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}
Wednesday, 20 November 2024
Wicked Movie Review: Everything we Hoped For and More
Like so many, I’ve been enchanted by Wicked since I was young. The musical shaped my childhood, inspired my imagination, and stayed with me through every stage of life (my dog is literally called Elphie!) When news of a film adaptation first surfaced all those years ago, my heart soared, though tempered with the hope that they would do justice to something so pivotal to me and countless others. It’s been a long yellow brick road, with years of speculation, rumours and anticipation, but now that it’s here, Wicked: The Movie exceeds every expectation and delivers a spectacle that was worth every moment of the wait.
Director Jon M. Chu has not only brought the world of Oz to life- he has redefined what a movie musical can be. This film doesn’t just enchant; it moves, it stirs, and it utterly inthralls. From the first soaring notes of 'No One Mourns the Wicked' to the breathtaking final moments, it’s clear that this team poured their hearts into every frame.
The cast, led by the luminous Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and the effervescent Ariana Grande as Glinda, is extraordinary. Erivo’s performance is as brilliant as we all expected- her Elphaba is fierce, vulnerable, and heartbreakingly human. Of course, she also imbues every note with raw emotion, making every song a transcendent experience. Grande, meanwhile, brings a sparkling charm and necessary depth to Glinda, perfectly balancing her bubbly exterior with a poignant sincerity. The chemistry between the two is electric, capturing the complexities of friendship and rivalry that lie at the heart of the story, I am already buzzing with anticipation of how the pair are going to develop in Wicked: Part Two. Like with every aspect of this film, you can tell how much love has gone into it, Ariana and Cynthia's performances feel so incredibly lived in, you can tell how much they adore the roles and how they planned and turned every stone in finding their own versions. They feel true enough to the originals but also bring newness and fresh energy. The Winkie Prince doesn't have as developed of a role in Part One but Jonathan Bailey as Fiyero is still masterful. His smooth charisma is utterly swoon-worthy but more than that, his sincerity and depth is enchanting to watch. In my opinion, 'Dancing Through Life' is one of the most edited songs from the original, but it works so SO well. The new musical arrangement is very cool, with a more funkified feel that complements the show, while feeling totally relevant for a 2024 Wicked release; the whole scene is a joy to watch. Supporting performances by Ethan Slater as Boq, Jeff Goldblum as The Wizard and Michelle Yeoh as Madame Morrible round out the ensemble, each actor bringing something fresh to the beloved characters and paving the way for Part 2.
The music, brought to life with lush orchestration and gorgeous vocals, feels both reverent to Stephen Schwartz’s original score and fresh for this new medium. Familiar songs like 'Popular' and 'What is This Feeling' shine anew, while the staging and cinematography elevate them into true cinematic moments.
One of the greatest triumphs of this adaptation is its fidelity to the source material. Despite its aspirations of massive commercial success- evident from the ambitious marketing campaign- it never sacrifices the heart of the story or the integrity of the musical’s themes. This feels like a love letter to the fans who’ve cherished Wicked for years. Seeing the iconic Time Dragon Clock, the enigmatic blobby men (yes, the technical term!), guest star appearances, and subtle musical motifs scattered throughout feels like being reunited with an old friend. I also love how the cast were allowed to play around with riffs throughout the movie, something that's a big part of the Wicked fandom. There are whole YouTube compilations of the best 'Defying Gravity Riffs' and I have no doubt that the movie one will be added alongside all the others that perfectly fit and bring a freshness to the score that delivers on every level.
The world-building is nothing short of spectacular. Every corner of Oz is brought to life with meticulous attention to detail, from the verdant forests of Shiz and the university to the glittering, imposing Emerald City. Each setting feels wonderfully alive, creating a fully realised world that you can’t help but get lost in. It’s a treasure trove of visual and thematic delights, packed with details that will have fans poring over every frame on their fourth, fifth, or tenth viewing.
This is the kind of film that makes you want to shout about it, to grab everyone you know and say, “You have to see this!” Jon M. Chu and the entire team behind this masterpiece have created a work that will fill the hearts of longtime fans while dazzling new audiences with its brilliance.
For those of us who grew up with Wicked, this is more than just a movie- it’s a moment, a celebration, and a dream brought to live. I could go on for hours and I'm honestly still tearing up the morning after seeing this film, but in summary- it's perfect! Congratulotions to the cast, crew, and creators for giving us something so magical, so heartfelt, and so, so Wonderful. 💚
Sincerely, Olivia
Wicked Lover since Age 8
★★★★★
{movie tickets were gifted}
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}
Monday, 11 November 2024
Olivia Rodrigo to Headline BST Hyde Park 2025 with a Stellar Lineup of Guest Performers
BST Hyde Park just announced an exciting 2025 lineup, with Olivia Rodrigo taking the spotlight on June 27 for her biggest UK show yet. With three GRAMMYs and a string of hits since her debut single "drivers license," Rodrigo has swiftly become a defining voice of her generation. Her most recent album GUTS topped global charts and set the tone for her critically acclaimed world tour, which recently drew rave reviews for its authentic, edgy performances. Now, her headline slot at Hyde Park promises to be a major highlight, giving UK fans a chance to see her perform new hits live.
Rodrigo won’t be taking the stage alone. Joining her is The Last Dinner Party, the BRIT Rising Star and BBC Sound of 2024 winners whose recent album Prelude to Ecstasy reached No. 1 on the UK charts, and girl in red, whose indie-pop style and deeply relatable lyrics have established her as an international favorite and “queer icon.” More acts are still to be announced, ensuring an unforgettable night of diverse musical talent and powerhouse performances.
BST Hyde Park 2025 is already shaping up to be one of the year’s must-attend events, with other headliners including Jeff Lynne’s ELO, Zach Bryan, Hugh Jackman, and Noah Kahan. Tickets for Rodrigo’s show go on general sale at 9am GMT on November 15. Whether you’re a fan of pop, indie, or rock, this summer festival promises a lineup full of exciting, world-class artists. Don’t miss your chance to see Olivia Rodrigo and other top performers at one of London’s biggest music events!
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