Posts with the label broadway
Showing posts with label broadway. Show all posts
Showing posts with label broadway. Show all posts
Wednesday 3 October 2018
Mean Girls, August Wilson Theatre | Review
Mean Girls
August Wilson Theatre
Reviewed on Wednesday 19th September by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★★
It lives up to the hype. It truly lives up to the hype.
Mean Girls follows Cady Heron, who moves from the wilds of Africa to the wilds of suburban America, where instead of facing lions, malnutrition and loneliness, she faces boy drama, social issues and the struggle to stay true to herself. Shortly after joining North Shore High School, Cady is shown the various cliques that inhibit the halls. When the most popular girls at school, The Plastics, invite her to join their group, her real friends see it as a perfect way for her to go undercover and infiltrate the cool kids who rule the school.
The musical is based on the 2004 movie of the same name, written by Tina Fey who adapted her own work from screen to stage. The music is by composer of various television songs and Tina's husband, Jeff Richmond, lyrics are by Nell Benjamin who also wrote for other hit screen to stage musical, Legally Blonde. This is a super high energy musical which is perfect for all audience types (although perhaps a little mature younger children).
There are mixtures of sounds and styles which makes this musical feel very fresh in the current theatre climate. There's pop, contemporary musical theatre, soft-rock, classic musical theatre and so much more which brings the show right up to date and keeps the audience on their toes. Each character has it's own musical feel which fits perfectly; Regina for example has slow, drawn out music which keeps us all in her web of power, whilst Gretchen has to sing everything quickly so as not to be cut off by Regina and Cady's songs are all very Disney-esque and flouncy. The songs of Mean Girls are sure to become regulars in rep folders, karaoke essentials and just earworms in general.
Ashley Park as Gretchen Wieners is so solid and provides a masterclass in committing to your character and putting the work in to make you believe every moment. She is hilarious and vocally stunning as Gretchen but the way she embodies the character is truly what makes the performance special. Kate Rockwell is dippy to perfection as the iconic Karen Smith and she really shines during Sexy which has the audience howling. Jennifer Simard is hilarious and versatile as Mrs Heron/Ms Norbury/Mrs George. Her voice is outstanding and she again brings the memorable moments of the film to life but puts her own spin on them.
At this performance, Cady Heron was played by understudy, Becca Petersen who is wonderful in the role both vocally and acting wise. Compared to the film, I felt much more sympathy for Cady and due to her kindness and innocence, found her a much more likeable character. Her being drawn to the allure of popularity feels natural although we still see the awful way she abandons her true friends.
Barrett Wilbert Weed as Janis is outstanding. From the first moment of Cautionary Tale she is completely natural in the role and it feels as though the real Janis has been plucked out of Illinois and placed on the August Wilson stage. Her best friend, partner is crime, Damien is played superbly by Grey Henson who is comedy on feet and it feels as though it was written in the stars that he would play the role.
The stand out of the show has to be Taylor Louderman who is everything and more as the head Plastic, Regina George. Her voice soars so effortlessly that it's like she's being auto-tuned in front of our eyes. Again, the way Taylor embodies Regina is mesmerising to watch and she is so spot on with every aspect of her performance. Someone Gets Hurt and World Burn are two of the best theatrical moments I've ever experienced.
Technically this show is sensational. The sets by Scott Pask are super simplistic but work well in a jenga-like way to transport us to the few locations of the show; with the screens not only bringing the show into the digital age, but providing constant stimulation for the audience. Modernity is also brought through Gregg Barnes' costumes which are intimately thought out. The Plastics of course, are dressed like they're constantly at an afternoon tea but the rest of the cast look like real, current students. So often with shows set in High Schools, the costumes are unrealistic or even outdated; the playbill states the the show takes place in "The Present" so it will be interesting to see whether the costumes change over time to fit with trends or whether the show becomes synonymous with 2018. Small details such as the theatre 'geeks' wearing actual show merch and Janis letting her hair grow out (perhaps symbolising her desire to avoid conformity), make the show feel truthful and grounded.
Tina Fey's book brings all our favourite moments from the Mean Girls film to life but the addition of new witty one liners and more character development means nothing feels recycled. Mean Girls is fresh and funny as well as having a strong moral heart which highlights bullying and acceptance. If you want a grool night out, get yourself along to the August Wilson theatre... and for us in the UK, lets start a stagey prayer circle for a West End transfer!
photo credit: Joan Marcus
Monday 1 October 2018
Pretty Woman, Nedelander Theatre | Review
Pretty Woman
Nederlander Theatre
Reviewed on Wednesday 19th September 2018 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★
The stage adaptation of the 1990 film, Pretty Woman, follows rich businessman Edward who hires Hollywood Boulevard sex worker, Vivian for his six days in Los Angeles and, well, things go from there...
The storyline is problematic in a number of ways, mainly because it centres on a man being able to buy and control a woman whilst she can escape all her issues by using sex. However, in the musical's book by Gary Marshall and JF Lawson, Vivian is self-reliant and assertive. In this show, it's Edward who has more of a journey, struggling to face the world and relationships that come with it.
The musical takes almost every element of the film and transfers them to stage with pep and heart. All the famous one liners are there and we are given an extra boost with the musical theatre-rock songs of Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance. The cast give a sleek performance as well as providing spades of chemistry throughout.
As the leading lady in her Broadway debut, Samantha Barks is both fierce and vulnerable, supplying humour and spot on vocals throughout, with I Can't Go Back being a real memorable moment of the show. As her partner in crime, Andy Karl is sympathetic as Edward and the pair have incredible chemistry. Also stealing scenes are Orfeh who belts as if her life depends on it as best friend Kit; Eric Anderson as Happy Man/Mr Thompson who acts as the ever present storyteller and Tommy Bracco who is completely hilarious as Giulio.
Mention must also go to Brian Calì and Allison Blackwell who give spine tingling performances during the La Traviata scene and truly transport us to a grand opera.
Set wise, it's fairly simple but the design does a great job of bringing the iconic Los Angeles settings to life and alongside the costumes, showcase a piece which feels very of it's time, but with somewhat of an updated slant. All the well-loved costumes can be seen and it's a very faithful, engaging adaptation.
Jerry Mitchell is following his winning screen to stage formula with this production and has provided a show which fans of the film will adore. The outstanding leads and tight ensemble make this a high-octane, fun for all show. It's not perfect but it's certainly a fun night out and perfect for lovers of the original film.
Wednesday 26 September 2018
Once on This Island, Circle in the Square | Review
Once on This Island
Circle In The Square
Reviewed on Tuesday 18th September 2018 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★
Once on this Island is basically the show version a huge hug; filled with a heartwarming story, spectacular talent and amazing use of theatrical devices it's a truly brilliant piece of theatre.
The Circle in the Square theatre provides the perfect, semi-immersive space for this show which follows the story of Ti Moune, a young peasant girl, who with the help of the Gods, sets on a journey to unite with the boy who has captured her heart. The story itself is pretty random and far-fetched: Ti Moune falls head over heels with this boy she has only glimpsed at for a second (very Little Mermaid-esque) and decides she must dedicate herself to saving him. However, the way the story is told is truly beautiful.
Michael Arden has directed a feast for the eyes which is magical, moving and heartfelt in equal measure. The simplicity of the show is what makes it so special. The use of debris and fragments of clothes/products immerses us in the world and transports us subtly to a place ravaged by a natural disaster which has to piece itself together the best it can. Clint Ramos has done an outstanding job of bringing pieces together without making anything look tacky of lacklustre.
With musical gems such as Mama Will Provide, Waiting For Life and Why We Tell The Story, it's no surprise that this show is a hit. The Caribbean-infused musical theatre songs are catchy and supremely well performed. Despite premiering in 1990, the entire production feels fresh and enticing and is undeniably a show to be loved by any audience members.
The cast perform Ahrens and Flaherty's music with life and joy, Alex Newell's Mama Will Provide is a sure stand out, whilst Tamyra Gray brings an Angels in America vibe to the death God, Papa Ge who flicks around the stage with a menacing presence, especially in Forever Yours. Other stand outs include Quentin Earl Darrington who's booming voice fills the intimate space, Kenita R. Miller who draws the eye from the moment the audience enters the theatre and Isaac Powell who is vocally strong as Ti Moune's love interest, Daniel.
Whilst this is truly an ensemble piece, with the cast filling the space with sounds and movements whilst every 'solo' piece takes place, the heart is definitely Hailey Kilgore as the young Ti-Moune. Her voice and performance is compelling and heart-wrenching whilst remaining vulnerable and full hearted. There's no doubt that Hailey will be a staple on Broadway stages from years to come as she performs free from constraint and provides one of the most moving and nuanced performances I have ever witnessed.
Michael Arden has directed a feast for the eyes which is magical, moving and heartfelt in equal measure. The simplicity of the show is what makes it so special. The use of debris and fragments of clothes/products immerses us in the world and transports us subtly to a place ravaged by a natural disaster which has to piece itself together the best it can. Clint Ramos has done an outstanding job of bringing pieces together without making anything look tacky of lacklustre.
With musical gems such as Mama Will Provide, Waiting For Life and Why We Tell The Story, it's no surprise that this show is a hit. The Caribbean-infused musical theatre songs are catchy and supremely well performed. Despite premiering in 1990, the entire production feels fresh and enticing and is undeniably a show to be loved by any audience members.
The cast perform Ahrens and Flaherty's music with life and joy, Alex Newell's Mama Will Provide is a sure stand out, whilst Tamyra Gray brings an Angels in America vibe to the death God, Papa Ge who flicks around the stage with a menacing presence, especially in Forever Yours. Other stand outs include Quentin Earl Darrington who's booming voice fills the intimate space, Kenita R. Miller who draws the eye from the moment the audience enters the theatre and Isaac Powell who is vocally strong as Ti Moune's love interest, Daniel.
Whilst this is truly an ensemble piece, with the cast filling the space with sounds and movements whilst every 'solo' piece takes place, the heart is definitely Hailey Kilgore as the young Ti-Moune. Her voice and performance is compelling and heart-wrenching whilst remaining vulnerable and full hearted. There's no doubt that Hailey will be a staple on Broadway stages from years to come as she performs free from constraint and provides one of the most moving and nuanced performances I have ever witnessed.
photo credit: Joan Marcus
Saturday 12 August 2017
After Anatevka, Alexandra Silber | Book Review
Not just a writer, but a renowned actress both here in the UK and across the pond, Alexandra Silber has successfully made an incredible transition from stage to page with her debut novel, After Anatevka. The novel is a study of love and tradition in Russia in the early twentieth century and is the perfect continuation of Fiddler on the Roof and Hodel's story. Silber's writing is stunningly eloquent and she conjures up images of the long gone world with a delightful flow and accuracy.
With the ever growing popularity of sites such as fanfic and wattpad, there seems to be a desire to continue the stories of our favourite characters, but whilst these can sometimes be cheesy and idealistic, Silber's is raw, truthful and gritty.
We last see Hodel, the second eldest daughter of Tevye and Golde, when she is leaving her father in Anatevka as she gets on a train to Siberia to work and be with her love, Perchik who has been branded as a political criminal by the Tsarist government. As the train approaches, Hodel promises her father that one day, she and Perchik will be married in a traditional Jewish ceremony although they both know Tevye will never see this happen as she says "God alone knows when we shall see each other again". This is the final time we see Hodel and are left to to deal with the heartbreaking reality of what she would have faced when she reached Siberia.
After Anatevka tells us exactly what Hodel faced in the corrupt, violent world she was placed in on her mission to reach her fiancé. I think what's most heartbreaking about this novel is how much truth is in it. Whilst this is a work of fiction, the happenings are not fictional and many, if not all prisoners of the state were treated in the same atrocious ways. What's clear is how painstakingly meticulous Silber's research was and how she was able to weave this all in to create a shockingly truthful portrayal of Siberia in the early twentieth century.
As well as showing the pain Hodel experiences in the present, Silber also throws in little anecdotes about her childhood and her relationship with her sisters, especially her somewhat combative but loving sister, Tzeitel. Their love is clear and provides moving passages showing the longing she feels to see those she left behind. Perchik's backstory is also particularly interesting and adds a layer which is not seen in the show and shows why he fights his way through the Gulag's challenges so ferociously.
After Anatevka is a profound debut novel. Alexandra provides a sentimental, insightful and truthful take on a world where change and tradition and forever at war with one another and a beautiful look at love. Silber's writing flows with an ease and simplicity that makes it a joy to read and she is an extremely accomplished story teller.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Friday 5 May 2017
Places, Lea Michele | Album Review
Places
Lea Michele
Lea Michele
Lea Michele's second solo album, Places was released on April 28th and flew to the top of the US pop charts, reaching number one almost as soon as it came out. It features a number of emotional ballads as well as some more upbeat songs which all flow together and scream emotion at every moment. In a recent interview Lea said that this album is more her true sound with both pop and musical theatre influences mixed in, it's not an album where she tries to fit a mould or sell to a certain market, it's just her.
Places is very slow-ballad heavy which could be a problem for some people but I thrive on those sorts of songs and honestly can't think of anything better than an all-out, belt for your life, dramatic album so I love it! The lyrics are theatrical and every song really plays to Lea's strengths as a singer, hitting each note with enough power and force to match Barbra and Celine.
This album flows very well indeed, each song holding its own and nothing is there just to fill space. Places is the perfect album for so many occasions, be it getting ready to go out, driving with the windows down, hiking or just while you're in the house living your best life. There's a song for everything and it's so personal and intimate that it feels like the exact album to accompany life and all its goings on.
The intimacy is what really makes Places special. Lea is baring her soul and showing us all her ups and downs through these songs. I want to tell you my favourite song but honestly it changes every five minutes so I can't but at the moment I am loving 'Run To You', 'Heavy Love' and 'Sentimental Memories'. The theme throughout the album is one of empowerment and pushing through whatever life throws at you. There is motivation beyond belief with 'Anything's Possible' especially, making you feel like you can conquer the world!
The amazing thing about Lea's voice is how it manages to be so strong but raw at the same time. She shows off her wide range well and moves between voice parts so smoothly it's just joyous to hear. Lea has always been an idol of mine and hearing this elegant piece of work made me even more inspired by her.
Places refers to the call before starting a show where you're called to your place for the beginners call. The title seems very apt as it marks the start of a new chapter for Lea but to me I see the title as the sign to take my place, listen to this album, feel strong and motivated as hell and then to run at life full speed and live each moment to the fullest. So if you want to be inspired by both brilliant songs and flawless vocals then this is definitely an album you need in your collection. Lea really comes into her own and it's evident how much love and time has gone in to making this the best album it can be. Bravo!
Review of Lea's London concert: http://www.rewritethisstory.com/2017/04/an-intimate-evening-with-lea-michele.html
Vlog of Lea's London concert: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ET3NCy_bpM4
Vlog of Lea's London concert: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ET3NCy_bpM4
Monday 28 November 2016
In Conversation With... Shoshana Bean | Concert | Interview
Firstly I want to apologise for how late this interview is. I interviewed Shoshana back in September but unfortunately my phone glitched and I couldn't retrieve the interview so it had to be put off. Thankfully I got it back so you lovely, stagey people can finally read it! So I hope you enjoy this late, but still very interesting and relevant interview from the wonderful Shoshana Bean!
Shoshana is a Broadway veteran who's starred in Wicked, Funny Girl, Hairspray and Beaches to name a few. She's released 3 solo albums, done countless solo concerts as well as those with the Postmodern Jukebox AND she sung back-up vocals for Michael Jackson! There's really nothing this lady can't do!...
Tuesday 13 September 2016
An American in Paris, Dominion Theatre | Press Launch
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| photograph by Angela Sterling |
Yesterday I was lucky enough to go to the press launch for An American in Paris with some wonderful people from the Theatre Bloggers community. Aside from sipping champagne and indulging in delicious nibbles we were also treated to an exclusive presentation hosted by Darcey Bussell and her close friend and choreographer/director of the show Christopher Wheeldon.
Darcey and Christopher explained a little about what is going to be a wonderful show with some clips of the Broadway production just to wet our appetites. Some of the cast members were at the event and their talent is undeniable. We got a little sneak peek performance of the show with a fabulous rendition of 'S wonderful performed by Haydn Oakley, David Seadon-Young, Ashley Day and Zoe Rainey. If that was anything to go by, the show is going to be out of this world.
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Christopher and Darcey spoke extensively about the skill of the cast they have found for what promises to be a fabulous West End production of a classic musical. These performers are not only extremely talented singers, actors and dancers but they also have to be incredibly skilled ballerina's. Especially in the case of the leading lady Milo Davenport played by Zoe Rainey who has to have all the usual triple threat talents plus be able to dance en pointe! It's tiring just thinking about it! |
Although this launch was just a small taster for what the show will be, if the clips we saw and the Broadway production are anything to go by then this is sure to be a huge hit!
Performances of An American in Paris begin March 4th.
A huge thank you to Theatre Bloggers for taking me along to this event If you want to become a part of the theatre bloggers community check out the website: www.theatrebloggers.co.uk
Friday 1 July 2016
Jeremy Jordan, Hippodrome Casino | Review
You may know him as the heart throb of tv from hits Smash and Supergirl or from his leading Broadway roles in Newsies and Bonnie and Clyde or maybe you're just hearing his name for the first time now.
Whichever it is, all you need to know is that Jeremy is one of the best, if not the best male singer; with a hilarious stage presence, magnetic personality and absolutely stunning voice, he's really the definition of the whole package.
Whichever it is, all you need to know is that Jeremy is one of the best, if not the best male singer; with a hilarious stage presence, magnetic personality and absolutely stunning voice, he's really the definition of the whole package.
Last night I got to witness this package all wrapped in a bow at the last of Jeremy's first ever London concerts, the fastest selling performances the Hippodrome Casino has ever seen! There's something really special about watching performers in these sort of venues because they're so intimate and you just know that every single person is there to support who their watching. The whole room was buzzing before Jeremy came on stage and the excitement could be felt all around, it didn't feel like there could be more joy but when Jeremy stepped on stage the whole room went crazy.
Jeremy opened the show with a hilarious parody of Everything's Coming Up Roses called Everyone's Come To See Me, starting the night on a high which only went up. Jeremy continued performing a mix of all his best songs as well as some originals which will be on his upcoming album, including a beautiful song written for his wife called Memories of Loving You. His infectious personality combined with his killer vocals made an unforgettable evening with jokes and anecdotes creating a wonderful relaxed evening. Jeremy's partner in crime for the night was his hilarious Musical Director Benjamin Rauhala who not only played magnificently but had everyone in hysterics throughout!
There's no way I can pick a favourite part of the concert because I was literally in love with every second of it but I couldn't write this post without mentioning the incredible cover of Take me or Leave Me which Jeremy and his beautiful wife sung (couple goals right!?) and also his medley of song requests. This truly showed off Jeremy's talent, singing clips of songs form Cats to Celine Dion all note perfect and just stunning.
The amazing thing about Jeremy is not just his personality and talent but the way he connects with each song and makes the audience feel like they're experiencing every moment personally. Jeremy is an absolute star and deserves so so so much praise. For anyone reading this I advise you to watch all of the videos you can find of Jeremy, watch everything he's in and buy his album when it comes out! And Jeremy, if by any crazy twist of fate you're reading this, then I want to say thank you for an absolutely brilliant night and please please please come back to London very soon!
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