Thursday 13 November 2014

White Christmas settles at Dominion until Jan 3rd 2015

After a recent tour of the first ever stage production, Irving Berlin’s, White Christmas has settled in the Dominion theatre until January 3rd 2015. 

White Christmas tells the heart-warming story of two-ex army friends, who team up with a couple of sisters to put on a show to save a secluded ski lodge in Vermont owned by their old army General.  

As expected with a cast like this, the singing is absolutely flawless. Aled Jones (best known for singing I’m walking in the air from The Snowman) who plays Bob Wallace, redeems an otherwise wavering performance through his sensational vocals. Likewise, Tom Chambers who plays Phil Davis is an extraordinary dancer but gives a decent performance. Luckily the two characters contrast each other so well that the pair’s acting styles complement each other quite well.

Similarly the Haynes sisters play off each other very agreeably to give a varied performance. Rachel Stanley, who plays Betty Haynes sings beautifully but it felt that her role could be bigger for a main character. Louise Bowden, who plays Judy Hayes is an incredible dancer and entertaining to watch.

The true star of the show is Martha Watson played by Wendi Peters. Peters gives an energetic performance. Her vocals are tremendous and her character is hilarious. Indeed, last night’s Susan Waverly gave a stunning performance easily falling into Peters’ shoes. General Henry Waverly played by Graham Cole transforms his normally grumpy character in a very moving performance toward to end.

The show didn’t seem to fit in to the typical mould of a Christmas film and didn’t feel to‘Christmassy’ until near the end. The plot seems underdeveloped; there is a misunderstanding but not much happens between this taking place and the resolution. However, the show includes many flashy dance numbers with stunning tap choreography, ideal for a classic big Christmas Musical. 

Although the music was particularly underwhelming, songs such as; White Christmas, both takes on the song Sisters and Let me sing and I’m happy, are exceptionally charming. The orchestra still plays every song exquisitely. 

The set for the show is fantastic and the use of the stage to show various locations at the same time is remarkable. 

The first short scene set in 1944 during the war is very sweet ans tied in nicely with the ending. Everything comes together again in time for Christmas for one spectacular finale. 

Although this may not necessarily be one for the kids, it is a nice break from all the Christmas pantomimes. 




Monday 10 November 2014

Forbidden Broadway comes to London

I'd like to start with a note to the cast of Forbidden Broadway...

Just so you all know I took note of your 'everyone's a critic' song but, here is another blog with another opinion on your show! 

Forbidden Broadway takes some of the best West End shows and oh so wittily give them a new exposé. Musical theatre lovers everywhere can laugh at the revolving cast of Les Misérables and Laura Tebbutt's hillarious take on 'On My Phone'. You can chuckle at the Phantom's smoking performance and giggle through the slighty clutzy Jersey Boys

What makes it so brilliant is how they pick out the flaws of these shows and use them to accentuate the show' popularity. They provide insight into the life of an exploited child actor such as those who play Matilda, Billy Elliot or Gavroche and how they reach retirement aged ten. The use of props is absolutely magnificent, especially the well-known helicopter from Miss Saigon and the glass elevator from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Not forgetting Disney, the cast of The Lion King sing about the perils of their costume in 'Can you feel the sprain tonight'. I am sure that the cast of Once could not make their audiences laugh as much as the Forbidden Broadway version did. 

No show is safe when Forbidden Broadway comes to town, neither is any star of the stage. Ben Lewis 'engineers' Cameron Mackintosh in the Miss Saigon re-write 'The Americans Cream' Christina Bianco does a spot on impression of chirpy Kristin Chenoweth and a fabulous impersonation of the 'Wickedly Talented' Adel Dazeem (or as she is better known Idina Menzel). Bianco does the most impeccable Elaine Paige, right down to her iconic laugh, that prove that imitation really is the sincerest form of flattery. Damian Humbley and Ben Lewis explain behind the thought process the popular show The Book of Mormon as comedy duo Matt Stone and Trey Parker. Hugh Jackman makes his appearance and the cast remind audiences how no one can resist a big name of stage such as Robert Lindsey, who is currently part of the cast of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels.

Admittedly a show like this is more suited to a smaller audience niche. Even if there was the odd show I hadn’t seen, I still found myself laughing from start to finish.

Check out the trailer!


Wednesday 5 November 2014

The Book of Mormon

As I am sure many critics have warned before, this show is definitely not for the easily offended. Trey Parker and Matt Stone, the creators of South Park and the brains behind The Book of Mormon, leave no stereotype untouched in their cleverly hilarious show. Musical genius, Robert Lopez, also known for writing the songs for Frozen, shares the duo's dark sense of  humor. Together they have produced a musical that will have you laughing for days and playing the soundtrack on a loop for months.

Hello, was performed quite weakly which was a shame considering that the show opens on this song. After that, the show took off and the energy remained high throughout the rest of the show. 

The amount of big dance numbers was quite surprising but incredibly impressive. As the missionaries are being paired off for their missions, they dance out their excitement in the song Two by Two in an extravagant, over the top but highly entertaining routine. For choreography fans, watch out for the song Turn it off as it shows you that if you break into song and dance and wear sparkly enough jackets, nothing bad can get to you. 

Every musical needs its romantic ballad and The Book of Mormon is no different. Baptise Me is a cleverly twisted song to fit in as the show's required love song. Indeed things do heat up at this point between Elder Cunningham and Nabulungi as they both overcome their fears to 'do it' for the first time... 

Elder Price played by Billy Harrigan Tighe is a young missionary who is ready to bring others into the church and he's confident that he is the best man for the job until his faith becomes shaken. A.J. Holmes plays the lovable goofy Elder Cunningham whose vivid imagination manifests as a variety of sci-fi characters and bizarre stories. Both men are excellent performers and most entertaining. The two characters balance each other perfectly and are able to amuse the audience together and separately. The pair are sent to Uganda where they are faced with Warlords, disease and misery. Together with a group of Mormons lead by the hysterically camp Elder McKinnley (Stephen Ashfield) they try to bring the locals to the Church of Latter-day Saints. 

In a show where even a  Spooky Mormon hell dream is full of glitz, glamour and so many sparkles, there isn't really anything more I could ask for! 



Saturday 1 November 2014

Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap

Sixty two years on, The Mousetrap is still managing to draw in vast audiences. Currently playing at St Martin's Theatre, this play was adapted from one of Agatha Christie's short radio play written in honour of Queen Mary's eightieth birthday. 

As you expect from Agatha Christie, The Mousetrap is a 'who dun it' style play. Perhaps one of the main reasons this play is still so successful is that it is one of Theatreland's best kept secrets. Those who have seen this play are part of an exclusive group who know 'who dun it' but keep it strictly between themselves. 

The play takes place place in a guest house in the 1950s. Inn owners Mollie and Giles Ralston get ready to welcome their first guests. First to arrive is young, eccentric Christopher Wren, soon followed by grumpy old Mrs Boyle. Next to arrive is the interesting Major Metcalf and the mysterious Miss Casewell. Just as all the guests settle in, a mysterious unexpected guest arrives, Mr Paravinci, who claims his car overturned in the snow.

With so many quirky strangers trapped together in the snow storm, it doesn't take long until matters turn dark...

Secrecy, lies and a skiing detective determine the outcome of this play. Although it is a murder mystery, it has moments of humour and silliness with a fantastic twist ending. 


In the Heights

Back in the summer of 2014 the small intimate theatre, Southwark Playhouse, played host to Lin-Manuel Miranda's lively Latin fiesta, In the Heights. Although this show is long gone, having finished its run June 7th, it still deserves some recognition as I would be more than happy to see it have a long term return to the West End. Over the last year there have been rumors implying that In the Heights could hit the silver screen but latest updates suggest project has been abandoned. Personally I would love to see that idea rekindled. 

In the Heights focuses on the largely Latino Barrio of Washington Heights in New York City. The show opens on Usnavi, the local shop owner struggling to keep his business afloat with a horrendous heatwave and a broken fridge. Usnavi has his eye on Vanessa, who currently works in the hair salon, with local gossips Daniella and Carla, but dreams of moving out of the barrio and onto greater things. 

The community cab company is owned by a Puerto Rican immigrant, who came to America with nothing. He will do anything to support his family, especially his daughter Nina who has gone to College. Nina comes home for a visit and sparks begin to fly with cab worker Benny. Every tight knit community needs a loving abuela (grandmother) Claudia, the old lady who lives in the Barrio and treats all the other residents as family. 

In a small community with huge dreams, the residents start to wonder how their problems might be solved if they win the $96,000 lottery... 

Lin-Manuel Miranda shows great strengths in his Hip-Hop and Rap skills in songs such as the title song, In the Heights and in 96,000. Songs like Paciencia y Fe (Patience and Faith), The Club and Carnaval del Barrio provide the feisty Latin rhythm that will have you looking up your local salsa club. 

Indeed, if you are like me and can't resist a Latin beat, I recommend finding any YouTube video from this show as Drew McOnie's choreography is absolutely outstanding.

As such an up-beat musical, it would be amazing to see it return to the London stage.  

Check out the trailer from the Broadway show!

Thursday 30 October 2014

Miss Saigon

Playing at the Prince Edward Theatre, Miss Saigon follows the life of one seventeen year old girl whose village and family were destroyed during the Vietnam war. After being brought to work for the Engineer, a sleazy Saigon bar manager, she meets Chris, an American GI and the two soon fall in love.

From the team behind Les Miserables, Miss Saigon returns to the West End 25 years after its first appearance in 1989 with Lea Salonga as Kim.

Eva Noblezada, is a fresh faced American actress who makes her debut in this production, very much mirroring the choice for the original Kim. She beautifully portrays youthful innocence yet as the show progresses she grows stronger in her character. Her voice shows just how young she is but this works in her favour as she does not struggle much emotion she puts behind every word.

The Engineer provides the comic relief for this show. The greasy bar owner who pimps out Vietnamese girls to American GIs. The Engineer is obsessed with the 'American dream' and will try at all costs to make his way to America. Played by Jon Jon Briones, his big song The American dream is highly entertaining to watch as he is so disillusioned by the glitz and glamour of his dream.

American GI, Chris, played by Alistair Brammer  often appeared quite reserved in his emotions unless it was anger. Luckily for Brammer he had enough opportunities to act out his anger, most spectacular being while he sang Why God Why? where he starts to realise there is more to Saigon than the war. Without spoiling the plot, there is a certain point at the end of the show where his reaction was not strong enough and needed a lot more power.

Chris' GI friend, John played by, Hugh Maynard is not particularly likable in the first act. John opens the second act with Bui Doi, a song informing an audience of the children affected by a war torn Vietnam. Maynard's take on the song is stunningly chilling and really conveying his pain. This completely redeemed his character from act one.

Another bar girl, Gigi played by Rachelle Ann Go deserves to be acknowledged for her solo in the song The Movie in my Mind. Before seeing Miss Saigon this was a name that was circling around due to the sheer talent in this woman's voice and every word is completely justifiable. An absolutely sensational performance!

Once again Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel SchÖnberg team up to create music and lyrics that are simply unforgettable and completely flawless. The choreography is absolutely exquisite too.

Just a wholehearted performance from all the cast and crew!


Click here to get your tickets now!

Jonah and Otto


In typical Robert Holman fashion, Jonah and Otto tells the story of two strangers, from different generations, who form an unlikely bond. Each seems to be compensating for a family member they wished to have in their lives. 

Old clergyman, Otto and young father, Jonah meet one day on the East Sussex Coast when the younger catches the old man feeling the walls of the coast's public park. Jonah then attempts to steal money from Otto, holding a knife to his neck. The two then spend the day together discussing matter of family, love and lust. 

Holman is clearly aware of the basic needs of the human psyche and society's need to pry into the lives of others. Perhaps this is what makes the play so fascinating to watch since the play invites audiences to intrude into the inner most thoughts of these two men.

The relationship between the two is quite ambiguous. Otto appears to be trying to find his faith again by becoming a fatherly figure to Jonah, as if to say if he is capable of finding love then he is worthy of God's love too. Likewise, Jonah finds himself unable to resist opening up to Otto in a way a son might speak to his own father. 

Peter Egan, played Otto as a  tired and frail old man. Losing hope and with countless regrets, he projects his lost youthful desires onto Jonah. 

Alex Waldmann, gave a captivating performance as Jonah. A troubled young man, managing to cross every emotion in the short time span of this play. Around Otto he was angry and childlike but when he was taking care of his six week old daughter, he went under a complete transformation. 

Jonah was a very relatable character for the younger generation. In a post university life, he faces the struggles of instability of finding his way in the 'real world'. 

Although at times the power battle between the two simply resulted in frustrated cussing, it was incredibly interesting to see how two strangers could find the right words to say to bring the other to confess their deepest, most secret thoughts. 

Playing until November 23rd 2014. 

Click here to get your tickets now!

Theatreland's Walking Tours

For someone who is so keen on the ins an outs of the theatrical world, the one thing I have still to do is one of SOLT and Secret London Walks's Walking Tours.

This tour takes you around the streets of London from Soho to the Strand and lets you in on the secrets of the theaters. Combining the old with the new, the tour guides know all the history behind the theatres and all the facts about the current shows playing. 

Normally these tours take place on a few Sundays during England's warmer months. However wrap up warm as Theatreland tours are back and this time you'll be looking over your shoulder every step of the way... 

On every Sunday from the 26th October to the 7th December at 6pm from a Central London location you can join the Haunted Theatreland tour. You'll never look at Theatreland the same way again as you creep down back alleys and learn the horrible histories and gruesome ghost stories of the West End. 

At only £10 a ticket it seems like the perfect Halloween outing!

Click here for more information!

Tuesday 30 September 2014

CALLING AMATEUR BLOGGERS AGED BETWEEN 16 AND 23!

It has come to that time where the Birmingham Hippodrome must find their next group of First Night Bloggers.

Just one click anywhere on this blog will show you the range of events I had the pleasure of attending and the shear variety of theatre that the Hippodrome has to offer.


If you're thinking of a career in journalism and more specifically theatre journalism or criticism then it is definitely worth applying. It is immensely fun and you gain so many invaluable skills too!


Some of my highlights from this experience were the many musicals such as Fiddler on the roof, Evita, Buddy & Wicked. I laughed out loud at One Man Two Guvnors and sat in awed silence when Michael Morpurgo read his bestselling War Horse to an intimate audience. 


I also attended some shows that I wouldn't have necessarily chosen to see such as Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake  and WNO's Boulevard Solitude. I realised that you can never write off an entire genre because it might just surprise you!



If you are still not convinced then here are some of the shows you could be looking forward to reviewing this year!





Ready to apply now?

Click here for more details and how to apply

DEADLINE IS MONAY OCTOBER 6TH 10AM

Good Luck!

Friday 11 July 2014

Wicked - Flying into Birmingham 9th July - 6th Sept


Based on Gregory Maguire's first adult novel  Wicked, the show with the same name has flown into the Birmingham Hippodrome for the summer. This feel good show provides a whole range of emotions from curtain up to curtain down with a multitude of fantastic songs by musical genius Stephen Schwartz such as Popular, One Short Day, Defying Gravity and For Good. 


Normally played by Niki Davis- Jones (recently announced to be playing Elphaba at London's Apollo
Victoria) in this performance Elphaba was played by Jemma Alexander who made a fantastic Elphaba. Although at times her voice could have been better suited for Glinda, when she belted she simply blew the audience away.  



Emily Tierney played the ditzy but good-hearted G(a)linda. She sang each of her songs beautifully and gracefully showed the transition of Galinda the selfish, shallow and ditzy Queen B, perfectly shown through the song Popular, to the sweet, caring, Glinda the Good who's moral compass truly shines through the song For Good. 


The air-headed Fiyero played by Liam Doyle chooses dancing through life until something more wickedly wonderful comes along. The perfect romantic,chivalrous, hero with the fantastic voice and the greatest dancer. 


Marilyn Cutts played Shiz headteacher Madame Morrible and there seems no coincidence that her name is only one letter off 'Horrible'. A perfectly executed character the audience love to hate. The Wizard played by Dale Rapley is not as wonderful as we are made to believe in The Wizard of Oz. Although the wizard may not be so wonderful Rapley most definitely is. Rapley also played Dr Dillamond, the last Animal on the shiz faculty. 


Nessarose is Elphaba's 'tragically beautiful' younger sister and played by Carina Gillespie. Probably better known the Wizard of Oz fans as the Wicked witch of the East, there is more to her than meets the eye. Beautiful, sweet and innocent. Nessa is in love with Boq played by, George Ure, a munchkin desperate for the attention of Galinda. Both characters are victims of circumstance and the skillful actors effortlessly show the changes that overcome their student life innocence. 


The Ensemble and Swing are perfect accompaniments to this production and each and everyone brings something special to this show. 


The costumes for this show designed by, Susan Hilferty are some of the most beautiful, extravagant, glitzy costumes in theatre!

One of my favourite shows! Thank you for such an amazing year Birmingham Hippodrome! Perfect end to the perfect year!

Check out the trailer here!


Click here to find your tickets!
OR
Click here to see when Wicked is flying into your town!


Tuesday 24 June 2014

Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story 23-28 June


Back to celebrate 25 years on the stage Buddy - The Buddy Holly Story has embarked on a UK tour. Over the 25 years there have been 20,500 performances seeing 185,000 guitar strings replaced and over 203,00 plectrums used. Most importantly 40 pairs of Buddy's defining glasses. 

The cast rocks some of Buddy Holly's most well known hits such as That'll Be The Day, Peggy Sue, Oh Boy and Rave On. 

Buddy follows the short yet memorable career of Buddy Holly who paved the way for the future of Rock 'n' Roll. The audience follows his unsteady rise to fame all the way to his famous final performance at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa before his tragic death at the young age of 22. Although his career only lasted 18 months, it has been continuously echoed and been paid tribute to by huge stars ever since. 

 The role of Buddy is shared between Glen Joseph and Roger Rowley. Glen Joseph is such a rock star, commanding the attention of the audience even once the show has finished. A flawless Buddy highlighting the unconventional youthful geekiness of Holly with the larger than life talent.

Buddy is joined by two other iconic Rock 'n' Roll musicians The Big Bopper played by Jason Blackwater and Ritiche Valens played by Will Pearce both have such powerful stage presence and despite having been born about 40 years later I was easily whisked back to 1959. 

 Maria Elena, Buddy's wife played by Viviene Smith is the sweet young bride who despite only knowing her husband for a matter of hours shows her utmost loyalty to him. Even today the real Maria Elena stands behind this production. 

The Crickets Joe played by Scott Haining and Jerry played by Adam Flynn nicely complemented Buddy as they matched his lovable geekiness but tremendous musical talent.

The Two Apollo performers Lydia Fraser and Miguel Angel give an extraordinary rendition of the famous song Shout. I definitely spotted audience members dancing along.



The two managers we meet in the show  Hipockets Duncan played by Shaun Hennessy and Norman Petty played by Peter Kenworthy contrasted each other quite nicely. Hipockets plays by the rules and gives his listeners good clean country music. Petty on the other hand, gives Buddy the creative freedom that paved the way for his stardom.

Vi Petty played by Sarah Mahony is the perfect wife. She's always got the coffee ready but also steps in to add an extra little touch to The Crickets' music.

Equally Jackdaw played by Alex Marshall was a great addition to The Crickets, helping make their music even greater.

The upbeat atmosphere on stage seeped into the audience as memories appeared to flood back and audience members were joining in with the well known songs and dancing and clapping the whole way through. It really gives a show credit when the audience feels they can join in and be part of the show rather than sat quietly and clap politely after each song. 

Even though my knowledge of 50s Rock 'n' Roll is quite limited I was on my feet at the end too. 


Buddy is only on at the Hippodrome for a limited period so click here to get your tickets now!

Alternatively if you are not in Birmingham click here to find out when Buddy is coming to your city!


Check out the trailer!



Monday 23 June 2014

Hippodrome Plus - Summer in Southside Sat 9th, 16, 23rd & Sun 24th August


Living in Britain we should take every opportunity to enjoy the unfamiliar summer sun. This summer, apart from the special shows coming to the Hippodrome's main stage, there are plenty of other events (dance, circus, music & many others) taking place along the streets and in the squares in the city. Not convinced yet? Well it's FREE... 

Hippodrome Plus is looking for volunteers for Summer in Southside this summer:

"We are now looking for enthusiastic volunteers to join the team making Summer in Southside 2014 a truly memorable experience. If you would like to meet new people, make a difference in the community, or are looking for something to add to your C.V - join our team!"
 Take your pick of a range of roles needed for this festival team, including:

  • Event promotion 
  • Stewarding
  • Assisting the artists directly.
You will receive compulsory World Class Service training in Outdoor Arts and certification of your volunteering hours. You will also recieve training prior to the event, to ensure that full supervision is given throughout the volunteering period.

If you would like to be involved you must be free to volunteer on at least two of these days: Sat 9 Aug, Sat 16 Aug, Sat 23 Aug and Sun 24 Aug 2014

If you enjoy being part of the team for this event, there is a chance to be involved in other events with other arts organisations as part of Birmingham Arts Bank Volunteer Scheme. 


If you want to apply CLICK HERE it will only take about five minutes to fill out!

Applicants must be over 18 on July 1st 2014 to volunteer. 

Applications close July 18th 2014


Tuesday 27 May 2014

One Man Two Guvnors 26th May - 31st May


Probably the definition of a feelgood show, One Man Two Guvnors based on The Servant of Two Masters by Carlo Goldoni. Is bound to have audiences in fits of laughter night after night. 

Francis Henshall, who has been fired from his skiffle band, becomes minder to a man who is recently believed to be dead, Roscoe Crabbe. 'Roscoe' is really his twin sister Rachel who is undercover as her boyfriend Stanley Stubbers is Roscoe's murderer. Lead by his appetite Henshall takes on a second guvnor, Stanley Stubbers but he can not let either of his two guvnors know that he is one man with two guvnors. Piece of cake obviously...   

Lead by Gavin Spokes as Francis Henshall, the cast effortlessly keep the laughter rolling from start to finish. Spokes does in incredible job keeping the audience entertained through both physical comedy and apparent ad-libbing. He forms a special bond with audiences, not one you are likely to forget. 

Henshall has his eyes on Dolly, secretary to the father of Roscoe's betrothed (until he died of course) played remarkably by Emma Barton. She's a saucy northerner with a high beehive and high heels who knows exactly what she wants. 

Alicia Davies as Rachel Crabbe and Patrick Warner as Stanley Stubbers each provide a surprising yet impressive toughness to the show. Davies who is disguised as Roscoe for most of the play easily intimidates Charlie Clench (who would have been Roscoe's future father in law). Warner who gives the impression of a upper class, boarding school taught  kind of man who does not seem capable of harming a fly is in fact a murderer. 


Roscoe's future wife, Pauline Clench played by Jasmyn Banks, is a ditzy blonde who does not seemt o understand what it happening most of the play. She is in love with Alan, played by Edward Hancock, A wannabe actor who is melodramatic over everything that happens and anything he says.  Of course this bizarre pairing had the audience head over heels easily. 

Every character has their own charm and their own way of keeping the audience laughing from the not too bright Charlie 'the Duck' Clench played by Shaun Williamson, Alan's lawyer father, Harry Dangle, David Verrey to Alfie the old man who has bad luck and is very accident prone, played by  Michael Dylan and his waiter companion Gareth, played by Elliot Harper. 


The Craze provides the a perfect accompaniment to the show. If you don't feel like you're in the sixties when you walk in, their music will whiz you back in time no problem. 

Between the charming cast, farcical humor and fantastic music this is most definitely not one to be missed.

Check out the trailer!


Click here to buy your tickets!

Or

Click here to see when it is coming to a theatre near you!


Monday 26 May 2014

Breakin Convention

Dance Consortium returns once again to the Hippdrome with a Hip Hop festival,celebrating both local and international groups. As soon as we entered we were greeted with an array of talents from the smallest and youngest, who looked all sweet and innocent until they hit the dance floor, to the older dancers who left our jaws dropped open wide, and then we went into the auditorium…
Hosts Pilgrim and Footloose wandered between floors where Hippodrome had become homage to hip hop. Level One saw DJs JamFu and Khan Fu playing the best of b-boy breaks, funk and hip hop accompanied by any dancer who was brave enough to strut their stuff in front of an eager audience.
Level 2 was hosted by Red Beard and was a ground for any budding DJ or MC to show their talents but of course also performances from the professionals.
On Level 3 you would find the hip hop market place selling customised hats by Flake as well as local hip hop clothing, records, retailers and various other offers. Shop while accompanied with the music of DJ Silence.
The rowdiness in the auditorium showed a sense of community between the performers and the audience.
Between each performance the two hosts Jonzi D and Madflow kept the audience entertained and spirits high.


Dance Nuvo took their inspiration from the film Sliding Doors, which shows the effects of every decision we make in life and how they affect our overall direction. A Midlands based group providing a range of opportunities for anyone with a passion for street dance. This young troop provided an entertaining and thought- provoking performance.

Jigsaw, a duo whose performance told the story of a break up. The Birmingham based twosome told a great narrative through their dance.
In true spirit of Breakin convention, B-Girl Terra & Eddie feat Soul Mavericks showed audiences through their name sake that within every soul there is a maverick side that does not feel the need to conform to cultural and social expectations. Each member highlights their individuality through their dance. The B-Girls Terra and Eddie both shocked audiences with such big talent coming out of such small people.
NuProjeks, gave insight to the mind of an individual through an ordinary day. The company trains young people to develop their talents and clearly they have been doing a great job at it.
ILL-Abilities combines the talents of five men from the USA, Canada, Holland and Chile who each overcame their disabilities to pursue their passions. A truly inspiring piece called No Excuses, No Limits shows audiences that there is nothing to stop them from achieving their dreams.
Ukweli Roach opened the second half. Their narrative told of the inner struggles of addiction and follows one man's conflicts with himself. Can he overcome his addictions to be the man he wants to be?
Wanted Posse ended the night with a very current topic. They show a time of revolution and through their gang, each was able to show their individuality. Indeed the perfect end to a perfect night.
Catch Breakin Convention on their tour!

Saturday 17 May 2014

GMTG Presents: The Phantom of the Opera

It was just over a year ago that I wrote my first review for the Hippodrome, on this very show. Therefore it seemed only right that now as I'm heading towards the end of my time at the Hippodrome and at the University of Birmingham that I should return to this show. 

GMTG (Guild Musical Theatre Group) has an ongoing record of putting on spectacular shows every year. I admit I was a bit apprehensive when I heard that the summer show was The Phantom of the Opera. How would they manage the chandelier? What about the boat that famously glides across the stage? I clearly did not give them enough credit as both were incredibly impressive. 

Just briefly for anyone unfamiliar with this Andrew Lloyd Webber classic: The show takes place in an opera house in nineteenth century Paris. When Italian Diva, Carlotta (Joanna Goldspink) refuses to perform, Chorus girl, Christine (Abby Fiddick) is forced to take her place in the spotlight. Christine's voice delights an old childhood friend, Raoul (Thom Udall) but also attracts another man, the Phantom of the Opera (Andy Wilson). 

Phantom is renowned for its strong vocals and the cast absolutely delivers. Joanna Goldspink's strong bold operatic voice is perfect for the role of Carlotta and Abby Fiddick's Christine beautifully contrasts while at times more gentle it is also very powerful. 

Andy Wilson proves the be the ideal Phantom. Flawless vocals aside, he effortlessly switches between the menacing and frightening Phantom who dominates the theatre, to the more vulnerable Phantom who hides from the other characters.His rendition of the well known songs, 'The Phatom of the Opera' and 'The music of the Night' are remarkable.  Thom Udall is a great Raoul and stuns with his take on 'All I Ask of You'. 

Ben Cuffin- Munday, Peter Brooks and Jake Dorell provide the comic relief for this show as the two managers of the theatre Monsieur Firmin and Monsieur André and Carlotta's leading man Ubaldo Piangi. All three have perfectly executed comic timing and easily lighten the mood during the show's darker moments. 

Emily Anderson and Tasha Cotran who play Madame Giry and Meg Giry are both fantastic actresses and fabulous singers. Both gave outstanding performances and were very captivating no matter how many people they shared the stage with.


Although this show is famous for its songs, Emily Bowers and Lorna Newman did an exceptional job with the choreography. It isn't often that I go to see a musical and find myself so focused on the dancers that I forget that there is more going on onstage. 

The 27 piece orchestra were hidden somewhere backstage where phenomenal giving true credit to Lloyd Webber's work. 

I believe that tickets are sold out for tonight but it is completely worth going down to Deb Hall at the Guild in hope of grabbing yourself a ticket. If you can't get hold of one for tonight then at least next time you'll be first in the queue buying your ticket!

Well done to all of GMTG you were absolutely incredible!


Cast: The Phantom: Andy Wilson                                                 Monsieur André: Peter Brooks      
          Christine Daaé: Abby Fiddick                                             Madame Giry: Emily Anderson
          Raoul Vincount de Chagny: Thom Udall                            Meg Giry: Tasha Cotran
          Carlotta iudicelli: Joanna Goldspink                                  Ubaldo Piangi: Jake Dorell
          Monsieur Firmin: Ben Cuffin- Munday                             Joseph Buquet: Forrest Gamba


Dancers: Emily Bowers, Lorna Newman, Melissa-Rose Marsh, Eleanor Rattenbury,                                       Katherine Grayson, Kate Dobbs & Ellen Howard

      

Crew: Director: Megan Probert
                           Musical Director/Producer: Josh Sood
                           Assistant Musical Director: Anthea Ma
                           Producers: Ella Darbyshire & Lucy Sweeney
                           Choreographers: Emily Bowers & Lora Newman
                           Production Assistant: Jacob Lovick
                           Costume Designer: Maysie Chandler. 
                           Lighting Designer/Assistant Stage Manager : Fraser Clenahan. 
                           Stage Manager: Rebecca Maynard. 
                          Assistant Stage Managers: Jessica Thackray, Jade Goddard, Natalia Alyokova,                                                                             Casimira Hayward-Peel, Joe Christopherson.  
                            Photographer: Charlotte Wilson
          

Thursday 10 April 2014

Evita 8th April - 19th April

Evita is one of Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice's classic musicals. It tells the abbreviated story of Eva Peron, the first lady of Argentina from 1946 until her death in 1952. Even for those unfamiliar with this show songs such as; Oh What A Circus, Buenos Aires, Another Suitcase in Another Hall and of course Don't Cry For Me Argentina are sure to ring a bell.


Che was played by Wet, Wet, Wet lead singer Marti Pellow who seems to represent the voices of the Argentinians and at some points even appears to play Eva's conscience. Eva (Madalena Albero) is a poor aspiring actress who moves to Buenos Aires to show off her 'star quality'. Here she meets Argentinian politician Juan Domingo Peron (Mark Heenehan) and through her determination and need to be loved by the masses she campaigns for him to become president.  


 Madalena Alberto's Eva was incredible. Starting as the sassy teenager who is after the glitz and glamour of Buenos Aires to acting the saint to the poor of Argentina when she addresses them in a glittering white dress singing 'Don't Cry for Me Argentina'. Even in Eva's last moments in hospital her version of 'You Must Love Me' is so beautifully sung and really exposes the real Eva. 

Marti Pellow's Che is a bit difficult to follow. Although he played a strong and completely believable voice of the Argentinians (if that indeed was the intention) who Che is actually meant to be was quite unclear as he is quite critical of Eva. At some points it is hard to understand some of the lyrics as he strides around the stage. 

Mark Heeneham's voice is perfect for playing the president as it demands authoritative attention and it most certainly has it. Sarah McNicholas plays the Mistress and presents a phenomenal take on 'Another Suitcase in Another Hall'. Nic Gibney's Magaldi is certainly entertaining and completely captivating. 


The choreography was absolutely flawless with just the right amount of Latin America flare, often completely stealing the show. 

Without a doubt the show was sensational but it would be worth knowing a little bit about the Perons and Argentina during their time before going to see it. 



click here to get your tickets!

Cast: Marti Pellow, Madalen Alberto, Mark Heenehan, Sarah McNicholas, Nic Gibney, Michelle Pentecost (as Eva in some performances), Ensemble: David Brewis, Verity Burgess, Errol Clayton, Joel Elferink, Callum Fitzgerald, Alyn Hawke, Ryan Limb, Joe McCourt, Anna McGarahan, Stuart Maciver, Ceili O'Connor, Lizzie Ottley, Olive Robinson, Chris Stoddart and the children from stagecoach Solihull and Sutton Coldfield.  


Wednesday 12 March 2014

Fiddler on the Roof 11th March - 15th March

Strictly come dancing's beloved Craig Revel Horwood, returns to the theatre to direct and choreograph an old audience favourite, Fiddler on the Roof. This show is so uplifting with plenty of heartfelt, tear brimming moments and of course a multitude of well-known, catchy songs such as; Tradition, Matchmaker, Matchmaker, If I Were a Rich Man, To Life and Sunrise Sunset.




The cast is lead by Paul Michael Glasser who plays Tevye, a poor milkman who lives with is wife and five daughters. Indeed, Glasser is no stranger to this show, having played revolutionary student, Perchik in the 1971 film. The show takes place in the small village of Anatevka in 1905 Tzarist Russia and provides insight to the small Jewish community who live there. Tevye, like most of the community lives his life by tradition and each member of the family knows their place. Tevye's three oldest daughters Tzeitel (Emily O'Keefe), Hodel (Liz Singelton) and Chava, (Claire Petzal) decide to break tradition and marry for love. Tevye must decide between his traditions and his daughters' happiness. Worst of all, he must decide how to tell his wife!


For anyone who is familiar with a Craig Revel Horwood show, they will know that the actors are not only expected to sing, dance and act but they also take on the role of the orchestra while doing so! This was so impressive and really added to the community feel in Anatevka. It also fit is perfectly with the image of the traditional folk musicians. 


It was truly an incredible wholehearted performance from the entire cast. A candid performance which brought with it an array of emotions.

Mazal Tov, Mazal Tov to the whole cast and crew on such a flawless performance!

 


Cast: Tevye - Paul Michael Glasser                Yente/Fruma Sarah - Sussannah Van Den Berg
          Golde - Karen Mann                              Mordecai (Inkeeper/Constable) - Eamonn O'Dwyer  
          Tzeitel - Emily O' Keefe                         Rabbi - Neil Salvage
          Hodel - Liz Singleton                              Mendel (Rabbi's son) - Michael Paver
          Chava - Claire Petzal                             Avram (bookseller) - Tarek Merchant
          Motel - Jon Trenchard                           Sasha - Jeff Smyth
          Perchik - Steven Bor                             Grandma Tzeitel - Lilly Howard     
          Lazar Wolf - Paul Kissaun
          Fyedka - Daniel Bolton
          The Fiddler - Jennifer Douglas

Tickets are very limited! Click here to find out if there are any left!



Friday 7 March 2014

WNO - Boulevard Solitude

The Welsh National Opera's Boulevard Solitude, seems to bring the classical tale of Orpheus and Eurydice into modern France. It is the oldest story in the book. Boy meets girl, boy falls in love with girl, girl keeps slipping from boy's grasp and finally boy loses girl completely... 

As part of WNO's Fallen Women season, Boulevard Solitude, is a modern opera, performed in English that tells the story of Mannon Lescaut (Sarah Tynan), who falls in love with a student, Armand des Grieux (Jason Bridges).Tragically the two can never be together as Manon's brother Lescaut (Benjamin Bevan) is constantly using his sister as a tool to seduce rich men while he steals from them. 

I am never going to be completely comfortable in the audience of an opera but I definitely came close watching this one. It may have been the classicist in me but I found the plot riveting.The way the story reveals the end first and then fills in the gaps was particularly impressive and helped with the general understanding of the plot -for someone who struggles to understand opera. If you have never seen an opera before but would like to, this is definitely a good one to start with. 







Cast: Armand des Grieux - Jason Bridges                    Actors: Justyna Biabwas
          Manon Lescaut - Sarah Tynan                                            Katarzyna Holtra
          Lescaut- Benjamin Bevan                                                   Joanna Jeffries
          Monsieur Lilaque - Adrian Thompson                               Gordon Brandie
          Francis - Alistair Moore                                                      Michal Ciecka
          Young Lilaque - Laurence Cole                                           Nicholas Keegan
          Mr Man - Tomaz Wygoda                                                   Ashley James Orwin




Click here to find out more about WNO's Fallen Women Seaon

Click here to buy your tickets