Posts with the label Andrew Lloyd-Webber
Showing posts with label Andrew Lloyd-Webber. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Andrew Lloyd-Webber. Show all posts
Monday, 20 May 2019
School of Rock, Gillian Lynne Theatre | Review
School of Rock
Gillian Lynne Theatre
Reviewed on Wednesday 15th May 2019 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★
School of Rock is one of those cult films that are genuinely wonderful. Funny, sweet and a crowd pleaser, the 2003 Jack Black hit transfers well to stage and provides and entertaining night out for all ages.
The musical follows Dewey Finn (Craig Gallivan) a wannabe rockstar, who's been kicked out of his band and somewhat accidentally becomes a substitute teacher for a prestigious prep school. Struggling to teach anything, he soon realises he can connect with the children through music and opens their eyes to the one subject he's well versed in- Rock!
From here on in music making and mischief ensue with the children sneaking around behind their prim principle Rosalie Mullins (Laura Tebbutt) and covering their tracks from their parents as they attempt to win the Battle of the Bands contest.
As Dewey, Craig Gallivan fantastically helms the somewhat formulaic musical; with an undeniable magnetism that does Jack Black proud whilst bringing his own spin on the larger than life rocker. Barely leaving the stage, Gallivan's portrayal is energetic and hugely memorable and he provides face-melting singing as well as a marvellously humourous performance.
As cliched as the character is, Laura Tebbutt brings Mozart singing Rosalie Mullins to life in a delightfully charming and comic way. Her characterisation is very well developed and her vocal performance is a diamond moment in the show. Tebbutt's solo number Where Did the Rock Go? is a plaintive ballad performed with pipes of steel and a real oomph.
Though well performed, the prologue of the show before the children begin performing does feel over extended and it takes some time for the musical to really perk up. However, when the young actor-musicians take the stage, the Gillian Lynne theatre comes alive with unrivalled talents. Ensemble numbers School of Rock and Stick It to the Man are particular stand outs.
The Horace Green students are a live in person advert for talent as they rock out on stage with the skill you'd expect of those much their senior. Will Tarpey is a complete stand out as the band's stylist Billy. Emoting every second and earning laughs from the audience left, right and centre he is a real superstar who knows how to own and work a stage. Amelie Green is witty as stuck-up Summer and Caspar Lloyd is wonderful as Lawrence. Nayan Gupta is completely fantastic when he showcases his superb musical talents as Freddy. Special mention must go to Jasper Bew who is out of this world as Zack, giving a performance to rival most adults and completely rocking the stage.
There are lulling moments in this production but it does manage to capture the heartwarming nature and humour that we all love from the film. As well as being a fun night out, School of Rock highlights the importance and power of music and is sure to bring a smile to your face and a tap to your toes.
Book tickets from School of Rock from www.londonboxoffice.co.uk
Saturday, 9 December 2017
Evita (UK Tour), Palace Theatre Manchester | Review
Evita (UK Tour)
Palace Theatre, Manchester
Reviewed on Thursday 7th December 2017 by Jeni Skirrow
★★★★
Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd-Webber have written some truly captivating, catchy musicals and Evita is of course iconic and no exception to this. An ever popular rags-to-riches type of story based on the life and demise of Eva Peron, wife of Argentine president, Juan Peron. The plot follows her rise to iconic status heralding her as the ‘spiritual leader of the nation’, heroine of the Argentine people, and of course her untimely premature demise.
Straight from the West End, Manchester was privileged to be the first stop in the new twelve month tour of Bill Kenwright’s production. Eva Peron’s role is a demanding performance and Madalena Alberto is mesmerisingly magnificent, with not just unfalteringly consistent vocals, but how beautifully she captures the fledgling radio star’s glamour, seduction, hope and steely desperation. 'Don’t Cry For Me Argentina' is undoubtedly the most highly anticipated song in the show and Madalena’s performance did not fail to give me goose bumps- exquisite. “As for fortune and for fame, I never invited them in”... until the final curtain there’s something very dubious about this statement.
The narrator Che deserves a mention, heroic Gian Marco Schiaretti’s presence (and biceps) were suitably foreshadowing- he is perfect for the role. His strong and versatile performance was a joy to watch.
Each scene was beautifully realised through expert choreography, cleverly slick staging and continual costume changes for Eva, telling a story within itself. This production was everything I hoped it would be and more. Emotional, beautiful and inspiring it was an ideal theatrical experience.
Evita is a moving story, with a mixture of up-beat, high intensity numbers as well as slower, more emotionally moving pieces. This balance and contrast makes it flow smoothly and provides a wonderful night out at the theatre. With beautiful music, great staging and fabulous performances all round, I implore you to get along to this show if you can.
Photo credit: Keith Pattison
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