Pye</b>'s ingenious design, paired with the creative direction of <b>Phelim McDermott</b>, has given life to an awe-inspiring and intricately detailed set, with hidden aspects and elements that come swooping in to create magical moments. The intricacy of this production's design serves as a testament to the limitless potential that the enchanting world of theatre can bring to life and even more special, is how throughout, it also manages to retain a sense of cosiness and intimacy.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The truly mesmerising part of <i>My Neighbour Totoro </i>is of course the astounding puppets crafted by Basil Twist. The production fearlessly showcases the puppeteers, adding a unique layer to the wonder and escapism of the performance. Far from diminishing the magic, the visible puppeteers become an integral part of the spectacle, stopping to bow during the show, often breaking the fourth wallk and culminating in a genius curtain call that is it's own whimsical show that's truly unexpected and brilliant.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The music in <i>My Neighbour Totoro </i>is the beating heart of the production, thanks to the enchanting vocals of <b>Ai Ninomiya</b>. Her performance provides a mesmerising soundtrack that weaves seamlessly with the unfolding events. The original film score by <b>Joe Hisaishi</b>, expertly re-orchestrated by <b>Will Stuart</b>, and the adapted lyrics by <b>Tom Morton-Smith</b> and <b>Hilmi Jaidin </b>which blend delicate Japanese and English verses, all add layersof depth to this beautifully intricate production. The perfect harmony between music and storytelling creates an immersive experience, and furthers the impact of the tale.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The amazing cast assembled feels like a tight-knit family on stage. <b>Mei Mac </b>and <b>Ami Okumura Jones</b>, portray the lively sisters Mei and Satsuki, effortlessly taking the audience on an emotional rollercoaster with their youthful energy and seamless chemistry. <b>Dai Tabuchi</b> and <b>Emily Piggford</b> give endearing performances as the caring parents, Tatsuo and Yasuko. What's truly remarkable is that, beyond their main roles, each cast member (bar Mei and Satsuki) also step into the role of puppeteer, showcasing the incredible versatility and talent that defines this consistently outstanding ensemble.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Whether you're a long-time Studio Ghibli fan or experiencing the magic for the first time, <i>My Neighbour Totoro</i> at the Barbican Centre is an absolute must-see. It's a theatrical gem that touches hearts and transports audiences to a world where imagination knows no bounds. Five stars simply don't do justice for this enchanting experience.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>★★★★★</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Reviewed on Monday 27th November 2023 by Olivia</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Photo Credit: Manuel Harlan</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Tickets for My Neighbour Totoro are available at <a href=" https://www.londonboxoffice.co.uk/">London Box Office</a></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}</i></b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-60052654254408315432023-11-23T14:00:00.001+00:002023-11-25T09:27:23.395+00:00The Drifter's Girl on Tour at the New Victoria Theatre Review: Enchanting Performances <div style="text-align: justify;"><b><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXXfPzwBIdLUBPo7cMnYQrchV3sJz64ww3cyO_YSPBtmAQGr1DI6H9MYtpBx04GYDrwEBN614rOHztjVQHz-WIVDYxMRy_hVguRDf2nnFu7S1IqpSKkVlXj4x0MDI3EfvCoLqYNlBwdzjV5WbqBYsZZBIcic6VIjwuFA3dtauG_GmhFti5ZkzmxAAQ6XI/s1596/Screenshot%202023-11-24%20at%2022.18.01.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1066" data-original-width="1596" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXXfPzwBIdLUBPo7cMnYQrchV3sJz64ww3cyO_YSPBtmAQGr1DI6H9MYtpBx04GYDrwEBN614rOHztjVQHz-WIVDYxMRy_hVguRDf2nnFu7S1IqpSKkVlXj4x0MDI3EfvCoLqYNlBwdzjV5WbqBYsZZBIcic6VIjwuFA3dtauG_GmhFti5ZkzmxAAQ6XI/s16000/Screenshot%202023-11-24%20at%2022.18.01.png" /></a></div><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>The Drifter's Girl (Tour)</i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>New Victoria Theatre</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Currently on tour after a West End stint, The Drifters Girl offers audiences a glimpse at an intriguing journey, accompanied by top tapping hits and universally great performances. Showered with acclaim at the 2022 Olivier Awards, the show follows the dramatic narrative of Faye Treadwell, the incredible force behind shaping The Drifters.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">While grappling with some visually lacklustre sets, the production compensates with performances that pack a punch and a memorable soundtrack featuring timeless tunes like ‘Saturday Night At The Movies,’ ‘Save The Last Dance For Me,’ and ‘Stand By Me.’</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Despite the occasional visual challenge posed by the set design, The Drifters Girl invites audiences to dive headfirst into the heart of the action with an immediate and dynamic narrative approach. This spirited start, while invigorating, might require a bit of time for the audience to acquaint themselves with the characters and their relationships. If you’re not familiar with the story you may be a little dazed, but thanks to the fast pace, you don’t really have time to think about it!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">From the energetic get go, the performances are the true stars of the show. Under the compelling portrayal of Faye Treadwell by Carly Mercedes-Dyer, the cast deliver stellar performances that highlight the ambition, determination, and drive which drives the story. The group's seamless transitions, brought to life by Ashford Campbell, Daniel Haswell, Miles Anthony Daley, and Tarik Frimpong, showcase their artistry in navigating the dynamic changes within The Drifters. Vocally, each performer has some stand out moments however don’t often get the chance to really come into their own. Carly Mercedes Dyer perfectly performs the peak moments of the show, with vocals that simmer and then soar.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The musical's charm lies in its unforgettable songs, which act as both a soulful soundtrack and sturdy pillars supporting the narrative. The emotional depth conveyed through these musical moments significantly contributes to the overall impact, and has you rooting for the story. However, it does feel like something is missing, with the short acts skimming over a lot of drama and never quite packing a punch.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Whilst it’s not a life altering night at the theatre, The Drifters Girl has performances that feel authentic, a soundtrack that strikes a chord, and a narrative that unveils the essence of a key figure in music history. Despite the initial visual challenges and a swift plunge into the storyline, the production eventually finds its rhythm, offering an enjoyable experience for fans of The Drifters and musical theatre enthusiasts alike.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>★★★</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Reviewed on Wednesday 22nd November 2023 by <a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/p/editor-olivia-mitchell.html">Olivia</a></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Photo Credit:</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i>{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}</i></b></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-2562062780085028442023-11-18T14:27:00.003+00:002023-11-18T14:27:19.908+00:00Jamie Muscato to Perform Solo Concert at Cadogan Hall<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdi061IcPvDor_b4AkNB98orTRIz249dCzKi7P2T0MDSb89kdRDtfP5Yedf81pe3t38I87k-DF57elefLnfv9ibeB-mrfjYdtfVGa3HFtwZsK4FyonheUNiCShMKSfvJ0CkumNgxI63rxSiK7ZVuTy6J3-BBRFdf_cKVzZv6P5z9CebohdRKQV2ko4PWM/s2000/Jamie%20Muscato.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1429" data-original-width="2000" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdi061IcPvDor_b4AkNB98orTRIz249dCzKi7P2T0MDSb89kdRDtfP5Yedf81pe3t38I87k-DF57elefLnfv9ibeB-mrfjYdtfVGa3HFtwZsK4FyonheUNiCShMKSfvJ0CkumNgxI63rxSiK7ZVuTy6J3-BBRFdf_cKVzZv6P5z9CebohdRKQV2ko4PWM/s16000/Jamie%20Muscato.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Fourth Wall Live, in collaboration with Westway Music, is thrilled to present West End sensation <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Jamie+Muscato">Jamie Muscato</a></b> live at Cadogan Hall on Saturday, July 21, 2024, at 6:30 pm. Tickets for this exclusive event go on sale starting Monday, November 20, at <a href="http://www.fw-live.com/">www.fw-live.com</a> and <a href="http://www.cadoganhall.com/">www.cadoganhall.com</a>.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Renowned for his outstanding contributions to musical theatre, Jamie Muscato, known for his roles in Moulin Rouge and Heathers, will showcase a new solo concert at Cadogan Hall in 2024. Muscato has an impressive repertoire, including performances in Les Misérables, Once In Concert, and Sweeney Todd.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Jamie Muscato's versatile talent extends to TV and film, with notable credits such as Chemistry of Death, Darkness Rising, and The Trial of Christine Keeler.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Fourth Wall Live, recognised for its successful productions like Bonnie and Clyde The Musical In Concert, consistently brings top-tier entertainment to audiences. Their recent shows have featured Broadway favourites like Jeremy Jordan and Audra McDonald, emphasising their commitment to showcasing stars from both the West End and Broadway. Additionally, Fourth Wall Live proudly produced the What’sOnStage Award-winning Bonnie & Clyde The Musical, concluding a successful run at the Garrick Theatre in London’s West End.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-9130911859842390962023-11-17T21:34:00.004+00:002023-11-25T09:27:34.156+00:00Sammy Rae and the Friends at the Hammersmith Apollo Review: A Theatrical, Musical Masterclass<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdNiiVekteBGzptual9tYpACwvOkAt7SJKr3Vvume_LGfGrRF0KR_JRI5UYYJXXCIUzpjLAGG3iEOpVRNLqdhyphenhyphenYjhIMnu5Jn_3xgS_fmK2hNS9166Z4WYgbT12B1paAUOPPYm2Sy5NMxYct3MDZU23532uq-oX6GHEfxkippWrz9b83O8U5nytMTZSzoA/s1284/IMG_9077.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="845" data-original-width="1284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdNiiVekteBGzptual9tYpACwvOkAt7SJKr3Vvume_LGfGrRF0KR_JRI5UYYJXXCIUzpjLAGG3iEOpVRNLqdhyphenhyphenYjhIMnu5Jn_3xgS_fmK2hNS9166Z4WYgbT12B1paAUOPPYm2Sy5NMxYct3MDZU23532uq-oX6GHEfxkippWrz9b83O8U5nytMTZSzoA/s16000/IMG_9077.jpg" /></a></div><i><br /></i></div><i><b>Sammy Rae and the Friends</b></i><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Hammersmith Apollo </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i>Sammy Rae and the Friends</i> took over the Eventim Apollo last night for the London stop on their Camp Tour and what a glorious night it was. Under the magnetic leadership of vocalist and songwriter Samantha Rae Bowers, the Brooklyn-based septet dazzled the audience with impeccable vocals, riffs and infectious enthusiasm. Their unique blend of jazz, funk and folk with a dash of theatre kid for good measure created an electrically warm atmosphere and made the venue feel like it was hosting one big party.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">From the get go it's Sammy's utterly magnetic presence which draws you in. Her infectious energy creates an almost instantaneous connection with the audience that continues throughout and provides the ingredients for a really special night. Whether belting out stellar vocals (that sound just as good if not better than on the albums), laying on the stage or bantering with the audience, Sammy Rae proves to be an outstandingly charismatic band leader, who knows how to command a stage.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Friends, the ridiculously talented ensemble of musicians who accompany the show are as good as it gets. They each get moments to shine and showcase their musical skills which are universally outstanding, and alongside that they get to show their chemistry with one another. The whole group seem to be having the time of their lives on stage, creating a bubbling vibe which reaches into the audience and pulls us into the fold. Positivity is the heartbeat of this group and it's joyous to behold.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The setlist provided a great mix of familiar favourites including Talk it Up and Jackie Onassis as well as some sneak peeks at tracks from their upcoming album. Particularly moving was the soon to be released David, which focusses on men's mental health and is incredibly beautiful and poignant. There were also a couple of covers, with Abba's Lay All Your Love on Me proving a real audience favourite. Throughout, <i>Sammy Rae and Friends</i> effortlessly transitioned between vocal styles and genres, going from calmer more soulful pieces to the exuberant high-octane numbers. The diverse repertoire continually showcased the band's musical aptitude and versatility.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Alongside expert musicianship, the evening was truly a celebration of community, as fostered by the group and the infectious, frivolous atmosphere they crafted. Whilst the songs explore a lot of serious themes, the group maintain a carefree persona and invite the audience to enjoy the moment and celebrate the good things life has to offer.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Camp tour isn't anchored around a specific album so the evening was a great chance to revel in the signature hits, whilst becoming excited for what's next in the Sammy Rae discography. The combination of Sammy Rae's magnetic stage presence, the exceptional talent of the Friends, a thoughtfully curated setlist and a welcoming crowd, affirmed the group as a formidable force in the music industry and made a promise that we'll be seeing and hearing much more of them. They certainly earned their badges for riffing, raving and raising the roof!</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>★★★★</b></div><div><b>Reviewed on Thursday 16th November 2023 by <a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/p/editor-olivia-mitchell.html">Olivia</a></b></div><div><b>Photo Credit: Mia Isabella Photography</b></div><div><b><br /></b></div><div><b><i>{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}</i></b></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-65073898133579712482023-11-16T17:00:00.007+00:002023-11-17T21:38:10.273+00:00SuperYou! the Musical in Concert at the Lyric Theatre Review: Potential to be Otherworldly<div style="text-align: justify;"><i><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin624hksWC7Fcu-TNuIwuRhbwVA_qAGAtH3nDyVMmttjVZvTmoXVOFemsqWgfvv76lwaLsudwAPPRWBP2E9mYKnbciZnbABs4oxAH908dSQuqNo0a_aKfx8eVe03CzNTM-aIR64s6tRVJ52_ymSar46tq1VFHnalqbxJv62nJNSe380xIdoNZj7ysT_3c/s2048/Lucie%20Jones%20and%20Luke%20Brady%20SuperYou%20In%20Concert%20Review.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1365" data-original-width="2048" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin624hksWC7Fcu-TNuIwuRhbwVA_qAGAtH3nDyVMmttjVZvTmoXVOFemsqWgfvv76lwaLsudwAPPRWBP2E9mYKnbciZnbABs4oxAH908dSQuqNo0a_aKfx8eVe03CzNTM-aIR64s6tRVJ52_ymSar46tq1VFHnalqbxJv62nJNSe380xIdoNZj7ysT_3c/s16000/Lucie%20Jones%20and%20Luke%20Brady%20SuperYou%20In%20Concert%20Review.jpeg" /></a></div><b><br /></b></i></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><i><b>SuperYou! the Musical in Concert</b></i></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;">Lyric Theatre </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Having made its UK debut performance at MusicalCon in October 2022, where it was an audience hit, <i>SuperYou</i> went on to do two days of workshop performances in London last year and last night had its West End premiere concert performance. With music, lyrics and book by <b>Lourds Lane</b>, the show tells the story of Katie White, a comic book author whose superheroines aid her in navigating through grief, discovering self-love, and embracing the strength of her own voice.</div></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">After being lucky enough to catch one of the workshop performances, I was incredibly excited to follow the development of this show and see how it grows and evolves over its various iterations. Whilst this concert version didn't quite live up to the expectations I'd built up in my head, it did have a number of stand out moments and showcased the potential of this beautifully heartfelt musical, and hopefully paved the way for future outings.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">What I love about this show is how much passion and care has clearly gone into telling the tale of embracing your differences and being true to yourself. The energy is next level throughout and the performances are so earnest you can't help be charmed by it all.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Musically there's an array of styles, from rock songs to country ballads, all of which are performed with vigour and power, just as you'd expect in a show about superheroes. Leading the gang, Super<b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Lucie+Jones">Lu-cie Jones</a> </b>once again soars, delivering larynx lifting vocals with ease, sincerity and heart. Her shining voice matched with greatly witty and endearing characterisations once again cement her as a star of musical theatre. As her brother and fellow comic enthusiast, Matty, <b>Jonty Peach</b> gives a wonderful performance, I only wish we got more chance to see and hear him. His chemistry with young Katie (gloriously played by <b>Aaliyah Monk</b>) is really lovely and the pair create a convincing back story to root the show.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Completing the hero squad are <b>Joni Ayton-Kent </b>as Seven, <b>Sharon Ballard </b>as Blast, <b>Lourds Lane </b>as Rise and <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Jenny+O%27Leary">Jenny O'Leary</a> </b>as Ima-Mazing, who all give strong, well characterised performances. The roles themselves are quite stereotyped and not hugely well-rounded but they're performed well and bring some killer vocals. <b><a href="https://www.rewritethisstory.com/search?q=Luke+Brady">Luke Brady</a> </b>as Jay is really engaging and gets to really soar vocally in act two.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Choreography is a big part of this show, with <b>Maddy Brennan </b>(Mom) and <b>Will Bozier </b>(MiRoar) communicating almost solely through <b>JoAnn M. Hunter</b>'s choreographed dance/movement, to great effect. The concert setting doesn't quite allow the movement to soar as it would in a full production but it's certainly a great way to tell the story and is quite striking at times. I do feel that it sometimes covers for a lack of character development, especially with the Mom who is pretty one dimensional but there's a lot of promise and a number of ways for the movement to elevate the storytelling. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">There were also a few balancing issues, with the vocals sometimes being overpowered by music, so crucial lyrics were lost. Also, the setup of music stands across the stage meant the audience were physically disconnected from the action. Moments when it really shone were when these were stepped in front of, such as the closing of act one. Of course, this is a show put on with a week of rehearsal so a lot of issues can be forgiven but it would be great to see and hear the musical in it's full, fine-tuned glory.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Whilst the musical owes a lot to social media, having achieved huge popularity on tiktok during lockdown, something about the social media portrayal in the show doesn't quite work. Compared to the workshop showing, this version regularly mentions virality and tiktok, and whilst this does push the story along, it also feels somewhat cringey and awkward. It does provide opportunity for a discussion on the impact of social media but that doesn't feel necessary in a show like this which already has so many other messages to put across, so instead it just comes across as an underdeveloped layer. Perhaps it's an attempt to appeal to younger audiences but the show has so much to offer in terms of heart, and performances, it really doesn't need anything else to be appealing to a wide range of theatre patrons. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">In transitioning the show to be more "mainstream" and 2023 relevant, it has lost a lot of the charm and sincerity which was so abundant before. The changed plot also means the character development is diminished. Previously, Katie had a clear journey from an unconfident girl, brought down by various traumas, to eventually finding herself and making her own choices; however this time, her journey feels less well rounded and the actual big moment of discovery sort of comes from nowhere. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><div>Despite its flaws, <i>SuperYou</i> is a genuinely good show that deserves a future life. The potential is overflowing and I hope it gets a chance to develop further. <i>SuperYou</i> is a life affirming show with some wonderful messages, performances, energy and music and with some tweaks to supercharge it, the show could be a really glorious addition to the theatre scene. </div><div><br /></div></div><div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>★★★ </b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b>Reviewed on Wednesday 15th November by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/oliviamitche">Olivia</a></b></div><div><b>Photo Credit: Matt Marlin and Simona Sermont for Shooting Theatre</b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><br /></i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i> {AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}</i></b></div></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2353932800614287285.post-75053559368098665202023-11-15T13:26:00.000+00:002023-11-15T13:26:00.596+00:00 Give the Gift of Theatre with London Box Office | ad<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_ZXhJb-8OGct4ycAES0UOTJjW7Dxh20SRT5iu8NypVYbmsDvabRXuK9Gq-3THR0mLSa7N08jy6f-6A05PZkXT41S7DzpCNP7jOfxcRhw59XNWHKqdRHJw4S3l1SHwMF9mBBfl3qs1u1ArEoudtpZckrZiZNyMA5e-g42z0aLvVbkXFWrBqHK6lSZUbk/s4505/Black%20Friday%20with%20London%20Box%20Office.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="color: black;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3003" data-original-width="4505" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia_ZXhJb-8OGct4ycAES0UOTJjW7Dxh20SRT5iu8NypVYbmsDvabRXuK9Gq-3THR0mLSa7N08jy6f-6A05PZkXT41S7DzpCNP7jOfxcRhw59XNWHKqdRHJw4S3l1SHwMF9mBBfl3qs1u1ArEoudtpZckrZiZNyMA5e-g42z0aLvVbkXFWrBqHK6lSZUbk/s16000/Black%20Friday%20with%20London%20Box%20Office.png" /></span></a></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><b><i><span style="font-size: x-small;">*This post contains sponsored content*</span></i></b></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">With the holidays just around the corner and the frenzy of gift shopping kicking in, now's the perfect time to find some fantastic deals and savings. If you or someone you know loves the magic of theatre and entertainment, Black Friday is your chance to grab some awesome ticket deals for the best shows the West End has to offer.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This Black Friday, <b>London Box Office</b> have set the stage for remarkable savings, unveiling a treasure trove of discounted tickets spanning musicals, dramas, and comedies tailored to suit everyone on you present buying list.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">What makes this year's Black Friday deals so great, is the incredible diversity of shows available at rates friendly to your pocket. Whether you're shopping for a seasoned theatre-goer or introducing someone to the wonders of live entertainment for the first time, <b>London Box Office </b>has curated a varied selection promising something enjoyable for everyone.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If you've got a musical theatre fan in your life, this is the perfect chance to snag tickets to some of the most sought-after musicals including <i>Les Miserables</i> and the magically immersive <i>Guys and Dolls</i>. Or, why not treat them to witnessing theatrical royalty on stage with Sondheim's <i>Old Friends</i> or look forward to upcoming productions like <i>Bronco Billy</i> which opens in April.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">If a gripping drama is what you're after, you are in for a treat with discounts on an array of plays. Whether you're looking for intense contemporary pieces like <i>Dear England</i> or <i>The Ocean at the End of the Lane</i>, or the timeless allure of classics like Agatha Christie's <i>The Mousetrap</i>, <b>London Box Office</b> ensures there's a production to capture every niche.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For the comedy lovers in your life the Black Friday deals bring you hilarious performances that guarantee a night bursting with laughter. Including sidesplitting theatrical productions, from the hilariously chaotic <i>Peter Pan Goes Wrong</i>, which is perfect for family viewing, to the impeccably executed improv show <i>Showstopper! </i>that never fails to impress; the options to tickle your funny bone are boundless.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thanks to <b>London Box Office</b>'s Black Friday ticket deals, you not only get to experience these delights for yourself but also have the chance to treat your loved ones to a memorable night (or afternoon) at the theatre.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">To dive into these excellent deals, simply venture over to <b>London Box Office</b>'s dedicated Black Friday page at <a href="https://www.londonboxoffice.co.uk/black-friday">https://www.londonboxoffice.co.uk/black-friday</a>. There, you can see the brilliant lineup of discounted shows, choose your preferred date and time, and effortlessly secure your tickets with just a few clicks. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This is a golden ticket perfect opportunity to give the gift of live performance, so don't miss out and get booking to find a new favourite show.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0