Saturday 30 December 2017

Olivia's Top 10 Shows of 2017



This year I saw 105 shows so picking my top 10 was pretty tricky! I know everyone does these posts but it's always interesting to see what peaked everyones interests so without further ado, here are the shows I loved in 2017. Grab a mince pie and settle in!


PS. They're in reverse order as always to bring that extra bit of drama!


10. Yank | Charing Cross Theatre

I saw the West End premiere of this show and completely fell in love. The storyline was gripping, the acting was outstanding and it was a highlight of my summer. Scott Hunter was a particular stand out and I can't wait to see what 2018 brings for him.




9. Follies | National Theatre

This was one of my most anticipated shows of the year and it certainly wasn't a let down. The glorious staging was spectacular and I adored hearing Sondheim's music live as well as seeing queen Imelda Staunton on stage again.



8. Mack and Mabel (LMTO) | Hackney Empire

This was such a surprising show for me. Of course I expected good things from the LMTO but I was so blown away by every performance in Mack and Mabel. Natasha J Barnes singing 'Time Heals Everything' was definitely my stand out vocal moment of the year.




7. Funny Girl | New Victoria Theatre


Natasha also gave an amazing performance as Fanny Brice in the UK Tour of Funny Girl. To date this is the best touring production I have ever seen!


6. Hamlet | Alemida Theatre

Andrew Scott was just spectacular. That's all.



5. Fiddler on the Roof | Chichester Festival Theatre

I must admit, I don't travel outside of London for theatre very often but I am so glad I made the trip to Chichester to see this production which completely blew me away. This show needs a West End transfer and I'm praying its life isn't over.



4. Angels in the America | National Theatre

How could I not mention this?! A marathon show but packed with drama, talent and grit at every moment. Truly a theatrical masterpiece- Broadway get ready!



3. Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill | National Theatre

Audra is just a queen. I was mesmerised by every single moment of this show. I first saw it on press night and then went back with my parents, both times were breathtaking and it was such an honour to see a Broadway superstar on stage.



2. Romantics Anonymous | Sam Wanamaker Playhouse

My lovely friend Hayley took me to see this for my birthday and for some reason I never got round to reviewing it (hopefully I'll do it soon!) But it was honestly just brilliant. Both literally and metaphorically sweet it was the perfect way to spend an afternoon. If you want a heartwarming tale, this is the one for you!



1. Hamilton | Victoria Palace Theatre

I know this is the most typical answer and so not a surprise but Hamilton just blew me away. I still can't believe that it exceeded my expectations and if you can get a ticket, you HAVE to see it!!


I also want to give a special mention to  a couple of other outstanding shows which I mentioned in last years wrap up: Rent and Dreamgirls, both of which amazed me again this year! I have a couple of concert shout outs too- Rachel Tucker, Kristin Chenoweth and Lea Michele. I saw Rachel perform 5 times and was completely astounded by her voice and stage presence every time. Kristin had me bawling from start to finish. Her concert was definitely the most memorable I've ever been too. Finally, Lea was a bucket list concert for me and I'm so honoured to have seen (and met) her this year!

So there we have my top shows of 2017! I can't wait to see what 2018 brings- let me know what your top shows of the year were.

Au revoir 2017! Stay Stagey, 2018!

Top 10 by editor, Olivia Mitchell

Thursday 21 December 2017

Hamilton, Victoria Palace Theatre | Review


Hamilton
Victoria Palace Theatre
Reviewed on Thursday 21st December 2017 by Olivia Mitchell 
★★★★★

It's worth the hype.

Like many other musical theatre nerds, I jumped on the Hamilton bandwagon just over two years ago and haven't stepped off since. Swept up in the unique style of the show and the inclusivity of it, I fell in love and couldn't wait until I would finally see Lin Manuel Miranda's musical about the rise and fall of the USA's first secretary of the treasury, Alexander Hamilton.

During the past few months, while the show was being primped and preened for its arrival at the newly renovated Victoria Palace theatre, it has been receiving more press and excitement than Prince Harry's engagement! Even as a huge fan and supporter of the show, I was getting to the point where I thought there was no way it'd be worth it. Then I saw it...

Die-hard Hamilton fans are probably expecting everything to sound identical to Leslie Odom Jr.'s Burr, Lin Manuel Miranda's Hamilton or Philippa Soo's Eliza and we can't help but compare to what we're used to from the OBC recording but thanks to the power and brilliance of the London cast, all these comparisons fade away. The entire company pump in soul, heart and skill to the glorious narrative created by Miranda, musical supervisor Alex Lacamoire and director, Thomas Kail.



Giles Terera is charismatic and sharp as Aaron Burr, bouncing brilliantly off of the suave, likeable Jamael Westman as the titular, Alexander Hamilton. The two are perfect as the historical frenemies as Burr begins to resent Hamilton for rising in the ranks of office. Giles has some of the most iconic moments of the show with some truly show-stopping vocal sections, especially in the epic 'Wait For It' and jazzy, 'The Room Where It Happens'. Jamael tackles the huge role with skill and ease, showing his brash side in big rap numbers, as well as his more emotional, Shakespearean side towards the end in his final monologue and the heart-wrenching 'It's Quiet Uptown'.

Whilst these two talented men lead the cast, there is not a weak link anywhere. Powerhouse Rachel John is sassy and strong as the heartbroken Angelica; Rachelle Ann Go manages to be innocent but powerful at the same time in her performance of Eliza who falls for, is betrayed by and eventually forgives the man she loves. Christine Allado as "and Peggy" is particularly humourous as she bounds on stage with a childlike quality in the opening and is contrastingly seductive as Maria Reynolds in act 2 when she belts out 'Say No To This' with ease and drama.

West End newbie, Tarinn Callender is suave as Hercules Mulligan and full of dry humour as James Madison. Jason Pennycooke is frantic, hilarious and all round brilliant as Lafayette/Thomas Jefferson. His fast paced, faultless rap is perfectly balanced with his acting and smooth movement around the stage and he's certainly a stand out. Obioma Ugoala wows with his vocals as he belts 'One Last Time' and as John Laurens/Phillip Hamilton, Cleve September is strong whilst maintaining his childlike quality. Michael Jibson as King George steals every scene he's in. When I say he's hilarious, I mean laugh out loud, unforgettable moments hilarious. Every movement is perfectly thought out and he milks each line with precision.



The ensemble are sharp and outstanding, with In The Heights alumni, Courtney-Mae Briggs capturing my attention throughout. The precise choreography is one of the ultimate parts of the show, it's sharp as sharp can be and mirrors the action to perfection. Like the music, each aspect of on stage drama is reflected by style. Hip-hop, operetta, lullaby's and more embelish the spirit of the moment.

I could continue to rave about this show but I fear that could turn into a full dissertation so here's where I'll end. Hamilton is truly groundbreaking, it challenges the status-quo, brings a freshness to  the West End and breaks conformity by casting people of colour and challenging racial tensions. The show embodies representation in every way and is a spectacle to behold.

Hamilton lives up to the hype and is unforgettable. It's cool, unique and diverse as it subverts the typical language of storytelling. Find a way to get a ticket and see this show!

photo credit: Matthew Murphy

Wednesday 20 December 2017

The Grinning Man, Trafalgar Studios | Review


The Grinning Man
Trafalgar Studios
Reviewed on Tuesday 19th December 2017 by Shaun Dicks
★★★★

Trafalgar Studios, in the heart of the West End. We find ourselves in Studio 1, welcomed by a carnival aesthetic. The stage is set like the title, grinning. From corner to corner a grim, dark eternal smile. As we take our seats, there is a feeling of eeriness and darkness, setting the tone for the rest of the show. A demonic gong sounds, and the show begins. 

The Grinning Man - originally written by Victor Hugo - and adapted into a movie but now a musical, is a story of a young man who as a boy was given a permanent smile by metal. The story follows him as he becomes an orphan, and a series of events leads us through his childhood. His aim to find the people who gave him a permanent smile. 

Like Hugo’s other West End adaptation this show is a success; it is tight, slick and seamless. The show is littered with dark humour throughout but is also hauntingly uplifting and optimistic in places. The use of puppetry was absolutely magical throughout, the skill of the puppeteers plain to see for all. The narrative of the show is a strong one, backed up with beautiful music, sadly the book and lyrics seemed a little basic. Within the show you can spot the many Musical Theatre influences that influenced the writers. 

The cast of the show was a strong one, there wasn’t a weak link within the bunch. The harmonies, puppetry and movement was tight, obviously well-rehearsed. The characterisation was spot on with everyone as they all smashed down the fourth wall of the stage. A particular highlight was Julie Atherton as Queen Angelica, whose comedic timing was on point as always. Julian Bleach as Barkilphedro really drove home the element of dark comedy but also presented a well-rounded and multi-dimensional character that really thrilled until the very last second. Amanda Wilkin as Josiana was also a highlight. The standout however was Louis Maskell as Grinpayne, his skill set fully on display in this show, his versatility within the show shone as his voice soared. 

If you’re looking for a glamorous West End show this isn’t for you. The Grinning Man is a dark and alternative show. It’s different. Its differences are what makes this show so great. This show is something fresh and new in a world full of revivals. The show is  a must see. You’ll be gutted if you miss it. 

The Grinning Man runs at the Trafalgar Studios until February 17th 2018.

photo credit: Helen Maybank

Tuesday 19 December 2017

A Christmas Carol (LMTO), Lyceum Theatre | Review


A Christmas Carol (LMTO) 
Lyceum Theatre
Reviewed on Monday 18th December 2017 by Olivia Mitchell 
★★★★

The London Musical Theatre Orchestra have a stellar reputation and provide theatrical treat after treat, this time in the form of Charles Dickens' festive favourite, A Christmas Carol. With the shows composer Alan Menken in attendance, the Lyceum theatre was a buzz of excitement and festivity and the LMTO provided a wonderful night of music and jovial entertainment.

A Christmas Carol is simple and easy to follow, telling the story of a rich, isolated man who is visited by the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future as they show him the error of his ways and the importance of love and sharing. A heart-warming tale, it's perfect for people of all ages during the build up to Christmas.

Robert Lindsay reprises his role as the money-hungry Ebenezer Scrooge and is perfect for the role.  He is miserable but endearing at once as he brings humour to the "bah humbug" persona. I would love to see how Lindsay would perform in a fully staged production, I imagine his stellar portrayal would be even more entertaining and bold.

The entire cast are stellar with standout performances coming from Gemma Sutton as the Ghost of Christmas Past, Lucie Jones as Emily and Nicolas Colicos as Mr Fezziwig. Each performer gave their all both vocally and acting wise, really allowing the audience to use their imaginations and immerse themselves in the world Dickens created, despite the lack of sets and props. The children of the cast were equally brilliant with Ivy Pratt a vocal stand out for me.

The music truly does speak for itself and is really shown off when it's so stripped back. Seeing musicians, led by Freddie Tapner, enjoy what they're doing so much really transfers to the audience and provides a warm, intimate feeling throughout and it's always special to hear a score played by a full orchestra.

The LMTO give consistently brilliant performances and A Christmas Carol is no exception. A delightful production with glorious music it really is a treat and I would love for it to become a regular feature every festive season.

photo credit: Nick Rutter

Friday 15 December 2017

War Horse, New Theatre Oxford | Review


War Horse
New Theatre Oxford 
Reviewed on Wednesday 13th December 2017 by Donna Meredith 
★★★★★

I came to this production having read the Michael Morpurgo novel, on which this adaptation by Nick Stafford is based, several times with my children.  I relished the prospect of finally getting to see how this beloved story would translate from the page to the stage, and how the characters of Joey and Topthorn in particular would be brought to life in puppetry.

Since its premiere on 17th October 2007 War Horse has been mesmerising audiences across the world and I now know why. This 10th Anniversary tour is made more poignant by its timing following the recent 100 year anniversary of armistice day.

The production depicted the extraordinary and deeply moving story of the relationship between the central character, Albert Narracott played by the superb Thomas Dennis, and his beloved horse, Joey. 


On one hand, the tale of a young man’s unwavering quest to find his adored horse after it was requisitioned for the WW1 war effort. On another, this tells the story of how horses were used and sacrificed in huge numbers on the French battlefields.

Alberts quest to be reunited with Joey takes us on a journey as he enlists and goes off to war. The reality of war is brought to life on stage to dramatic effect, the sound effects and imagery at times alarming in their honesty and intensity. The stirring music and songs, alongside the visual imagery projected on stage add to the powerful impact.


We see how relationships develop both on the home front and on the bloody battlefields  and how the war effects different characters. A poignant example is the friendship between Friedrich Muller played by Peter Becker and young Emilie played by Joelle Brabban.  As the horrors of battle take their inevitable toll on Muller we see him lose his grip on reality and develop an almost childlike quality.

However the standout stars of the show, in my opinion, are the Handspring Puppet Company who bring amazing puppetry and skill to the stage. To describe the horses as 'puppets' doesn't do justice to how amazing they are. Even with the puppeteers in full view of the audience, the horses appear 'real'. They come to life before you, galloping, charging, breathing . I was immersed in the story and the realism of what was portrayed on stage.

Complex, intense and disturbing yet gentle and moving in equal measure. I would recommend this wonderful production to theatre goers of all ages. A enduring story of humanity and friendship and a timely reminder of the futility of war and the sacrifices made by those that have gone before us. 

War Horse runs at the New Theatre Oxford until 6th January 2018.


Thursday 14 December 2017

Pinocchio, National Theatre | Review


Pinocchio 
Lyttleton Theatre, National Theatre
Reviewed on Wednesday 13th December 2017 by Olivia Mitchell 
★★★★

Disney have given the stage rights of the Oscar-winning Pinnochio score to the team at the National Theatre who are on a mission to create their next theatrical spectacle. Based on the fable by Carol Collodi, this show tells the story of a Geppetto, a puppeteer who longs for a child. One night he is visited by a mystical lady who commissions a new puppet to be made out of her own enchanted wood. This puppet needs no strings and is for all intents and purposes, a boy... except for the fact he's made of wood!

Marketed towards "Brave 8 year-olds and above" this show is definitely darker and more sinister than the Disney classic. Featuring a strange Fox who's tail is full of magic and a host of other not so kind characters, this definitely has more depth than expected. I was throughly entertained by by both the child-aimed and adult-aimed jokes, of which there was a good mix  and all were pulled off well. 

The use of oversized puppets (designed by Tom Olie) is absolutely wonderful. The actors and puppets become one through their synchronised makeup and the way they move together. At first I was a little confused by the fact that the puppets mouths don't move as they speak, however, this issue melted away almost instantly and I found the lack of movement especially striking in first act when Stromboli became deathly angry; the contrast between the dramatic voice of   and the sinister smile on the puppet make my skin crawl.


As Pinoccio, Joe Idris-Roberts starts out throughly annoying, doing as he pleases with no care for his actions, however as he grows and develops  he becomes more likeable and his journey of self realisation is wonderful. He cleverly embodies childlike qualities and shows his 'wooden' side well, despite having no physical pointers. 

As his conscience, Audrey Brisson is hilarious. Dramatic and obsessive she manages to warm the audience to her whilst remaining extremely humourous. Again the link between her and her puppet, helped along by another puppet master is absolutely outstanding.

Mention must also go to Mark Hadfield who is sincere but strong as Geppetto (along with David Kirkbride). Especially in the opening scenes his acting and voice are really shown off and he gives a lovely performance. Dawn Sievewright also deserves notice for her energetic performance as Lampy in Pleasure Island (however I do think this scene could've been cut down slightly).

This is a magical, heart-warming production which uses a variety of theatrical devices in the purest and most masterful way. I'd certainly urge you to get to the National to experience it for yourself and be reminded of the importance of love and family.

Pinocchio runs at the National Theatre until April 2018.

Photo credit: Manuel Harlan

Jack and the Beanstalk (Pantomime), New Wimbledon Theatre | Review


Jack and the Beanstalk (Panto)
New Wimbledon Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 12th December 2017 by Olivia Mitchell 
★★★★

Now I must admit, I'm not the biggest panto fan but I thought I'd give it a go this year so popped along to Wimbledon to see Jack and the Beanstalk and I was pleasantly surprised! Festive favourite and seasoned Dame, Clive Rowe takes on the role of Dame Trot whilst comedian Al Murray is a panto newbie as the landlord, Al.

Directed by Thom Southerland, Jack and the Beanstalk focusses on the humourous rapport between Rowe and Murray rather than an actual storyline. Panto isn't Shakespeare and of course the plot isn't meant to be dramatic or emotive, but at times it did feel a little too bare and in-cohesive and was somewhat of a let down. However, the witty one liners and and magical moments saved the show.

Despite some of his jokes falling a bit flat, Murray is hilarious as the Pub Landlord and his audience interaction is fantastic. He really knows how to warm and audience up. I also appreciated how much he was able to not take himself seriously and just brush off when a joke doesn't work. Clive Rowe as Dame Trot is fantastic and again, works the audience wonderfully. The two are really a winning pair; bouncing off one another and pushing each other to corpse at every possible moment. I loved this interaction and they really made the show.


I personally wasn't a fan of the music used. The songs are forgettable and felt put in for the sake of it. The children involved however, seemed to be having the time of their lives which was lovely to watch.  Liam Tamne was great as Jack but I would've liked to see more of him. Despite being the title role, he was barely in the show and his relationship with Princess Apricot came and went at lightning speed. The second half especially felt like a mad dash to rap up the story.

The special effects were magical and definitely make the show for the children and adults alike. The dramatic helicopter scene at the end of Act 1 was unexpected and exciting and the 3D scene in act 2 added another level of interest. 

At the end of the show everyone was buzzing and seemed to have really enjoyed their night at the panto. Don't expect a masterpiece, but for a fun, lighthearted show full of one-liners and audience interaction, take a trip to the New Wimbledon Theatre and experience this show for yourself.

Jack and the Beanstalk runs at New Wimbledon Theatre until January 14th.

photo credit: Craig Sugden

In Conversation With... Matt Addis | Remarkable Invisible | Interview

Matt Addis is currently starring in Remarkable Invisible, he sat down with me to chat all about the show, theatre he's recently loved and more...



For anyone that doesn’t know, can you explain a little about your career and what your highlight have been so far 
I’ve been acting professionally for ten years, after escaping a blossoming career in corporate sales. Playing Nicholls in the international tour of War Horse was a delight, especially the shows for township kids in South Africa, where the puppets originated.  

Have you always aspired to be a performer or did you have a different dream when you were younger? 
I always aspired to be James Bond, but after reading John le CarrĂ© I decided acting was maybe a less tedious career.  

Have you got any hidden passions you’d like to pursue? 
Rally driving, although I’ll need a few more well-paid jobs to really make that happen.  


What can people expect when they come and see Remarkable Invisible? 
A deftly-woven, delicate portrait of a family. Beautiful naturalistic dialogue and some hard home truths.  

What drew you to the role of Christopher in Remarkable Invisible- are the two of you alike in any ways? 
It’s a beautiful play, deftly painted onto a very small canvas. I was enchanted by the quality of the writing, which feels so beautifully fresh. Christopher is an emotionally stunted millionaire architect who lives in San Francisco and likes good bourbon. I like good bourbon.  

Can you sum up the play in five words? 
Family. Moving. Home. Lies. Truth.  


Is there a play or musical you’ve seen recently that you loved? 
Iphigenia in Splott, with Sophie Melville at the NT has to be the finest piece of theatre I’ve seen in years. Excoriating, visceral and evocative. Sophie’s worked here at Keswick before, and I hope she’s back very soon.  

What’s a fun fact people might not know about you? 
I once played Dame Edna Everage in an episode of Hollyoaks.
  
What’s your best piece of advice for an aspiring performer? 

Listen to all the advice you can find, and disregard everything that gets in your way. Believe in yourself with a passion stronger than any obstacle. Find joy in the present, wherever that is!

A huge thank you to Matt for taking the time to chat to me. Make sure you catch him in Remarkable Invisible as well as any future projects!

Interview by Olivia Mitchell, Editor

Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Pantomime), Pavilion Theatre, Worthing | Review


Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (Pantomime) 
Pavilion Theatre, Worthing 

Reviewed on Wednesday 6th December 2017 by Jackie Duplock
★★★★

I took my youngest children along ages 9 years and 17 months to watch Snow White, Worthing's Pavilion Theatre pantomime of the year. 

The show took a while to get going, but after the first 15 minutes the performance was in full flow and both children (and adults) were thoroughly enjoying themselves. 

Snow White offered all that you expect and more from Panto: slapstick humour, innuendos and wonderful musical numbers. One of which was of course Chesney Hawkes’ performance of his Number 1 hit, 'One and Only' which had the entire audience up on their feet and (for those old enough to remember it the first time round), singing along. 

The stand out performances of the night came from Cbeebies favourite Richard David-Caine playing Herman the Henchman who really stole the show. Particularly with his fast thinking and witty responses- especially when faced with the children on stage not quite understanding the rules given for the song game they took part in- leading to hilarious results. 

The other performance I felt was particularly outstanding was that from X factor finalist Niki Evans playing the Wicked Queen, she really belted out some fabulous tunes with her powerful voice, as well as acting the role well -a natural performer. Alongside Simon Howe playing Dame Dolly, the chemistry between these two performers really shines through and produces some quality comedy moments. 

This is one of the best Pantomime performances I have seen in a very long time delivering everything you could want and more from a night out at a Panto! 

Snow White at the Pavilion Theatre is definitely the "One and only" Panto to see this festive season, highly recommended!

Snow White runs at the Pavilion Theatre until January 1st 2018.

In Conversation with Jonathan Andrew Hume | Alice in Winterland | Interview


Jonathan Andrew Hume played the lead role of Simba in The Lion King and is set to star in the Rose Theatre's production of Alice in Hinterland, alongside the Rose Youth Company. Jonathan spoke to Rewrite This Story about the show and all things Christmas...

What have some of your career highlights been?
I have been blessed with some great career opportunities. Two of my career highlights have been playing the lead role of Simba in Disney’s The Lion King in the West End, and also working with Emily Blunt, Lin-Manuel Miranda and director Rob Marshall in the upcoming movie Mary Poppins Returns.


What attracted you to this production of Alice in Winterland?
Our director Ciaran McConville has written a great take on Alice’s adventure. After reading excerpts of Ciaran’s script adaptation for my audition, and hearing Eamonn O’Dwyer’s great song the Blue Caterpillar sings, I knew this was going to be a fun project to work on, and I’m so glad to be a part of it.


What can we expect from the show?
You can expect a brand new and exciting adaptation of Lewis Carroll’s iconic story. A thrilling and sometimes mad adventure into Wonderland, taking you on a journey of Alice’s self-discovery and with the help of her new-found friends, realisation of what strength and power lies inside her.


You play the Caterpillar/Knave, what’s the funnest part about playing these roles?
Playing the extravagance and edgy lethargies of the Blue Caterpillar are the most fun. He’s such a great character to play. However, quite frankly, playing the Knave is also fun because I play a villain! I’ve always wanted to play one of the bad guys, and there is a certain satisfaction in getting “booed” by the audience at the end. You definitely know you’ve done your job properly... or at least I hope that’s what they’re “booing” for!!!


Who in the show do you think is most like their character?
I think our four talented young actresses sharing the role of Alice (Ellie Clark, Madeline Lynes, Gaia Mondadori and Hannah Wilkinson) have become most like their characters. All four of them are living the role each night they go on, and they do it with ease. Seeing them grow as actresses through this rehearsal process has been a privilege to watch. Their acting choices are natural and personal, and they make Alice so relatable that you cannot help but feel with her, the love, anguish, pain and joy she goes through before your eyes.



When it’s 'Time for Tea', what’s your biscuit of choice?
Oooh, that’s a hard one! I’d probably have to say it’s a tie between an Oatmeal and Raisin Cookie and an Oreo.


On a scale of 1-10 how much of a Christmas lover are you?
Probably a '9’. I love spending time with family, gift giving, singing carols and getting into the spirit of Christmas. I take away one point because as beautiful as winter can be, especially when snowing, I’m not the biggest fan of the cold!


If you could spend Christmas with anyone dead or alive (other than your family), who would you choose?
Wow! Another hard question. I think I would actually like to spend Christmas with the Hatter from the show, because it would definitely be the craziest, funniest (and messiest) Christmas dinners ever!


Give us your best sales pitch as to why people should come and see Alice in Winterland!
Alice in Winterland is an extraordinary Christmas show which people both young and old will enjoy. Be ready to be taken on an adventure into Wonderland that is like no other. With enchanting scenery and costumes, extraordinary puppetry and memorable songs, all put together by an amazingly talented creative team and performed by a brilliant cast!


A huge thank you to Jonathan for taking the time to do this interview. Alice in Winterland runs at the Rose Theatre until January 7th.

Interview by Olivia Mitchell, Editor

photo credit: Mark Douet