Review – Oliver, Hope Mill Theatre, Manchester

Posted on by The Biz

Oliver is one of my all time fave musicals so jumped at the chance to see it in a live production and brought my sister along for the ride too.

Based on the 1838 novel Oliver Twist by Charles Dicken’s and brought to life by the amazing lyrics and songs of Lionel Bart, this is a truly glorious musical.

Based around the orphan Oliver, and featuring well known characters such as Bill Sykes, The Artful Dodger, and Fagin you are transported back to Victoria Britain, with huge wealth divisions.

Stand out performances were Mr Bumble who steals every scene he is in, every nuance, facial expression and comic timing was spot on and a fantastic booming singing voice to boot, and Nancy, one of the best female roles in musicals in my opinion, didn’t disappoint, with a gutsy and raw performance and fantastic voice.

With so many classic songs to enjoy such as Food glorious food, I’d do anything, Picka a pocket or two, Reviewing the situation, Who will buy, Where is love to name just a few this production is sure to leave you wanting MORE!

Oliver is at The Hope Mill Theatre, Manchester until Sunday 14 April 2024. Tickets are really reasonable from just £22 you can get them here https://hopemilltheatre.co.uk/event/oliver/

Review – Beginning, Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester

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BEGINNING by David Eldridge ; Production ; Cast: Gerard Kearns and Erin Shanagher ; Directed by Bryony Shanahan ; Set Design by TK Hay Lighting Design by Zoe Spurr Sound Design and Composer: Russell Ditchfield Assistant Director: Polly Wain Casting: Helena Palmer CDG Royal Exchange Manchester : Manchester, UK ; 15th February 2023 ; Credit and copyright: Helen Murray http://www.helenmurrayphotos.com

Beginning, started its life at the National Theatre and is the first play in a trilogy by esteemed playwright David Eldridge that examines love and the fragility of human relationships and I was super excited to go and see it at The Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester, a perfect place to set this two person play, set in a plush West Didsbury apartment.

The two people in question are strangers Laura (Erin Shanagher) and Danny (Gerard Kearns) and the story tells of them meeting for the first time at Laura’s new home when her housewarming party has finished and it’s just the two of them left alone.

Set around Laura’s kitchen island the awkward meeting seems accidental, how has Danny stayed back when his friends who seemed to know Laura better have left and why is Laura still there and not left too?

And this is what we are there to find out. Laura as we watch them start to get to know each other, and start to understand where they both are in their lives, their quirks, their vulnerabilities and past heartaches all while circling the kitchen island, in will they, won’t they fashion.

What makes this play so realistic is it’s about real people and it’s set in real time, over the course of 1 hour 50 minutes with no interval, so it actually makes it feel like you are in the room with them, feeling the awkwardness, wanting to give them a hug, or share a laugh, it feels like you know them!

Kearns gives the perfect performance as Danny, a guy who’s been through the mill, he’s known love, lost love, misses his kid, lives with his mum and is so scared of anything new you just want to give him a hug and say go for it!

Equally brilliant is Shanagher as Laura who captures the independent career driven West Didsbury, doing well vibe perfect while all the time hiding the fact that she wants what her friends have, love and a family of her own.

The chemistry between the two is great, the constant prowling around the kitchen, the will they won’t they throughout has you on the edge of your seat all the while sympathising with each character in different ways, and just understanding the situation, the awkwardness, the humour, the sadness, it’s all there.

The setting, the story and the acting really do make you feel imersed in their lives, and you come to care about them and what’s next for their journey and that is testament to how good this play is.

It’s a really fabulous play that will leave you smiling and hoping life is good for them both and for everyone, and I recommend you go and see it if you can.

Beginning is at The Royal Exchange Theatre, Manchester from 16 February to 11 March 2023.

Review by Emma Ronan-Peate

Beginning

Review – Beautiful: The Carole King Musical -Palace Theatre, Manchester

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Carole King. You’ve probably heard her name, you definitely know her songs, but do you really know anything about her?

Well Beautiful: The Carole King Musical UK tour will fill in the blanks for you, and you’ll be transported back in time and find out how she went from schoolgirl composer to one of the greatest singer/songwriters of all time.

The show charts the early life and beginning of the career of Carole King played by the amazing Olivier Award winner Molly-Grace Cutler and starts and finishes with her performing at New York’s Carnegie Hall in 1971. Cutler really is a special talent; her voice is out of this world, it’s almost like she becomes Carol King herself and sounds so much like her that if you close your eyes, you could be mistaken for actually thinking it’s her on stage!

But, as well as the show focusing on Carole King and her truly amazing talent, this show really is a bird’s eye view into an era of USA pop history and is jam packed full of hit songs.

The music really does speak for itself and it really is an honour to hear some of the greatest songs of all time not only showcasing  the composer/lyricist partnership of King and husband Gerry Goffin played brilliantly by Tom Milner, but also of song writing married duo Barry Mann (Jos Slovik) and Cynthia Weil (Seren Sandham-Davis) and you can’t help but sing along to hits such as -Will you still love me tomorrow?,  Take good care of my baby, Who put the Bomp?, The Locomotion, You’ve lost that loving feeling’, Up on the roof, You’ got a friend, Natural woman and many more. 

But the music also documents Carole’s life with Goffin and all the drama that comes with being a married couple who not only juggle working together churning out hit after hit for artists such as The Drifters, Little Eva and The Shirelles but also having to manage family life, love and friendships and ultimately the toll it takes on them.

Beautiful is not only a glimpse of the life of Carole and Goffin, but a wonderful reminder of the pure talent of them both and the other song writers and composers of the time, who we often forget about, but are reminded of every day when we hear their songs on the radio, or on a film soundtrack or featured in a TV show.

The show is brilliant, from start to finish and you really are smiling as you are transported to the 1960’s music factory and get to hear the soundtrack of a generation.

And don’t worry, if you’re not a Carole King fan, or even know who she, you will still enjoy every minute and will be singing along to every song, and I know you’ll feel the earth move under your feet at the end, just as the audience did last night as they gave well-deserved standing ovation to a fantastic show and incredibly talented cast.

This show definitely gets 5 stars from The Biz and I’ll be telling everyone I know to go see it because I 100% guarantee you will love it!

Catch Beautiful at Manchester Palace Theatre until Saturday 15 October 2022

Beautiful Tickets | Palace Theatre Manchester in Manchester | ATG Tickets

Review by Emma Ronan-Peate

Beautiful – tour – 2022 Production photos taken on the 28th February 2022, at Curve Theatre Leicester, Directed by Nikolai Foster
Beautiful – tour – 2022 Production photos taken on the 28th February 2022, at Curve Theatre Leicester, Directed by Nikolai Foster
Beautiful – tour – 2022 Production photos taken on the 28th February 2022, at Curve Theatre Leicester, Directed by Nikolai Foster
Beautiful – tour – 2022 Production photos taken on the 28th February 2022, at Curve Theatre Leicester, Directed by Nikolai Foster

Review – Anything Goes – Palace Theatre, Manchester

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With music and lyrics by Cole Porter, this classic musical is certainly going to have you singing along and swaying to highly memorable hits like “I Get A Kick Out Of You”,  “You’re The Top”, “Anything Goes!” and “Blow Gabriel Blow”. 

Directed by the award winning Kathleen Marshall, this is truly a feel good spectacle of a show, with a stunning set design, lighting and costumes. I can guarantee that you will be on your feet at the end, wishing you were up there enjoying all of the fun with the cast. 

In conjunction with Cunard Cruises,  when the S.S. American heads out to sea, etiquette and convention head out the portholes as two unlikely pairs set off on the course to true love… proving that sometimes destiny needs a little help from a crew of singing sailors, an exotic disguise and some good old-fashioned blackmail. 

Action packed with many a song, dance and plenty of comedy, delivered by an outstanding cast and crew, this performance certainly floated my boat!  

Leading this cast as “Reno Sweeney”, Kerry Ellis of notorious West End and Broadway success, shines as this sassy, fun loving, longing to be loved songstress. Ellis belts out her songs with ease and creates a wonderful Reno, that you can’t help but love. Ellis is clearly a master of her vocal craft, and gives everything to her dance numbers too. 

Olivier Award winning actor Denis Lawson brings a 1st class comedy genius performance as a 2nd rate gangster, Public Enemy number 13, “Moonface Martin”.  

Lawson’s ability to switch up his scheming master of disguises, yet remain the lovable jester is just brilliant. 

The truly British acting legend of stage and screen Simon Callow, is a delight as the Yale alumni multi-millionaire “Elisha Whitney”. Desperate for the affection of a former friends widow who just by chance is sailing with her daughter and future son in law,  Callow’s Elisha Whitney isn’t ashamed that money can be thrown at anything or anyone to get what you want.  

Step in “Evangeline Harcourt”, a widow, a pushy mother and soon to be wealthy mother in-law, who is intent on marrying her daughter “Hope” off to a wealthy British aristocrat, despite her daughter having eyes for another man who happens to have found himself onboard the ship. Evangeline is perfectly cast with national treasure of stage, film and television, the insanely talented Bonnie Langford.  

Langford, who has played many a lead in her time, has created a delightful Evangeline, who is funny, classy, desperate and shallow. When she has her moments in the limelight as Evangeline, Langford commands your attention with her presence and skilful comedy acting and singing. With such a notable dance talent stood there on stage, in my opinion, it’s such a shame that this character wasn’t able to join in some of the big dance numbers and allow Bonnie to fully enjoy doing what she does best. 

The rivet that holds this whole plot together is the “will they-won’t they” love story of “Billy Crocker” and “Hope Harcourt” who are destined to be together. 

After a chance meeting at a party, and a 5 hour romp in the back of a cab, Billy Crocker is played by a very charismatic and endearing Samuel Edwards who is a strong leading male. With excellent vocals throughout, Edwards delivers some very strong onstage partnerships with a number of the other leads in this production.  Creating a sweet and people pleasing “Hope Harcourt” is Nicole-Lily Baisden who again has a lovely vocal tone and is a joy watch and listen to. 

Other stand out performances are given by Carly Mercedes Dyer, who plays the hysterically funny and sexy, the man mad gangsters moll “Erma”.  

Dyer will have you in stitches laughing with her delivery of this loveable and charming character. 

Also one not to miss is Haydn Oakley, who plays the bumbling British aristocrat “Lord Evelyn Oakleigh”. A collector of people and phrases, they say you should never judge a book by its cover….. and as Oakleigh, Haydn Oakley reveals that if you start digging deeper within yourself…. You never know what you may find, especially if there is a passionate “Gypsy in Me”, bursting to get out! 

The staging and choreography for this whole production was stylish and polished. Full credit to be given to the ensemble of this show, who in supporting the lead characters, bring to life a wonderful and enjoyable performance on the high seas!  

The audience totally agreed with me as they were on their feet at the end giving a rapturous standing ovation which was absolutely well deserved. 

And not to disappoint her fans…. Bonnie Langford gave her trade mark, gravity defying high kick at the very end of the bows! Bravo! 

Catch Anything Goes at Palace Theatre Manchester until Saturday 18 June 2022, tickets can be found at www.atgtickets.com

Review by Glen Clancy

Review – The Cher Show – Opera House, Manchester

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“CHER” – Whether you are a fan (or not) of her music, her acting or her fashion styles, this production will certainly leave you admiring her, as it gives you a true account of the struggles she faced to become the “Diva”, Icon” and “Legend” that we all know her as being today.

And why have one Cher, when you can have three? And that is what you get. The writer of this musical, Rick Elice, has cleverly created a script that takes you on the journey of Cher’s life, giving you three Cher’s – “Babe”, “Lady” and “Star” who intertwine themselves with each other, watching through a looking glass into the various stages of her incredible life, from child to adulthood, the ups, the downs and then the numerous comebacks. We have all had moments when we have wondered “what would my younger or future self, think or do” about what is happening right now in our lives. With three Cher’s on stage, this is how those internal voices talk to each other, whether you want to hear it or not! 

A true “juke box” musical, plotted against a script that is honest, heartfelt and sometimes downright hysterically funny, the back catalogue of Cher’s music plays a huge part of this story. Songs from the 60’s, 70’s 80’s and beyond, the seven producers have collaborated to deliver a show that takes some of her biggest hits and uses them to enhance the book of Cher’s life story. With hits like “I got you babe”, “If I could turn back time” and “Do you believe in love”, under the trustworthy direction of Arlene Phillips DBE, without doubt, this colourful production will eventually have you joyously singing and dancing in your seat or even on your feet as it did with tonight’s audience!

To have three actors playing the same character at the same time is something of a challenge, but to get three actors who are all equally as talented and have them beautifully deliver three versions of Cher at the same time is pure genius.

It is difficult to order them, as they all bring something different and with incredible style, but our three leading ladies are a class act both individually and as a trio.

Initially taking on the younger version of Cher – “Babe”, Millie O’Connell has mastered the awkwardness that Cher has in her formative years. From a bullied loner of a child to a developing teenage sexually explorative hippie, O’Connell gives us a masterclass impersonation, with exceptional comedy timing.

Taking the next phase of Cher’s personal growth and continued vulnerability, Danielle Steers leaves no emotional stone unturned when delving into the struggles that Cher faced with her stratospheric catapult to fame and turbulent marriage to Sonny Bono. Steers, with her powerhouse vocals gives us another version of Cher and her becoming a “Lady”, in which we see her gaining strength as a woman who knows her own mind and wants to speak up.

Finally, this third layer of Cher that rises and becomes the “Star” that we know and love today, is played by Debbie Kurup, and oh what a performance she gives. Kurups version of Cher is the golden thread throughout the whole show and again she has done her homework in learning the characterisation for this role. She is sassy, smart and beautiful, yet still desperate to be loved. Kurup is perfectly cast in the role and she doesn’t disappoint with her acting or vocals.

All three ladies actually have the vocals skills strong enough for them to just put on a Cher impersonation concert, and sometimes it really felt like you were at one. The tremendous onstage chemistry between them all is evident, and they support and compliment each other fantastically. When the three of them are on stage together, it is mesmerising to see how they each hold the mannerisms of Cher that fit that period of her life, yet together they create one superstar.

As we all know, the was no famous Cher until after there was “Sonny & Cher” and this story really shows what an impact Sonny Bono had on her life, for better and for worse. Lucas Rush takes on the role of Sonny and he too has done his research into this character. With excellent vocals and believable portrayal of Sonny, Rush gives us someone we both love and hate at the same time.

Jake Mitchell brings a wonderfully funny and camp “Bob Mackie”, who was the extravagant designer of Cher’s showstopping and sometimes jaw dropping costumes. Mitchell will have you in hysterics with his portrayal of Mackie.

Sam Farriday takes on a number of important characters that Cher meets throughout her life, and his versions of “Greg Allman and Rob Camilletti”, the two other love interests of Cher, allow him to show what a talented vocalist and actor also he is.

Cher is famous for saying that her mothers strength that she passed on was always her inspiration to succeed. Tori Scott brings us a wonderful maternal and sometimes obtuse “Georgia”. As a constant support to Cher, Scott’s softer motherly vocals are a nice balance to the rock vocals we get from Cher.

The staging and visual of this production is simple yet fabulously colourful. The costumes are camp and sparkly and expectedly revealing.

The ensemble that support the whole story throughout, with both song and dance, do so with high energy and style. This show has been choreographed by Strictly Come Dancing’s icon Oti Mabuse. If I am to be completely honest, this is an area that (for me and my guest for the evening) didn’t really enhance the show.  There was a fusion of dance styles (and a lot of nods to the Latin/ballroom group dances as seen on the TV show) that just didn’t fit to what was going on, and were sometimes overly busy which made it look clumsy. That said, the talent in the ensemble was second to none and they gave it their all.

This is a show that I would highly recommend you go to see, if you want a feel good night out and to witness some outstanding vocal talents from three beautiful and gifted actresses who are “The Cher Show”.

Currently touring the UK, tour dates and tickets can be found at www.atgtickets.com

Review by Glen Clancy

Review – Footloose – Opera House, Manchester

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Based on the 1980’s film sensation of the same name, Footloose The Musical is certainly a trip down memory lane with some 80’s classic hits like Holding Out for A Hero, Almost Paradise, Let’s Hear It For The Boy, and of course the brilliant Kenny Loggins title track Footloose.

This Selladoor Production, directed by Racky Plews and choreographed by Matt Cole was adapted for the stage by Dean Pitchford and Walter Bobbie. Currently playing at the Opera House Manchester, and then continuing to move around the regional theatres of the UK.

 The story of this musical is pretty much identical to the film. A young man, Ren McCormack, who loves to pass his time dancing in the clubs, and his mother Ethel, who both come from Chicago, are forced to relocate due to financial pressures, to a small town in the middle of nowhere called Bomont.

This small town is heavily governed by a church Minister and parish council. Certainly a far more conservative town than Ren is used to and this causes him to become a rebel with a cause in the eyes of the locals.

Falling out of favour with most of the adults and especially the Reverend Shaw Moore who has previously passed a law to ban dancing in the town. Ren makes it his mission to get the town dancing again. Fast forward through some initial bloody scrapes and then the romancing of the ministers daughter, Ren finds himself facing up to the very man who laid down the law, Rev Shaw Moore.

Can Ren change his mind and get the town dancing

Overall this is an excellent production and when people talk about performers being a “triple threat” (singer/dancer/actor) –   this cast goes one step further by also being a musician and playing an instrument live on stage too! Each of them at some point are very cleverly staged to be picking up an instrument and accompanying the musical director as part of the orchestra and cast.

Taking the lead role of Ren McCormack is Joshua Hawkins and he gives a very strong performance throughout. A very talented singer and dancer who drives this story from start to finish.

At school, after being threatened with a beating and going along with it, Ren quickly befriends the beater, a slow-witted cowboy called Willard Hewitt. Popular stage and music star Jake Quickenden gives us hugely comedic and lovable Willard.

At school, after being threatened with a beating and going along with it, Ren quickly befriends the beater, a slow-witted cowboy called Willard Hewitt. Popular stage and music star Jake Quickenden gives us hugely comedic and lovable Willard.

Quickenden is brilliantly cast in the role and he has the audience laughing with his clumsy but loyal character. Perfectly put together, Quickenden also doesn’t disappoint when he does a quick strip down to nothing but his golden hotpants, cowboy boots and a smile.

Hawkins and Quickenden work seamlessly together in their double act of straight man and stooge. Their comedy timing is spot on.

Ren’s new love interest, the ministers daughter Ariel Moore is played by Lucy Munden. Frustrated by her fathers strict rules, Ariel seeks excitement by rebelling at every occasion. Munden gives us a fantastic Ariel, perfectly acted and a very strong vocal. Beneath the rebellious daughter is a vulnerable young woman who is desperate for her father Rev Shaw Moore’s attention.

Rev. Shaw Moore is reliably portrayed by one of the UK’s most popular and experienced musical theatre leading men, Darren Day. As you would expect, Day is able to deliver a very strong and commanding Shaw Moore, with perfectly presented acting and singing.

As mentioned earlier, this cast have a lot to do in this show with many of the supporting actors playing instruments on top of dual characters, as the show unfolds.

The staging and choreography pushed the cast with fast paced and fun routines. As a dancer, it was evident to me that the staging and choreography had been set to cater for smaller stages, as at times it felt like the dancers just didn’t have the space to fully execute the steps and were limited on how much they could give.

The rest of the cast can’t go unmentioned because although there are the leads, the supporting cast are equally stars in this production. They are ever present on stage be that singing, acting, dancing, in the orchestra or moving scenery/props.

Holly Ashton gives great performance doubling up as the reverends wife Vi Moore and Principal Clark. A beautiful voice and perfectly cast.

Geri Allen plays Rens mother Ethel and also Betty and The Coach. Again, another strong performance with great vocals.

As Ariels trio of loyal friends Rusty, Urleen and Wendy-Jo, Oonagh Cox, Samantha Richards and Jess Barber are extremely tight with their comedy, harmonies and choreography. All three of them certainly stand out and work brilliantly together. Oonagh Cox also has a great performing relationship with Jake Quickenden as their characters eventually become a couple.

If you like your 80’s classics, this is certainly a high energy production that will have you on your feet and dancing at the end! This performance received a rapturous standing ovation which was very well deserved.

Footloose is running at the Opera House Manchester from Monday 28th February to Saturday 5th March 2022.

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/footloose/opera-house-manchester/

Review by Glen Clancy

Review – Cabaret – Kit Kat Club (aka the Playhouse Theatre), London

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Cabaret has long been my most favourite musical of all time and there have been lots of different productions it over recent years in the UK but when I heard of this new production in London, with a fresh new take on the Kander and Ebb classic, with a star cast to boot, I was beyond excited and just had to go.

And WOW it certainly didn’t disappoint!

The theatre has completely been transformed into the Kit Kat Club, the name of the Berlin nightclub used in the musical and as you enter through the stage door you’re guided through dark corridors and enter the immersive space of the seedy underground vibe of Weimer Berlin and are greeted by semi naked dancers performing around the bars and into the auditorium enticing you to take your seats and building you up to the main show.

I was lucky enough to have an amazing stage side seat, with a telephone on the table, and a fantastic lunch, which was constantly being interrupted by the dancers making you feel part of the scenery, but you can opt for sitting in the gallery upstairs too.

And then the show starts. Eddie Redmayne is fantastic as the Emcee, and as he picks up his baton and introduces his cabaret performers and of course the toast of Mayfair Sally Bowles he sets the dark tone of what is to come for everyone in Germany at the time.

Emily Benjamin who was standing in for Jesse Buckley this particular showing, captures Sally Bowles’s carefree, self-obsessed yet vulnerable and fragile attitude perfectly and of course this is on show when it comes to her relationship with Cliff Bradshaw played by Omari Douglas, the American writer who’s come to Berlin thinking it was a place where he could live and let live but of course the times were changing fast.

The star of the show for me was Liza Sadovy as Fraulein Schneider, the landlady of a boarding house who ends up falling in love with Herr Schultz played by Elliot Levey, who runs a fruit shop. Together they have some of the best scenes and songs such as Married and It couldn’t please me more (A Pineapple) are performed with love, emotion and warmth. The heartbreak of Schneider’s decision to end their relationship because of the knowledge of what was to come for someone like Herr Schultz was felt around the room and in particular the realness and vulnerability Sadovy brings to the character really made her stand out, what an actress. 

The rest of the cast are equally brilliant, particularly the ensemble who bring the mad, cartoonish, seedy and comical element whenever they are on stage.

The circular stage revolves and changes throughout the show, creating a space that is Fraulein Schneiders guest house one minute and the seedy club the next and the orchestra magnificently bring sparkle and spirit to Kander’s music.

This really is more than a show, it’s an experience from the moment you arrive to the second you leave and you’ll be crazy if you don’t try and get tickets while you still can.

Cabaret is running at the Kit Kat Club (aka the Playhouse Theatre, London) booking to 1 October 2022 with a new cast joining from 21 March 2022.

https://www.theplayhousetheatre.co.uk/cabaret

Review by Emma Ronan-Peate

Review – Fatal Attraction – Opera House, Manchester

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This chilling psychological thriller written by James Dearden is based on the Paramount Pictures motion picture of the same name.

Currently playing at the Opera House Manchester, Kym Marsh and Oliver Farnworth (both of Coronation Street alumni) star in the dark portrayal of obsessive love.

Superbly directed by Loveday Ingram, both Marsh and Farnworth deliver you a play which seduces you into a story of hot lust, deathly obsession and the sad pain caused by mental illness.

Kym Marsh has carved herself a notable stage and television career since coming to our attention as part of the reality TV music band Hear Say. After 13 years in Coronation St, a few awards and then some high profile TV presenting, Marcs certainly proves her worth as an actor in this production. Playing Alex Forrest, Marsh is believable in her characterisation of a very sexy seductress who is also desperate to be loved and sadly seems to be suffering from a psychological disorder called Erotomania. (The delusion of being loved by an unattainable person). A credible performance by Marsh throughout.

Although Marsh is billed as the star of this show, playing the role of Dan Gallagher is Oliver Farnworth who also has a very credible stage and television CV, again more known for starring in Coronation Street.

Farnworth brings a very commanding and yet at times, a vulnerable character who makes one decision that changes his and his family’s life forever. A chance meeting in a bar brings Alex Forrest and Dan Gallagher together where they laugh, they drink, they eat and then they enter into a weekend of consensual passion.

As Dan Gallagher, Farnworth certainly earns his stripes in the role. The character barely leaves the stage for 2 hours and the amount of dialogue he has to remember and deliver is incredible. Farnworth takes you on this emotional journey of seeing a man having to deal with the fall consequences of his actions.

Together, both Marsh and Farnsworth have a great chemistry in their delivery of these complex characters.  

Other cast members to mention are Susie Amy (of Footballers Wives fame) who confidently plays Beth Gallagher, the unfortunate wife of Dan Gallagher, and also John Macaulay who plays Dan Gallagher’s friend, drinking buddy & work colleague who is there to encourage this misgivings and then try to help him pick up the pieces when everything in his life is shattered.

The set and staging were simple and the lighting and projections tried to modernise the visual by using vibrant colours and technology which projected “facetime calls” as the characters communicated with other. If I am honest – these were somewhat lost and not hugely visible if you weren’t sat in the centre of the theatre.

Overall, it is a fantastic production which the audience on opening night demonstrated they agreed by the rapturous response at the end.

If you have seen the film, Ingram does not disappoint with her direction of this play as she is dishing up the famous scenes of sordid passion, intense emotions and of course the ill-fated children’s pet that also has a steamy scene of its own! (no spoilers for those that haven’t seen the film!)

Although the film version of this story portrays the main cause of this tragic drama all being down to the obsessiveness of the female lead, Ingram has very cleverly layered this stage version to show that Dan Gallagher is not blameless to the true pain this lady feels. In a time when mental health concerns have never been more highlighted in our lives, how we treat each other is not without its consequences.

Currently playing at Manchester Opera House until Saturday 26th February 2022, the show then embarks on a UK tour – information on tickets can be found at www.atgtickets.com

Review by Glen Clancy

Review – Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers – Palace Theatre, Manchester

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Having seen this show more than a number of times, you would think that nothing could surprise me with it, but each time I do see it, I am always pleasantly surprised that I come away having seen or learnt something different about the message of this story.

Directed by Bob Tomson and Bill Kenwright, this is a contemporary nature versus nurture plot, revolving around fraternal twins Mickey and Eddie, who were separated at birth, one subsequently being raised in a wealthy family, the other in a poor family. The different environments take the twins to opposite ends of the social spectrum.

In an uncertain world such as the one we are currently living in, the story of stark differences in opportunity between the poor and the privileged is never more relevant.

This is a hard hitting story that doesn’t need huge staging or visuals. A simple stage set, with a powerful plot and score is all it takes to allow this brilliant cast to entertain you. 

Guided by the Narrator (played by Robbie Scotcher), the story weaves itself through the lives of two families – the Johnstone’s who are very poor, and the Lyon’s who are very wealthy. Scotcher repeatedly commands your attention with a strong vocal and firm direction of the story.

Niki Evans takes on the role of the desperate Mrs Johnstone, the matriarch, the single but dedicated mother, with 7 hungry mouths to feed and now with twins on the way.

Evans (a former X-factor contestant) has certainly found a place for her stunning voice with this role. She delivers such a strong and emotionally heart wrenching performance, up to a level of previous brilliant actresses playing Mrs J’, such as Stephanie Lawrence and Barbara Dickson.

Mrs Lyons (played by Paula Tappenden) sees an opportunity to help Mrs Johnstone with the desperate situation she has found herself in. Unable to have children of her own, she concocts a plan and convinces Mrs Johnston to give her one of the twins to bring up.

Tappenden cleverly draws you in with Mrs Lyon’s act of good intention, but equally shows a much darker side to her character.

Mickey (played by Josh Capper) and Eddie (played by Joel Benedict) are the eventually ill-fated twins, separated in a desperate act by two desperate women.

Both Capper and Benedict are brilliant together in these leading roles. As the young children they capture the innocence of their characters and then as they move through the years to adulthood, you can see the cracks in both of their lives taking its toll on their relationship.

Carly Burns gives us a confident and convincing Linda, the loyal yet troubled love interest of the twins.

With the rest of the supporting cast members often doubling up as various other characters throughout the show, they are integral to the success of this classic Willy Russell production! No matter how many times you have seen this show, this is well worth re-visiting!!

Currently touring the UK – Blood Brothers is playing the Palace Theatre Manchester until Saturday 26th February 2022.

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/blood-brothers/palace-theatre-manchester/

Review by Glen Clancy

Review – Rocky Horror Show – Palace Theatre, Manchester

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If you want a fun night out, well I would absolutely recommend that you go to the theatre to see this legendary rock ‘n’ roll musical by Richard O’Brien.

The Rocky Horror Show invites you to take part in this spectacular and ‘cultish’ party, featuring the classics which are timeless such as Sweet Transvestite, Damn it Janet and of course the unforgettable show stopper The Time Warp. You will have no choice but to be out of your seat and pelvic-thrusting with the rest of the cast and audience.

Rated ages 12+, this show does contain scenes of an adult nature, and some of the audience participation (shouted ad-libs) are pretty graphic; and even after seeing this show a few times, it still catches me off guard! But, it all adds to the party experience and you soon find yourself waiting in anticipation for the next shouted reaction, which the cast feed on expect.

The Rocky Horror Show is the story of two squeaky clean college kids – Brad and his fiancée Janet. When by a twist of fate, their car breaks down outside a creepy mansion whilst on their way to visit their former college professor, they meet the charismatic and mad scientist Dr Frank’n’Furter, who happens to be a highly sexual transvestite. What then happens in his mansion is funny, crazy, sexy and stupid, but none the less is brilliant.

With a selection of weird and wonderful characters that live in the mansion, Brad and Janet are taken on a life changing journey, with the spectacular unveiling of Frank’n’Furter’s latest scientific creation, his man made monster ‘Rocky’, who is a perfectly bodied “muscle man with blonde hair and a tan”.

With music and book and lyrics written by O’Brien, the production is a comical tribute to the science fiction and horror B movies of the 1930’s to 60’s.

I do have to say, this is one of the best productions of this show that I have seen. The talent and energy of this cast is exceptional, and they certainly put 110% into every number.

The star of this show is always going to be Frank’n’Furter, and Stephen Webb doesn’t disappoint with his delivery of this iconic character. He is strong, manly, sassy and has an incredible voice. The way he commands your attention when he is on stage is pure class. Webb certainly brings Frank to life and at times makes you feel like you are at his own rock concert.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show ©The Other Richard

TV presenter and Strictly Come Dancing winner, Ore Oduba, steps out as Brad in this production. Oduba has been forging out a reputable musical theatre career since his strictly win and he does a fantastic job in this casting. Obviously a great dancer, combine that with a lovely voice and smart characterisation and he is the whole package, which he gives his all to throughout the show. Oduba holds his own with this performance and compliments the talents of Haley Flaherty who plays his fiancé Janet. Flaherty is clearly a very talented and seasoned all rounder who sings and dances with ease, and she plays Janet perfectly.

Keeping the whole story moving is the Narrator, and in this production Philip Franks is wonderful. His comedy timing is impeccable, and the rapport he builds with the audience is an art in itself.

The next three key characters are Columbia (Lauren Ingram), Riff Raff (Kristian Lavercombe) and Usherette/Magenta (Suzie McAdam). All three actors give outstanding performances which add to the magic of this show.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show ©The Other Richard

Making his professional touring debut (as an adult), Ben Westhead is playing the monster creation that is ‘Rocky’, and I have to say he is probably the best actor I have seen do this part. Visually (as you would expect) he is very well put together and a delight to behold stood there in nothing but his tight speedo’s, but he is also a great actor, singer and dancer. Westhead’s energy in this role is refreshing and he maintains this from his first unveiling.

I do have to say that the supporting cast members (known as Phantoms) are the glue to this production, each one of them has developed their own version of madness on stage, and they are equally integral to this plot. Slick choreography by Nathan Wright, each Phantom supports this story on it way with smooth scene changes and superb song and dance numbers.

This production was directed by Christopher Luscombe, set design was by Hugh Durrant, lighting by Nick Richings and costumes by Sue Blane. Visually this a truly colourful spectacle of a production, and you will be revelling in the craziness of this cult classic.

Currently touring the UK – Rocky Horror Show is playing the Palace Theatre Manchester until Saturday 23rd January 2022.

Review by Glen Clancy

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-rocky-horror-show/palace-theatre-manchester/

The Rocky Horror Picture Show ©The Other Richard
The Rocky Horror Picture Show ©The Other Richard

Review – School of Rock, Palace Theatre, Manchester

Posted on by The Biz

Now I don’t want to speak to early and put a curse on 2022 but so far 2022 has been a damn site better already that the start of 2021 was, and that purely is because after just 4 days of the new year I’ve already seen one of the best shows I’ve seen in a long while, and that show my friends was School of Rock!

I’d seen the film with Jack Black and thought it was great, so when I saw that this musical version was an Andrew Lloyd Webber and Julian Fellows creation I just had absolutely no idea what to expect.  Would School of Rock be a Cats or Phantom mash up with a bit of Downton Abbey thrown in for good measure? Oh by jiminy NO, who would ever have thought that Lloyd Webber and Fellows had such a rock side to them! Not me that’s for sure, but it’s a side you are all going to want to see!

For those who’ve not seen the film, School of Rock tells the story of Dewy Finn (played by the brilliant Alex Tomkins), a wannabe rock star who get’s kicked out of his band for right before the legendary ‘Battle of the Bands competition’ his chance to win some much needed cash.

When he needs to pay his bills or risk being kicked out of the apartment, he shares with his henpecked nerdy childhood best friend Ned Schneebly (Matthew Rowland) and his balsy girlfriend Patty (Nadia Violet Johnson) who are fed up with Dewy not having a proper job, his general laziness and he needs to find some cash fast. 

When by chance Dewy answers a phone call from the prestigious Horace Green private school, offering Ned a well-paid job as a substitute teacher, Dewy can’t resist pretending to be his friend and accepting the role.

Dewy arrives on his first day late, hungover and with absolutely no intention of teaching his new students anything.  But when he sees his class playing classical music, he soon realises these kids can be educated in the ways of rock, and his dream of competing in Battle of the Bands is back on with hilarious and heart-warming consequences.  He even ends up melting the heart of Horace Green Head Teacher Miss Mullins (Rebecca Lock) and falling in love along the way.

Tomkins is brilliant as Dewy, a character which is on stage for pretty much the entire show. His vocal ability, energy and comic timing is something that Jack Black would be super proud of I’m sure!

Rebecca Lock is brilliant as Miss Mullins and wow what a voice from Mozart to Stevie Nicks she really showed off her vocal range and skill.

This show is filled to the brim with great performances right across the cast, but the show’s real stars though are the kids.  What an amazing bunch of youngsters they really are!  The announcement from Lloyd Webber at the beginning proudly assuring the audience that all the kids are playing their instruments live makes you gasp with excitement, but when you see them play live, sing, dance, act I was flawed by their talent.

In particular the main band, lead guitarist Zak (Joseph Sheppard), base player extraordinaire Katie (Markit Akiwumi), drummer Freddy (Eva McGrath) perhaps the next Sheila E, keyboard genius Lawrence (Oliver Forde) , Tomika (Souparnika Nair) who has an absolutely angelic voice and not forgetting the manager and all round goody two shoes Summer (Florrie May Wilkinson).  All of the kids really do steal the show.

In fact, the whole School of Rock team really should get a massive rock salute for getting this show even on stage. What with such intricate choreography, amazing songs, managing all the different kids, not to mention a global pandemic.

Although it’s easy to think this show is all about rock music, it really is so much more than that.  I laughed so much and from start to finish I had a smile on my face, and I have to say I was truly inspired by the young talent.   As I stated at the beginning it’s one of the best live shows I’ve seen in a long while.Whether you’ve seen the film or not School of Rock is not to be missed.  I absolutely loved School of Rock and would definitely go see it again and again, and I encourage anyone else to do the same.

School of Rock is on at Palace Theatre Manchester Tuesday 4th January to Saturday 15th January 2022

Review by Emma Ronan-Peate

School of Rock Tickets | Palace Theatre Manchester in Manchester | ATG Tickets

Review – The book of Mormon, Palace Theatre, Manchester

Posted on by The Biz

Firstly this show comes with a number of warnings…..“Age guidance 14+ (No Under 2s). Contains strong language, adult themes, strobe lighting and bangs. Under 16s must be accompanied by an adult.”I would also like to add that there should be a public health warning that you are going to laugh out so loud that it actually will hurt! Seriously!

From start to finish, this hysterically funny production of The Book of Mormon (from the creators of the hit cartoon “South Park” – Trey Parker and Matt Stone, and Bobby Lopez who is the co-writer of Avenue Q and Frozen) is a masterpiece of writing and musical comedy.Never before have I been in so much pain from laughing at a musical.The story follows the “misadventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent on a mission to a place that’s as far from Salt Lake City as you can get”It is clear why this musical is a sell-out hit all over the world and I would highly recommend watching it if you can get hold of tickets!

After completing their brief missionary training, we say “Hello” to, and are transported with both Elder Price (Robert Colvin) and Elder Cunningham (Connor Peirson) to a far flung country that is in the grips of a number of humanitarian crisis. Here they are tasked with spreading the Mormon word and recruiting the local villagers into their Latter Day Elder’s church.Everything else that happens after their arrival has to be seen to be believed, and I wont give any more spoilers on the plot of the show other than the production is absolutely jam packed with a genius script, catchy songs and very clever choreography!

Both Colvin and Peirson give outstanding performances in what is an extremely fast paced production, and as a pair, their comedy timing with each other is spot on! Delivering excellent vocals throughout, they both lead in this musical and keep their energy at a constant high.Aviva Tulley takes on the role of the sweet but strong willed Nabulungi, who becomes the stepping stone for the missionaries, giving them the attention of the locals. Tulley herself delivers a very strong performance and some powerful vocals with ease. Playing her protective father, Ewen Cummins gives us an incredibly funny and likeable Mafala Hatimbi.Like a golden thread of high camp and outrageousness through the heart of this production, Jordan Lee Davies brings us Elder McKinley and Moroni. Just when you think this show couldn’t get any funnier, Davies walks onto the stage and you are instantly hooked on him.

Perfectly cast, this show is worth watching just for a glimpse of the talent that is Jordan Lee Davies. One thing that is evident in this production is that the full ensemble are pushed to the absolute max from start to finish with the superb staging, vocals and choreography, and together they all deliver a stellar performance.

Whilst the lead characters are all brilliant, what is going on behind them is equally as magical. Each and every cast member has their well-earned moment in this production, but together as a talent, they will have you gripped and doubled over laughing.

I started this review with a warning, and I will end it with one too. There are some very serious topics covered in this story, and whilst it is done beautifully and coated in comedy, these horrendous things are still happening out there in the world and we all need to stand together to stop them. You will laugh, I can guarantee that, but don’t ignore the messages being sent to us through this genius piece of art….and as they say in the show “don’t believe everything you read on Facebook!

“Hello!The Book of Mormon is currently playing at Palace Theatre Manchester until 1st January 2022, and then continues on its UK tour.

Review by Glen Clancy

Review – Waitress, Manchester Opera House

Posted on by The Biz

Waitress musical is a completely new musical to me and I didn’t know much about it before going to see it on Tuesday at the Opera House Manchester.

Based on a 2007 film, and a super big hit on Broadway and in the West End, this first UK tour of Waitress tells the story of Jenna (Lucie Jones) a waitress , and super-duper pie maker working in an American diner in a small town who dreams of something better, escaping her loveless, abusive marriage. 

When she finds out that she is pregnant, which is the worst news she could have got, she hatches a plan to enter and win pie competition, and getting out of there away from her life and her horrible husband Earle (Tamlyn Henderson).

However when she pays a visit to her Doctor she finds out her regular doctor has retired and been replaced by a handsome new Doc in Town Dr Pomatter (Matt Willis) and immediately there is a spark and they end up having an affair which complicates things even more!

But this musical is all about girl power and Jena relies on the love and support from her workmates Becky (Sandra Marvin) and Dawn (Evelyn Hoskins) who we also find out have their own complicated lives to deal with too!

The cast is super strong all putting in great performances, especially Lucie Jones who has a great voice, you can see why she did so well on X Factor! Also I was quite shocked at how good Matt Willis was and their duet ‘Bad idea’ just before the interval was my favourite song of the show.

I don’t want to give away the story, it’s one of those you have to go and see for yourself. So if you want a good couple of hours of escapism at the theatre then it’s a must see for you!

Waitress is on at the Opera House Manchester until 20th November 2021 and you can get tickets here Waitress Tickets | Opera House Manchester in Manchester | ATG Tickets

Review by Emma Ronan-Peate

Hairspray – Palace Theatre Manchester

Posted on by The Biz

Good morning Baltimore – or should that be Good evening Manchester because Hairspray the musical is back in town!

Now I’m a HUGE fan of the original film by John Waters 1988 with Divine, Ricki Lake and Debbie Harry and have been for years, and I remember when the musical film first came out thinking they will ruin it.  But I couldn’t be more wrong back then, and whether you’ve seen either the original film or the musical version of the film or not you’ll definitely love this stage version!

This family-friendly, feel-fabulous show transports you to 1960’s Baltimore and follows the story of Tracy Turnblad and her journey to becoming a hair-hopping superstar.

Tracy (played by the brilliant Katie Brace), is a big girl, with big hair and an even bigger heart, and in her life she goes to school and watches The Corny Collins Show on TV and does nothing else, But Tracy also has dreams of becoming one of the nicest kids in town regular dancers on the show.

When a place becomes free to join the gang, Tracy and her best friend Penny Pingleton, (Rebecca Jayne-Davies), believe she can make it and skip school to go to audition but it becomes clear that Tracy is definitely not like the other kids on the show and the show’s producer Velma Von Tussle (Rebecca Thornhill) who’s only aim in life is to make her daughter Amber (Jessica Croll) famous, tells Tracy as much in no uncertain terms.

When Tracy is given detention she meets Seaweed (Akeem Ellis-Hyman) who shows her some of his own dance moves which she uses to impress Corny Collins (Richard Meek) to win a part on the show as well as impressing her dream boy Link Larkin (Ross Clifton) in the process.

But her dream of being on the show, only highlights that Seaweed and his friends can’t dance alongside her, all because of the colour of their skin and she sets out to change things, and make the world a better place, one where anyone’s dreams can be come true and accepts you for who you are, no matter your race, who you love, your size or colour.

Supported whole heartedly by her parents Edna (Alex Bourne) and Wilbur (Norman Pace) Turnblad and the big blonde and beautiful Motormouth Maybelle (Brenda Edwards) Tracy challenges  stereotypes, rallies for change and welcomes everyone including her own mother, into the 60’s.

Katie Brace is absolutely amazing as Tracy and I couldn’t honestly believe this tour was her professional debut! She’s full of energy, has a cracking voice, and plays Tracy perfectly, making you want her to succeed in her TV career, her quest for equality AND gettng the guy!

The biggest laugh of the night comes when Edna and Wilbur perform You’re Timeless To Me in the second act which saw them corpse a couple of times as they cuddle up together but it also touches your heart as you see a true love story played out despite their set backs in life.

The other stand out performance comes from Brenda Edwards as Motormouth Maybelle who’s holds the audience in the palm of her hands as she sings I know where I’ve been. Her amazing voice and performance captures the emotion and the struggle that people of colour have been through and what they still have to face. Just breath-taking.

But of course the audience are waiting for the final scene where Tracy wins the day, Amber, Velma have to accept integration, and black kids can finally join the white kids dancing together on National TV! 

On the surface Hairspray is a bubble-gum, colourful, camp, kitsch show with high energy and catchy tunes but it really is so much more than that.

It’s brilliant fun yes but it’s also a thought provoking, emotional story of love and acceptance and has real heart. It will leave you feeling uplifted and able to achieve anything, and the fact the final song is You can’t stop the beat which got every single member of the audience on their feet for a standing ovation, means you’ll also be singing all the way home!

This show really brings home why we’ve missed theatre so much and why we are so happy they are back!  If you get chance please go and see it, you’ll love it!

Review by Emma Ronan-Peate

Hairspray The Musical is on at the Palace Theatre from Monday, October 25 to Saturday, October 30, then again from Monday, November 8 to Saturday, November 13. You can get tickets here https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/hairspray-the-musical/palace-theatre-manchester/

Review – Rita, Sue and Bob too! – Theatre Royal, St Helens

Posted on by The Biz

As a kid who grew up in the 80’s I’ve a soft spot for the film Rita, Sue & Bob Too the 1987 film by Adrea Dunbar which was quite the hit back in the day and has become somewhat of a cult.  But times have very much changed and I think if this came out today there would be a lot of angry people. BUT it was of it’s time and very funny too so I was super excited to get the chance to go and see it at St Helens Theatre Royal.

So with that being said this isn’t a play for the faint-hearted! With a lot of strong language, adult humour, and sexual themes, I’d say come with an open mind and prepare to be shocked but also to laugh a lot.

Using the original stage script the show tells the story of two working-class northern girls Rita (Kay Nicholson) and Sue (Olivia Sloyan), best mates preparing for the real world in their final year of high school. Neither has a particularly great home life and both take a job babysitting for married couple, Bob (Emmerdale’s Michael Parr) and Michelle (Jessica Ellis, Hollyoaks).

The opening scene shows Bob giving the girls a lift home after their babysitting shift in his red and wow you know what you are in for in the first few minutes.

Bob starts to find out more about the girls and what they would be up for nudge nudge wink wink, and turns out they are up for a lot with Bob and he starts an affair with both Rita and Sue, taking turns with both girls in his car while the other one waits for her turn. The play shows the ups and downs of Bob trying to hide the affair from his wife with all the hilarities that ensue and the scenes of Bob’s naked bum bobbing up an down while the girls legs are in the air is enough to make you blush.

The cast are fantastic, and you can tell right away they get on from the get-go, delivering naughty scenes and even more naughty language with ease.

The show also stars Crissy Rock (Benidorm) as Mum, and Jamie Greer as Dad and the scenes with these two playing an old alcoholic married couple are just genius, and will have you belly laughing, especially when Crissy had a problem with her head scarf falling down, which prompted her to grab Jamie’s flat cap and plonk it on top to rapturous applause from the audience.

The ending was also a change from what I remember in the film showing Bob’s wife Michelle having a heart to heart with Sue in a pub months after they’ve split and Bob’s married Rita reflecting on both of their relationships with a man who they both loved yet who’s treated them both very badly.

The 80’s soundtrack between scenes keeps the flow going throughout and  music is played often throughout and at the end the iconic Black Lace track ‘Having a Gang Bang’ which features in the original film, is played as an encore to get the audience up on their feet.

This show really highlights how much times have changed, but it also tells the story of the time with drama and comedy. Yes you will cringe at the dialoge, the subject and some of the scenes but this show was brilliantly acted and very funny to watch and a triumphant return for Michael Parr to his hometown of St Helens

If you loved the film you’ll love this show but it’s only on id in need of a good laugh, this show is not to be missed! Make sure you catch it at Theatre Royal St Helens 11 November – 13 November 2022

https://sthelenstheatreroyal.ticketsolve.com/ticketbooth/shows/873634006

Review by Emma Ronan-Peate

Review – Singing in the Rain – Opera House, Manchester

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Currently touring the UK, and now heading to Bristol, Liverpool, Wimbledon and Glasgow – this is certainly a show that is making a splash! You can get tickets at www.atgtickets.com

Based on the iconic film which starred Gene Kelly, Donald O’Connor and Debbie Reynolds, this stage production, directed by Jonathan Church will certainly have your toes tapping throughout. This is certainly a show for dance lovers, and it doesn’t disappoint.

This is the original juke-box musical, as every song (except one) had appeared in other MGM films and the stage version emulates the movie.

A musical romantic comedy, the story is about Hollywood in the 1920’s and the transition from silent movies into the “talkies” for an already famous on screen “couple” Don Lockwood and Lina Lamont.

Both already very popular with the audiences, Paramount Studios romantically links them off screen to boost their popularity. Don is not so keen on this, but Lina actually begins to believe they are a real couple. After the launch of their latest movie, to escape his over excited fans, Don enrols the help of his best buddy and musical genius Cosmo Brown to pose as him for the fans and Don makes a quiet exit, only to have a chance meeting with young and budding actress Kathy Selden.  The pair don’t see eye to eye to start with, but eventually within the plot, their love story unfolds.

As production starts for their new talking movie, “The Dualling Cavalier” it isn’t long until they realise how terrible Lina’s voice is and the producers begin to panic! Cosmo has the great idea to dub her voice using Kathy’s voice instead. The producers agree but ask that Lina is not told as she already dislikes Kathy due to a previous incident involving a birthday cake, and she wont be happy about her voice being dubbed, especially by Kathy.

To add to their troubles, rival studio Warner have a massive hit with musical The Jazz Singer, so it is decided to turn the new talking into a musical called “The Dancing Cavalier”.

Unfortunately, Lina is tipped off about the dubbing and storms into the studio offices raising hell for the producers. Also realising that Don and Kathy are actually planning to marry, she wages war on them all. This lady is not as dumb as everyone thinks or to be crossed as she hatches a plan to make sure no one ever knows her voice is dubbed and Kathy is to always be her voice over without credit.

Don is not happy and on the premier of the film, Lina is exposed to her audience for who and what she really is.

Wrap all of that around some fantastically colourful songs and dances and you have a smash hit musical!

Taking on some iconic roles, this cast does not disappoint in any way.

Returning as Don Lockwood, the talented dancer and singer Adam Cooper is perfectly cast in this role. His dance ability is sublime and he delivers the vocals with ease.

Ross McLaren is a fantastic Cosmo Brown, and his dance, vocal and comedy timing are the glue that makes Don and Cosmo a great double act.  Both Cooper and McLaren have a wonderful chemistry together, and this reflected into their performances in numbers like Make’em Laugh and Moses Supposes.

Charlotte Gooch plays a beautiful Kathy Selden, and certainly holder her own when working with Cooper and McLaren. A stunning dancer with excellent vocals, she certainly is no third wheel in this trio, especially in the renowned number Good Morning.

Taking on the role of Lina Lamont, Jenny Gayner will have you in stitches laughing with her performance. This is a brilliant character to play for any actress, and Gayner absolutely smashes it.

Andrew Wright has choreographed some spectacular numbers, and when you think how will they top that number, the next one does! This a definitely a dancers show, and the whole cast and ensemble are put through their paces with fast and intricate choreography, which they master with energy and joy.

The set design is simple but very clever, making this a fantastic visual.

And I hear you ask “but do they make it rain?” Oh yes! It doesn’t just rain….. it pours, and pours and pours! Adam Cooper revels singing in the rain and isn’t shy in sharing the puddles with the audience.

Overall, this is a real feel good musical and you will come out of the theatre singing at least two or three of the tunes from it, whatever the weather outside. 

Footloose is running touring the UK now and you can get tickets here https://singinintherainshow.com/uk-tour/

Review by Glen Clancy