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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
Wednesday 6 February 2019
Avenue Q (UK Tour), New Wimbledon Theatre | Review
Avenue Q (UK Tour)
New Wimbledon Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 5th February 2019 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★★
The puppets are back in one of the naughtiest and funniest musicals around, and they will make you laugh, cringe, gasp and howl as they make their way round the UK.
Avenue Q is set in New York and follows English graduate Princeton as he moves into the city alone with the ambition of finding his purpose. On this journey of discovery, he meets his neighbour Kate Monster and a whole host of highly unique characters who teach him life lessons through ridiculously catchy and OTT songs. Princeton realises how important love and friends are as well as how enjoying the moment is crucial in life.
Lawrence Smith, Cecily Redman, Tom Steedon, Saoiri Oda and Oliver Stanley lead the small cast, alongside Megan Armstrong, Nicholas Mclean, Jasmine Beel, Ellis Dackombe, Chloe Gentles and Robbie Noonan. Each company member is outstanding and they provide an amazing ensemble performance that is strangely realistic in this wacky world of Avenue Q.
Special mention must go to Cecily Redman as Kate Monster and Lucy the Slut (yes, really) who is utterly wonderful. Cecily has one of the most beautiful tones and clearest voices I've ever heard and it was a real treat to see her perform in such a technically strong and well thought out way.
Cressida Carré has directed this show with a gentle hand and really lets the songs and characters shine. From the simple but highly effective set design (Richard Evans) to the powerful lighting (Charlie Morgan Jones) and fantastically designed puppets (Paul Jomain) everything has been so well put together and makes the whole show feel extremely cohesive.
So much of this production is highly memorable and the entire cast and crew have done a fantastic job in engaging the audience through the fantastic show and contemporary themes. This is a show which instills joy and celebrates amazing performers. If you miss out on this show, it'll really "suck to be you"!
Avenue Q is at the New Wimbledon Theatre until February 9th before continuing it's tour around the country.
*production photos are of previous Avenue Q tour*
*production photos are of previous Avenue Q tour*
Friday 14 December 2018
Aladdin (Panto), New Wimbledon Theatre | Review
Aladdin (Panto)
New Wimbledon Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 11th December 2018 by Becca Cromwell
★★★
Panto season is upon us once again, and this year at the New Wimbledon Theatre, we are transported to Old Peking in Aladdin.
We are first introduced to the wickedly evil Abanazar (Adam Pearce), who explains that Aladdin is the 'Chosen One', and must go into the cave to collect the magic
Then comes along Blue's Lee Ryan, most recently of Strictly fame, who plays the title character of Aladdin, a peasant boy who dreams of marrying the Empress (Linda John-Pierre)’s daughter, Jasmine (Lauren Chia). However, his brother Wishee Washee (played by magician Pete Firman) has the same ambition. Have I Got News for You's Paul Merton plays Widow Twankey, and provides more laughs than everyone else put together. Unfortunately, it's the unscripted lines that are funnier than the script itself. With quick witted, hilarious responses to hecklers, he keeps the audience in stitches.
Pete Firman, who is better known for being a magician on ITV1's The Next Great Magician, does a pretty good job of the comedy sidekick. Magic tricks are thrown in for good measure, thoroughly entertaining everyone.
Everyone in the show gives a good performance, and the team of dancers are spectacular. We are treated to renditions of Defying Gravity and One Love as well as some new music written specially for the show. In one particular scene, we even see Lee Ryan come out over the audience, which brings a smile to most people’s faces.
The pantomime features a 3D screen with various special effects such as the Genie and a second magic carpet ride, which is an impressive feat and something relatively new to pantomime.
However, the special effects are more suited to a horror film than a family pantomime, with some children in the audience screaming in terror, rather than amusement. The second carpet ride taking five minutes, does drag and feels like a filler.
At times the show is lacking. For example, an actual genie rather than a 3D animation, or an actual story that is easier to keep up with.
As this is pantomime, all ends happily ever after with Abanazar turned good and Aladdin and Jasmine married. Its an overall entertaining evening with plenty of laughs and jokes for all of the family. Even the teenagers enjoyed it.
Aladdin runs at the New Wimbledon Theatre until January 6th 2019
photo credit: Craig Sugden
Wednesday 24 October 2018
The Band (UK Tour), New Wimbledon Theatre | Review
The Band (UK Tour)
New Wimbledon Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 23rd October 2018 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★
Whether you're an avid fan of Take That, or you just know a few of the hit songs, get yourself along to The Band for a show full of friendship, laughs, emotion and nostalgia. The story is compelling and relatable to anyone who's ever hardcore admired a band, performer or celebrity.
The story opens with our main protagonist, Rachel, exclaiming how she grew up with 'The Band', and judging by the buzzing audience of the New Wimbledon Theatre, many of them did too. From the get go, the show is well paced and bubbling with energy as we flash back to the group of five young friends as the fangirl over their boys. Their portrayal of head-over-heels fans is truthful, witty and exudes youth as the girls are as loyal to each other as they are to the band.
The Band themselves, reappear throughout to perform a number of Take That's greatest hits, both old and new. In the iconic outfits and with the classic moves, they really embody Take That and bring to life the spirit and energy of a band of friends who love performing with one another. They also do a wonderful job of propelling the story forward.
The show takes a sudden turn after the first couple of scenes when tragedy strikes and the tight-knit friend group are broken apart. Fast forward 25 years and we see the how the girls have settled into their various lives. The grown up Rachel, (played by Rachel Lumberg) seems to be living her dream life, but is unable to move on from the childhood tragedy that struck and she once again feels drawn to the band. Rachel plays the role with a beautiful balance and sense of realism; wonderfully showing off her exuberant side, alongside the side which is struggling with loss.
As the friends reunite, the show really powers on and the story of each girl has something audience members can relate to. Act two includes a number of hilarious group scenes, accompanied by great musical performances. Despite the name, this show isn't about The Band, it's about the leading ladies who steal the show and our hearts with their sincere and charismatic performances. Whilst the girls always had The Band at the forefront of their lives, it was their friendships that glued them together and created a bond that even time apart, couldn't break.
The entire cast are superbly strong. The Boys, played by AJ Bentley, Curtis T Johns, Yazdan Qafouri, Nick Carsberg and Sario Solomon provide the perfect starring moments as well as backing moments where they blend in as a natural part of the story. The Girls, both young and old are perfectly cast to be highly realistic whilst giving fantastic performances.
Alongside the cast, Jon Bausor's set is a real star of the show; with screens cleverly transporting us to concerts and music videos. A particular stand out, set moment is when the blue confetti used earlier in the show is cleverly fanned out by The Band to create The Flood over the audience. Small details like this, really step this show up from a simple musical, to something special.
The small cast do a fantastic job of creating a high-energy piece which feels full of love and life. From post-show audience reactions, it's clear that The Band has many fans and the show is sure to continue delighting audiences on tour and in it's upcoming stint at the Theatre Royal Haymarket. For a story that will have you beaming and tearing up like the roller coaster of life, accompanied by a thrilling score, get yourself along to The Band and live your best fangirl life.
Wednesday 25 July 2018
Madagascar The Musical (UK Tour), New Wimbledon Theatre | Review
Madagascar The Musical (UK Tour)
New Wimbledon Theatre
Reviewed on Wednesday 25th July 2018 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★
On a scorching summer night, the New Wimbledon Theatre played host to the opening of the high-energy, larger than life Madagascar The Musical. Based on the 2005 DreamWorks film of the same name, Madagascar follows a group of animals from the Central Park Zoo who find themselves in The Wild.
Fabian Aloise's choreography is wonderfully modern whilst not being overly cheesy. The children accompanying me especially loved the flossing and it's evident that Fabian know's what the show's target audience want. The cast of humans and 'animals' fill the space brilliantly and create a sense of motion throughout. This movement works hand in hand with Tom Rodgers' sets which are simplistic but vibrant and transition us well from one location to another. Howard Hudson's lighting is warming and especially effective in the more high-intensity group numbers where it feels like a party in the theatre.
The cast are superb; even in the sweltering heat they don't falter and give us intensity and power from start to finish. Medically challenged giraffe, Melman is embodied perfectly by Jamie Lee-Morgan who wanders round the stage in a somber but truly lovable manner whilst Tammika Ramsay as Gloria is sassy and commanding. As the zebra who dreams of escaping the zoo, Antoine Murray-Straughan is humourous and eccentric and his many talents are showcased especially during his brief rap and dance sections.
As the leader of the pack, Alex the lion, Matt Terry is impeccable. From his superb falsetto, riffs and generally beautiful tone, it's clear why he was voted the winner of X-Factor 2016. But, Matt's acting and dance performance is equally as strong as he owns the stage and draws the audience into the story.
Watching the show you completely forget these are not the same characters from the film. The costumes and puppets are so cleverly done that you even forget there are real humans on stage! The ensemble do a stellar job of playing a number of characters and completely transform themselves right in front of our eyes. Mention must also go to Jo Parsons as King Julian who has the audience in the palm of his hand with his epic performance of Move It.
The music of Madagascar is genuinely catchy and it's a show that both adults and children will appreciate and enjoy. If you want some light-hearted fun with a host of crazy characters and stellar performances then Madagascar is the one for you.
Madagascar runs at the New Wimbledon Theatre until July 28th before continuing it's tour.
photo credit: Scott Rylander
Tuesday 19 June 2018
Legally Blonde (UK Tour), New Wimbledon Theatre | Review
Legally Blonde (UK Tour)
New Wimbledon Theatre
Reviewed on Monday 18th June 2018 by Olivia Rose Dowden
★★★
Based on the 2001 teen movie, Legally Blonde tells the story of Elle Woods, who follows her high school sweetheart all the way to Harvard Law School, finding herself along the way.
This UK touring production is led by the hugely energetic Lucie Jones as Elle Woods. Vocally, she was extremely secure and tackled Elle’s huge numbers with confidence and charisma. Her portrayal of the character was a lot more goofy than I’ve seen done before, which was refreshing and quirky. However, there were moments where Jones occasionally missed the mark with her comedic timing and some of the jokes were lost. There wasn’t as significant a transformation of character as I would have hoped; it was only really at the most serious point in the show during the song Legally Blonde, in which Elle decides to give up on Harvard and return home, that Jones began to show another layer to Elle. Despite this, she remained charming throughout and truly won over the audience, gaining a standing ovation at the end of the performance.
David Barrett was a very strong Emmett Forest, creating an endearing and likeable character. Unfortunately, as his key number Chip On My Shoulder was played so slowly by the band, the song struggled to build as much as it should. This is not something he should be personally scrutinised for, but it admittedly affected his performance. I felt the same was the case for Rita Simons’ number Ireland. Simons mastered the voice of the brassy Paulette but could have offered more in terms of character.
Act One, in particular, was paced very slowly. The songs of Legally Blonde are admittedly very “wordy”, but the slow speed at which they were played meant there was a distinct lack of energy that only really emerged in the final number of Act One with So Much Better. Act Two was much more secure, with the comedic numbers Whipped Into Shape and There! Right There! being definite crowd-pleasers. The cast also coped extremely well with one of the dogs who was rather reluctant to stay in character, ad-libbing in order to keep the piece moving.
The production is nearing the end of its tour and I hate to say it but unfortunately it shows. Some half-hearted American accents and very mechanical blocking meant the production just didn’t have that spark that makes this show so special. I also felt the addition of a Legally Blonde megamix after the bows undermined the genuine message the piece portrays at the end.
Nevertheless, after watching a show with so much wit and charm, portrayed by committed and skilled performers, it’s difficult to leave without a slight smile on your face. I want to emphasise that the cast themselves were very strong, with impressive dance numbers and secure vocals. Those seeing the show for the first time will most likely have an enjoyable evening due to the warm-hearted nature of the piece. However, the many patchy moments made me feel as if the piece had lost some of its soul somewhere along the tour.
Legally Blonde runs at the New Wimbledon Theatre until 23rd June
Wednesday 23 May 2018
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (UK Tour), New Wimbledon Theatre | Review
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical (UK Tour)
New Wimbledon Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 22nd May 2018 by Becca Cromwell
★★★★
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical is based on the life, trials and tribulations of singer-songwriter and Grammy Award winner Carole King. The story begins in 1950s Brooklyn, where a bright eyed and bushy tailed Carole goes to 1650 Broadway, New York City, to sell her song. Producer Don Kirshner buys the song, and offers her a contract. From there, she meets Gerry Goffin, her soon-to-be husband, and they collaborate on a song. Their collaboration brings them hit after hit and soon enough they are a successful musical duo, with Carole writing the melodies and Gerry writing the lyrics. Things are not always sunny however, as Gerry and Carole divorce and Carole goes on to release her album Tapestry, which won her Grammy awards and allowed her to play a sold out concert at the Carnegie Hall.
Bronté Barbé, gives an incredible performance and Carole. She captures Carole perfectly, from her mannerisms to the recognisable voice. Barbé astounds from the beginning, right through to the very end, giving a performance that must be extremely hard to match night after night.
Gerry Goffin played by Kane Oliver Parry, is a lovable character who makes some big mistakes. Kane plays him brilliantly with astounding vocals.
Honorable mentions must go to Amy Ellen Richardson, Matthew Gonsalves and Adam Howden, who play Cynthia, Barry and Don respectively. These characters are some of the most important people in Carole’s story, and the portrayal of these characters is excellent.
Throughout this particular performance, there were unfortunately periods where the singing could not be heard over the volume of the band, which means some of the hits including the Loco Motion and Will You Love Me Tomorrow were not as spectacular as I had hoped. However, the singing that we could hear was extremely good, with harmonies that were marvellous.
The quick changes performed by the ensemble cast are mind-blowing, leaving the audience gasping as they effortlessly switch costumes within seconds.
The set, designed by Derek McLane, works well within the show. The simplicity of it and the continuous use of the piano allows the actors to truly transport us back to Brooklyn in the 1950’s and 1960’s. I particularly enjoyed the 1650 Broadway set, which served as various offices and performance rooms.
The entire ensemble give fantastic performances and the show is thoroughly enjoyable. I had high expectations, all of which were met for a fun-filled night out at the theatre.
Beautiful continues its UK tour into June, so grab your tickets for the final venues whilst you can!
Wednesday 11 April 2018
Sunset Boulevard (UK Tour), New Wimbledon Theatre | Review
Sunset Boulevard (UK Tour)
New Wimbledon Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 10th April 2018 by Glenys Balchin
★★★★★
Sunset Boulevard is wonderful musical with great music, amazing performers, awesome staging and lighting and superb costumes and makeup. The atmosphere on opening night was electric and the New Wimbledon theatre provided an iconic setting for this fabulous musical.
I had my trepidation’s about whether I was going to enjoy Sunset Boulevard. I had seen the film telling the dark tale of the fading Hollywood silent screen goddess trying to make a comeback who gets intwined in a dark world with her young screenwriter and lover; but I doubted how it would work as a musical. How wrong was I to doubt this wonderful operatic music of Andrew Lloyd Webber alongside the brilliant writing and lyrics of Christopher Hampton and Don Black. The melodramatic film-framework is embellished to bring Sunset Boulevard up to the heights of a Grand Opera.
The entire cast must be congratulated on their performance but in particular Ria Jones who is sensational. Her character interpretation is phenomenal as she becomes Norma Desmond. She engages with the audience immediately as we're drawn into her world of despair and the larger than life dramatisation of sorrow grief of yesteryear.
To go with that outstanding acting performance is Ria's fantastic voice- how does that voice come from such a diminutive frame!? I have to say I was wondering how Ria would compare with the voraciousness of Gloria Swanson in the 50’s movie, well she did! What’s more-she is every inch a frightening diva; as Norma tumbles into madness in the final scene - “Mr DeMille Lights Cameras” Ria Jones herself has reached the realms of a superstar and I can’t wait to see her in another production.
Moving on to Ria ‘s co-star, Danny Mac, the Strictly Come Dancing finalist really holds his own against the formidable singing voices of Ria Jones and Adam Pearce. As Danny’s ex strictly judge would say “I didn’t like it I LOVED it” his performance is excellent, enjoyable, energetic, easy on the eye and his rendition of Sunset Boulevard is extraordinary.
Special mention of the fabulous Max, Norma's butler played by Adam Pearce who's voice is astounding and Molly Lynch who gives a mesmerising performance playing sweet Betty.
The scenery is particularly atmospheric. On the top it's fairly simplistic but once you look closer there's a level of complexity which is intrinsic to the whole plot developing. The use of lighting and old films gives you shivers down the spine, as if you are a prisoner in that oppressive mansion yourself.
The costumes capture the Hollywood era perfectly, bringing glitz and glamour. Norma’s flamboyant, elegant and surreal costumes, life and personality really make her one of the most iconic of characters.
Last but not least, praise must go to the orchestra who provide the heartbeat of the musical playing the opulent and lavish musical scores of Andrew Lloyd Webber, which are resounding in my head from last night. The songs provided magical moments bringing the whole show together as the cast performed them pitch perfectly.
I cannot praise this show enough, it was a wonderful experience to watch this truly brilliant cast transfer me to a world of “make believe”. The thing I love about theatre is it's escapism, the world of suspense from reality and when I see a show like this it makes me to want to go more and more. So, if there's one theatre trip you have to do this year, make it Sunset Boulevard!
Sunset Boulevard runs at the New Wimbledon Theatre until April 14th before continuing it's UK Tour.
photo credit: Manuel Harlan
Tuesday 20 February 2018
Flashdance (UK Tour), New Victoria Theatre | Review
Flashdance (UK Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
Reviewed on Monday 19th February 2018 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★
If you want some ab-inspiration then Flashdance is the show for you. I saw the show in Wimbledon back in October and wasn't the biggest fan, however, knowing what to expect I was pleasantly surprised. Everyone seems a lot more settled into their roles and there was much more of a flow throughout.
Flashdance centres around the story of Alex, a welder who dreams of being a dancer and attending the distinguished Shipley Academy. On her journey she meets a dapper love interest who also happens to be the boss' son. Aside from this there are some other side plots such as Jimmy who wants to make it big as a comedian, his girlfriend Gloria being pulled into a seedy drug filled world at a rival club and the imminent job cuts for all the apprentices. With regards to these I feel the same as previously that they're not really explored enough to be of that much importance but I totally get that they have to be in there to pad out the show.
But Flashdance is all about the classic, big money numbers which are delivered with spades of energy and commitment. Hits such as 'Gloria', 'What A Feeling' and 'Manic' are instantly recognisable and work brilliantly to hype the audience up and draw them into the Flashdance world.
A lot of the other songs are a little unmemorable but they vigour they are performed with makes up for it. Joanne Clifton is exceptional as Alex. From Strictly fame she's of course known for her dance but seeing her on stage performing Matt Cole's choreography is extra special. She's magnetic and draws you in even when performing a group number. Her vocals are strong although at times I found her diction lacking but she is certainly cut out for the role and I can see why she has abs of steel from being that full out every night! As her rich-boy boyfriend, Ben Adams is equally as strong. Whilst his pop vocals are not commonplace in the musical theatre world, they are strong and fit with the character. The pair have a lovely chemistry and really draw you into the story.
I have to mention Colin Kiyani as Jimmy who again gave me Ben Platt vibrato vibes and Hollie-Ann Lowe who was versatile and vulnerable as his girlfriend, Gloria. Again, the two have a sweet chemistry. Sasha Latoya is vocally breathtaking and equally humourous whilst Sia Dauda and Demmileigh Foster (who is literally Victoria Hamilton-Barritt reincarnated) were full out in their high octane numbers as Kiki and Tess.
There were a few technical issues such as mics being too quiet and the irony wasn't missed when one of the girls' top wouldn't stay done up when singing about keeping her clothes on! Totally no ones fault though and a very small detail in a big production. I'm also not a big fan of megamixes at the end of shows but there's no denying that it got everyone up on their feet and in a good mood as they left the theatre.
Flashdance isn't the most astounding piece of theatre but it's high energy from start to finish with some memorable songs that'll definitely get stuck in your head. For a fun night out that'll leave you smiling and in my case, dancing round the house, then be sure to pay a visit to this 80s classic on stage.
Flashdance runs at the New Victoria Theatre until February 24th before continuing it's UK Tour.
Thursday 14 December 2017
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
Wednesday 8 November 2017
Cilla (UK Tour), New Wimbledon Theatre | Review
Cilla (UK Tour)
New Wimbledon Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 7th November 2017 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★★
I have to admit, unlike many, I didn't grow up with Cilla Black. I knew a few of her hit songs but until an hour before seeing the show, had never seen an episode of Blind Dates so despite having heard good things, I was a little dubious as to whether this would be the show for me. I'm pleased to report that my doubts were uncalled for, as the show is spectacular.
This new production chronicles the Merseyside National Treasure's rise to fame accompanied by the hits of not only Cilla herself, but the other bands of the time. This is a unique take on the jukebox formula which instantly won over the audience of older people reliving the hits they grew up with and the younger generations alike.
Whilst many jukebox musicals are an excuse to perform hit songs with little storytelling, Cilla has Jeff Pope's stellar book to accompany it. This allows us to become invested in the show and performances rather than just waiting for the next song. With moments of drama, light and shade, there's really something for everyone and the show provides a well rounded theatrical experience with a depth not often seen in jukebox musicals.
As the lead, Kara Lily Hayworth becomes the Liverpool lady and heart of the show in a faultless performance from start to finish. Expertly embodying Cilla's iconic speaking voice as well as her vocally tough songs, Kara becomes Cilla and has the audience wrapped around her finger from start to finish. Her performance of the demanding role is certainly a memorable one and I can't commend her more highly for her stunning portrayal.
The Beatles and their manager Brian Epstein (Andrew Lancel) feature majorly in the show and give wonderful and iconic performances. The costumes, voices and mannerisms of each person are done to a T and you almost forget you're watching a tribute to these artists and not them live in the flesh!
As Cilla's devoted companion, Carl Au gives a charming performance throughout. His vocal performances are worth the wait when in act two he sings a delightful rendition of 'A Taste of Honey' overall he is endearing and a joy to watch.
The supporting cast are wonderful, especially Cilla's parents who deliver some hilarious one-liners throughout. Mention must also be made of the set design by Gary McCann which is striking and seamless in moving us from the Merseyside Club to Abbey Road to the London Palladium just to name a few.
Cilla Black was a woman of the people's hearts and a National Treasure who will always be remembered for her stunning voice, wit and charm. This musical does the perfect job of remembering her and chronicling her life in a glitzy and exciting but truthful way. Whether you're a massive Cilla fan or not, this show will certainly provide fantastic viewing!
Cilla runs at the New Wimbledon Theatre until November 11th before continuing its tour.
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