Saturday 6 July 2019
Fiver, Southwark Playhouse | Review
Fiver
Southwark Playhouse
Reviewed on Friday 5th July 2019 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★★
New British musical by Alex James Ellison and Tom Lees, Fiver follows a humble five pound note as it passes through the hands and pockets of various people in London. Rarely noticed by the person, we see that the fiver is often present in significant life moments. The show is constructed through a series of diverse musical vignettes which explore relationships, struggles, life, love and money.
New British musical by Alex James Ellison and Tom Lees, Fiver follows a humble five pound note as it passes through the hands and pockets of various people in London. Rarely noticed by the person, we see that the fiver is often present in significant life moments. The show is constructed through a series of diverse musical vignettes which explore relationships, struggles, life, love and money.
Watching Fiver is like watching a rom-com, drama, thriller, romance unfurl live in front of your eyes. The intricately woven story is cinematic but intimate at once and really enthrals from start to finish and shows just how the value of a fiver can considerably change under the circumstances it's either given or received in.
Alex James Ellison and Tom Lees have constructed a musically lush score which is not only highly entertaining, but superbly detailed and sophisticated. Featuring a variety of musical influences, each piece is utterly entertaining and engaging. The diverse characters are explored through the twenty-four assorted musical numbers. Each and every song is fantastically composed and the lyrical and musical mastery of Alex and Tom is clear throughout.
This pure delight of a musical is made all the more wonderful by its top notch cast. All playing a number of characters, the five (!) strong cast give masterclasses in characterisation and versatility. Luke Bayer gives poignant and vocally strong performances throughout. Whilst, Dan Buckley shines in both quieter and more booming moments, giving a particularly touching performance during the sweet proposal scene.
Alex James Ellison and Tom Lees have constructed a musically lush score which is not only highly entertaining, but superbly detailed and sophisticated. Featuring a variety of musical influences, each piece is utterly entertaining and engaging. The diverse characters are explored through the twenty-four assorted musical numbers. Each and every song is fantastically composed and the lyrical and musical mastery of Alex and Tom is clear throughout.
This pure delight of a musical is made all the more wonderful by its top notch cast. All playing a number of characters, the five (!) strong cast give masterclasses in characterisation and versatility. Luke Bayer gives poignant and vocally strong performances throughout. Whilst, Dan Buckley shines in both quieter and more booming moments, giving a particularly touching performance during the sweet proposal scene.
Aoife Clesham gives a star is born performance as she leads a number of songs and is especially brilliant during the "surprise" party scene where she brings a whole host of characters to life, and also in Press Hash To Rerecord which is a hugely humourous situation that I'm sure many audience members can relate to (though perhaps not quite to Aoife's level). Multi-talented Alex James Ellison acts as a somewhat omnipresent narrator who oversees proceedings as the busker who puts the fiver into circulation. His fast diction, cheeky personality and dynamic stage presence bring the show to life and put a smile on your face.
Hiba Elchikhe's beautifully toned voice soars in her electric performance and her adaptability is ever clear through her many characters and emotions. Through their solo moments, duets, trios, quartets and quintets, this cast bring every second of Fiver to life and create a truthful, resonant and truly admirable show.
With Justin Williams' simple but effective set which features a magical cupboard that adapts for each scene, Alex Musgrave's homely, atmospheric lighting and the fantastic band led by Tom Lees, Fiver really provides everything you could wish for in a new, British, contemporary, relevant musical.
A two hour delight, I predict that this Fiver’s Destiny is huge success and an incredible future of magnificent story telling. Go see this show, tell all your friends to see it and make Fiver the hit it deserves to be!
Fiver runs at the Southwark Playhouse until 20th July 2019
photo credit: Danny Kaan
Hiba Elchikhe's beautifully toned voice soars in her electric performance and her adaptability is ever clear through her many characters and emotions. Through their solo moments, duets, trios, quartets and quintets, this cast bring every second of Fiver to life and create a truthful, resonant and truly admirable show.
With Justin Williams' simple but effective set which features a magical cupboard that adapts for each scene, Alex Musgrave's homely, atmospheric lighting and the fantastic band led by Tom Lees, Fiver really provides everything you could wish for in a new, British, contemporary, relevant musical.
A two hour delight, I predict that this Fiver’s Destiny is huge success and an incredible future of magnificent story telling. Go see this show, tell all your friends to see it and make Fiver the hit it deserves to be!
Fiver runs at the Southwark Playhouse until 20th July 2019
photo credit: Danny Kaan
Friday 5 July 2019
Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky on Taking Her Version of Rizzo on Tour in Grease the Musical | Interview
Grease is the epitome of a cult-classic musical, after various revivals and reinventions, there's a new tour taking over the country. In this refreshed production, Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky takes on the iconic role of Rizzo and took the time to chat to us all about the experience...
Tell us a bit about your career and highlights so far?
My first job out of college was cover Nabalungi/Swing in The Book Of Mormon (West End). I stayed there for a year and had the best time there. I then went into Bat Out Of Hell as ensemble/1st Cover Zahara. I have been so lucky to have the experiences I had and the memories I made on both of those jobs. We performed for Prince Harry, performed at Proms in the Park in front of thousands. Mental really. I’m now performing as Rizzo in Grease the UK and Ireland Tour and am having the time of my life. I’m so grateful for the career I’ve had so far.
You finished performing in Bat Out Of Hell at the beginning of the year which featured the iconic Jim Steinman music. Grease is a cult favourite, what’s it like bringing these well-loved songs and characters to life?
It has been amazing learning and performing this well-loved musical. I grew up with Grease, my family and I watched it pretty much every weekend, I used to sing Hopelessly Devoted To You and There Are Worse Things I Could Do to my teddies in my room haha! So to be performing in it every night really is a dream come true. I never tire of the music and it’s been amazing getting to put my own stamp on the characters, particularly Rizzo.
Rizzo is a very layered character, which sides of her are you most excited to discover and perform?
Rizzo is a very layered character indeed. I wanted to try and explore as much of her as I can, and I’m still learning about her every performance I do. I love getting to play the fun, nonchalant side of her seen in Look At Me I’m Sandra Dee as well as the heartbroken side of her in There Are Worse Things I Could Do.
Does this production stick true to expectations from the movie?
This production still has the fun loving elements from the film; however the creative team have really encouraged us to focus on the truth of the story. We are working class teenagers growing up in the 50s facing all sorts of problems such as body image, love triangles and pressures to fit into society. It’s a lot grittier than the film.
What part of touring are you most excited about?
It’s my first tour so I’m super excited to get on the road. I think I’m most excited about seeing other parts of the country and exploring. I love travelling!
If you could play any other character in the show, who would you play?
If I could play any other character in the show it would have to be Kenickie. He is just so bloody cool! He also sings Greased Lightnin’ and that gets me pumped every time I hear it.
What’s the last thing you do before you step out on stage?
The last thing I do before I step on stage is usually drink some water, have a mint and take a couple of breaths just to focus myself. I start the show in the first wing on my own so it usually gives me time to get myself together and focus on the show.
You have a five minute break in rehearsals, what are you doing?
If I have 5 minutes in rehearsals I would probably be eating, ha! Or recapping dance steps usually.
What’s a fun fact that people might not know about you?
If I wasn’t an actress I would love to be a journalist. I love writing and talking to people. I have short novels that I have written at a young age in my room.
What’s your best piece of advice for an aspiring performer?
LOVE WHAT YOU DO! Keep yourself healthy and keep learning. Never stop working hard. See as much theatre as you can to keep your motivation going.
Grease is currently touring the UK and Ireland, information and tickets can be found here
Interview by Editor, Olivia Mitchell
photo credit: Manuel Harlan
The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13 and 3/4 – The Musical, Ambassadors Theatre | Review
The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13 and 3/4
Ambassadors Theatre
Reviewed on Wednesday 3rd July 2019 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★
This joyous musical is based on the first book of Sue Townsend's well-loved series of the same name. Featuring music and lyrics by Pippa Cleary and book and lyrics by Jake Brunger, it's a marvellous gem of a show, that is truthful, optimistic and a whole lot of fun.
As the school holidays begin, this is the ideal family show, with humour for both adults and children, as well as universal issues that are delivered in a fresh, colourful way. The small Ambassadors theatre is a perfect fit, as it feels intimate and intricate at once. The audience are transported to the Mole's family home and whisked up in the trials of being 13 and 3/4.
Luke Sheppard has managed to capture a true warmth with this production. From start to finish there is a perfect balance between truthful characters and caricatures of real life people, and the heart never waivers. The cast do an exceptional job of encapsulating what it means to grow up. Rufus Kampa leads the show with a fantastic combination of awkwardness and charisma. Kampa instantly draws the audience in and gives a performance very truthful of a young teen. In contrast, new girl at school and love interest Pandora (Rebecca Nardin), is confident and over the top in all the best ways. Nardin provides stellar vocals, bright eyes and a very well characterised performance.
The whole cast are very impressive, with Jeremiah Davan Waysome giving a charming performance as Adrian's best friend Nigel. Amy Ellen Richardson is tender and witty as Adrian's mum, Pauline and John Hopkins is hytrical as Mr Scruton and Mr Lucas.
With Rebecca Howell's choreography which fills the stage, Tom Rodger's slickly designed set which features beds coming out of cupboards, the on the ball cast and highly catchy songs, this is a Brilliantly British show.
The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13 and 3/4 is an expressive and animated production, full of heart and energy. The superb cast deliver humourous one liners and more emotional moments with grace and truth, and bring the vivacious score to life well. It's definitely a must-see for families this summer and is sure to delight throughout its run.
photo credit: Pamela Raith
Tuesday 2 July 2019
Dirty Dancing (UK Tour), Bristol Hippodrome | Review
Dirty Dancing (UK Tour)
London Palladium
Reviewed on Monday 1st July 2019 by Emma Gradwell
★★★
It is the summer of 1963. Frances "Baby" Houseman is on holiday with her parents and sister at Kellerman's, a holiday resort in the mountains owned by a family friend. The mundane entertainment leaves Baby disinterested and she is quickly distracted by the underground evening activities enjoyed by the staff. Baby's desire to help leads her to having a crash course in Latin Dancing to cover the tracks for her new friends and to learn some life lessons as she grows from a naive girl into a confident and sensual woman.
Katie Eccles is sweet as Baby and her scenes with Michael O'Reilly as Johnny range from comedic to sultry. As a couple the chemistry builds slowly as the characters become better acquainted. There are times that movement and dialogue seem forced and exaggerated for effect in a way that is unnecessary.
The dancing, choreographed by Gillian Bruce is expertly performed. Dirty Dancing is certainly a dance led production and Simone Covele as Penny gives a stand out performance. The energy hits its highs during the group performances, which is when the show is at its best, peaking with the finale - and that lift!
There are times when the acting seems not as effortless as the movement, but this is not a complicated story and the show is driven by the dance. Lizzie Otley puts her own spin as Lisa Houseman during the Hula number and provides an unforced comic moment that stands out.
Dirty Dancing - The Classic Story on Stage is a faithful retelling of the much loved film. Costumes designed by Jennifer Irwin are near enough identical to their on screen counterparts and Federico Bellone's production is almost word for word as it is on screen. This makes for a nostalgic revisiting to a familiar story for many who grew up in the 80's and hold a special place in their hearts for Baby and Johnny. Roberto Comotti's rotating set design is vast and ambitious. Combined with Valerie Tiberi's lighting design which expertly uses projection to bring to life Johnny and Baby's lake lift.
This is not traditional musical theatre and it is not marketed as such. Very few of the main characters sing and most vocal performances are sung alongside the story with a live band on stage with them, which is a nice touch. Much of the score is pre-recorded classics from the era and I would have preferred live performances.
Dirty Dancing is an enduringly popular brand and the latest touring offering should keep fans satisfied.
photo credit: Alastair Muir
Saturday 29 June 2019
On Your Feet!, London Coliseum | Review
On Your Feet
London Coliseum
Reviewed on Thursday 27th July 2019 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★★
The long summer nights are here and it's the perfect time for a fun, high energy musical that will have you tapping your toes and feeling good. Thankfully On Your Feet! is here to provide just that. Despite a flimsy plot, there's fun to be had, lights to dazzle and latin sounds to ensure you leave the theatre smiling.
Taking us from her childhood in Cuba, through her recording career and her near fatal accident, On Your Feet! is a real celebration of Gloria Estefan's career and determination, and is a real reminder to always stand up for what we believe in. The cast are as enthusiastic and sharp as you would hope, and provide some highly exciting moments, especially when dancing Sergio Trujillo's fiery choreography. Particularly impressive is the sandal tap dance which really wows and creates a rousing wall of sound that is fantastic to see and hear.
The main downfall of the musical is certainly Alexander Dinelaris' book which lacks much depth or emotional drama. Many of the more intense emotional scenes are quickly brushed over and it's not until act two that we really become absorbed in the story. Of course this is real life and it's the music of Gloria Estefan that we are celebrating, but there are several moments where the pacing feels too slow and too little happens. However, the scenes where Gloria and her mother are at odds with one another and when there is conflict between the Estefans and their record producer, are great at highlighting Gloria and Emilio's grit and the limited book is all performed well.
The direction by Jerry Mitchell does feel basic at times and sometimes highlights the flaws in the book, but he rightly places the wonderful music of Gloria and Miami Sound Machine at the heart of the musical. The high energy songs, including the Conga and On Your Feet make the audience feel uplifted and energised. It's hard not to feel swept up by the glorious Latin rhythms that make you want to grab a cocktail and swirl around.
Leading lady Christie Prades is confident and engaging in her performance. She delivers a performance which never waivers in energy or commitment; and vocals which wow and engage. Prades' chemistry with George Ioannides as Emilio Estefan is wonderfully nuanced and believable. George also provides strong vocals, which falter at times but mostly maintain the suave Latin feel. Karen Mann as Conseulo is delightfully entertaining as she pushes Gloria to achieve her dreams in any way she can, even if that includes bribing a club owner with Empanadas! Meanwhile, Madalena Alberto is sharp (and a vocal powerhouse) as she portrays Gloria's mother who begrudges her daughter, but of course, loves her regardless. Ensemble standouts include Dawnita Smith and Francesca Lara Gordon who catch the eye as they perform each moment with power and perfection. Little Gloria Emily Perra is also fantastic, with a magnetic stage presence and beautiful vocals.
The onstage band bring every song to life with an enthusiasm which radiates off the stage. Emilio Soso's floaty, colourful costumes just add to the party feel of the piece, as does Kenneth Posner's bold, bright lighting. Both aspects are equally strong when they dim themselves to fit the more emotive, atmospheric moments.
Overall On Your Feet! is an entertaining delight of a show. The book is hugely lacking but for fans of Gloria Estefan it's a perfect portrayal of her life and music. Transport yourself to the Miami sun and take a journey through the lives of Gloria and Emilio.
On Your Feet! is booking at the London Coliseum until August 31st
photo credit: Johan Persson
Thursday 27 June 2019
Bare: A Pop Opera, The Vaults | Review
Bare: A Pop Opera
The Vaults
Reviewed on Wednesday 26th June 2019 by Olivia Mitchell
★★★
Bare is a pop-rock chronicle of ill-fated gay love at a Roman Catholic boarding school. It focusses on issues including bullying, depression, homophobia and stigmatisation. The score is often touching and intricate and the young cast mostly do a fantastic job of performing it earnestly.
Having premiered off-Broadway and receiving various productions around the world, the show has gained a considerable cult following so this London production has been highly anticipated. Showing at Waterloo's Vaults, the theatrical experience is somewhat immersive as the action comes at you from all angles. Whilst most of the time this is effective, at moments the novelty of peering through heads to see what's going on does wear off, and the large, long stage feels underused.
Personally the pacing of this show is what lets it down. Act one is all about the set up and then everything major happens in act two. For this reason there are times, especially in the first half, where you feel uninvested. However, there are moments which stand out, namely Georgie Lovatt who is making her professional debut in the show, before she graduates. Her touching and humourous portrayal of Nadia is marvellous to see and she provides outstanding vocals to match.
Lizzie Emery gives a well rounded performance as Ivy and beautifully highlights the internal struggles many people face growing up. Her well nuanced performance is furthered by her fantastic solo, All Grown Up in act 2 which is a goosebump-inducing vocal powerhouse moment. Tom Hier is wonderfully motivated as Matt and gives a magnetic performance whenever he is on stage.
As the lead couple, Daniel Mack Shand (Peter) and Darragh Crowley (Jason) have a simmering relationship. Whilst facing the struggles of being oppressed for their sexuality and struggling to come out to those around them, it's clear they are trying to use their love to keep them grounded. Whilst there are moments of clear affection between them, most of the time they feel a little disconnected. The audience never really see a pure moment of love between them all because there's always something going on with them. Whilst of course this is partly the point, it does mean we root for the pair less. However, Darragh Crowley's performance is excellent both vocally and acting wise.
Andrew Ellis' lighting is effective, mostly so in the second act. The angelic murals on the wall are lit up at crucial times and the contrasts between cool and warm are well done.
Overall this is a musical of two halves. The performances are strong and the music itself is extremely clever and mostly engaging, but at the same time there are moments that drag. For fans of Bare this is a must to tick off your list, but I suspect it will be a bit of a marmite show.
photo credit: Tom Grace
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