REVIEW| Pride & Prejudice (sort of) UK Tour

REVIEW| Pride & Prejudice (sort of) UK Tour

Thursday, April 27, 2023

Photo Credit:Mihaela Bodlovic

Pride & Prejudice (sort of)

UK Tour

The Rep, Birmingham

★★★★★

Like many people in the world I have a soft spot for the stories of Jane Austen, the romance, the strong female characters it all adds up to perfection. So when it was announced that one of Austen's most famous stories was getting a little make over Pride & Prejudice (Sort Of) I knew that I would need to get a ticket to check it out.

This unique and hilarious retelling of the classic story was a surprise to say the least, just when you think you know what to expect you are thrown another. It begins with the five female cast members as maids and staff for a large house in their smock dresses, boots and rubber gloves before beginning to retell the iconic story we all know and love in a way only they can. Isobel McArthur's writing keeps the story fresh but familiar, adding in humour, swearing and some strong language in such a way that it's not too much but just the right amount. 

The design of this show is excellent, both costume and set have been designed by Ana Inés Jabares-Pita.

 The brilliance of the costumes is that maid's smock is the base for all the other many various over costumes as each actor takes on a multitude characters and the set although simple in design is clever with its hiding holes and a grand staircase to hold all the action on.

Photo Credit:Mihaela Bodlovic

The cast of this show is small but mighty, a cast of five chameleon like actors who have many strings to each of their bows, having the skill and talent to take on all the main characters from Austen's classic story. Lucy Gray (pictured in the centre above) takes on the role of narrator of sorts as well as Charlotte Lucas and both Bingley siblings, the cruel and dislikable Caroline Bingley as well as the playful almost puppy like Charles Bingley all of which Gray takes on with skill and flare. Megan Louise Wilson also takes on two completely different characters with her portrayal of the sweet and kind Jane Bennett and also the owner of Rosings Park Lady Catherine de Bourgh, who is vastly less kind and cruel very cleverly.

Emmy Stonelake plays the pivotal character of Elizabeth Bennet, which was a joy to watch especially with the language that was unlike any Bennet sister I've ever heard and I really enjoyed her version of a very well known and loved character. Dannie Harris took on the other important character Mr Darcy will all the pomp and circumstance that was needed, I also enjoyed the nod to the famous lake scene from Colin Firth's version. Harris also takes on the role of Mrs Bennet with an ease, wit and humour too...truly excellent.

Photo Credit:Mihaela Bodlovic

Leah Jamieson, the final of the glorious quintet, seems to have the most fun in her roles as two of the younger Bennett sisters, Lydia and Mary as well as Mrs Gardiner. Jamieson, like all mentioned before was excellent in her roles and I truly thing that everyone on the stage was AMAZING. The show is absolutely hilarious, perfect for any fan of Jane Austen but also the complete novice to the story, it will entertain all. Fully worth a watch during the last few venues on this tour, hopefully it won't be the last we see of this phenomenal show.

For more information, click HERE.

 

REVIEW| The Great British Bake Off the Musical, Noel Coward Theatre, London

REVIEW| The Great British Bake Off the Musical, Noel Coward Theatre, London

Tuesday, April 4, 2023

 

Photo Credit:Manuel Harlan.

The Great British Bake Off Musical
Noel Coward Theatre, London

★★★★

So I have a question for you...Do you love the Bake Off and are you a fan or double ententres and slightly cheeky jokes?

If the answer is yes, then this is the show for you. I know that some have written off this musical and have said that not every television show and book needs to be turned into something else however this witty show with book & lyrics by Jake Brunger and Music & Lyrics by Pippa Cleary (of My Son's A Queer fame) is just what the doctor ordered. I laughed, I cried, I got completely emotionally invested in the characters, even feeling sad when certain characters got "sent home".

Creatively it was the perfect homage to a beloved show with Set, Costume and Cake Designer Alice Power hitting the nail on the head giving the whole musical the feel of the tv programme whilst also being its own being and the direction by Rachel Kavanaugh and Choreography by Georgina Lamb just worked perfectly alongside each other too.

The ensemble cast were excellent too. Firstly our two judges for the show Pam and Phil (inspired by Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood) were iconic in their own ways, giving the nod to their alter egos in a funny but loving way. If Prue and Paul ever want the series off Hayden Gywnne and John Owen-Jones would be the perfect replacements.

Photo Credit:Manuel Harlan.

Presenters Kim and Jim played by Zoe Birkett and Scott Paige were another iconic duo with brilliant energy throughout the show, bouncing perfectly against each other as well as working along the bakers too. Speaking of the bakers, I loved that each baker had their time to shine, either getting their own song/solo or part of dialogue or moment and it truly felt like the bakers Grace Mouat, Claire Moore, Catriana Sandison, Charlotte Wakefield, Damian Humbley, Jay Saighal, Michael Cahill and Aharon Rayne were an excellent little family.

I absolutely loved this show, from its music to its story and especially the cast, it is definitely worth a watch and most definitely on the list for one of my most favourite shows of 2023 so far.

Information and tickets can be found on their website here.

REVIEW|Aladdin at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

REVIEW|Aladdin at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

Friday, December 23, 2022

 

Originally written for Theatre and Tonic.

It has been about fifteen years since my last pantomime, so it was time to return to the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre for this year’s panto Aladdin, written and directed by Will Brenton filled me with nostalgia and excitement.

Filled with a mix of well-known pop songs, such as ‘Domino’ and ‘Relight My Fire’ as well as some slightly adapted musical theatre classics, there’s a little something for everyone leaving you dancing in your seats. These songs mixed in with some classic they’re behind you, screaming at mummies, pyrotechnic entrances and even a little fire and you’ve got yourself a classic pantomime.

The cast this year has a wealth of talent both new and experienced, from the eight-person strong ensemble to Dame Dot Twankey (Ian Adams) playing his sixth pantomime at the Grand.  Adams’ work with Tam Ryan playing Wishee Washee is a thing of joy to watch, stealing the show on a few occasions, with jokes for old and young alike to enjoy and laugh at. I also really enjoyed their work alongside Ian Billings as the Notary in their “Wolverhampton Song” which they completed in a super speedy style.

Zoe Birkett, fresh from her run in Moulin Rouge in London’s glittering West End, shone like a marvellous jewel as the Spirit of the Ring, blasting the roof of the theatre with her fantastic vocals for all to hear, especially in Act Two where she starts the half with a glorious rendition of ‘Don’t You Worry Bout a Thing’ as well as aiding the flight of the Magic Carpet with a lovely version of ‘Defying Gravity’ from Wicked.

Abanazar was played by Michael Greco. Probably better known to people of a certain age as Beppe in Eastenders played a great panto villain as he was not too scary but fun to boo at. The Genie played by Duane Gooden was full of energy and magic, my only wish was that he was on stage more.

Aladdin himself was played by Ben Cajee and Jasmine was played by Sofie Anné. Although they were the main pair, I feel like their parts of the story were slightly rushed, which was a shame especially as the children in the audience knew Ben well and were rooting for him. Sofie’s voice was stunning and I would have really enjoyed hearing more.

For me, Aladdin at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre took me back to my youth in the best way possible, I really enjoyed myself and even got involved with all the call-and-response moments. Plus as a person with a slightly nervous disposition, I can report that there weren’t too many loud noises, bangs and flashing lights which is great for people like me and children alike.

The panto is running until 7th January 2023 and it’s definitely worth a watch. Book your tickets.

*Disclaimer: AD | Gifted Tickets

REVIEW|Fisherman's Friends the Musical (UK Tour)

REVIEW|Fisherman's Friends the Musical (UK Tour)

Wednesday, September 21, 2022

Photo Credit:Pamela Raith

Photo Credit:Pamela Raith

Fisherman's Friends the Musical (UK Tour)

Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham

17/09/2022

★★★★★

Every once in a while there is a show that is everything you need in a show form, a warm hug in musical form. Fisherman's Friend is a fine example of that, this new feel good UK based and written classic is definitely a new favourite, just after one watch.

Based on the true story of the chart topping vocal group Fisherman's Friends and the 2019 movie of the same name name, it has a heart-warming feel mixed in with all the acapella sea shanties that you could wag a heaving line at. 

Written by Amanda Whittington and Directed by James Grieve, this show brings the story to life alongside toe tapping music under the direction of James Findlay and with line heaving choreography by Matt Cole.

The versatile set design and excellent costume by Lucy Osbourne, works so well especially the versatile set, which has many a hidden storage compartment or secret double life and works wonderfully alongside lighting and sound designed by Johanna Town and Dan Samson respectively.

Having not seen the film or known the story prior to seeing the show, it was all a surprise and I really enjoyed it all unfold in front of my eyes and the cast were all amazing, a proper community just like the show would want. 

Photo Credit:Pamela Raith

 If there's one thing I like in a show it is an actor/musician and this show has eight of them, playing over fifteen different instruments between then, filling the theatre with the gorgeous folk sounds as well as playing various other roles through the show.

The fishermen themselves, Hadrian Delacey, Dakota Starr, Pete Gallagher, Anton Stephans, Robert Duncan, James Gaddas and Dan Buckley were all brilliant to watch, with voices that blended spectacularly together and with great characters that made you want to take the journey to Port Issac itself to visit The Golden Lion for a drink with them all. The best bunch of men, truly.

Photo Credit:Pamela Raith

My ultimate love of the show however was Parisa Shahmir,who plays Alwyn. Her voice throughout the show was stunning to listen to, especially during the song Village By The Sea (written for the show by James Findlay, that I have become mildly obsessed with). Her chemistry alongside Danny, played by Jason Langley, and the rest of the cast was beautiful to watch and I really enjoyed her characters journey throughout the show and Parisa's portrayal of it.

This show is so feel good, home grown and perfect. I recently heard it called the "English Come From Away" and I can really agree with that. If you are looking for a show, all about the power of community and togetherness then look no further than Fisherman's Friends. Currently touring up and down the length of the UK as well as a brief stop in Toronto, Canada over Christmas, it is a show for all to see and I recommend that you do.

Information on where the tour goes next and to book your tickets, you can click here.

REVIEW| The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe at Gillan Lynne Theatre

REVIEW| The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe at Gillan Lynne Theatre

Wednesday, August 17, 2022

Photo Credit: Brinkhoff-Moegenburg

 

Photo Credit: Brinkhoff-Moegenburg

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe
Gillian Lynne Theatre, London
10/08/2022
★★★★★

Some shows out there are destined for big things, The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe currently playing at the Gillian Lynne Theatre in London's glittering West End is one of those shows.

I first saw this show during its UK Tour and I fell in love with its magical feel and nostalgic story. The show is based on the original story by C.S Lewis and is directed by Michael Fentiman and immerses you into the magical world of Narnia complete with full sized amazing lion puppet that has been designed by Max Humphries and directed by Toby Olie.

The stage's set design and costumes by Tom Paris alongside Lighting design by Jack Knowles and Sound design by Ian Dickinson and Gareth Tucker gives the show its magical feel, complete with illusions and magic created by Chris Fisher so excellent that even after two watches I still can't figure out. Creatively this show has been finished to the highest order in all aspects.

The cast complete with many actor-musicians, moving with choreography by Shannelle "Tali" Fergus is no mean feat, moving both actors and their instruments around the stage with great ease as well as creating some brilliant large group moments including the start of act two, with its very special guest.

Photo Credit: Brinkhoff-Moegenburg

Photo Credit: Brinkhoff-Moegenburg

The cast was full of new faces and tour faces. The Pevensie children Robin Sinclair, Ammar Duffus, Shaka Kalokoh and Delainey Hayles worked brilliantly of each other, you would not have guessed that Delainey only started this show when it began in London as their family chemistry is second to none.

Other new faces in this London production include Emmanuel Ogunjinmi, Myla Carmen, Jasmine Colangelo, Julian Hoult, Ashlee Irish, Sean Lopeman, Micha Richardson, Ciaran Roger and Charlotte-Kate Warren who work wonders alongs the tour performers Scott Brooks, Rachel Dawson, Oliver Grant, Matthew James Hinchcliffe, Shaun McCourt, Christina Tedders, Johnson Willis, Jez Unwin, Chris Jared and Samantha Womack who were great to watch again.

Samantha Womack returns as the White Witch, verging just on the right side of scary for a family friendly show, and remains one of my favourite performances in the show alongside Oliver Grant's Head Cruel character and the two work brilliantly well.

The collective quartet behind Aslan, Oliver Grant, Sean Lopeman and Shaun McCourt as the puppeteers and Chris Jared as the actor and voice of Aslan. How they all work together to create one character is very clever and excellently portrayed by the four actors.

The beavers played wonderfully by Christina Tedders and Julian Hoult are two of the stars of my show, two characters who are on the outskirts of central characters but that lighten the stage with every appearance, they are always a joy to watch work together and some of their lines have become some of my new favourite catchphrases to say in day to day life.

This show is one for anyone and everyone, a tale that all know told in a magical and exciting new way. 1000% recommend for all the family, a perfect first show for any new theatre go-er young or old. Currently showing at the Gillian Lynne Theatre in London until 8th January.

Tickets can be bought straight from the LW Theatre Website. Get your tickets now, you will not be disappointed.

REVIEW|Kinky Boots in Concert at Theatre Royal, Drury Lane

REVIEW|Kinky Boots in Concert at Theatre Royal, Drury Lane

Saturday, August 13, 2022

Photo Credit: Mark Senior

 

Photo Credit: Mark Senior

Kinky Boots in Concert
Theatre Royal, Drury Lane
09/08/2022
★★★★★

It is no secret that Kinky Boots is up there as one of my favourite shows, the story and its message of acceptance of yourself and everyone else is one that needs to be heard. I have seen Kinky Boots multiple times in London and on Tour so as soon as I heard that the concert had been announced I was ready to book and then when they sprinkled in some cast glitter I was sold.

This show has seen me through good times and bad, shaped my life and hugged my heart through it all. This production, which was a staged concert, had the feel of the show just without some of the large choreographed moments and with the music being played by the amazingly talented London Musical Theatre Orchestra and with background ensemble vocals being performed by the London Musical Theatre Chorus alongside actors taking the main roles on stage.

Creatively it was amazingly complete with excellent lighting designed by Ben Cracknell and sound by Tom Marshall, which alongside the direction by Omar F. Okai kept the feel of the full show in this concert but also made it a treat for the eyes and ears. Literally Creatively Flawless.

Photo Credit:Mark Senior

The cast were pretty special too. Led by the glorious Cedric Neal as Lola/Simon, Joel Harper-Jackson as Charlie and Courtney Bowman as Lauren, alongside Graham Bickley, Duane Gooden, Hannah Lowther, Kayleigh McKnight, Madison Swan, Nikki Bentley, Sean Needham, Ahmed Hamad and Daisy Wood-Davis.

Cedric was outstanding as Lola, a role they were born to play, putting all of their heart and soul on the line, which when you learn about the journey Cedric has been on with this role through the years. It was also great to see Joel perform as Charlie after he last took on the role on the UK Tour, especially after you remember that over the last two weeks Joel has done two of these staged concerts, his career is really on the rise as of late.

Lola's angels played by Ashley Samuels , Eli Caldwell, Finton Flynn, Jayred Lempriere, Jordan Bennett and Ross Carpenter were outstanding, from the moment they arrived on stage until the final bows, absolutely exceptional and I was in love with them all.

This was the greatest homage to a great show and literally highlighted that this show needs a return in full either in the West End or on Tour. The audience were one hundred per cent behind it all and was the perfect way to spend my birthday weekend.

REVIEW| Dreamgirls (UK Tour)

REVIEW| Dreamgirls (UK Tour)

Wednesday, July 27, 2022

 

Photo Credit:Matt Crockett

Dreamgirls (UK Tour)

Edinburgh Playhouse

★★★★

Dreamgirls is a show that for me came out of nowhere and made a massive impact on my small musical heart. I was initially introduced to the show by the 2006 film starring Beyonce Knowles and Jennifer Hudson, where I fell in love and the love got stronger when I saw the London production of the show at the Savoy Theatre in Spring 2018. So when the tour was announced I knew that I would be returning to a theatre to be serenaded once again.

I actually got so excited to see this show that I went to see it in Edinburgh, whilst I was on holiday and I have to say that there isn't many shows out there that I'd pause a holiday to go and see but Dreamgirls is one of them. The show follows The Dreams, three soulful singers, during the 1960s as they embark on a life of fame and fortune, through one of the most tumultuous but revolutionary periods of American music history. 

With Books and Lyrics by Tom Eyen and Music by Henry Krieger, and original London direction and choreography by Casey Nicholaw this tour has the same feel as the London production from four years ago, only that it is a touring show instead of a West End one which is brilliant for anyone who never got the chance to see it in London or like me if they just wanted to see this fantastic show again.

Photo Credit: Matt Crockett

At the centre of Dreamgirls is The Dreams themselves, Effie White, Lorrelle Robinson and Deena Jones. Each one of them has there own highs, lows and struggles throughout the show and each member shone in  their performances. Paige Peddle, pictured above on the left, plays Lorelle wonderfully. She was truly fantastic and one of my favourite performances of the evening. 

Deena was played by Natalie Kassanga, pictured above on the right, and was again incredible. The role felt like it was made for Natalie. I felt her performance so well and felt like I wanted to shield her from the relationship with her husband in Act Two as Natalie's performance of Deena and the fear she showed affected me so much. Her performance alongside Effie, played in our performance by Sharlene Hector in the song Listen had me in tears in my seat. Sharlene, who is the alternate Effie White that plays the role at certain performances, was nothing short of phenomenal with a powerful voice and amazing stage presence she had me in tears on three separate occasions including at the end of Act One with her rendition of And I'm Telling You, which had the entire Playhouse audience on their feet.

Photo Credit:Matt Crockett

Photo Credit: Matt Crockett

Moving away from the key trio, we have the men in the ladies lives. Curtis Taylor Jr, played by Dom Hartley-Harris is a character I know I shouldn't love but I can't help it. Curtis meets the three ladies at the very beginning of the show, almost by accident and ends being a key reason why they become who they become by turning manager to the group and love interest of two of the characters. This role is a very interesting one as it goes through many changes and by the end it is a character that you hope gets his comeuppance. I have previously seen Dom in other shows and this character is a complete change from anything I have seen Dom play before but he did it brilliantly, the man can do no wrong and my little midland's heart is very proud for him.

CC White, Effie's brother as well as the band's songwriter is played by Shem Omari James was also well played. I last saw Shem in a streamed performance of Songs for a New World in lockdown, where he sung one song and stole the show, so it was lovely to see him in person performing. Brandon Lee Sears as Jimmy Early however has to be one of my favourite characters of the show. The role of Jimmy Early goes through a lot throughout the entire show and Brandon shone in the role with so much charisma, character and joy with the song Jimmy's Rap being a pinnacle of his performance.

The entire ensemble were amazing, making every movement so smooth with choreography on point especially in the big group moments like Steppin' to the Bad Side still being one of my favourite moments.  The show was definitely worth pausing my holiday for and I will also be returning to this tour when it heads to Birmingham at the end of the year without a doubt in the world.

For information, to see where the tour is heading next and to buy your tickets, the official tour website can be found here.