Posts with the label uk tour
Showing posts with label uk tour. Show all posts
Showing posts with label uk tour. Show all posts
Wednesday 3 April 2019
Club Tropicana (UK Tour), New Victoria Theatre | Review
Club Tropicana
New Victoria Theatre
Reviewed on Monday 1st April 2019 by Glenys Balchin
★★★
Apprehension was in the air when I entered Woking New Victoria theatre, I knew that I would know the songs but I was not sure it would take me back to those fun fuelled Disco electric days of the 80’s... well it did sort of!
I'm not quite sure why the musical is called Club Tropicana, as apart from the name and a mention of “free cocktails”, there was not a sniff of the fabulous George and Andrew songs of the incredible WHAM. However, I am a lady of a certain age and remember those days whilst a millennium baby would not, so, does that matter?
The musical has been said to parallel hit TV show Love Island, which it does not! In the 80’s it was all about the music and dancing, not about drinking, talking about relationships and texting, (which would have proved difficult with a mobile brick!)
The story line is simplistic. Girl jilts her beaux on their wedding day, and they each go on a friend holiday to Spain to get over what has happened. They all stay at “The Club Tropicana Hotel”. Hotel Proprietors are waiting for an hotel inspection in order to a win hotelier prize but are sabotaged by a rival hotel owner. During the course of the story line, Boy and Girl participate in a Blind Date competition where they choose each other and realise they may have made a mistake...
The cast do an admirable job of taking me almost back to the electric 80s but it is not quite the 80’s as I remember, but again does that really matter?
I think that the script dictated the songs that were chosen, that’s why there is no Wham, Duran Duran, New Order, Tears for Fear, Human league, Whitney Houston, Madonna etc... because their songs did not tie into the story line. However, the musical depicts so many other things from the 80’s, the costumes for one: Ra Ra skirts, leggings, shorts, dungarees, “statement tee shirts” are a plenty on stage! The hair is big and huge mobile phones make a few appearances.
Club Tropicana is a feel-good night of entertainment, delivered by a vibrant, fun, high-energy cast who sing and dance as if their lives depend on it. I was not keen on some of the jokes which are not particularly PC nor the insulting references which border on sexist and homophobic, but I suppose that sums up the 80’s in a way.
Once Joe McElderry comes onto the stage the show comes along and takes the cast and audience into a flurry of singalong & dance routines– if only I could have got on stage for 'Oops Upside your Head'. Joe has to be applauded for an energetic exuberant performance and for not waning once. He really leads the show and uplifts the rest of the cast.
The same can be said, for the formidable and extremely talented Kate Robbins playing Consuela, who magically plays the part. Her comic timing and characterisation are hilarious and her great voice brings a real belly laugh and applause from the audience. Emily Tierney must be complimented for delivering a strong comic performance with a great voice, as the double-crossing hotelier Christine. The voices of Cellen Chugg Jones and Karina Hind the young couple, singing to 'I Could Be So Good For You' are a highlight. There must be mention of Tara Verloop, Rebecca Mendoza and Kane Verrall who all performwonderfully; with Kane working especially well with McElderry as his love interest.
Club Tropicana will bring a big smile to your face, give you the feel-good-factor and make you feel young once again. Its not an award worthy musical but is certainly good fun and like a summer pantomime for adults.
photo credit: Darren Bell
Friday 29 March 2019
Hair (UK Tour), New Wimbledon Theatre | Review
Hair (UK Tour)
London Palladium
Reviewed on Thursday 28th March 2019 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★½
Having first premiered in 1967, Hair doesn't have much of a story but focusses on hippies, LGBTQ+ rights, Black Live Matter, women's equality, the anti-war movement, freedom and so much more. Despite being a piece of it's era, these are issues and themes which resonate with a contemporary audience. The book loosely follows a group of hippies in New York City as they navigate life and their political views during the Vietnam War. More of a think piece and political statement, than a story, Hair successfully shows insights into real life struggles and celebrates living.
This revival which began at the Hope Mill and continued to become a semi-immersive experience at The Vaults, is now a vast production. This transfer in venue size means the show has lost some of it's authenticity and spark but retains its exciting, enthusiastic performances and energy. Natalie Green is the absolute stand out of the cast as she provides killer vocals; both belting her face off and providing glorious soprano moments. Natalie also showcases her supremely versatile acting with a number of accents and personas which are all faultless and she gives an entirely wonderful and memorable performance.
Kelly Sweeney also gives a fantastic performance in her solo moments as Crissy. After Unexpected Joy its great to see Kelly continuing on what's sure to be an outstanding career. Superb vocal moments are delivered by Alison Arnopp and Marcus Collins. As Woof Bradley Judge is well developed and entertaining to watch.
This is an intrinsically ensemble piece, with the whole cast banding together to really create the tribe, and bring the "haggle of hippies" together. Within the ensemble, Jake Quickenden and Paul Wilkins take the lead with agility and energy. Wilkins especially, gives a performance which the audience can really invest in, as his character Claude struggles with being himself and fitting societies expectations. Quickenden gives a commanding performance but lacks the oomph to really own the stage at times, however his vocals are strong and he'll surely only get better as he relaxes into the role.
This is an intrinsically ensemble piece, with the whole cast banding together to really create the tribe, and bring the "haggle of hippies" together. Within the ensemble, Jake Quickenden and Paul Wilkins take the lead with agility and energy. Wilkins especially, gives a performance which the audience can really invest in, as his character Claude struggles with being himself and fitting societies expectations. Quickenden gives a commanding performance but lacks the oomph to really own the stage at times, however his vocals are strong and he'll surely only get better as he relaxes into the role.
The hippie commune and various hallucinations are brought to life marvellously by Ben M Rogers' lighting which is vibrant, contrasting and superbly done. William Whelton's choreography is loose and well done, with the tribe effectively becoming one at times. The theatre is bright and hallucinatory thanks to Maeve Black's set and costumes. Streamers adorn the stage in an in-your-face manner that is dynamic and impressive.
Whilst it does drag a little, Hair is an easy watch that thrills the eyes and ears and remains relevant to this day. Outstanding performers make the most of a limited book and play to the theatre almost as if they're in an intimate space. Despite not being as revolutionary as it was fifty years ago, Hair is still an exciting piece of theatre and the rousing chorus of 'Let The Sunshine In' is enough to leave you feeling free and uplifted.
Hair runs at the New Wimbledon Theatre until March 30th before continuing its tour.
photo credit: Johan Persson
Wednesday 27 March 2019
Calendar Girls (UK Tour), New Victoria Theatre | Review
Calendar Girls (UK Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 26th March 2019 by Melanie Mitchell
★★★★★
Calendar Girls the Musical is based on the true story of a close-knit Yorkshire village. In 1998, Ladies of the local Women's Institute, rally to help one of their members when her beloved husband suddenly dies. They decide to raise money in his memory for the Leukaemia Research Fund by posing naked in a Pirelli style calendar and selling copies.
The story was subsequently made into a film in 2003 and then a stage play in 2008, both written by Tim Firth. Tim spent 5 years in collaboration with Gary Barlow to produce this brilliant musical. The story has been changed quite a lot from the original, but the basic premise remains the same. The musical looks at the whole gamut of human relationships and emotions with fantastic humour, pathos and poignancy, accompanied by an excellent musical score.
The characters are perfectly cast with amazingly strong performances by all. Anna-Jane Casey who plays Annie and Rebecca Storm as Chris are outstanding, both having superb voices. Fern Britten is fabulous as Marie the leader of the WI, desperate to stick to the old traditional values whilst being a terrible snob and social climber. Denise Welch is perfect as Celia, the brash, brassy and blousy ex air hostess trying to button up to fit in with the community. The show contains some of the funniest laugh out loud one liners I have ever heard, many delivered with perfect comedic timing by Karen Dunbar as Cora. Sara Crowe is hilarious as the ever helpful, slightly tragic Ruth. The younger actors, Isabel Caswell, Tyler Dobbs and Danny Howker add another dimension, which brings freshness and fun to the production.
Robert Jones' set and costume design are both fairly simple but completely in keeping with the themes and characters. In the first scene you are totally transported to the Yorkshire dales and subsequently to the village hall and green.
This is a heart-warming, totally British feel-good show, uplifting (in more ways than one), and something that almost everybody can relate to in some way or another.
For a really positive feel good evening at the theatre, suitable for all ages, I urge everyone to go and see this wonderful production.
Calendar Girls runs at the New Victoria Theatre until 29th march 2019
Tuesday 19 March 2019
Dirty Dancing (UK Tour), New Victoria Theatre | Review
Dirty Dancing (UK Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
Reviewed on Monday 18th March 2019 by Kay Adams
★★★★★
Dirty Dancing is not just a show about a love affair against the odds, or an early 60s period piece. Its continued popularity over the past 31 years is just as much due to tackling issues of class, family, loyalty, and right and wrong head on. It’s a coming-of-age story par excellence, acknowledged in Johnny’s introduction of Baby to everyone at Kellerman’s on the last night of the season.
So, if you are in the minority of people who haven’t actually seen the iconic film all those years ago – It’s the summer of 1963 and 17 year old Frances ‘Baby’ Houseman is about to learn some major lessons in life as well as a thing or two about dancing. On holiday in New York’s Catskill Mountains with her older sister and parents she shows little interest in the resort activities and instead discovers her own entertainment when she stumbles across an all-night dance party at the staff quarters. Mesmerised by the raunchy dance moves (and there are those aplenty in this stage production too), Baby can’t wait to be part of the scene, especially when she catches sight of Johnny Castle the resort dance instructor. Her life is about to change forever as she is thrown in at the deep end as Johnny’s leading lady both on-stage and off; as two fiercely independent young spirits from different worlds come together in what will be the most challenging and triumphant summer of their lives.
Whether you know the story or not, this wonderful production, written by Eleanor Bergstein and directed by Federico Bellone, will captivate you from start to finish. Many favourite original masters feature within this stage sensation which blends the movie soundtrack seamlessly with this live performance.
The quality of the dancing is phenomenal, with enigmatic dance numbers and sensual moments throughout. The scenery and special effects, especially the campfire and water scenes, were beautifully crafted. The audience were used at one point as part of ‘Kellerman’s’ entertainment as the scenes were seamlessly changed.
This production gets a 5 star review from me – a night to remember – and remember “Nobody puts Baby in the corner”
Dirty Dancing runs at the New Victoria Theatre 23rd March 2019
Thursday 14 March 2019
Madagascar the Musical (UK Tour), New Victoria Theatre | Review
Madagascar the Musical (UK Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
New Victoria Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 12th March 2019 by Glenys Balchin
★★★½
Madagascar the Musical was a perfect family night out, full of fun for the young audience as they tapped, cheered and danced their way through the story, against the backdrop of a damp and drizzly night outside the New Victoria Theatre. It has to be said, that many of the adults accompanying their young charges were enjoying the performance of the energetic cast just as much; with the cast bringing alive the animal inhabitants of New York Zoo and the story of their escape into the wilds of Madagascar.
Having seen other Dreamwork productions: The Lion King and Shrek on both film & stage, I was not sure what to expect of Madagascar and unfortunately for me this did not reach the same pinnacle as the others. This was due to lack lustre look of some the main character costumes as well as having pre-recorded music rather than a live band.
The puppetry was well executed and the presence of a human controlling them soon disappeared and captured the spirit of your imagination. A stand out for me was Melman the Giraffe, whose characterisation by Jamie -Lee Morgan was thoroughly enjoyable and he delivered an excellent performance.
Although, the show was packed full of songs, none of them were very memorable. However, the dancing and abundance of energy displayed by all the cast members did not go unnoticed and I enjoyed the choreography, especially the exuberant 'Move It', but on the same note it was a little bit repetitive.
The plot itself is a little thin on the ground but the uncomplicated storyline makes it easy for small children to follow and remain enthralled by plenty of packed action fun and dazzle. Act two was more animated than the first, mainly thanks to the irrepressible, vigorously imaginative artistic style of Jo Parsons playing King Julien.
A little older than many of the children at the theatre, my companion's mane attraction for seeing the show was Matt Terry, so she was a little disappointed he was not playing Alex the Lion at this performance. However, I asked her verdict about the musical and she told me that whilst she had preferred The Lion King, she thought her younger sister (9) would love Madagascar. At the mature age of 14, she enjoyed it but was too cool to get up dance in the aisles with the other children and would certainly not have been happy if I had!
Her conclusion was that it is a song filled production, that features a set that is inventive and all flows well. She loved how the characters were portrayed, in particular the Lion and the Hippo, and she thought that the voice of Marty was the same as the Zebra in the movie.
Overall the production went down well with the younger members of the audience and many of the adults that were there. For me, it lacked soul or a pinnacle to the production, due to repetitive choreography, unmemorable songs and basic costumes, however, the cast were pretty brilliant overall.
Whilst its a three and a half out of five stars for me, I'm sure many of the small children would disagree and give it a full five stars!
Overall the production went down well with the younger members of the audience and many of the adults that were there. For me, it lacked soul or a pinnacle to the production, due to repetitive choreography, unmemorable songs and basic costumes, however, the cast were pretty brilliant overall.
Whilst its a three and a half out of five stars for me, I'm sure many of the small children would disagree and give it a full five stars!
photo credit: Scott Rylander
Tuesday 12 March 2019
Benidorm Live (UK Tour), New Wimbledon Theatre | Review
Benidorm Live (UK Tour)
New Wimbledon Theatre
Reviewed on Monday 11th March 2019 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★
Camp, crude and cheesy, Benidorm Live has brought the popular TV programme to life in a fantastic way. Derren Litten's stage adaptation completely captures the feel-good essence of the programme and has the audience laughing out loud throughout.
Almost taking the form of an episode from the TV, Benidorm Live follows the staff and holidaymakers at the tattered and tacky beyond belief, Solana Resort in Benidorm. Famous faces from the series Liam (Adam Gillen), Mateo (Jake Canuso), Joyce (Sherrie Hewson), Kenneth (Tony Maudsley), Jacqueline (Janine Duvitski) and Sam (Shelley Longworth), fight to reveal and impress the undercover hotel inspectors who could lead to the shut down of the resort. The story is basic but extremely well put across; what the narrative lacks, is made up for with performance and wit.
Mark Walters' cleverly designed set, brings the hotel to life with cheer and brightness, featuring a pool side, Neptune's Bar, the hotel reception and the Blow'N'Go salon. The transitions from scene to scene are well done, especially when mini dance interludes draw the audience away from the set changes completely. By the end of the show, you almost forget you're not watching the TV, or even that you're not sitting on a Benidorm beach yourself.
Whilst the hugely enjoyable design of the show is great, it's the utterly hilarious cast who really bring it to life. Sherrie Hewson prances about barking orders to no avail. As the sleazy but adored Mateo, Jake Canuso is outstanding and he tries (and fails) to seduce the hotel's guests. Particularly impressive is the link to Canuso's past, where he shows off some of his sharp, supported dance. Janine Duvitski gives one of the wittiest, most innuendo rife performances ever. Her play on words and general larger than life persona, makes her a definite audience favourite, gaining laugh after laugh. Adam Gillen's Liam is endearing and wonderful, as is his partner in crime, Kenneth, played as camply as possible by Tony Maudsley. Asa Elliot as himself, provides some great vocals. As the middle-class holidaymakers who find themselves at the Solana when their dream hotel is overbooked, Tricia Adele-Turner and Bradley Clarkson give buoyant performances as Sophie and Ben.
Derren Litten's stage debut should be applauded as he creates a rowdy night out that is easy to follow but still highly entertaining. A saucy, seaside postcard of a show, Benidorm Live is sure to delight fans of the series and newbies alike as they take a carefree, innuendo-filled trip to sunny Spain.
Benidorm Live is at the New Wimbledon Theatre until March 16th before continuing its tour.
Benidorm Live is at the New Wimbledon Theatre until March 16th before continuing its tour.
Tuesday 5 March 2019
Rocky Horror Show (UK Tour), New Victoria Theatre | Review
Rocky Horror Show (UK Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
Reviewed on Monday 4th March 2019 by Louise Jordan
★★★★★
Over 30 million people have watched the Rocky Horror Picture Show live. I was one of them, thirty years ago. Would this version capture the energy, naughtiness and sheer exuberance of my previous experience, or Richard O’Brien’s cult film? The answer is abso-jolly-lutely. What a treat!
I could explain the plot in detail, but frankly it doesn’t really matter. In a nutshell Brad (Ben Adams) and Janet (Joanne Clifton), American squeaky clean and newly engaged college students, break down one night and seek shelter. They stumble across Dr Frank-N-Furter’s (Stephen Webb) castle, where he is unveiling his newest creation, Rocky (Callum Evans). A certain amount of, ahem, intimacy occurs all round (the warnings of adult themes are justified – don’t take your granny unless she’s especially broad minded). Enter stage left Dr Everett Scott (Ross Chisari) looking for his son Eddie and tada, we discover that Frank is an alien transvestite from the planet Transsexual. Are you any wiser? Thought not. But you don’t go to the Rocky Horror Picture Show for the plot. You go for the experience and the singalong joy of it – the entire audience is on their feet for ‘Sweet Transvestite’. The show is clearly held in enormous affection by its devoted audience and Dom Joly as narrator interacts brilliantly with the barrage of comments that punctuate his every appearance on stage.
The acting, singing and dancing are flawless, and the staging slick in this ensemble production of all round strong performances. The chemistry and timing between actors ensures the pace never dips from start to finish.
If you live in or near Woking, you’ve got a week to catch this show and leave behind the pressures of real life for a night. And if – man, woman or non-binary – you want to dust down your bustier and fishnets for the night, who am I to judge?
Rocky Horror runs at the New Victoria Theatre until 9th March before continuing its tour
photo credit: David Freeman
Friday 1 March 2019
Rock of Ages (UK Tour), New Wimbledon Theatre | Review
Rock of Ages (UK Tour)
New Wimbledon Theatre
Reviewed on Thursday 28th February 2019 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★
Lets start by saying that this is not a musical masterpiece by any means, but it is a super self-aware, high intensity, fun and crazily well performed show, that'll definitely have your toes tapping to some of the most well-loved rock classics.
The story, which is highly basic, follows small town girl, Sherrie and city boy Drew, who meet on the sunset strip whilst trying to achieve their Hollywood dreams. When German developers sweep into town, they threaten to ruin the rock n roll fairytales of everyone and the gang have to fight (and sing) for the the strip.
Rock of Ages absolutely doesn't take itself seriously, and instead revels in the cliches and nostalgia of the 80s with power ballads, rockers, shoulder pads and skimpy costumes. The minimal storyline is made up for with epic performances and a whole lot of fun. You can expect cheesy backdrops and props, tongue in cheek choreography, a rocking score and sexy rock chicks peppering the stage.
The flimsy script is brought to life by animated and intense performances from the cast. As Sherrie, Jodie Steele belts out power ballads with vocal skill and ease, whilst her love interest Drew, is played incredibly well by Luke Walsh who has an outstanding voice. Zoe Birkett delivers completely stellar vocals in her small role as Justice and Kevin Kennedy brings vibrance and humour to Dennis who could easily command the stage as a bigger role. Kevin Clifton brings a surprisingly well rounded performance as the embodiment of sex and drugs and rock n roll, Stacee Jaxx.
Also keeping up the humour and energy is Rhiannon Chesterman as Regina who's voice is criminally underused but she does a great job with the script she's given. As German duo, Vas Constanti and Andrew Carthy are caricature's to the extreme but completely know how to work to the audience.
The ensemble of skimpily clad men and women add moments of interest away from the main action and make the simplistic stage feel full and vibrant. It's Lucas Rush as Lonny who really steals the show with his charismatic performance and natural audience banter. He breaks the fourth wall with ease and seems to constantly be thinking of ways to entertain, and these pay off!
Nick Winston's direction and choreography is pretty strong throughout, although at time it feels like too much is happening at once, and what little story there is, becomes even more shadowed by other movement or action spread across the stage. At the same time, that does kind of sum up the show which is essentially a wacky showcase of some hit songs that have you not sure where to look or what to think.
Rock of Ages is thick with cliches, crudeness and semi-nudity but it's certainly fun. If you want a moving, dramatic narrative and a PG show, this is absolutely not for you. But, if you want great performances and a pretty electric atmosphere and some raucous, rocking fun, then pop along and have a fun night!
Rock of Ages runs at the New Wimbledon Theatre until March 2nd before continuing it's UK Tour.
photo credit: Richard Davenport
Tuesday 26 February 2019
Abigail's Party (UK Tour), New Victoria Theatre | Review
Abigail's Party (UK Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
Reviewed on Monday 25th February 2019 by Melanie Mitchell
★★★★
I am old enough to have seen the original televised play for today of Mike Leigh’s Abigail’s Party in 1977 and have loved it ever since. Therefore, I was really looking forward to seeing Sarah Esdaile’s adaptation of this iconic piece and I wasn’t disappointed.
As we entered the theatre we were greeted by the most amazing set where we can take a somewhat voyeuristic view through the windows of a typical suburban house of the seventies.
We watch as Beverly, played superbly by Jodie Prenger, flits in and out, preparing for her Party, switching on the fibre optic lamp, opening the drinks cabinet and laying out that most ubiquitous of party foods, the cheese and pineapple hedgehog.
Beverly has invited new neighbours Angela & Tony for drinks, also inviting Sue, as her teenage daughter Abigail is having a party. The play centres around these 5 characters and their complicated relationships. Beverly and her husband Laurence who have enormous marital problems, The mousey downtrodden Angela and her monosyllabic husband Tony and Sue the timid, socially inept divorcee.
As the drinks flow, whether the guests want them or not, the tensions rise between the partners and the group. The underlying problems begin to emerge and escalate to the 70’s sounds of Donna Summer and Demis Roussos.
The play portrays the era perfectly, tapping in to the social climbing, aspirational working class often associated with the 1970’s.
In the original show, Beverly is played by the amazing Alison Steadman, who created the voice of Beverly. I think that Anyone who has seen the original will agree that this is one of the most important and fundamental facets of this character. I was slightly apprehensive as to how another actor would carry this off. I needn’t have worried, as from the minute Jodie Prenger spoke, she was Beverly. From her flowing psychedelic dress and cleavage to her cutting and withering remarks to Laurence, fabulous performance.
The other characters were also played brilliantly, Vicky Binns is great as the mousey, impressionable and excitable Angela. Alongside Calum Callaghan as Tony her monosyllabic husband simmering with underlying aggression. Daniel Casey gives a super performance as Laurence, the socially mobile estate agent desperate to show that he does have class. Rose Keegan is perfectly cast as Sue, she was totally believable as she squirmed uncomfortably at the others behaviour.
As previously mentioned, the set, lighting and sound design are wonderful, I was immediately transported back to the 70’s, with the orange and brown décor, the party food and the music. Not a single item of detail was missing from that room.
Mike Leigh's original production has certainly stood the test of time with themes in the play as relevant today as they were 40 years ago.
This tragicomedy has laugh out loud moments tinged with both pathos and sadness. It is a wonderful evening out to the most uncomfortable party you may ever attend.
Abigail's Party runs at the New Victoria Theatre until March 2nd 2019 before continuing it's tour
photo credit: Manuel Harlan
Thursday 21 February 2019
Jersey Boys (UK Tour), Edinburgh Playhouse | Review
Jersey Boys (UK Tour)
Edinburgh Playhouse
Reviewed on Wednesday 20th February 2019 by Liv Ancell
★★★
The latest touring show to grace the Edinburgh Playhouse with a two-week residence is the all-singing show, Jersey Boys. Although, upon curtains up, you could be mistaken for thinking you had perhaps turned up to the wrong show by accident, with an off-theme French contemporary rap song (Ces soirées-là) kicking off the show - the relevance of course, being that the Jersey Boys’ original songwriting and melodies are frequently covered and adapted by modern artists to this day. With this firmly established, we immediately move back to the 1960s where the story of the Jersey Boys - this being of course the collective term for the four iconic Newark lads who formed the rock and roll group The Four Seasons - all began...
The layout of the performance is such that a different band member in term breaks the fourth wall and introduces parts of the story, or cuts in and interjects the action with a retrospective narrative. They do this in turns and add in their side of the story, but the first up is Tommy Devito, who was one of the groups founding members and in the stage version, is the loudest and most animated of the four protagonists (played by Simon Bailey).
As Tommy takes us back to the early days of ‘The Lovers’, we begin to learn more about the ups-and-downs the band navigated on their way to stardom, set against the backdrop of Italian-American life in 1960s Newark, New Jersey.
The songs throughout are sung expertly, keeping true to the band members’ Jersey accents and famous tones and pitches. To master historical regional accents must be no easy feat, but the cast had the audience well convinced.
The actors are all meticulous in their portrayals, which is made even more apparent when the screen at the back of the stage projects the real life performance from the 1960s, synced in time above the actors’ own rendition. Indeed, Michael Watson (Frankie Valli), Declan Egan (Bob Gaudio), Lewis Griffiths (Nick Massi) and Simon Bailey (Tommy DeVito) all put in truly stellar performances, with the energy kept high throughout and displayed fantastic comedy timing.
While I have seen many retrospective artist/band stories translated to the stage, this one was possibly the version which glazed the most over the more emotive scenes and elements of the story. In this adaptation, there is no doubt that the iconic songs of the Four Seasons are the real focus.
For the audience, who were mostly made up of slightly older theatre-goers, this was a welcome move. Renditions of Bye Bye Baby, Can’t Take my Eyes off You and December 1963 (Oh What a Night) had the audience delighted, with the warm feeling of nostalgia palpable in the stalls, circle and balcony.
For me however, stage biopics about the life and hits of Carole King and Cilla Black were a more rapturous journey to sit back and watch; emotive scenes were explored in depth, with the audience really riding the highs and lows of the protagonists. In this version however, scenes which should have had the audience sympathising at great lengths with the characters (I won’t spoil anything…) were instead given very little stage time, squeezed between hits guaranteed to get the audience going.
In terms of staging, an industrial static set-up dominates the stage, serving well at times as a prison and a recording studio. However, the set wasn’t particularly versatile or inventive. The screen backdrop was intended to assist in varying up the settings, although there were a few times when seemingly random pop-art pieces were flashed onto this screen in the middle of scenes. This was rather a gimicky addition which didn’t add to the sense of time and place, and only served to distract.
There’s no doubt, this is a true feel good musical which will have you tapping your toes, but if you’re after a rollercoaster journey of emotion, this one probably isn’t for you.
Jersey Boys runs at the Edinburgh Playhouse until March 2nd
photo credit: Rob MacDougall
Wednesday 20 February 2019
The Band (UK Tour), New Victoria Theatre | Review
The Band (UK Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 19th February 2019 by Kay Adams
★★★★★
The Band is a unique experience like no other show I have seen. It is a mix of emotions from beginning to end, stirring up personal memories for everyone lucky enough to be in the audience.
Written by award winning writer Tim Firth and Gary Barlow and directed by Kim Gavin, its a beautiful story for anyone who grew up with a boyband and how those songs became the soundtrack to their lives.
For five 16 year old girls in 1993, 'the band' is everything. Their lives are intertwined by their obsessions with these boys and their music. 25 years on, we are reunited with this group of friends as they try once more to fulfil their dream of meeting their heroes.
Featuring the music of Take That, Britain’s most successful boyband of all time, whose songs include Never Forget, Back For Good, A Million Love Songs, Greatest Day, The Flood, Relight My Fire, Shine & Rule the World and starring the winners from the BBC’s Let it Shine, Five to Five, who I have to say have amazing voices, and if you closed your eyes would sound exactly like their mentors. Their live band, playing unseen backstage, except in one scene, were brilliant.
The show isn’t even about Take That per se, it’s about these five charismatic and funny girls and how their friendships stand the test of time. More importantly, it’s about the emotions and nostalgia that this show evokes for the whole of the audience, taking them back to their lost youth, their teenage dreams and to the adult who never wants to grow old!
The set is fairly simple but with the aid of graphics, projections and sleek changes it was highly effective. The audience was actually part of the set, re-enacting a concert and even holding phones up in the air, the atmosphere was electric and bad singing not even noticed!
The female characters were funny, fabulous and really relatable and how they ended up after twenty five years was not at all predictable.
A five out of five for me, The Band is a musical experience that will leave a lasting impression, have you grinning from ear to ear and feeling so good inside. It is a reminder that we never really change despite age creeping up on us, it will leave you wanting to go back and watch it all again.
The Band runs at the New Victoria Theatre until 23rd February 2019
photo credit: Matt Crockett
Zog (UK Tour), Rose Theatre | Review
Zog
Rose Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 19th February 2019 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★
Based on the book by Julia Donaldson with illustrations by Axel Scheffler, Zog, in an adaptation by Mike Shepherd with Freckle Productions has made its World Premiere in a superbly fun, colourful and heartwarming way that will entertain adults and children alike. Zog and his friends are growing up and learning how to become the best dragons they can be; on this mission, they attend Madam Dragon's school where they try their hardest to win a golden star. Whilst they struggle and succeed, Princess Pearl is there to help them along and give them the courage they need.
Theatre does an amazing job of subtly giving children the curiosity and creativity they need to understand our world. The characters on stage mirror our world and teach us how to understand emotions and empathise with one another. Towards the end of Zog, there is a particular scene where the dragons have to decide whether they continue for their own personal gain, or, help their friend Pearl. The young girl I took to the show turned to me and said "that's not fair, they're being mean", which may seem like a passing comment but there's no doubt that theatre opens up pathways for conversations about what it means to be good. As a production, Zog brilliantly paves the way for these conversations and brings out the importance of having self-belief whilst helping others.
The small but mighty Zog cast have done a marvellous job of creating a bright world where rabbits bark and dragons roam theatres. Not only do they give greatly emotive and energetic performances but their musicality is outstanding. With all live music, the team work as one to play various instruments and make use of a loop pedal to provide a score (composed by Johnny Flynn) which bubbles and keeps the piece going. The on-stage instrument changes are just another way the little audience are inspired and its exceptionally entertaining to watch the performers work so seamlessly in this peak of children's theatre.
As title dragon, Elliot MacKenzie is mischievous and caring, whilst Euan Wilson as Madame Dragon is harsh but humourous and feels like the dragon equivalent of Miss Trunchbull! Emily Benjamin gives a heartwarming performance as Princess Pearl, both vocally and acting wise, and shows how strong girls are. The message that you can achieve anything in life as long as you put your mind to it is ever necessary and Emily puts it across in an empowering and lovely way. Robert Ginty as Sir Gadabout the Great is especially humourous as he gets the audience involved in his search for the Knight and Dixie McDevitt, brings the ensemble characters (including the adorable rabbits) to life in a fantastic way.
The simple set of scaffolding and stars, designed by Katie Sykes works well to allow the story to move locations but also leaves room for the imagination to roam wild. Props such as fire streamers, add an extra element of excitement and alongside Lyndie Wright's stunningly crafted puppets, the show feels very well put together. The cast transition from being the dragons themselves, to controlling the puppet dragons superbly and manage to maintain the magic throughout.
As an adult, there's something wonderful about hearing children be inspired. The excitable gasps of wonder that pepper the audience, the beaming smiles on faces and the buzz of enthusiasm makes us happy in return and shows just how important theatre is as a tool to teach. Team Zog have created a piece of theatre which will captivate and influence the audience in the most wonderful way.
Zog runs at the Rose Theatre until 23rd February before starting it's UK tour
photo credit: Helen Maybanks
Tuesday 19 February 2019
Five Reasons to see Fame on Tour
Last night I visited the New Wimbledon Theatre to see the current UK tour of cult classic, Fame! Having already seen the show and reviewing it here, I thought I'd switch it up a bit by bringing you my five reasons to see the, feel-good, high energy show.
Developed by David De Silva and telling the story of a group of aspiring performers, this production, which is celebrating the show's 30th anniversary is all you could wish for in Fame.
So, Here She Goes with five reasons to see it...
The Emotions: Happy, sad, energetic, heartbreaking. Whatever sort of emotions you crave to feel, this show will have you feeling them. It's a un-sugarcoated look at being a performer and all that entails, and whilst it faces some ugly truths, it also reminds us of the importance of doing what you love and doing it with your whole heart.
New York: I'm an absolute sucker for anything set in New York. Be it a rom-com, an opera, a book or a musical, there's just something inspiring about watching people succeed in such a harsh but opportunity filled city. The cast do a wonderful job of showing the pure grit and determination it takes to be victorious, and Morgan Large's set brings aspects of the city to life with ingenuity and style.
The History: The original Fame film debuted in 1980 to much acclaim and since then has amassed a big following over it's various incarnations. This history that people have with the show means there's something in this tour for everyone to enjoy and reminisce about, whilst people new to the story and show can also relate and enjoy it. It's not the leg-warmer filled film you might remember, but it has all the heart and drive.
The Cast: A musical wouldn't work without a cast, and this cast is superbly strong. As opposed to having a singular lead, a number of people helm the show and do so with triple threat greatness. Mica Paris' vocal performance is second to none and completely stuns the audience into ovation. Keith Jack and Molly McGuire are suitably dramatic as Nick and Serena as they navigate acting and romance, whilst Jorgie Porter gives a strong performance as Iris. Stephanie Rojas is outstanding as she not only gives a vocally flawless performance but also completely embodies Carmen on her journey from sassy, fiery Latina, to a battered girl, and creates a stunning and moving character arc. This is a largely ensemble led piece and the entire team come together to create a realistic performing arts school, complete with actor musicians and wonderful dancers.
The Music: If you're even the tiniest bit stagey, you'll know the title song, 'Fame' and it will no doubt invoke visions of raised arms and leg-warmers. Well the high octane, upbeat music does not stop there. The show is filled with fun musical numbers that feature various musical styles and influences, with Latin vibes in 'There She Goes' and gospel sounds in 'Mabel's Prayer' that all come together to create a catchy score that'll have you tapping your toes and dancing your way out of the theatre. Mica Paris' 'These Are My Children' is certainly one of the most vocally assured performances out there, whilst Stephanie Rojas gives everything she has in her heartbreaking but exceptional performance of 'In LA'.
For a fun evening that still tackles serious issues, Fame is the show to see. It's a melodramatic, no gimmick show that'll leave you dancing on the sidewalk and no doubt belting a number of two into your hairbrush when you get home!
For a fun evening that still tackles serious issues, Fame is the show to see. It's a melodramatic, no gimmick show that'll leave you dancing on the sidewalk and no doubt belting a number of two into your hairbrush when you get home!
Fame runs at the New Wimbledon Theatre until 23rd February before continuing it's tour
Post by Editor, Olivia Mitchell
photo credit: Tristram Kenton
Tuesday 12 February 2019
Rocky Horror Show (UK Tour), New Wimbledon Theatre | Review
Rocky Horror Show (UK Tour)
New Wimbledon Theatre
Reviewed on Monday 11th February 2019 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★
A Transylvanian delight, Rocky Horror will have you laughing in delight and dancing in your seat from the moment it begins in all its sparkly, transsexual glory.
Newly engaged couple Janet and Brad find them selves heading to an old castle when their car breaks down in the middle of a storm. There they meet Transylvania Transvestite Frank N Furter and his amazing and adoring entourage.
Rocky Horror brings a whole range of people to the theatre and everyone is welcome. Between those in full costumes and those in their normal everyday clothes, one thing is common: everyone is excited for a high energy night out. A whole range of ages and types of people clearly love this show and the smiles on everyones faces as they leave the theatre is a reminder of just how wonderful theatre can be, especially in trying times.
The show opens with a bang as the band bring the score to life (led by George Carter) and Laura Harrison as the cinema usher belts the opening number, Science Fiction/Double Feature, to rapturous applause. Laura is also fantastic as Magenta as she slinkily makes her way round the stage throughout and leads the Time Warp with high energy and oomph. Fellow slaves, Miracle Chance (Columbia) and Kristian Lavercombe (Riff Raff) also provide stellar, well characterised performances.
As Frank N Furter, Stephen Webb absolutely commands the stage. He struts around like he owns the theatre and everyone on it as as he embodies sass and sex as well as providing killer vocals.
As naïve lovebirds, Joanne Clifton (Janet) and Ben Adams (Brad) are well cast as they deliver engaging and suitably wide-eyed performances. The pair work very well with each other and bring this wacky story to life with fun and energy.
Making his theatrical debut, Dom Joly as the narrator is wonderful as he steers us through the highly chaotic tale with charisma and natural charm. Responding to the audience and adding in 'local humour' makes the piece just that bit more entertaining.
Nick Richings' lighting brings vibrance to every part of the stage and he does an outstanding job of being over the top without being unnecessary. Sue Blane's costumes are suitably glittery and indulgent, whilst, Nathan M Wright's choreography delivers punch after punch to accompany the high octane score.
Christopher Luscombe has directed a highly fun production with just enough space for audience interaction and all the ups and downs we expect from Rocky Horror. Whether you've seen the show before, or are a new viewer, there's no reason for you to dislike this wildly entertaining musical.
Rocky Horror runs at the New Wimbledon Theatre until 16th February before continuing its tour
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