Showing posts sorted by relevance for query theatre. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query theatre. Sort by date Show all posts
Friday 7 July 2023
Matthew Kelly and Denise Welch to star in world premiere of The Gap at Hope Mill Theatre
Hope Mill Theatre is thrilled to announce the world premiere of a captivating new play, titled The Gap, written by Jim Cartwright and featuring the talented duo of Matthew Kelly and Denise Welch. Directed by Anthony Banks, this highly anticipated production will grace the stage of Hope Mill Theatre from February 9th to March 9th, 2024, for a limited engagement. Mark your calendars as tickets go on sale starting July 8th.
The Gap delves into the audacious adventures of Walter and Corral, two individuals who haven't crossed paths in half a century. Once inseparable during the vibrant '60s in Soho, Walter finds himself up north while Corral remains down south. However, a chance phone call reunites them for one magical night, and before they know it, they're immersed in their old tricks once more.
Matthew Kelly, renowned for his exceptional performances on both stage and screen, graces us with his presence in this production. With an illustrious career that includes memorable roles such as the original Stanley in Funny Peculiar, Waiting For Godot alongside Ian McKellen and Roger Rees, and a captivating portrayal of Lennie in Of Mice and Men, for which he earned an Olivier Award for Best Actor, Matthew Kelly's talent shines brightly. His recent theatre credits include Noises Off, The Habit Of Art, and The Dresser, among others, showcasing his remarkable versatility. Not only a master of the stage, Matthew has also made his mark on the screen, with notable appearances in various TV shows and presenting credits on beloved programs such as You Bet! and Stars in their Eyes.
Joining Kelly is the esteemed actress Denise Welch, whose upcoming engagement in Diana: The Musical at The Eventim Apollo has already garnered significant attention. Denise's theatrical repertoire boasts impressive performances in productions like Calendar Girls the Musical, The Rise and Fall of Little Voice, and Steel Magnolias, to name a few. Her television career includes series regular roles in shows like Coronation Street, Waterloo Road, and Hollyoaks, solidifying her presence in the industry. As a regular panellist on ITV's Loose Women since 2001, Denise continues to captivate audiences with her engaging presence and insightful commentary.
Playwright Jim Cartwright and director Anthony Banks express their excitement about collaborating once again after their successful ventures with Mobile Phone Show in 2013 and Raz in 2016. They eagerly anticipate witnessing the extraordinary lives of Walter and Corral come to life through the exceptional talents of Denise Welch and Matthew Kelly, spanning five decades of change.
Matthew Kelly, filled with anticipation and enthusiasm, exclaims, "Dear Manchester, I'm coming home, and what better reason to return than with actress Denise Welch and playwright Jim Cartwright. We will star in the world premiere of Jim's remarkable new play, THE GAP, at Manchester's prestigious venue, Hope Mill Theatre. This funny, moving, and exquisitely crafted play will showcase the superb talents of Denise Welch, and I will be right by her side, shining throughout. Directed by Anthony Banks, this top-tier team embarks on an exceptional project at an extraordinary venue. I couldn't be more thrilled and excited. I invite you all to join us and be a part of this unforgettable experience. Sincerely, Matthew Kelly off the Telly."
Denise Welch expresses her elation, stating, "I am incredibly excited to return to my first love, theatre, and collaborate with the fantastic team at Hope Mill Theatre next year. Working opposite Matthew Kelly in a new play by Jim Cartwright is truly a dream come true. I hope each and every one of you will come and witness what promises to be an outstanding production."
The Gap is produced by Hope Mill Theatre
photo credit:
Thursday 17 February 2022
Natalie McQueen and George Maguire to Star in West End Transfer of Bonnie and Clyde
DLAP Group are delighted to announce that George Maguire and Natalie McQueen will star as Buck and Blanche Barrow in the West End premiere of the cult-favourite BONNIE AND CLYDE THE MUSICAL at the Arts Theatre from Saturday 9 April 2022. Further casting to be announced in due course. www.bonnieandclydemusical.com
Olivier Award winner George Maguire and West End star Natalie McQueen reunite to reprise their roles as Buck and Blanche Barrow following the phenomenal response to their performances as part of Bonnie and Clyde In Concert at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in January 2022.
George Maguire is the winner for the Olivier Award for Best Supporting Actor in a Musical for his performance as ‘Dave Davies’ in Sunny Afternoon. His other theatre credits include 35mm: A Musical Exhibition at The Other Palace Studio, Oliver! at the London Palladium and the European tour of Rent.
Natalie McQueen’s West End credits include playing ‘Doralee Rhodes’ in 9 to 5 The Musical at the Savoy Theatre, Wicked at the Apollo Victoria Theatre and Kinky Boots at the Adelphi Theatre. Her other theatre credits include the UK tour of Wonderland, Murder Ballad at the Arts Theatre and Starlight Express at The Other Palace.
At the height of the Great Depression, Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow went from two small-town nobodies in West Texas to America's most renowned folk heroes and the Texas law enforcement's worst nightmares. Fearless, shameless, and alluring, Bonnie & Clyde is the electrifying story of love, adventure and crime that captured the attention of an entire country. The show features the songs “Raise A Little Hell”, “This World Will Remember Me” and “Made In America”.
When Bonnie and Clyde meet, their mutual cravings for excitement and fame, combined with a desperate need to lift themselves out of the endless banality and poverty of West Dallas, set them on a mission to chase their dreams. Their bold and reckless behaviour turns the young lovers' thrilling adventure into a downward spiral, putting themselves and their loved ones in trouble with the law. Forced to stay on the run, the lovers resort to robbery and murder to survive. As the infamous duo's fame grows bigger, their inevitable end draws nearer.
Bonnie and Clyde The Musical has a book by Ivan Menchell (Blended [movie], The Cemetery Club, Death Note The Musical), a Tony Award nominated score by Frank Wildhorn (Jekyll and Hyde, The Scarlett Pimpernel), lyrics by Don Black (Tell Me On a Sunday, Sunset Boulevard, Mrs Henderson Presents). The production will be directed by Nick Winston (Director of the feature film Tomorrow Morning, MAME, The Royal Variety Performance) with Set and Costume Design by Philip Whitcomb (Atlantis, Stones In His Pockets, MAME) and Musical Supervision from Katy Richardson(SIX, Rent, Jersey Boys).
Tuesday 5 December 2017
Parliament Square, Bush Theatre | Review
Parliament Square
Bush Theatre
Reviewed on Monday 4th December 2017 by Shaun Dicks
★★★★★
“We get a little happiness and then we die."
The Bush Theatre, a highly respected and popular Off-West End theatre in buzzing Shephard’s Bush, is currently home to a show that’s origins take it back North to the Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester. The Bush Theatre itself as a building looks very new and stylish; when you walk into the main performance space that theme continues. The stage is set in the round, dressed very simply but elegantly with household items. As you walk in there is serious, almost ominous music playing, setting the tone for the rest of the show.
It’s a common theme for shows from the Royal Exchange to be outstanding and Parliament Square is no different. From beginning to end this show is strong, slick and packs a powerful punch. The show sizzles as it moves from scene to scene. Cleverly using lighting, staging and sound for the piece to reach all nooks of the space and keeping every audience member gripped as the show builds towards it’s climax. The use of micro or flash scenes aides the narrative as it means that we're not bogged down with any filler scenes, this script is a triumph for James Fritz, a true masterclass on how to write an impactful script in an age where not all new work is as tight as this.
However, it is not just the script that is outstanding here, the cast are a group of individuals brimming with talent and confidence. The supporting cast was a highlight- so fluid in their use of the staging and the way they bring James Fritz’s piece to life. They are unapologetic in what they're presenting, and they make this show tragically beautiful. It's a frank and realistic representation of the world today, a true protest piece.
Joanne Howarth (Mum) and Kelly Hotten (Physio/Colleague/Ticket Woman/Friend) are particularly outstanding as the comic relief aspect of a show that is covered and littered in seriousness and real-life truths. What is interesting is Damola Adelaja (Tommy) and his pitching of the character. In a world riddled with hyper masculine characters, Tommy is presented as this sensitive and caring man- a refreshing take on the modern-day male.
As we fall into Panto Land season I find some people forget that London is still brimming with brilliant theatre. Parliament Square is part of that. This protest drama is a pivotal piece of theatre that needs to be seen by all, and needs to be taken to the West End. The show is powerful, influential and relevant. It is a show not to be missed and you have until the 6th January to catch it before its gone. In this day and age, we all need something to believe in. This show emphasises this more than ever. A masterpiece.
photo credit: Richard Davenport
Wednesday 20 February 2019
Zog (UK Tour), Rose Theatre | Review
Zog
Rose Theatre
Reviewed on Tuesday 19th February 2019 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★
Based on the book by Julia Donaldson with illustrations by Axel Scheffler, Zog, in an adaptation by Mike Shepherd with Freckle Productions has made its World Premiere in a superbly fun, colourful and heartwarming way that will entertain adults and children alike. Zog and his friends are growing up and learning how to become the best dragons they can be; on this mission, they attend Madam Dragon's school where they try their hardest to win a golden star. Whilst they struggle and succeed, Princess Pearl is there to help them along and give them the courage they need.
Theatre does an amazing job of subtly giving children the curiosity and creativity they need to understand our world. The characters on stage mirror our world and teach us how to understand emotions and empathise with one another. Towards the end of Zog, there is a particular scene where the dragons have to decide whether they continue for their own personal gain, or, help their friend Pearl. The young girl I took to the show turned to me and said "that's not fair, they're being mean", which may seem like a passing comment but there's no doubt that theatre opens up pathways for conversations about what it means to be good. As a production, Zog brilliantly paves the way for these conversations and brings out the importance of having self-belief whilst helping others.
The small but mighty Zog cast have done a marvellous job of creating a bright world where rabbits bark and dragons roam theatres. Not only do they give greatly emotive and energetic performances but their musicality is outstanding. With all live music, the team work as one to play various instruments and make use of a loop pedal to provide a score (composed by Johnny Flynn) which bubbles and keeps the piece going. The on-stage instrument changes are just another way the little audience are inspired and its exceptionally entertaining to watch the performers work so seamlessly in this peak of children's theatre.
As title dragon, Elliot MacKenzie is mischievous and caring, whilst Euan Wilson as Madame Dragon is harsh but humourous and feels like the dragon equivalent of Miss Trunchbull! Emily Benjamin gives a heartwarming performance as Princess Pearl, both vocally and acting wise, and shows how strong girls are. The message that you can achieve anything in life as long as you put your mind to it is ever necessary and Emily puts it across in an empowering and lovely way. Robert Ginty as Sir Gadabout the Great is especially humourous as he gets the audience involved in his search for the Knight and Dixie McDevitt, brings the ensemble characters (including the adorable rabbits) to life in a fantastic way.
The simple set of scaffolding and stars, designed by Katie Sykes works well to allow the story to move locations but also leaves room for the imagination to roam wild. Props such as fire streamers, add an extra element of excitement and alongside Lyndie Wright's stunningly crafted puppets, the show feels very well put together. The cast transition from being the dragons themselves, to controlling the puppet dragons superbly and manage to maintain the magic throughout.
As an adult, there's something wonderful about hearing children be inspired. The excitable gasps of wonder that pepper the audience, the beaming smiles on faces and the buzz of enthusiasm makes us happy in return and shows just how important theatre is as a tool to teach. Team Zog have created a piece of theatre which will captivate and influence the audience in the most wonderful way.
Zog runs at the Rose Theatre until 23rd February before starting it's UK tour
photo credit: Helen Maybanks
Monday 21 February 2022
Carrie Hope Fletcher Announces Debut UK Tour
Actress, author, vlogger and award-winning West End sensation Carrie Hope Fletcher is heading out on her first ever UK tour.
Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book will see the musical theatre star play a series of unmissable theatre shows in May and June 2023.
Performing songs from her incredible career expect fan favourites including hits from Heathers, Les Miserables, The Addams Family and many more interspersed with chat about Carrie’s fascinating life and career.
Tickets go on sale at 10am Friday and are available from www.cuffeandtaylor.com
Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book 202318-May Bradford, St George's Hall21-May Southampton, Mayflower Theatre22-May Norwich, Theatre Royal25-May London, The London Palladium27-May Llandudno, Venue Cymru28-May Salford, The Lowry29-May Birmingham, Symphony Hall31-May Sheffield, City Hall02-Jun Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall03-Jun Newcastle, O2 City Hall04-Jun Edinburgh, Festival Theatre
Speaking about Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book, Carrie said: “I am absolutely thrilled to be taking on my first ever UK tour.
“This is something I have wanted to do for some time and next year presents the perfect opportunity.
I absolutely adore being on stage and am fortunate to have performed across the West End and overseas, but there’s something very special about theatres around the UK so I can’t wait to get out on the road and visit these absolutely fantastic and beautiful venues.”
Currently wowing West End audiences in the title role of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Cinderella, Carrie - who has an impressive three WhatsOnStage Awards - has enjoyed a breath-taking career since her West End debut at the age of nine playing Young Éponine in Les Misérables. Since then Carrie’s theatre credits include Fantine in Les Miserables: The Concert, Veronica in Heathers, Wednesday in The Addams Family, Eponine in Les Misérables, both Truly Scrumptious and Jemima in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Beth in Jeff Wayne’s War of the Worlds and Jane Banks in Mary Poppins.
And when she’s not treading the boards of the West End’s biggest stages Carrie is also a best-selling novelist, Top 20 recording artist and respected vlogger with her popular self-titled music and vlog channel attracting more than a million views a month.
Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book is presented by Lambert Jackson, Live Nation and Cuffe and Taylor.
Jamie Lambert, of Lambert Jackson, said: “Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book presents an opportunity to take one of the West End’s most celebrated and successful leading stars to theatres across the UK.
“Not only will audiences be wowed by the stunning voice of Carrie, they will also get an insight into her incredible career and that is not to be missed.”
Cuffe and Taylor Director of Theatre Touring Ben Hatton added: “We are very excited to be presenting Carrie’s debut UK tour.
“She is the most wonderful musical theatre talent and so much more. Audiences will absolutely love this show.”
For more information about Carrie Hope Fletcher - An Open Book and to secure tickets head to www.cuffeandtaylor.com
photo credit: Michael Wharley
Friday 11 June 2021
West End Musical Celebration, Palace Theatre | Review
West End Musical Celebration (Concert)
Palace Theatre
Reviewed on Thursday10th June 2021 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★★
As two pioneers in making theatre accessible, diverse and welcoming, Shanay Holmes and Chris Steward have continually pushed through all of the setbacks of the last year to provide high quality, delightful entertainment. Most recently through their West End Musical Drive In’s and now through their West End Debut which was a full, flamboyant and fabulous celebration of, and return to theatre.
As hostess with the mostess, Shanay took us through the night with grace and passion. Like all the performers, it was really evident just how much theatre and the theatrical community means to her and the love throughout the auditorium was frenetic.
Joining Shanay were some of the West End's best: Sophie Evans, Alice Fearn, Ben Forster, Rachel John, Trevor Dion Nicholas and Layton Williams. It's unfair to pick favourite moments when every performance was a complete treat and the song selection was outstanding. From Defying Gravity, to a bluesy version of Don't Rain on My Parade and a sweetly sentimental rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow there was something for absolutely everyone. If that wasn't enough, the pre-show/interval playlist was also a stagey delight.
As well as this, the night featured a fantastic band, wonderful backing singers and excellently sleek dancers. Several standing ovations and plenty of chair dancing highlighted that the audience were completely on the performers side and were just as much a part of the show as those on stage, albeit with considerably vocal ability. Overall the whole evening felt like a high quality, well-oiled, musical theatre sensation.
Alongside the mile a minute song selection, the night also included the sparkling wardrobe of dreams. The sheer glitz, glam and spectacle of the whole night's proceedings felt so special to be a part of.
The night closed with a series of high octane numbers, including Don't Stop Believing, How Will I Know and One Night Only, which had everyone on their feet and proved that we really can have a good time, even under covid restrictions.
As the final chorus of The Greatest Showman’s From Now On rang out “and we will come back home”, I was reminded that the theatre really is home and if last night's concert is what it's like then never want to leave.
West End Musical Celebration runs at the Palace Theatre until Sunday 13th June 2021
Photos by Bonnie Britain
Tuesday 3 October 2017
The Toxic Avenger, Arts Theatre | Review
The Toxic Avenger
Arts Theatre
★★★★
When seeing this show, you should take it like it takes itself: not too seriously. Based on the 1984 cult movie, The Toxic Avenger received its New York premiere in 2009 before enjoying a short run at London's Southwark Playhouse in 2016. Most recently it played at the Edinburgh Fringe and has now opened a limited run at the Arts Theatre.
Set in New Jersey, where pollution has over taken the city, we meet Melvin the dweeby teenager (in love with the town's blind librarian) who is thrown into a vat of toxic waste, becomes the Toxic Avenger and vows to take justice into his own hands. The plot is bonkers but easy to follow and the production celebrates this wackiness with a clever and genuinely funny script. The fourth wall is broken and it becomes a game of spot the musical theatre reference; from Hamilton to Mary Poppins to Phantom- they're all in there somewhere!
The humour is unashamedly crude and whilst this is refreshing to see on stage, it sometimes becomes a bit too much. With the same jokes repeated several times and therefore loosing any impact. The "blind girl almost walking off the stage" was especially repetitive.
Whilst not all of the music is particularly memorable, the cast perform it with exuberance and stellar vocals throughout. Mark Anderson is wonderfully awkward but gentle as Melvin and 'Toxie'; his voice is beautiful and he overacted just enough to avoid the whole thing becoming too silly. Natalie Hope's vocals are outstanding, both as Toxie's mother and the woman who's to blame for the pollution: the mayor! She is humourous, sexy and an all round, brilliant entertainer. Emma Salvo as Sarah is funny and crude but still sweet; her Oprah obsession is hilarious and her vocals are fantastic. The rest of the towns people are impressively brought to life by Ché Francis and Oscar Conlon-Morrey. From the town bullies to the hairdressers with "indistinguishable accents", they do a stellar job.
Takis have done a great job of using the space of the small Arts Theatre well, with a clever set design that means the stage never feels cramped. It's simplistic but effective as are the costumes which also have many musical theatre references within them. It's a very cleverly done show in terms of intricate details.
This is a non-pc show thats fun, lighthearted and silly. If you're easily offended then it's not for you but for a blast of fun and some sublime vocal performances then pop along to the Arts Theatre.
The Toxic Avenger runs until December 3rd at The Arts Theatre.
Tuesday 29 March 2022
Tom Felton, Mandip Gill, Beatriz Romilly and Sam Swainsbury to Join Cast of 2:22 A Ghost Story
Producer Runaway Entertainment is delighted to announce casting news for the transfer of Danny Robins’ edge-of-your-seat, supernatural thriller 2:22 - A Ghost Story for a third season to the Criterion Theatre. The run at the Criterion follows two record breaking runs at the Noel Coward and Gielgud Theatres and three Olivier Nominations including Best New Play as well as winning the Best New Play category in the Whatsonstage awards.
Tom Felton will play the role of Sam. Having made his breakthrough as ‘Draco Malfoy’ in the Harry Potter series of films, Tom has gone on to star in award winning films The Rise of the Planet of the Apes, A United Kingdom, and Belle, television series The Flash, Netflix filmThe Forgotten Battle and was most recently seen on screen in SKY’s Save the Cinema. Coming up, he will star in Independent Film Burial.
Tom Felton said: “I’m incredibly excited about getting to play in 2:22. I first started acting age 6 in a local theatre group and I haven’t trodden the boards since. I love the play, I’ve taken all my family to see it & everyone leaves with a smile. I’m thrilled to be part of this summers cast and will have a lot of fun with it.”
Mandip Gill will play Jenny. Mandip played companion Yasmin Khan in series 11, 12 and 13 of Doctor Who opposite Jodie Whittaker. She also played Phoebe McQueen in Hollyoaks and has appeared in Cuckoo, Doctors, The Good Karma Hospital and Casualty.
Mandip Gill said: “I am thrilled to be making my West End debut as part of the new cast of an already successful show. I am equally scared of ghosts so this should be fun”
Beatriz Romilly will play the role of Lauren. Beatriz was born in Spain. She is best known for her work in Assassin's Creed Valhalla, Final Fantasy XIV: Shadowbringersand War of the Worlds. She has also appeared on stage at Chichester Festival Theatre, Shakespeare’s Globe and The Bush Theatre.
Beatriz Romilly said: "I’m delighted to be returning to London and joining the new 2:22 company. I feel very lucky to be working with Matthew Dunster again, and getting a chance to dive into Danny Robins nail biting script with such a wonderful creative team and cast.”
Sam Swainsbury will play Ben. Sam is known best for his roles as Jason in the BBC sitcom Mum and Rowan in the 2019 film Fisherman's Friends. In 2015, Swainsbury featured in the film Thor: The Dark World, In 2017, Swainsbury appeared on Fearless, In 2019, he appeared in Victoria as Dr John Snow.
Sam Swainsbury said: “It's such a privilege to be joining the 2:22 company! I was really drawn to the script. It's engaging, funny, exciting and poignant, but… there was something else. Something I can’t put my finger on. Drawing me to it. Almost like… like a voice. From another place. That’s normal, right?!”
Matthew Dunster said: “Planning our 3rd iteration of 2:22has been just as exciting as the first two; working with Danny and my Co-Director, Isabel Mar, and our brilliant casting directors to re-imagine the characters once more. It’s such a privilege to do that and to know audiences are excited about ‘who’s next?’ We have a wonderful cast that once again is loaded with surprise, excitement and West End Debuts. People love watching this show and we love making it.”
After breaking all box office records for a new play at the Noel Coward Theatre; described as the theatre event of the year and the hottest ticket in the West End; and after weeks of sell-out performances, the show transferred for another record breaking run at the Gielgud Theatre. The run there ended in February and a third season, this time to the Criterion Theatre, was immediately announced.
2.22 - A Ghost Story is written by award-winning writer Danny Robins, creator of the hit BBC podcast The Battersea Poltergeist and it is directed by Matthew Dunster. Intriguing, funny and scary, it takes audiences into one adrenaline fueled night where secrets will emerge and ghosts may appear….What do you believe? And do you dare to discover the truth?
“There’s something in our house. I hear it every night, at the same time.”
Jenny believes her new home is haunted, but her husband Sam isn’t having any of it. They argue with their first dinner guests, old friend Lauren and her new partner Ben. Can the dead really walk again? Belief and scepticism clash, but something feels strange and frightening, and that something is getting closer, so they are going to stay up… until 2.22am… and then they will know.
Danny Robins said "I'm overjoyed to have a cast of this outrageously exciting calibre for our new season. Tom and Mandip are stellar talents who I have admired for years, Sam is awesome and will be known and loved by comedy fans and Beatriz is someone I know is bursting with ability and on the cusp of stardom. Each new cast unlocks new surprises and thrills for me as a writer, each actor bringing their own distinctive take to the play. If you haven't seen 2:22 before, there's never been a better reason to come, if you have seen it, come back and see it again with this exciting line-up!”
2:22 - A Ghost Story features set design by Anna Fleischle, costume design by Cindy Lin, lighting design by Lucy Carter, sound by Ian Dickinson for Autograph Sound, co-direction by Isabel Marr, casting by Jessica Ronane CDG and illusions by Chris Fisher.
2:22 - A Ghost Story is produced by Tristan Baker and Charlie Parsons for Runaway Entertainment, Isobel David and Kater Gordon.
Friday 8 September 2017
Follies, National Theatre | Review
Follies
Olivier Theatre, National Theatre
★★★★
It's been 30 years since a fully staged production of Follies has been seen on a London stage so there's been a huge buzz surrounding the current production at the National Theatre, which boasts a stellar cast. The production is largely sold out but don't fret if you didn't manage to snap up tickets as it is set to be broadcast to cinemas through NT Live on November 16th.
Mr Weismann's iconic theatre is closing so to commemorate he invites all his old Follies to dance and reminisce about their time in the company. Being back in the places of their youth, many characters start being pulled back to the past and we watch as the past and present become intwined. Childhood best friends with a past, Sally and Phyllis and their husbands Buddy and Ben reopen a chapter of their lives which they all thought closed. Both couples are experiencing problems in their marriages and despite time having passed, they can't help but relive old feelings.
Follies was originally written as a straight-through piece with no interval; whilst some productions have included intervals, the National Theatre's doesn't. Speaking to others about the show it seemed that people were wary of having to sit for that long without a break and whilst it is the same as watching a film, I suppose there's more freedom and less embarrassment to have a loo break during a film. This needn't be a worry at all though as the show flows wonderfully and really builds up momentum throughout, meaning that stepping out doesn't cross your mind as the show flies by.
The entire cast are absolutely stellar, keeping up the energy from the get go to the end. I particularly enjoy Di Botcher's rendition of 'Broadway Baby' which is completely hilarious and gorgeously sung and Tracie Bennett's 'I'm Still Here' which is gritty and powerful. Her nuanced performance is one of the best I've ever seen on stage. The younger selves of the two main ladies, played by Zizi Strallen and Alex Young are extremely well performed. The mirroring of the young and old girls is spectacular and extremely moving. Alex's transition from the giddy girl into the obsessed girl is striking.
This obsession continues with the adult Sally, played by the ever brilliant, Imelda Staunton. Sally has not really changed throughout the years and comes onto the stage just as giddy as a child when we first see her. Her fragility begins to show little by little, coming to a head in her stunning rendition of the classic, 'Losing My Mind'. Sally's partner in crime, Phyllis is played by the equally brilliant, Janie Dee who is strong and sassy from start to end.
Dominic Cooke's direction creates a flow of movement and an ease throughout which is joyful to watch. Bill Dreamer's choreography works hand in hand with is and showcases the best of the Follies era. Along with the National's revolve, the choreography swims along and is faultless. A particular stand-out moment is the tap number 'Who's That Woman?'... I'm a sucker for tap and this was pulled off perfectly as the older Follies girls join their younger selves to create a thing of beauty.
Vicki Mortimer's set design cleverly shows hints of the former glory of the grand Weismann theatre as it crumbles in current day. The costumes are stunning not only with the gorgeous glitz and glam of the Follies but with how well they show off the character of each individual lady in the current day.
Overall this is an absolutely wonderful production which has everything you could wish for in a musical. There's glitz, glam, grit and emotion, which along with a perfect cast create an absolutely wonderful production of Sondheim's classic musical.
Follies runs at the National Theatre until January 3rd.
Tuesday 11 December 2018
A Christmas Carol (LMTO), Lyceum Theatre | Review
A Christmas Carol (LMTO)
Lyceum Theatre
Reviewed on Monday 10th December 2018 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★★
The London Musical Theatre Orchestra are fast becoming a staple part of my Christmas tradition, with their glorious performances of A Christmas Carol really bringing the joy and festivity of the season to life, and of course, providing a wonderful night of top quality musical theatre.
Based on the classic novel by Charles Dickens and with music by Alan Menken and Lynn Ahrens and a book by Mike Ockrent, A Christmas Carol tells the tale of Ebeneezer Scrooge as he's visited by the ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future and is forced to evaluate the way he lives his life.
Under the expert hand of Freddie Tapner the LMTO bring out all the best parts of this beautifully virtuosic score. Alan Menken's music brings a Disney-esque vibe to the story which actually broaches some dark subjects such as homelessness and poverty, and manages to evoke a whole range of emotions.
Griff Rhys Jones brings the miserable but endearing Scrooge to life with a wonderful and fresh portrayal. His performance is supremely entertaining and he manages to enthral, even in this semi-staged concert production.
As the hilarious Mr and Mrs Fezziwig (among other characters) Nicolas Colicos and Rosemary Ashe have the audience in the palms of their hands whilst they give supremely humourous and vocally powerful performances.
The vocal delights on offer in this concert are second to none, with Cedric Neal providing smooth riffs and a delicate but powerful tone that's to die for and Jeremy Secomb bringing the ultimate scrooge to life in a menacing but humourous rendition of Link By Link, in which he shows off his booming voice. David Hunter is charming as Bob Cratchit alongside the fantastic Caroline Sheen as his wife and Jon Tarcy gives a memorable performance as Young Scrooge.
I'd like to be visited by the three ghosts just to be serenaded by them. Miriam-Teak Lee is sass embodied as the brings the Ghost of Christmas Past to life. Her vocals are super strong and she really brings magic to the stage with her performance. Lucie Jones' voice continually astounds; her clear as can be vocals and stellar diction bring Emily and The Blind Old Hag to the forefront of the show and equally, as the ghost of Christmas Future who never utters a word, Lucie still magnetises the audience and gives a subtle performance that you can't be drawn away from.
The young cast are great, as are the LMTO Chorus who are perhaps the strongest chorus at an LMTO concert yet. Completely in sync throughout their humourous numbers and close harmony pieces, they ground the piece and bring a magnificent Christmas choral feel to the show.
The true festive kindness was shown when two young girls in front of us beamed from start to finish and shared a single sweet between them during the final song. Cheer and love enveloped the theatre throughout this magically festive, and brilliantly performed evening. Get yourself to the Lyceum Theatre next Monday for a jubilant night of theatre.
A Christmas Carol is on at the Lyceum theatre on Monday 17th December at 4pm and 7.30pm
photo credit: Nick Rutter
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