Posts with the label uk tour
Showing posts with label uk tour. Show all posts
Showing posts with label uk tour. Show all posts
Tuesday, 15 April 2025
Ghost the Musical UK Tour: Great Cast, Ghostly Magic, But Time for a Refresh? | REVIEW
Ghost the Musical (Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
Based on the beloved 1990 film starring Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore, Ghost the Musical first premiered in Manchester in 2011 before transferring to the West End and Broadway. With a book by Bruce Joel Rubin (who also penned the original screenplay) and a pop-infused score by Dave Stewart and Glen Ballard, the musical brings romance, loss, and the supernatural to the stage. The current UK tour proves there's still plenty of love for this story and though a few creaky moments show its age, the emotional core and a jaw-dropping central performance keep it engaging and enjoyable.
This touring production is anchored by a genuinely great cast, with standout performances across the board. At the heart of it all is the phenomenal Rebekah Lowings, whose portrayal of Molly is nothing short of spellbinding. Her vocals are among the best I’ve ever heard. Rich, emotional and technically flawless, she brings such raw depth to the role that you can’t help but root for her from her very first note. Honestly, I want to see her in everything from now on.
Josh St. Clair also provides some great vocal moments and makes for a compelling Sam, navigating the tricky emotional beats of his spectral role with sensitivity. As Carl, James Mateo-Salt is a real standout, bringing a great intensity to the role and some top level vocals to match, while Jacqui Dubois as Oda Mae delivers excellent comic timing and vibrant charisma, perfectly lifting the mood just when it’s needed. The show benefits from this balance of emotional sadness and humour, which helps it maintain a fairly fast pace and keeps the audience emotionally invested throughout.
That said, Ghost the Musical does show its age in places. Some moments feel a little on the cringe-worthy side, especially in the dialogue and transitions, and it’s easy to imagine how a subtle modern refresh-whether through design or direction- could polish off the rougher edges. The choreography also feels a little mismatched with the tone of the piece; while the dance breaks are energetic, they often feel more suited to a pop concert than a supernatural love story.
Despite that, the show offers some strong technical elements. The special effects (particularly those ghostly illusions) are slick and satisfying, and the lighting does a lot to establish mood and movement. While the sound mix could use some fine-tuning (a few ensemble lyrics got lost in the score), the overall production values are solid for a touring show.
Ultimately, this Ghost might not be reinventing the wheel, but it’s still an entertaining and emotionally satisfying night at the theatre. With a cast this talented, and a leading lady who deserves every starring role coming her way, it’s easy to overlook some of the creakier bits. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the film or simply in the mood for a musical that blends romance, comedy, and a touch of the otherworldly, this tour is worth catching.
★★★
Reviewed on Tuesday 15th April by Olivia
Photo Credit: Alastair Muir
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Tuesday, 25 February 2025
Calamity Jane 2025 Tour Review: A Rootin’-Tootin’ Revival Where Carrie Hope Fletcher Shines
Calamity Jane (Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
The 2025 UK tour of Calamity Jane bursts onto the stage with energy, charm, and a dose of old-fashioned Wild West fun. Led by the ever-brilliant Carrie Hope Fletcher in the title role, this revival brings a fresh spark to the beloved musical while staying true to its classic appeal. With impressive orchestrations, great lighting design, and dynamic staging, the production proves that Calamity Jane is as entertaining as ever.
If there was ever a performer perfectly suited to bring Calamity Jane to life, it’s Carrie Hope Fletcher. Best known for her powerhouse performances in Les Misérables, Heathers, and The Addams Family, Fletcher steps into the buckskins of the iconic frontierswoman with charisma and confidence. Her portrayal balances tomboyish bravado with heartfelt vulnerability, making her Calamity both lovable and layered.
Vocally, Fletcher is sensational. She delivers showstoppers like 'The Deadwood Stage' and 'Secret Love' with clarity, warmth, and emotional depth. Her rendition of 'My Love Is Higher Than a Hawk' is a standout moment, showcasing her ability to blend rich storytelling with soaring vocals. She brings a modern sensibility to the role without losing the charm and humour that make Calamity such an endearing character.
The production’s lighting design is a major highlight, transporting the audience from the dusty streets of Deadwood to the glittering backstage in Chicago. Soft amber tones create a rustic, sun-drenched frontier feel, while dramatic spotlighting enhances the emotional weight of key scenes. During the climatic 'Secret Love', the transition from warm candlelight to a radiant glow beautifully mirrors Calamity’s personal transformation.
The staging is dynamic and well-paced, with director Nikolai Foster and Co-Director Nick Winston ensuring seamless transitions between the saloon, the theatre, and the open plains. The use of multi-level sets adds depth to the storytelling, and the clever choreography breathes life into the ensemble numbers. The bar fights and comedic misunderstandings play out with precision, bringing a sense of playfulness to the production without feeling over-the-top.
Under the musical direction of Catherine Jayes, the orchestrations remain faithful to the show’s roots while injecting a fresh vibrancy. The lush string and brass arrangements add richness to the score, making classics like 'Windy City' feel both nostalgic and exhilarating. The live band, positioned on stage at times, adds an immersive element, reinforcing the raw, unpolished energy of the Wild West setting.
The 2025 tour of Calamity Jane delivers a highly entertaining, well-executed revival of this beloved musical. Carrie Hope Fletcher leads the charge with a captivating performance, supported by stunning visuals, lively orchestrations, and seamless staging. Modern touches and attitudes mix perfectly with the classic story and show, ensuring a night of laughter, romance, and unforgettable music.
Whether you're a longtime fan of Calamity Jane or discovering it for the first time, this tour is well worth saddling up for. Get ready for a rootin’-tootin’ adventure full of heart, humour, and standout performances.
Reviewed on Tuesday 25th February 2025 by Olivia
Photo Credit: Mark Senior
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Wednesday, 15 January 2025
Galloping Through the Heart: War Horse Stirs the Soul
War Horse (Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
War Horse returns to the stage with all the emotional resonance and technical mastery that have solidified its place as an iconic theatrical experience. Directed by Tom Morris, with revival direction by Katie Henry, this production feels especially poignant in today’s world, where themes of resilience, connection, and hope resonate more profoundly than ever.
The centrepiece of this production is the breathtaking puppetry, crafted by the visionary Handspring Puppet Company. Joey and Topthorn are engineering marvels, made from lightweight materials that allow for lifelike movements while retaining a skeletal elegance. Each flick of an ear, swish of a tail, and laboured breath is brought to life by the outstanding puppeteers. Matthew Lawrence (Joey- Head), Rafe Young (Heart), and Felicity Donnelly (Hind) infuse Joey with a remarkable blend of power and vulnerability, while Rianna Ash (Head), Chris Milford (Heart), and Thomas Goodridge (Hind) give Topthorn a commanding presence that is as awe-inspiring as it is poignant. It's quite amazing how quickly you fall in love with these animals, and just shows how effective the puppetry is.
The lighting design (Rob Casey), masterfully executed, plays a crucial role in elevating the production’s emotional intensity. Harsh, angular beams during battle sequences evoke the chaos of war, while softer, golden hues in pastoral scenes create a sense of peace and nostalgia. The transitions are seamless, guiding the audience’s emotions as effectively as the narrative itself.
The atmospheric sound design and Adrian Sutton’s stirring score further immerse the audience, evoking the thundering hooves of cavalry charges and the haunting quiet of the battlefield. The interplay of sound and visuals heightens the emotional impact, ensuring each scene lands with maximum resonance. While there are moments where the graphics feel a little basic, they do fit with the general vibe and can't really detract from such a wonderful production.
Joey’s foalhood is depicted with exquisite charm by Eloise Beaumont-Wood (Head), Diany Samba-Bandza (Heart), and Jordan Paris (Hind), whose synchronised movements perfectly capture the playful innocence of a young horse.
Another heart of this emotionally charged production is Tom Sturgess as Albert Narracott, whose heartfelt performance anchors the story with warmth and authenticity. Sturgess masterfully captures Albert’s unyielding determination and deep bond with Joey, imbuing the character with a raw vulnerability that resonates throughout the play. Whether he’s expressing tender affection for his beloved horse or grappling with the horrors of war, Sturgess commands the stage with a magnetic presence that keeps the audience firmly invested in Albert’s journey. His portrayal adds an essential human dimension to the sweeping narrative, making the connection between man and horse all the more poignant.
This production transcends traditional storytelling, blending artistry and innovation into a truly immersive experience. As one character wisely observes, “Where there’s life, there’s hope.” In a world fraught with uncertainty, War Horse is a timely reminder of our shared humanity, perseverance, and capacity for love.
From the remarkable puppetry to the evocative lighting and sound, War Horse is a technical and emotional triumph that gallops straight into your heart. This is theatre at its finest- unmissable and unforgettable.
★★★★★
Reviewed on Tuesday 14th January 2025 by Olivia
Photo Credit: Brinkhoff-Moegenburg
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Wednesday, 27 November 2024
Now That’s What I Call a Musical: A Fun Nostalgia-Fest with some Flaws | Review
Now That’s What I Call a Musical
New Victoria Theatre
If you’re craving a night of toe-tapping 80s hits and breezy humour, Now That’s What I Call a Musical might be just the ticket. Currently touring the UK, this jukebox musical delivers big on nostalgia, though it stumbles in depth and pacing. With a talented cast and high-energy set pieces, it’s a fun evening out, even if it doesn’t push any creative boundaries.
The first act introduces a 1989 school reunion and a group of ex-students struggling with love, ambition, and nostalgia. However, while the setup is charming enough, the narrative lacks momentum, with the story often feeling like it’s merely an excuse to lead into the next song. Fortunately, the second act ramps up the stakes. Secrets unravel, tensions surface, and the characters finally confront their dilemmas in earnest. While these revelations might not reinvent the wheel, they bring a welcome spark of drama and emotional resonance.
The cast gives it their all, infusing charisma and vocal talent into even the thinnest material. Nina Wadia (as Gemma who feels stuck in her life) brings a heartfelt performance and vocals. Shakil Hussain steals scenes as the sarcastic but brother, delivering some of the show’s best comedic moments. Meanwhile, Chris Grahamson is compelling as Tim, the sleazy player who's got Gemma wrapped around his finger. The standout is absolutely Melissa Jacques who enters just before the end of act one and provides the best vocals and some really emotional moments. Her portrayal of the larger than life April, who went to LA to live her actress dreams is very well characterised and feels like the most developed of them all. Carol Decker makes a guest appearance for one song and showcases her great vocals in her hit song 'China in Your Hand'.
The humour is light and occasionally sharp, with plenty of laugh-out-loud moments and nods to the 80s. The jokes might not land for everyone, but there’s an endearing self-awareness in the script that keeps it from taking itself too seriously. And, of course, the 80s anthems are the real star here. Whether it’s 'Red Red Wine' or 'Every Breathe You Take', the production knows how to use these iconic songs to maximum effect.
The show’s design team deserves applause. The set design, by Tom Rogers, captures the small-town charm with a versatile backdrop that transitions seamlessly between locations. Ben Cracknell’s lighting design adds flair, particularly in the second act’s climactic moments, bathing the stage in dramatic reds and blues that elevate the mood. The sound design by Adam Fisher ensures the music is crisp and immersive, though there were moments where dialogue got lost beneath the score.
If there’s a weakness, it’s in the writing. Pippa Evans' script doesn’t dig deeply into its themes or characters, sticking to predictable tropes and shallow conflicts. While this simplicity might frustrate those looking for a more substantial narrative, it’s clear the focus here is on entertainment, not profundity.
Now That’s What I Call a Musical won’t change your life, but it’s an enjoyable escape. For fans of 80s music, it’s a nostalgic treat, carried by a dedicated cast and vibrant production design. While the story doesn’t say anything new, the show’s heart and humour make it a worthwhile outing. Go for the tunes, stay for the laughs, and enjoy the trip down memory lane.
★★★
Reviewed on Tuesday 26th November 2024 by Olivia
Photo Credit:
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Tuesday, 12 November 2024
The UK Tour of The Rocky Horror Show Delivers Electrifying Fun
Rocky Horror (UK Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
The current UK tour of The Rocky Horror Show is a dazzling celebration of camp, comedy, and timeless rock ‘n’ roll rebellion. Richard O’Brien’s cult classic continues to delight audiences, and this production pulls out all the stops, blending sensational performances with impressive choreography and vivid lighting design that heightens the show’s electrifying atmosphere.
This 2024-25 tour boasts a stellar ensemble led by the charismatic Stephen Webb as Frank-N-Furter, whose magnetic stage presence and powerful vocals breathe new life into the iconic 'Sweet Transvestite'. Erica Wild (at this performance) shines as Janet, combining comedic timing with vocals that soar in numbers like 'Touch-a, Touch-a, Touch Me'. Opposite her, Connor Carson brings humour and vulnerability to Brad, nailing his transformation from buttoned-up to liberated, as well as providing spectacular vocals.
A special shoutout goes to Edward Bullingham as Eddie/Dr. Scott, whose versatility and energy light up the stage, and Joe Greuter as Riff Raff, whose performance captures both menace and mischief, and brings some of the most amazing vocals to the show. Meanwhile, Natasha Hoeberigs delivers a spellbinding portrayal of Magenta, and Jayme-Lee Zanoncelli infuses Columbia with relentless charm. Together, the cast creates a perfect harmony of chaos, comedy, and glamor.
As always, The Rocky Horror Show thrives on audience interaction, and the current tour embraces this with gusto. The Narrator, played by Nathan Canton, deserves particular praise for his impeccable wit and quick-thinking, delivering ad-libbed responses to audience callouts that kept the theatre roaring with laughter. His dry humour perfectly balances the wild, unrestrained energy of the rest of the production and brought a modern twist to the show that works really well.
The technical brilliance of this production enhances the experience. The lighting design uses bold, neon hues and dramatic contrasts to amplify the show’s gothic and sci-fi aesthetic, especially during key numbers like 'Over at the Frankenstein Place'. The choreography, spearheaded by Nathan M. Wright, is a standout, with each dance number exuding energy and precision while maintaining the delightful chaos that defines Rocky Horror.
What makes this tour particularly noteworthy is how it embraces the timeless themes of liberation, self-expression, and community while subtly nodding to modern sensibilities. The chemistry between the cast and the audience creates a shared experience that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly contemporary.
Whether you’re a longtime “Transylvanian” or a first-time viewer, this tour of The Rocky Horror Show promises a night of unapologetic fun, unforgettable music, and stellar performances. From the iconic 'Time Warp' to the heartfelt 'I’m Going Home', every moment brims with energy and passion.
Book your tickets now to catch this phenomenal production on its UK tour- it’s a thrilling night out that’s guaranteed to leave you grinning and singing along. With its flawless cast, stunning visuals, and classic rock ‘n’ roll charm, The Rocky Horror Show continues to be a cult masterpiece that’s impossible to resist.
★★★★
Reviewed on Monday 11th November 2024 by Olivia
Photo Credit: David Freeman{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Wednesday, 30 October 2024
Dear Evan Hansen UK Tour Shines with Stellar Cast Led by Ryan Kopel as Evan
Dear Evan Hansen (UK & Ireland Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
The UK touring production of Dear Evan Hansen is a powerful reimagining of this iconic musical, bringing a fresh perspective on the poignant themes of loneliness, mental health, and connection. With an emotionally charged lead performance by Ryan Kopel as Evan, this tour delivers an impactful night at the theatre, even if certain plot elements occasionally feel drawn out.
The story centers on Evan Hansen, an anxious high schooler who, after a classmate's tragic death, finds himself unintentionally entwined in a lie that spirals beyond his control. His journey explores themes of identity, social isolation, and the quest for belonging- a plot that resonates as deeply now as it did on the West End.
One of the biggest draws of this tour is the remarkable cast, each bringing a fresh, dynamic energy to their roles. Ryan Kopel’s portrayal of Evan is truly outstanding. The role is demanding, both physically and emotionally, requiring stamina, vulnerability, and incredible vocal control- Kopel delivers on all fronts. His clear, supported voice was faultless, his high notes beautifully sustained, adding depth to Evan's raw emotional state. In key numbers like 'Waving Through a Window' and 'Words Fail', Kopel navigates complex vocal lines with ease, creating a deeply moving experience for the audience.
Other cast members also stand out, especially Alice Fearn as Evan’s mother Heidi, whose raw emotion and vocal strength bring heart to the challenging role of a single mother trying to connect with her son. Lauren Conroy as Zoe Murphy brings a nuanced, sensitive touch to Evan’s love interest, balancing warmth with resilience. Tom Dickerson brings excellent comic relief to the musical as Jared Kleinman, bouncing off the other cast members brilliantly, as well as providing some great vocals. Killian Thomas Lefevre is engaging and interesting as Connor Murphy, while Vivian Panka brings real depth and charm to Alana Back. Meanwhile, Helen Anker and Richard Hurst as Cynthia and Larry Murphy round out a strong ensemble, infusing depth into the grieving parents navigating an unimaginable loss.
While the touring version of Dear Evan Hansen maintains the essence of the original West End production, subtle changes give it a fresh appeal. The staging is slightly pared down but still uses projections to convey the overwhelming impact of social media on Evan’s life. This simplified set design may lack the intricate detail of the West End, but it shifts the focus squarely onto the characters’ raw emotions, allowing the actors’ performances to truly shine.
The music, written by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, is the highlight and fundamental strength of the production. Songs like 'For Forever', 'Only Us' and the powerful ensemble number 'You Will Be Found' are beautifully melodic and resonate deeply, perfectly mirroring Evan's emotional turmoil and the longing for connection that permeates the story. That said, the show’s pacing lags at points, especially in the second act. Certain scenes feel slightly stretched, and the plot occasionally meanders, which impacts the overall flow. Nonetheless, the emotionally charged score and Kopel’s riveting performance help the production recover from these slower moments.
Ryan Kopel’s portrayal of Evan is nothing short of stellar, capturing the emotional weight of the role with impeccable vocal and physical stamina.”
Ultimately, this touring production of Dear Evan Hansen offers a heartfelt, stirring experience, driven by a cast whose performances capture the story’s core themes. While the pacing could benefit from a tighter structure, the show’s ability to connect with audiences remains as strong as ever. Ryan Kopel’s Evan is a tour de force- worth experiencing for his performance alone, as well as for the lovely ensemble that brings this story to life across the UK.
Reviewed on Tuesday 29th October 2024 by Olivia
Photo Credit: Marc Brenner
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Monday, 28 October 2024
Dear Evan Hansen Extends UK Tour with Extra Dates for 2025!
Fans across the UK now have extra chances to experience the powerful story of Dear Evan Hansen as ATG Productions announces an extended four-week run due to popular demand. This award-winning musical- celebrated with Olivier, Tony, and Grammy wins- will reach additional cities with new dates, bringing this moving production to even more audiences. The tour, directed by Nottingham Playhouse's Artistic Director Adam Penford, premiered at the Nottingham Playhouse in September 2024 and has captivated audiences nationwide with its emotional depth and impactful story.
Dear Evan Hansen tells the story of Evan, a socially anxious high schooler whose desire to fit in leads him down a path of tangled truths and unexpected consequences. Ryan Kopel (Newsies) stars as Evan, delivering a nuanced performance alongside Lauren Conroy (Into the Woods) as Zoe Murphy and Alice Fearn (Wicked, Come From Away) as Heidi Hansen, Evan’s mother. Supporting them is an ensemble cast, including Helen Anker (Mamma Mia!), Richard Hurst (The Lion King), TikTok-discovered Sonny Monaghan as alternate Evan, Killian Thomas Lefevre (Bat Out Of Hell) as Connor Murphy, Tom Dickerson (Heathers) as Jared Kleinman and Vivian Panka (9 to 5 the Musical) as Alana Beck. The ensemble are Lara Beth-Sas, Will Forgrave, Daniel Forrester, Jessica Lim, Sonny Monaghan and Elise Zavou. This marking the first UK production to incorporate an ensemble cast.
This extended leg will visit Aylesbury Waterside Theatre (June 10-14), Birmingham Alexandra (June 17-21), Grand Opera House York (June 24-28), and Edinburgh Playhouse (July 1-5), with tickets available now at evanontour.com. The production’s team boasts a high-caliber crew, with design by Morgan Large, choreography by Carrie-Anne Ingrouille, lighting by Matt Daw, and a score by Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, whose songs have become musical theatre icons.
In partnership with The Mix, a UK charity supporting those under 25, Dear Evan Hansen provides resources and outreach to audiences affected by its themes, addressing mental health issues relevant to young people today. This partnership reinforces the musical’s mission to encourage conversation, support, and awareness for sensitive issues central to the story.
Get ready to immerse yourself in the unforgettable world of Dear Evan Hansen, a journey of truth, forgiveness, and resilience that speaks to audiences of all ages. Don’t miss your chance to witness this celebrated musical on its extended UK tour- book your tickets soon, as demand continues to grow.
photo credit: Marc Brenner
Wednesday, 23 October 2024
Here You Come Again: Strong Performances & Nostalgic Set Design Outshine a Thin Plot in This Dolly Parton-Inspired Musical
Here You Come Again (Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
Here You Come Again: The Musical is a lighthearted jukebox musical that blends the iconic charm of Dolly Parton’s greatest hits with a tale of self-discovery set during the lockdown era. Created by Bruce Vilanch, Gabriel Barre and Jonathan Harvey, this show brings the country queen’s signature wit and wisdom to the stage, all while exploring themes of loneliness, identity, and the universal need for connection. Currently touring, it is soon heading to the West End, where fans of Dolly’s music and humour will undoubtedly flock.
The story revolves around Kevin, a man struggling with the emotional fallout of a breakup during the pandemic. Isolated and adrift, Kevin is unexpectedly visited by his idol, Dolly Parton- part fairy godmother, part figment of his imagination—who helps him through his personal crisis with a series of humorous, song-filled moments. The concept of facing one's inner demons during lockdown is timely and offers moments of introspection, but ultimately, the plot feels somewhat underdeveloped. Kevin’s journey lacks the emotional depth to make his self-discovery truly engaging, and the ending, without giving too much away, feels a bit too convenient. While the premise is intriguing, there’s not enough character growth to sustain a two-hour show.
That being said, the real highlights of Here You Come Again lie in its stellar performances and detailed set design. The two leads- Tricia Paoluccio as Dolly and Steven Webb as Kevin- carry the production with extraordinary vocal talent and impeccable comedic timing. The chemistry between Dolly and Kevin is undeniable; their playful banter keeps the audience laughing, while their shared emotional moments add some needed tenderness to the storyline. The actors’ voices are perfectly suited to the classic Dolly Parton hits, delivering each song with warmth, power, and precision. Tricia Paoluccio is Dolly Parton, her portrayal is completely faultless, with every inflection and rhythm completely spot on. If you're attending this show for the music and the performances, you won’t be disappointed.
The set, designed by Paul Wills, is another triumph, offering a richly detailed, nostalgic environment that keeps things visually interesting despite its minimal changes throughout the show. Kevin's attic home is packed with fun Easter eggs, from a mischievous Sooty and Sweep puppet set to a slightly eerie Chucky doll lurking upstairs. Of course, Dolly Parton records dot the space, creating a shrine-like atmosphere perfect for a superfan like Kevin. The clever use of the set helps maintain the whimsical tone, with small magical effects (Richard Pinner) and props that appear out of nowhere, adding charm and surprise to each scene. The live band (led by Jordan Li-Smith) and ensemble, stationed mostly on the upper floor of the set, adds an extra layer of energy to the performance, and their seamless integration into the scenes enhances the intimate, living-room-concert vibe.
Despite the strengths of the performances and the captivating set, the plot often feels like it's simply a vehicle for Dolly’s music. While this is common in jukebox musicals, there are shows that manage to balance narrative and song more effectively. Kevin’s central conflict- his struggle with loneliness and identity post-breakup- doesn't feel fully resolved by the end. His transformation, or lack thereof, feels handed to him rather than earned, which may leave some audience members (myself included) feeling a bit underwhelmed.
However, the fairytale-like quality of Dolly’s guidance and the feel-good nature of her music provides enough sweetness and heart to make the experience worthwhile. For those who are diehard Dolly fans or enjoy a nostalgic trip through the country icon’s greatest hits, Here You Come Again offers plenty of charm. The show may not deliver the most compelling story, but its combination of five-star performances, a cleverly designed set, and Dolly’s ever-enchanting presence makes it worth a visit for a fun, light night out at the theatre.
★★★
Reviewed on Tuesday 22nd October 2024 by Olivia
Photo Credit: Hugo Glendinning
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
Friday, 18 October 2024
Lord of the Dance- A Lifetime of Standing Ovations on Tour: A Footwork Feast with a Touch of Nostalgia
Lord of the Dance: A Lifetime of Standing Ovations
New Victoria Theatre
Lord of the Dance: A Lifetime of Standing Ovations is a unique production that showcases the unmatched talent of its dancers, but it also carries a sense of nostalgia that doesn’t quite hold up in today’s world. Originally created by Michael Flatley in 1996, the show is rooted in Irish mythology, featuring stunning footwork and energetic performances.
At its core, Lord of the Dance tells a mythic tale of good versus evil, with the "Lord" representing all that’s noble and heroic, while the "Dark Lord" embodies chaos and villainy. As these two archetypal male figures battle for dominance, female characters like "Saoirse" and "The Morrighan" find themselves relegated to fairly traditional roles: yearning for the hero or caught in the middle of the conflict. The story itself feels more like a backdrop to the dancing rather than a fully fleshed-out narrative, and the idea of macho men saving the day while women stand by feels a little tired in today’s cultural climate.
Visually, the show is a mixed bag. At times, the lighting, costumes, and staging can be quite effective, creating moments of real magic. However, there are other moments where the visuals feel random and disconnected, with no real cohesion in design or purpose. The costumes range from ethereal and elegant to overly flashy and out of place. The lighting effects, while dynamic, often seem to be trying to add drama where the narrative fails to deliver. These dated visual elements can distract from the otherwise incredible dance performances and make the production feel less polished than it once was.
That said, the live music elements, including violin interludes and occasional vocal performances, are a welcome addition. They break up the dance-heavy sequences in a way that adds depth and texture to the show. The mix of live music and recorded tracks is well-balanced, enhancing the energy of the performance while giving the dancers brief moments to reset.
The dancing itself is the undeniable highlight of the show. The sheer athleticism and precision of the cast are nothing short of remarkable. The iconic Irish step-dancing routines are performed with an intensity and flair that keeps the audience fully engaged, even when the story feels secondary. The choreography remains as impressive as ever, with the dancers’ footwork bringing an unmatched level of excitement and spectacle to the stage. Even if the visuals and plot don’t always hit the mark, the dancing alone is enough to make the show worth seeing.
Lord of the Dance is still a strong production for fans of Irish dance and music, but it feels very much like a product of its time. The plot is simple, predictable, and hinges on outdated gender roles, while the visual elements, although sometimes effective, lack coherence and can feel random or overdone. Yet despite these shortcomings, the live music and the incredible talent of the dancers keep the show afloat and make it worth a watch. It's a show that knows what it is and embraces it fully. It might not break new ground for those familiar with it, but it offers a nostalgic, enchanting escape for anyone craving the magic of Irish dance. For longtime fans, it’s a delightful revisit to a cherished classic, while for newer audiences, it serves as a beautiful introduction to the art form, even if it does show its age in places.
★★★
Reviewed on Friday 18th October by Olivia
Photo Credit:
{AD PR Invite- tickets gifted in exchange for honest review}
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