Wednesday 19 April 2017
Half a Sixpence, Noel Coward Theatre: Behind The Scenes
Half a Sixpence got the number 9 spot in my Top 10 Shows of 2016 and a glowing 4 star review back when I saw it on press night so I was extremely excited when I was invited to a special bloggers event to see it again.
The event was held at the Noel Coward Theatre for a number of bloggers, vloggers and stagey people. I saw some familiar faces as well as meeting some new people and it was a really lovely opportunity to spread the theatre love. We started off by having a talk from the charming, witty, supremely talented and just generally lovely Charlie Stemp who told us all about his audition process for the role of Arthur Kipps, the transfer from Chichester to London, his journey learning to play his banjo Babs and all about his new rockery!
After that we were taken up onto the stage where we were taught a section of the "Flash Bang Wallop" dance by dance captain, Jaye Juliette Elster. The section we learnt was only ten seconds long but we all had an absolute laugh prancing around pretending we were in the show. I for one will be using the choreography as my party trick from now on!
Once our little boogie was over, we went for another Q&A/chat with some more of the cast: Charlie Stemp, Emma Williams, Bethany Huckle, Sam O'Rourke and Jaye Juliette Elster. They are all such lovely warm people and it's evident from hearing them speak, how much they love the show and being a part of it. Particularly funny were the anecdotes of onstage mishaps such as when the revolves broke in Chichester and when the bike got stuck on stage in the finale and the cast had to cleverly force it off whilst still smiling and waving as if nothing was wrong! The cast are so warm and genuine and it was just lovely seeing them laughing and loving what they do and it certainly shows on stage with spades of enjoyment and energy flying around from start to finish.We then left the cast to warm up for the show and made our way to the bar for some pre-show drinks and Instagram selfies (here's my stagey insta!) The show was wonderfully joyous and uplifting and even better than I remembered it. My views are pretty the same as before so I won't bore you with another review where I repeat but you can see my original one here. To sum up the show I would say that it's full of life, heart and love and provides a perfect treat to leave you feeling content and warm inside.
When the show was finished and we were all on a stagey high, we were given a backstage tour which was wonderful and a very exciting opportunity to see the props and sets close up. I filmed some clips of the stage and dressing room which will all be in my vlog which will be posted on: https://www.youtube.com/rewritethisstory It was incredibly interesting to see everything close up and see how much work goes in backstage to create such a flawless performance for the audiences night after night.
We all parted ways feeling like we could jump for joy and sing all the way home!
If you haven't seen Half a Sixpence already I really implore you to hop down to the Noel Coward Theatre and see it in all its glory! It's currently booking until 2 September 2017 with tickets available at www.halfasixpence.co.uk
Monday 17 April 2017
The Musical Marathon, The Other Palace | Review
The Musical Marathon
The Other Palace
Reviewed on Sunday April 16th 2017 by Grace English
★★★★
Paul Taylor-Mills and Caroline Flack carried us through a maelstrom of powerhouse performers singing songs of their choosing, most of which are in some way anthems of ambition and resilience. Nathan Amzi opened the show with a heartfelt rendition of 'Titanium', and from there, not a single performer gave anything less than their absolute best, each one truly holding the audience completely in the moment. A special mention has to go to Kim Criswell's 'Look to the Rainbow/Over the Rainbow', as well as Emma Kingston's 'Listen' and Marisha Wallace's heart-wrenching 'Stay With Me' as the standout performances of the night, even amongst a group with no weak links whatsoever. In addition, Aimie Atkinson, Genesis Lynea and Stephanie Rojas closing Act One with an energised rendition of 'Lady Marmalade' was a true testament to girl power and their boundless talents as individuals.
Between the performances, Paul Taylor-Mills and Caroline Flack kept us entertained with jokes and anecdotes from their time working with the performers, and even hosted a form of 'karaoke bingo' that resulted in a hilarious improvisation of 'Don't Stop Believing' in the style of Meatloaf and Britney Spears. This allowed the night to easily overcome an issue facing any concert-esque shows; that of failing to engage the audience and thus loosing their attention about an hour in. In overcoming this, we get a sometimes hilarious, sometimes emotional, and constantly enjoyable night showcasing some of the best talent on the West End.
In spite of the fun, it should be remembered that this night was held in the interest of raising money for a serious and important cause which you can learn more about here: https://orchid-cancer.org.uk/
Photo credit: Claire Bilyard
Saturday 8 April 2017
The Winter's Tale, Barbican | Review
The Winter's Tale
Barbican
Reviewed on Thursday April 4th 2017 by Esther Matthews
Reviewed on Thursday April 4th 2017 by Esther Matthews
★★★★
As an avid Shakespeare lover I am always a little tentative to see a new production of the classic tale but I was pleasantly surprised by Cheek by Jowl theatre companies take on The Winter’s Tale. It was simple, funny and emotional.
With very minimal set it was a little worrying to step into the theatre and find two very simple pieces on stage but that fear vanished as soon as I realised someone was sitting on the stage, back to the audience and perfectly still. There was a sense of excitement from the audience as they came in to discover this figure. As she left the stage the lights when out and the play began. The lighting and sound engineering blew me away, with a simple set you needed something to set it apart and these two things combined were it. Your mind wasn’t allowed a second to rest, there was always something new to capture your attention.
I particularly enjoyed the musical aspect of the piece. Paddy Cunneen did a brilliant job of adding in just the right amount of music to set the tone of the piece. There were live instruments being played throughout and even songs written for the play.
I particularly enjoyed the musical aspect of the piece. Paddy Cunneen did a brilliant job of adding in just the right amount of music to set the tone of the piece. There were live instruments being played throughout and even songs written for the play.
I don’t think I can pick a cast member that didn’t keep up physically and emotionally. The energy on the stage was electric from the off. Orlando James marvelled in the lead role, his energy alone could have sustained the whole piece.
My only slight worry is that the company knew the piece a little too well. There were some moments where the choreographed movement was a little too perfect, it took away from the delusion in the king’s mind. There needed to be a sense of discovery which didn’t quite happen in some scenes.
My only slight worry is that the company knew the piece a little too well. There were some moments where the choreographed movement was a little too perfect, it took away from the delusion in the king’s mind. There needed to be a sense of discovery which didn’t quite happen in some scenes.
I highly recommend seeing The Winters Tale. Director Declan Donnellan brings a modern and fascinating twist to one of Shakespeare’s latest plays and does it beautifully. So much heart is put into the production, you will be overflowing when you leave the theatre.
The Winter's Tale runs at the Barbican until April 22nd
Photo Credit: Johan Persson
Thursday 6 April 2017
42nd Street, Theatre Royal, Drury Lane | Review
42nd Street
★★★★★
It seems that 2017 is the year of old Hollywood musicals coming back into fashion. The West End is getting a smattering of big budget, glitzy, over the top glamorous productions and I'm certainly not complaining about it!
42nd Street is a timeless, Classic, toe-tapping 'backstage-musical' which is sure to be a hit. Telling the story of struggling performers trying to get their big Broadway break we see their trials and tribulations and meet the young chorus girl Peggy Sawyer as she is thrown into the manic theatre world with the chance of getting her big break.
The choreography (by Randy Skinner) is key in this show so if you're not big on dance heavy performances then it's not for you. Personally though, there's not much that's more exhilarating than a beaming stage full of crystals, colours and thunderous feet pulling off steps with ease and grace.
The show runs seamlessly with smooth costume changes, especially when a seemingly unorganised array of dresses suddenly arrange themselves into a sensational rainbow. Douglas W. Schmidt's set design is ambitious, exciting and magical and certainly creates a spectacle. The silhouette work is slick and spectacular and the moment when the mirror rises to show impeccable synchronised company work, there were audible gasps of awe from the audience. Every moment of this show is a complete extravaganza of brilliance and it's full of moments which will leave you open-mouthed.
The stars of the show are wonderfully cast, with Clare Halse portaying Peggy Sawyer's energy and vigour extremely well. Sheena Easton's vocals as the fading star Dorothy Brock are impeccable and Tom Lister as Julian Marsh is strong but charming and hits each note with dexterity.
Of course, this show would be nowhere as brilliant without its unblemished ensemble work. There are beaming smiles all round, faultless feet and enough energy to power the underground! The stage is filled with colour and life and each moment just works. The show is certainly one of the biggest and flashiest I've seen recently but everything fits and nothing feels too over the top. Everything has a place, nothing is there just for the flashiness, it all works to give the show drama whilst still remaining cohesive- utterly faultless.
42nd Street earned the royal seal of approval from the Duchess of Cambridge herself and I'm sure it will continue to be loved and praised by everyone who steps into the huge Theatre Royal. The stage is large, the cast is large and the whole thing is bigger and brighter than you can imagine. If you want to step back to the decades of glitz and glamour, be blown away by talent, have your ears tapped off and escape the real world for a few hours then 42nd Street is the show for you! Go see it and be prepared to tap all your way home!
Watch my 42nd Street vlog: https://youtu.be/-7FksKHBGoc
Tuesday 4 April 2017
Wonderland (UK Tour), New Victoria Theatre | Review
Wonderland (UK Tour)
New Victoria Theatre
Reviewed on Monday 3rd April 2017 by Olivia Mitchell
Reviewed on Monday 3rd April 2017 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★
I finished performing in Will Todd's opera Alice's Adventures in Wonderland on Friday and have already taken another trip down the rabbit hole to see the UK Tour of Wonderland- I see an Alice theme becoming part of my life!
Frank Wildhorn, composer of one of my favourite musicals Bonnie and Clyde has reworked the Classic tale of Alice into a contemporary story about finding your place in the world. The story follows single mother Alice (Kerry Ellis) who lives in a bleak city with her ridiculously mature daughter Ellie (Naomi Morris). Stuck in a rut after her manipulative ex-husband kicked all her confidence out of her, she seeks a life away from the real world. When a bunny which promises to take her out of her mundane life hops in front of her, it seems like the logical option to follow him down the hole... or lift! Joined by their neighbour Jack (Stephen Webb) they end up in the magical and mysterious Wonderland.
The story is about self-belief and self-discovery and touches on some relevant issues. With Alice saying that "girls need to know that they should value themselves" and the rabbit expressing that "nothing can exist 'til you dream it first", it's sweet and heart warming.
Wonderland itself is bizarre, whimsical, quirky and truly bonkers. With all the well known characters such as the Queen and Hatter popping up throughout. Alice discovers that if she steps through the Looking Glass, she'll come out as a different version of herself. She toys with the idea of stepping through but is skeptical to return to the strong woman she was before.
Kerry Ellis is a star as Alice. Her vocals are faultless as she effortlessly belts out each number. Her stage presence is strong and it's joyful to watch her transformation throughout the show. Alongside Naomi Morris as her strong spirited daughter (who has a striking resemblance in voice and looks to Lilla Crawford) the pair create a lovely duo and a believable chemistry onstage.
For me the standout by far is Natalie McQueen. Her voice is off the charts and her scatty, feisty and extremely mad portrayal of the Hatter completely steals the show. She is compelling throughout and her facial expressions are enough to cure all types of illness!
Wendi Peters embraces the role of the evil Queen of Hearts well, mastering the comedic timing impeccably and showing off her superb singing voice. It's a shame how little time she is on stage as it would be lovely to see her for more than a fleeting moment at a time. Nevertheless, her portrayal is wonderful.
The score is brilliant with wit, pace and just the right amount of craziness but the script is a little weak. At times it feels forced and cringey , with the dialogue not adding much to the show other than filling time. Personally I feel that the overall downfall is that there is not a clear target audience. There are times where it seems better for young adults and adults but others where it's almost pantomime like and seems aimed at very young children. There is a lot of potential but I think there needs to be a little work done to make the show fully solid and fluid.
The music is engaging and enjoyable. The spectacular performers and witty moments make it a really enjoyable show to watch and a fun family night out.
Wonderland is on at the New Victoria Theatre until Saturday April 8th
Goldstone Live, Hippodrome Casino | Review
Goldstone Live
★★★★★
Goldstone Live brings a group of stunning ladies with glorious voices together in their global entertainment company which provides sparkling entertainment for a number of various private events. This was Goldstone's first ever public event and it did not disappoint.
With it's 54 Below vibes, the Hippodrome Casino was the perfect venue for this retro, glitzy evening. The audience were seated at tables with food and drink flowing which combined with the golden goody bags adorning the place and the warm lighting created an intimate atmosphere.
The stage is small but the whole thing was used to it's full extent with dances and sequins covering every tiny inch. The buzzing atmosphere of anticipation was prevalent from when the audience entered the venue and it certainly went up and up with every high energy performance!
The Goldstone trio Aimie Atkinson, Helen Kurup and Vicky Hoyles opened the show with a fabulous rendition of 'One Night Only' from the current West End hit, Dreamgirls and things only went up from there. The theme of the night was definitely glamour, with a level of glitz I can only dream of! The night was made up of three sets of varying styles and genres but each one was lively and full of energy. The girls put their own Goldstone spin on on every songs; performing pieces from artists such as The Supremes, Beyonce and Nicki Minaj. Their repertoire had something for everyone and I found myself dancing and singing along all night and just enjoying a truly wonderful evening of entertainment.
Along with the 'official' Goldstone girls, the night included some special guests who all fit in perfectly with soaring voices, stunning outfits and glorious personalities. Jodie Steele was a particular standout of the night but it was the overall high caliber of performance which made the night so enjoyable. There were no weak links and everyone gave it their all to create an outstanding evening of entertainment.
I can't review this concert without mentioning the little In The Heights reunion at the end where Gabriela Garcia, Stephanie Rojas, Aimie Atkinson, Genesis Lynea and Sarah Naudi performed a sizzling rendition of 'Lady Marmalade' which really brought the house down and exuded glee!
The show closed in proper Goldstone style with golden dresses as far as the eye could see and an outstanding performance of 'Proud Mary' which I was tired just watching! Overall this was a perfect Sunday evening full of talent, glamour and endearing personalities and I hope one of many more public events put on by these crazily adept ladies! Congratulations to everyone involved for a magnificent performance and true embodiment of girl power!
For more information about Goldstone Live visit: http://www.goldstonelive.com
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