Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, UK Tour

Hello for the third time this week (it’s still week beginning 12^th October 2015 I just haven’t had time to write my posts). Well after a really great day with me Nanny Cora, not getting in from London till about 1am, we are up the next day (17^th October 2015) and by 11am we are on the road again, this time to go and see the touring production of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels at the Norwich Theatre Royal. I love the Theatre Royal in Norwich, it has so many touring musicals and plays and its lovely that people can see these performances right on their doorstep (or a small drive across Suffolk/Norfolk). No calamities this time; Nanny Cora drove us there and back so I could enjoy yet another Pinot Grigio; it’s the theatre one must. I had to park and what with the lead up to Christmas (ahhhhhhhhhh!!!!!) and it being a Saturday in Norwich it was chock-a-block, a nightmare, the three main car parks were full up and I had nowhere to go. Me being a wonderful grandson I had dropped Nan off at the pub and I went round looking for a space. I went close to the theatre, due to Cora’s walking – although she managed it in London well done Nan! – So I finally found a little disabled space and boy did I jump in that (well drive carefully); Cora’s got one of those blue badges so it’s fine. I then go and meet her at, wait for it, wait for it, Weatherspoon’s for our lunch – we can’t be posh two days running; beer and a burger is fine with me. Cheap and cheerful, can’t go wrong. While I was parking Cora had made friends with bloody half the restaurant; getting ladies to go and buy her drinks and saying bye to the old granny that tried to look 30; she is popular our Cora. So we finish our food and drinks and head on up to the Theatre Royal. Not a long walk but it does involve a steep bit but we took our time; no need to rush; the performance can wait for us.

 

I don’t need to describe the décor of the Theatre Royal, I am sure I have told you all that in a previous blog. I will get straight onto the musical. Dirty Rotten Scoundrels – well I have to say I was pleasantly impressed with this show. Me, nor Cora, had seen this musical before and knew nothing about it or the film that form its basis. We knew people that said it wasn’t as good as the film (famously starring Michael Caine) and saying the musical was not as funny. I think it’s great to go and see a musical for the first time and having no knowledge of what it’s about. We definitely benefited from this; we loved it. The show is based on the 1988 film of the same name. Spoiler Alert if you are going to see it and know nothing about it skip to paragraph three please; you deserve to experience it how we did. However for those that want to know or those that have already seen the show/film it is about two con men that set about scamming women for money. The musical premiered in the USA in 2004; moving to Broadway in 2005 playing just over 600 shows. The musical has had many American national tours and international performances however it did not reach the West End until 2014; previewing in late 2013 out of London. The original cast included Robert Lindsay as Lawrence and Rufus Hound as Freddy; I bet those two were bloody hilarious in it. The original Broadway production was nominated for 11 Tony’s (2005), winning one for Leading Actor in a Musical (Norbert Leo Butz for his role as Freddy). The original London production was only nominated for two Olivier’s this year, Choreographer and Actress in Supporting Role; losing out on both. This year at the Olivier’s there was stiff competition and I guess this is why it did not do well.

 

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels on tour is really funny. I mean some of the comedy is predictable but it generally is a funny show. The performance we saw had Kevin Stephen-Jones (understudy) playing Freddy; he wasn’t bad but definitely didn’t steal the show (I would have like to of seen Michael Praed in the leading part as he has been in a lot). Freddy was played by Noel Sullivan who is known for his time in the band Hear ‘Say. He was bloody brilliant! He had a lovely voice and he could genuinely act; plus he made the role of Freddy hilarious and I was laughing out loud throughout; especially during the scenes as Ruprecht. Andre is portrayed by Gary Wilmot; another guy that can make the audience laugh and apparently he is famous for something I am not aware of, Cora informed me. Geraldine Fitzgerald played Muriel and apart from her bingo wings during one of the dancing scenes she was also very good. The role of Christine is played by Carley Stenson who is best known for playing Steph Cunningham in Hollyoaks. She again had a really beautiful and powerful voice and plays a funny character with some big surprises. One part of the show that was really funny, and not actually supposed to happen, was the song ‘Love is my Legs’; well Sullivan and Stenson couldn’t keep their cool and totally lost their professionalism. I do not judge them at all; it really was a funny scene and they just could not look at each other without laughing. It was really clear they were losing it which made it even funnier, one point Sullivan looked at the audience and mouthed ‘sorry’. HAHAHA thinking about it makes me chuckle; its fine guys it made the show unique and I love it when a live actor has a giggle on stage. It showed how funny the show was. I also need to mention how much I admire Noel Sullivan; definitely not letting fame go to his head. He was out in the foyer as the show finished, flogging his CD, and Nanny Cora asked him to sign my programme he did this so nicely and had a chat with her. “Nice genuine guy” Cora said. My favourite part of the show has to be ‘Oklahoma?’ which is sung by Jolene, portrayed by Phoebe Coupe. Unfortunately this character is only in Act one and therefore Coupe becomes part of the ensemble after Jolene’s exit. It is such a shame as she was so funny in the show, proper psychotic southern American, and had a really nice singing voice even if it was with the accent; hands down favourite song of the show.

 

I think I liked the musical so much because, in my eyes, it was original. It is a shame it did not last long in the West End however gypsy had to take over the Savoy (and boy am I glad it did; refer back to previous posts please). The show incorporates humour, beautiful dressy costumes and a decent original score. The book is by Jeffrey Lane with music and lyrics by David Yazbek; the songs are very different and allow the cast to show off their talents which is great. Certain songs take on a funny side yet other songs do have a serious tone behind them and show passion and love. Jerry Mitchell directed and choreographed the production and the dances are wonderful. Although a quite modern musical it did have some really old fashioned dance routines which is something Cora likes to see in a musical and was superb. In some ways it reflected aspects of Top Hat Scenery and dance routines. The set was pretty basic but portrayed what was necessary. Costumes in the show are great and they vary with the characters, so well done Peter McKintosh! The ensemble are so active and on the stage for a considerable amount of time so I wish I could mention them all yet haven’t got the finger energy to write their names separately – ask me to photocopy the programme and I will send it out. That’s about it I think, really worth seeing, especially if you have no idea of what to expect. It is full of laughter and was the best musical of the weekend by far. It also has that emotional side, but not for very long. The tour is running until the end of November, so there isn’t long to see it – Woking, Wimbledon, Southend and Southampton. Performances at Southampton will see Mark Benton playing the role of Andre which will be hilarious. He is a very, very funny guy, I saw him play the role of Edna Turnblad on the tour of Hairspray (unfortunately prior to the start of this blog); but he was great in it and I don’t doubt he will do this role and show the same amount of hilarity he did for hairspray. So go and see it and be a bit rotten yourself!

The Commitments, Palace Theatre, West End

Me and me Nan (supposed to be Nanny and I – whatever English grammar) travelled to London (Newbury Park) on 16^th October 2015. I have to say Nanny Cora drove all the way there with no hiccups so well done you! We got into the city centre via tube and went to get our tea. Me and Nanny Cora always have a good laugh on our little theatre outings and this one was no different. We caught up on the family, my Nan’s busy social life and also filled her in on what’s been going on in my world. We went to Caffé Concerto, a little Italian restaurant on Leicester Square. We were going to go to some other restaurants but when you’re as flash as me and Cora you gotta go posh. It was a lovely little restaurant although the advertised live music and the CD player did not really marry up in my eyes. I had a Pinot of course while Cora entertained a vodka and lemonade. Lovely chicken meal was enjoyed by both. We did have some posh (thought they were more like) couple sit next to us and one woman got right on my nerves. All she wanted to talk about was all the places her friends have houses abroad and that she stays in these beautiful places, just beautiful. No one cares love – if you’re having a conversation during your meal keep it to the table and not the whole restaurant please. Bloody posh people, who think they’re posh, but don’t like spending a penny get on my tits. She had a small hot chocolate, no food as she apparently had a salad before coming out, tried to take her friends doggy bag for herself and then didn’t even pay for her drink. Bloody cheapskate! So we finish our meal and take a nice careful stroll up to the Palace Theatre; reminiscing about our last trip to the Palace Theatre, four years ago, to see Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (love this show and going to see the tour (again) in February 2016 so watch this space).

 

The Palace is a lovely theatre and oh so grand. Nanny Cora was commenting on how the fixtures were beautiful and the interior décor was epic (not that she uses the word ‘epic’, lol!). I particularly like the little gargoyle things that are all the way round the dress circle. The theatre also has four tiers although I don’t know if they use the highest one – what would you see? As always I try and get a seat in the stalls – such a bloody snob. The theatre opened in 1891 and is a grade II listed building. It’s right on the crossover of Shaftesbury Avenue and Charing Cross Road, huge theatre and basically unmissable, unless you’re blind. I really love how the theatre really makes it obvious what is playing at the theatre and some really notable productions over the past 15 years include Priscilla, Singin’ in the Rain and Les Misėrables; with a big statue of something on the top. I have just realised I have not told you what we went to see – The Commitments – they had a drum kit and saxophones; Priscilla had a huge heel. Well I have to admit I did not rate the show at the beginning. It just felt a bit flat and I didn’t really see where it was going. I did enjoy the performance by the end but I have to say it is nowhere near my favourite show and would believe it not to reach my top 20, maybe not even top 30. The storyline just seems repetitive if I am honest. I recently saw Sunny Afternoon (you may remember) and it follows a similar story of the rise, trials, tribulations and triumphs of a band; the difference being that Sunny Afternoon is based on The Kinks and Commitments based on a fictional band based on the book, and later film, by Roddy Doyle, of the same name. Strangely Sunny premiered in 2015 whereas The Commitments in 2013; possibly as I saw Sunny before Commitments it may have made the latter less interesting. I do not want to make out the show was poorly made or the singing was bad, it was good, it just didn’t excite me as other musicals do – but I am very glad I saw it.

 

 

The Commitments is directed by Jamie Lloyd. It is set in 1986 Ireland, focusing on two young guys setting up a soul band however need more members to make the band a success and need a manager. The songs are all known songs so I guess this makes it a jukebox musical. Some classics include ‘What Becomes of the Broken Hearted’, Knock on Wood’, ‘Think!’, ‘Satisfaction’, ‘River Deep Mountain High’ and ‘Mustang Sally’; congratulations to Alan Williams who was musical supervisor and arranger. All these are grand songs and they have a really good beat behind them and the cast do this justice. I say cast, one thing I did not rate about the musical was that only about 20% of the cast sing, and me being a musical theatre addict I like to hear various voices and different characters singing their songs. The character that sings the majority of the songs is Deco who is currently portrayed by Brian Gilligan. He really is a talented actor and singer; he basically performs a live soul rock gig, while acting a two and a half hour west end show. He is very funny and has got the character perfected. The original Deco was played by Killian Donnelly (who is mentioned in my Kinky Boots post) and I can imagine his voice would have been gorgeous in this (his voice on the Memphis soundtrack is also beautiful).

 

The Commitments did not receive any Olivier nominations and I cannot comment further as the competition that year were some musicals I have not yet seen; although Killian was nominated for best actor in a musical for the whatsonstage.com awards. The other singing was done by the three Commitmentettes; who were portrayed by Jessica Cervi (Bernie), Natalie Hope (Natalie) and Hollie O’Donoghue who I think played Imelda at the performance I saw (according to the cast pictures in the programme). The staging was one aspect of the show that I did love, the props and transitions between scenes were fantastic and different clubs, environments and homes were all well portrayed (well done Soutra Gilmour; set and costume designer). I also loved how the rain was demonstrated via a person holding a hose pipe over the actor and then that person mopped it up – it was very raw and quite funny and really worked within the setup of the musical. Certain runners and stage supervisors were almost part of the cast, coming on and reacting to the scene and moving various props or staging in and out; I really likes this raw and inconspicuous approach. One thing that I found difficult to manage was the lighting (sorry Jon Clark, Lighting Designer). It was so bright at some points of the performance, including before the show started and the interval as well at some of the points where the cast are at a gig, making it super difficult to look at the stage and see what was happening. I guess this is why the show was not nominated for any awards in regards to lighting. The Commitments was nominated for The Evening Standard award for best night out (losing out to The Book of Mormon – which is fabulous); plus this award has about 10 nominees. I can appreciate why it was nominated; it was a good night out. The finale and last few songs are really like being at a live rock soul gig; the audience get involved, everyone’s on their feet (even nanny Cora for two songs) and Gilligan really gave his all out at this point and even embraces some audience participation which adds to the genuinity of being at a live gig. The only problem with this is that you always get some idiots in the audience who like to have all the limelight on them and the weirdo in front of me and Nanny Cora, well we thought he was having seizures his head and arms and legs were flailing about; it was highly distracting when trying to watch a musical. However as Cora stated, if I’d of had a few more pinots it would have most probably been me so I shouldn’t judge. So although I have not rated The Commitments as the best musical in the 21sty century it was very good and has lasted just over two years in the West End. It is due to close in early November so there is not much time left if you do want to see this show. If not just watch the movie I guess.

 

Annie on Tour; Birmingham Hippodrome

Hello all; this has been a busy week for musicals and I apologise that it has taken me so long to write my blog. I have suffered with the ol’ man flu this week and it hasn’t yet gone. I have a low pain/illness threshold so a cold is a serious thing for me. Anyway on Tuesday 13^th October I travelled to Birmingham to see ‘Annie’ at the Birmingham Hippodrome. I was working in Shrewsbury and had little to do during my evening so planned to go and see Annie. I really couldn’t be arsed to go with my man flu but as I had paid the money I motivated myself to go. I rushed for the train as I have serious panic when times are involved; hate being late for a train or performance. So I manage to get to the train just in time! I have an awful story to share. I was sitting on the train happily minding my own business, reading one of my books when a man turns to me and asks what time the train is due to arrive at Birmingham New Street. I answer the man politely, “six pm”, and he thanks me. Well the next thing he places his hand down the front of his jeans and starts to rub his genital area, this is so light itch. Well I am absolutely shocked and don’t really know how to approach this situation. I mean if it was Colin Farrell I wouldn’t have exactly minded but as it was an old guy on a Shrewsbury to Birmingham train my desire for him was non-existent. I thought the best thing to do is stare at my book and pretend to read; I couldn’t actually read I was appalled and mortified at this man’s behaviour, in a public place – in day light! Luckily another gentleman with decent social standards sat next to me and blocked the view of the man having a quick Tommy Tank on the train. Right I have digressed into something I had to share but want to permanently forget now. So I arrived in Birmingham and had a little stroll to the Bullring where I had my Nando’s and a nice glass of Pinot Grigio. The restaurant was so busy being 6:15pm so now I begin to panic as I think will I get my food in time and will I make it to the Hippodrome? Well I did get a table, I did get my butterfly chicken in time and I did down my wine and ran to the theatre. Apart from my indigestion pains and heart palpitations (me and running have never mixed) I got to the theatre in plenty of time and settled in my seat. You may have realised I am all by myself on this theatre trip. Some will think sad, and you are most probably right!

So the Birmingham Hippodrome is a very modern theatre; even though it first opened in 1895. It did have an exterior re-vamp in 2001 and it has had some serious work done to the interior to, I imagine. It is a very nice place to go and see some shows and the décor is really lovely and modern. The Hippodrome has all the facilities you would expect to see in the West End which is why many of the big touring productions have a stint at the Hippodrome. It is also a huge place seating just shy of 2,000 people. The staging was beautiful. I had never seen Annie on the stage before. I have seen three different versions of the film production (my favourite one being the 1982 one with Carol Burnett as the wicked but remorseful Miss Hannigan). I am not one for modernising something that is fab so the new Annie was good but nowhere near my favourite (although I do love Sia’s modernisation of ‘You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile’ – I am such a hypocrite). The props and staging were outstanding; and the jigsaw pieces reminded me of the Matilda staging. I am not sure if the jigsaw pieces are usual staging material for Annie performances in the past, however it was really effective. Lighting was also another positive of this touring show; the jigsaw pieces lit up and the mood was wholesomely set from the lighting. I also loved the costumes in Annie; set in the poor streets of New York City and the homeless people in Hooverville to the extravagant rich dress sense of Daddy Warbucks and his staff are beautifully wonderful. One thing that did let the costumes down was Miss Hannigan’s tights that were all scrunched up at the bottom and this put me off (for this Mr Revel Horwood I give you a 6! – Jokes loved you). The final thing I comment on before discussing the cast is the songs; how I love the Annie soundtrack and I have been singing (making up my own lyrics of course) all week and visiting Mother and Father this weekend well it has got on their nerves; “Tomorrow, Tomorrow, I love ya, Tomorrow”. Of course the classics of ‘Maybe’, ‘Hard Knock Life’, ‘Little Girls’, ‘Easy Street’ and ‘Tomorrow’ were all fabulous and Annie’s songs melted my heart. I have of course purchased a soundtrack and due to the popularity of Annie there are so many to choose from. On iTunes many were Broadway productions however being a huge West Ender I decided to go with a 1998 original studio cast album. The cast (including Ruthie Henshall; love Ruthie as Grace Farrell), has been in the car, in the shower and prior to sleep all week. Love It!

 

Right quick rundown of the cast and my thoughts on them as I need to get two more posts done and due to sickness and business I still have not written them. I have to say that the cast were fantastic and all gave it 110%. I will start with my favourite character, the horrible and mean Miss Agatha Hannigan. As I said the Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood played Hannigan. He was great, good singer, had the moves, funny character and that New York accent was fab. Apart from his tights he really did the role of Miss Hannigan justice. I was worried as I really wanted to see Horwood play the role however Lesley Joseph (best known for her portrayal as nosey neighbour Dorien Green in Birds of a Feather) is playing the part on Saturdays and I would still love to see her in the role (it is running for a while so I may have to go back on a Saturday). Joseph has played Hannigan before in the West End, at the same time as Lily Savage (a.k.a Paul O’Grady), and boy would I have liked to see her (him) play the role. I am sure Joseph gives a great performance so don’t be disappointed if you do not get a chance to see Horwood; hopefully she can feature more heavily in a future post. The role of Annie was portrayed by Sophia Pettit on the night I went to see it (Team Waldorf; there are three sets of child casts alternating on this tour, the others being Team Roxy and Team Astoria). What a bloody powerful voice for such a little girl. Her voice really suited the songs of ‘Tomorrow’ and ‘Maybe’ and she deserved the standing ovation she received. The other children (Molly, Pepper, Kate, July, Duffy and Tessie) also had great little voices and boy did they have some moves; really puts my drunken Macarena to shame! The other main characters who deserve a mention are Alex Bourne playing Daddy Warbucks, Jonny Fines as Rooster and Grace played by Holly Dale Spencer. All three of these had fantastic voices (I almost wish I had this cast recorded album) and really added to the performance. As I have said I could have easily been sat on Shaftesbury Avenue with a dreaded tube journey looming sitting watching this rendition of Annie. The final mention of the cast goes to Sandy played by Amber the dog (I do love a live dog on stage for a musical). I really would urge people to go and see Annie on tour, I am thinking of going again as it was honestly spectacular. The tour is showing until June 2016 however Horwood is stopping the role of Hannigan prior to this date where I think Joseph will take over the role full time (not confirmed). It is going to some big towns and cities up until this date so go and check it out!

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time, UK TOUR

So I went to see The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time (known from now on as Curious – my fingers will get arthritis keep writing that) on Saturday 12^th September – hence the busy weekend. I bought two tickets ages ago and thought I will find someone last minute to go to see Curious at Norwich Theatre Royal. Typical me I left it and left it and by the time the date came round most people were busy and I was like oh! All was fine and I popped to the Royal on me tod. I am fine on my own (despite Mother panicking), I actually quite enjoy going to the theatre alone, having a wine, some Maltesers, F*****g £8 for a medium red wine – talk about shock to the system I nearly said keep it but didn’t wanna show me self-up now did I. So I gave the spare ticket back to the theatre and they would try and sell it (if not I would just have to simply lose the money); luckily they were able to re-sell it within two hours prior to the performance starting. I obviously met the lovely lady who bought my ticket as her seat was next to mine and we had a little chat and we were both thankful for each other; she said she had been ringing since 10am. I also had a lovely chat with an older couple who hadn’t lived in the area for long but were loving all the eclectic shows that go to the Royal.

 

For those of you that do not know about Curious it is a play based upon the book of the same name by Mark Haddon; again I am including plays in this blog although I do not see many and it is not musical theatre – this is a liberal blog get used to it J. Curious, as the full name suggests, is about a young lad who comes across a dead dog in his neighbour’s garden and wants to find out what has happened; I won’t give too much away. The young lad is likely to have autism or Asperger’s syndrome and working with individuals who are autistic or Asperger’s I was really looking forward to see how Simon Stephens (creating the stage adaptation) would portray autism. Although not specified in the play (or book for that matter, apparently) it is likely the protagonist – Christopher John Francis Boone – is somewhere on the autistic spectrum. I would like to add I have not read the book the play is based on but I hope to read it soon; with all the other books I have on my list this might be sometime away. It began performances in the West End in 2012 and moved to the Apollo Theatre in 2013 where it moved to the Gielgud Theatre following the collapse at the Apollo (so there are double the chances of seeing Curious as it is currently on tour and you all know how much I love a toured performance). It has also opened on Broadway in 2014 at the Ethel Barrymore Theatre and is doing well (winning five Tony’s this year, including best Play). The West End show was nominated for seven Olivier’s in 2013, winning six of them: Best New Play, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress in a supporting Role, Best Sound Design, Best Lighting Design and Best Set Design.

 

 

Carrying on from the awards I did not see the original or current West End performances and I am sure staging, set and lighting are all better in London compared to on tour (as is the usual). However the tour would have definitely won all these awards in my eyes. It is, by far, the best play I have ever seen and would really urge people to go and see it. The story is so much deeper than a curious incident with a dog during the night and really is a beautiful, family, crime story and a somewhat coming of age story. The play did make me cry at the end and I really want to see it again. Whether someone is interested in autism or not; I feel this is a side-lined aspect of the story (play) and is secondary to how Christopher grows through the play. The show has clearly been directed well and from page to stage (love this phrase – beat that Elaine Paige hehe!) has been executed brilliantly, I could not fault it in any respect. I am sure the original Christopher, played by Luke Treadaway, would have been fantastic. I did not see the main guy on tour either (Joshua Jenkins) who I am sure is fantastic too. I was quite glad I did not see Jenkins (no offence to him) but seeing Chris Ashby on tour was immense. He was absolutely fantastic (even if a bit sweaty) and I cannot fault him; his portrayal of Charlie was flawless. His understanding of autism and Asperger’s is very well defined and really portrays an autistic individual well. He is pretty much on stage the whole way through both Acts and the amount of lines he has had to remember is impressive. His skills at getting the audience to empathise with him were impeccable and I absolutely loved him – I wish him all the success in his future, already amazing, career. I am so glad Nicola Walker won the supporting actress Olivier as I am a huge fan of her other work and am gutted I did not see her play the role of Judy (Christopher’s mother); I just know she would have smashed it. I understand why the sound design was given to Curious; even the little sound effects add something special to the overall story. There are certain parts of the story that are emphasised via the music and sounds of the play. The lighting award had no other decent home, the strobe lighting (warning) was crazy – really epic. The lighting almost takes on a mood and emotion of its own and gave me shivers without any acting or music. Lighting is clearly complimented by the set design. People that know me will agree I am not exactly a minimalist person; although I have fallen in love with minimalism. The set is pretty much blank, being made of mostly chalkboards, white walls and boxes and some minimalist props – however it is epic what the set was able to portray and how it adds extra to what the people on stage are doing. I will not go into too much detail of what happens on stage as I would not want to spoil Curious for anyone; but it’s fantastic and what happens throughout the whole of Act 1 on stage and how this Act ends is pretty much mind blowing in my opinion. So much can go on with not much to go on with (if that makes any sense). I also love the fact the actors become part of the scenery themselves such as becoming a door. I have so much to say about Curious but am worried I will give too much away to those that need to see it. I love the fact that Curious has reference to animal-assisted therapy (something close to my heart). I also thought Curious deserved to win a choreography award as well; despite being a musical and no set dance routines there is a lot of choreography which really is beautiful to watch and must have taken just as much as some big dance routines; these deserve more than mine and other critics praise but an actual award – the skill used to do these and the pleasure it gives the audience is priceless. (Curious was nominated for choreography awards by Tony and Olivier but did not win them; missing out to Top Hat for the 2013 Olivier, so I will commend you Scott Graham and Steven Hoggett.

I also want to mention two other people on stage at The Royal. Geraldine Alexander plays Siobhan, Christopher’s ‘teacher’ and mentor, this character is lovely and I really did fall in love with her. I loved the way Alexander portrayed her and she really made me cry and smile. Clare Perkins plays a few roles in the play and is part of the overall ensemble (as is everyone apart from Ashby which is another nice touch). She is hilarious and her acting skills are not fully appreciated in Curious; her characters are very different and her transition between characters and her acting ability is put to the test and she comes up winning. I would love to see both Perkins and Alexander in the future. So I think I have done my sales pitch, unintentionally, I just absolutely loved this play and really really really really really want to see it again. The tour has a few dates left around the United Kingdom; ending at the Lowry in Salford in November 2015 (hopefully it may get extended). So go see it if you haven’t or go see it again if you have. It is still playing in the West End (and Broadway to those American readers). Honestly, my favourite play ever!

 

Grease, by am dram The Lowestoft Players

So this is the first amateur dramatic (from now on referred to as Am Dram) production I have blogged about. To be fair I do not tend to go see many Am Dram shows (once seeing The Sound of Music by the Lincoln Am Dram society). I was not sure whether to include Am Drams in my blog, but after much deliberation and strict instructions from my nanny, I have decided to include them. So on Friday 11^th of September I went to see the Lowestoft Players preform Grease. Sorry I have not blogged sooner about this visit. It was a very hectic weekend (as you will see from the next post which is yet to be written) and a busy week with various things I do not yet wish to discuss. So The Lowestoft Players are an Am Dram group based in the coastal town of Lowestoft (obviously) in Suffolk near to where I was born and grew up. I was back home visiting family and friends and my Nanny says I will take you to see The Lowestoft Players. I am not sure whether I am just a theatre snob (as I do like my West End performances) but, like I said, I very seldom see amateur productions. I know the Lowestoft Players do many productions each year which I will enjoy seeing in the future (gutted I missed their production of Legally Blonde), as I thought they did a great job as an Am dram. They base themselves at an old Bethel in Lowestoft and converted it into a theatre. They really have done a fantastic job on the Bethel and the lighting, staging and building is really nice to go and see musicals in. I would say though can you apply for a lottery fund and get some new seats they are not the most comfortable.

I went with my Nanny and Cousin Paris and long-term family friend Lorna. I have to say for an Am Dram, it was really good and I very impressed with how they produced and directed Grease. I am a huge fan of Grease and have watched the film countless times from a young age, also seeing a London production some years ago which was immense. I loved the way The Players adapted the show to fit in with their time limit and resources. All the main parts of the story were there, even if a bit jumbled up. As I have never been to The Bethel before to see The Lowestoft Players I was not sure whether they were copying the professional Grease production by having the band above the stage; however it worked really well and this was important for me. The transitions between staging and scenes were flawless and they really looked well despite not having the man and technical power the professional theatres would have. The staging was transforming between each scene and I thought they made excellent use out of what they had. The acting and singing were all very good (apart from one song – which is my absolute favourite – however I will not dwell on this as the overall production was really good and I cannot judge as I am not exactly Sam Smith). My favourite part of the performance was scene 2 of act 2 (Burger scene) with the song ‘Beauty School Dropout’. This is one of my favourite songs from the show (as well as others: ‘There Are worse Things I Could Do’, Look at Me I’m Sandra Dee’, and ‘Hopelessly Devoted to You’). This scene from The Players was really well executed with the ladies having big sparkly roller head dressers (which I want so if they are going after the performance please let me know I will buy one).

All in all it was a very good performance and I do definitely look forward to going back to the Bethel and to see future Lowestoft Players shows. I know the performances are still going ahead (until Saturday 19^th) and I hope that all the performances have gone well and you got the crowds in. Also I do hope the Players have a read of this and make comments or contact me on Facebook. Also I would love to join an Am Dram Society so if any scouts out there give me a ring haha!

 

London gets Kinky; Kinky Boots arrives in the West End

Hello all, hope everyone is OK and been going to see some shows too – please share your experiences I’d love to read about them. Well on Tuesday 1^st September 2015 I went to visit the West End (again) and this time to see the new London showing of Kinky Boots. I’ll get onto the show in a minute, you know I like some context.  Visited with Me Beez (Kayleigh) again; was great as always. We had a little stroll down Covent Garden, watching the street acts and looking round the quaint (and expensive) little shops; even started me Christmas shopping which was a bonus. Had a nice little relaxing coffee (and diet coke for me Beez) – bloody hell coffee beans are expensive in London; £3.30 for a latte and then to add salt to my wound a ‘discretionary’ 78p service charge - Day light robbery! We also went to café Rouge for tea which I have never been to before and would go again was nice and thank you mama Beez (Mands) for our tea – beautiful. So we arrive at the Adelphi Theatre (Adelphi) which is a nice little theatre, first time I there was this year to see Made in Dagenham (shame that show ended was really good and I still enjoy listening to the soundtrack). Anyway trust us two to get lumbered with a weirdo drunk (and not me this time J). So I shall explain: Me and me Beez are taking each other’s photos with a Kinky Boots poster thingy and this woman storms in front of us and stands behind the poster, looks at me Beez and says “OH, you want to take my photo?” Well I have gone into hysterics and when I turn back Beez is taking her bloody photo. Well I am shocked, but that’s not all, the woman was like “shall I roll my dress up”; well clearly I am like “No … No … not necessary love”, her husband don’t give a shit he’s having a wine at the bar while I get to see this lady’s knickers on two occasions. Seriously! I don’t actually know how to continue with this story so I will leave it. Women! (Jokes!)

 

So let’s get onto the show (London gets Kinky). It is based on the 2005 film of the same name which I have only seen once but is a really good film and worth a watch; often on BBC or I am sure it is available by legal download or just buy it. The book is by Harvey Fierstein and music and lyrics by Cyndi Lauper; we will get onto Lauper but she won (and rightly deserved) the 2013 Tony Award for Best Original Score. I am not going to lie and I am going to be critical – this is what the blog is for; but please if you have seen Kinky Boots please leave your feedback. Firstly I was not aware until researching when I got in from the show that it was first in the USA. It first was produced in Chicago in 2012 before moving to Broadway in 2013. Kinky Boots remains on Broadway and reached its 1000^th performance this August so congratulations to the Broadway production. It also won the 2013 Tony award for Best Musical, beating the fabulous show Matilda to the top prize which was quite an upset; especially after the critical reaction Matilda received in the West End. We did see the show after it launched on stage 11 days (including Sundays) previously and it was still in its preview stage. It did take me a few scenes and songs to get me in the mood for the show and initially I was not overly impressed after seeing some really amazing musicals this year; it just felt a little flat to me. Although I have to say the first song (The Most Beautiful Thing in the World) has stuck in my head and I have listened to it a few times on YouTube. It was when I first saw Lola and the Angels that I fell in love with the show; as you may well be aware present me with a group of gorgeous Drag Queens and I am yours (seeing Priscilla Queen of the Desert again on tour in February 2016 so look out for that post). So I did in the end absolutely love the show, the storyline and the songs – all fabulous and worth seeing.

 

As I said the show was in its preview stage and this was sometimes clear. There were a few mistakes which were obvious and some less obvious and I may have actually been mistaken. The reason I mention this is because some of the well-established shows do not have these mistakes; or I have not seen them as they must occur. Little things like not getting the staging connected or up in time, dancers and actors looking or facing the wrong direction and making it clear they were in the wrong position and props and that falling. However it is expected with live shows especially in a preview phase. The staging and lighting were phenomenal and I cannot contest that. The transitions between different scenes were generally flawless (providing staging was moved quickly enough) and the lights during the Lola and Angels songs were to die for and often found myself mesmerised by these and not the acting (I think that’s a good thing – for the lighting). The costumes of the Angles (oh sorry the Angels are the group of Queens) were superb and I want one in each colour; well mainly red and the Union Jack one will be my wedding dress when Mr Right knocks on my door. The leading man and queen were fabulous. Killian Donnelly who plays Charlie has a fab voice and I really enjoy his sound (I have him on the Memphis soundtrack and it’s a beautiful tone); he has also starred in some very famous shows including Les Misėrables, Billy Elliott and Phantom. Lola who is the main drag queen (real name Simon) is portrayed by Matt Henry who really has some sass and attitude and I would definitely make sure he shantayed. He did really well with his draginess and I need some lessons. Lauren is played by Amy Lenox (not sure if there is a relation there) and she honestly has such a powerful voice I was quite gutted she only had one main song – The History of Wrong Guys – it would have been really nice to hear more of her voice. The Angels were gorgeous and it was like an episode of Ru Paul’s Drag Race (this is a compliment!); they really made the show what it is. One Angel played by Marcus Collins (X Factor 2011 runner-up) clearly wanted to be playing Lola and be centre stage and I personally found this off putting – I hope you enjoy your understudy times. But hey; he’s a drag queen. I really need to mention Lauper’s superb score which from reading certain articles she found difficult to write. Well however difficult she found it she really did a grand job with it. It is quite obvious the songs were Lauperised and this is no bad thing, it was fab to have a bit of Disco Diva in there. Particular ones that I have not mentioned yet, but were definitely kinky, include: ‘Take What You Got’, ‘Land of Lola’, ‘Everybody Say Yeah’, ‘Hold Me In Your Heart’ and the finale ‘Raise You Up/Just Be’ all make you wanna dance, cry or laugh. I know there is a Broadway cast album for purchase (Broadway Album); however I think I am going to wait for the West End cast album. One final difficulty of the show was the music seemed so much louder than the singing voices, it was sometimes difficult to hear the lyrics; whether this was my deafness or a production fault I am not sure but I look forward to the album (although you can hear the songs on YouTube). So, although I have been critical (not bitching, constructive criticism) I did love the show and urge you to see it. I hope the West End production carries on like the Broadway production as I will most likely be seeing this show again if it’s still on late next year – tickets sales have been extended to February 2016. This blog just got Kinky!

 



Love Me Tender in York, UK

Hello fellow musical theatre addicts and Bloggers. Hope you are all well. I have been to another show so need to tell you all about it. First of all a bit of background, as usual; it’s Mother’s birthday at the end of August so I decided to treat her to a couple of days away. I decided on York; two reasons why. First of all, Love Me Tender was on at The Grand Opera House and secondly we had both never visited the city. York is gorgeous and full of history and culture which was really enjoyable walking around and seeing all the sights and listening to all the sounds. It was typical British weather which was the only poor thing about the couple of days we were there and had to buy an umbrella from a well-known shop where everything is 100 pence. We went to the most haunted place in England and potentially Europe (so they advertise) and it was featured in the television series Most Haunted; The Golden Fleece. It was quite spooky I have to admit but the scariest part of the pub was that it sloped to one side and I didn’t want to get me sausage baguette all over my new jacket. We also went to York Dungeons which was a very funny and tense experience. Mother was terrified (I think?) and I was picked twice to be a volunteer; which is all good fun for the crack! So now you know why and how the day went let’s get onto the show.

Love Me Tender is a jukebox musical (I do love a jukebox musical!) based on the music and songs from the one and only Elvis Aaron Presley (This is the reason I was christened ‘Aaron’). The show launched in USA in 2004 called ‘All Shook Up’; and was retitled for the UK tour as Love Me Tender (no idea why but if someone knows gimme a shout!). All Shook Up went to Broadway in 2005 for a short run of just over 200 performances and followed by a US tour. It arrived in Manchester, UK in 2015 and has a tour lasting until September 2015 (not long to go see it and also not many places so get on the website and try and see it if you can; Elvis Musical); me and Mother went to see it on Tuesday 18th August 2015. The reason I took Mother to see Love Me Tender is cos she is a massive Elvis fan; like I mean crazy fan. I won’t embarrass Mother by listing the memorabilia she has but she named her first born after him (I like my name, not complaining).  So the show …

The Grand Opera House in York is a very spectacular theatre. From the outside it’s not the most visually aesthetic theatre I have seen but inside it is a right beauty; with typical furnishings and décor you would see in the West End; and as I have always said I think musicals going on nationwide tours is the best thing for musical theatre allowing more people to see shows and get into theatre as well as being able to visit gorgeous theatres all over the country. The show is based on Shakespeare’s twelfth night; with a sort of modernisation but also a look back at the years Elvis was rising to fame. The show initially hit me as a copycat of other well-known musical and storylines. Not that I want to give too much away but similar storylines can be seen in Footloose, We Will Rock You and Hairspray; and I really did not want to see something I had already seen but with Elvis music. Well about three quarters of the way into Act 1 I realised that this musical did have its own spark which I was so pleased about; namely the basis from twelfth night (not a Shakespearian fan – wiki the plot of Twelfth Night). The show begins with actors coming onto the stage whilst the audience (and some of them late – hate tardiness) settle themselves down with a drink, nibbles and removing their jackets. As I am still a baby to the musical theatre world this seems to be a new thing to me. More and more shows are starting off with actors acting prior to the usual 7:30pm (or 2:30pm for matinees) curtain up time. It is a useful tool to get some of the audience to speed up and get ready to sit and watch. For a touring show it really was polished, with the whole of the stage covered in great scenery, characters going up, down and around the stage and lighting which enhanced the characters emotions. I have seen some touring shows that really struggle to replicate a West End (or Broadway) show. However at some parts of the show I honestly felt like I could have been walking out onto Covent Garden or Shaftsbury Avenue; it really was a spectacular production. The only major criticism I would have with the show was there were a lot of mini storylines of love going on. The show is clearly going to be about love (hence the title) however it was sometimes confusing who was in love with who and who was in love with someone but changed their mind or fell out of love or so and so loves so and so, but they love so and so who doesn’t love them back but loves so and so. See how confusing it gets. I was going to use character names to demonstrate the confusion but I am not one for a spoiler. I would class the show as a Lovagon (not a love triangle, like Phantom, but a Lovagon as everyone loves everyone) – however it all works out … or does it … go see it.

 

So the UK tour had many stars; such as Ben Lewis playing Chad (I have definitely seen him in another show but cannot remember what; I need to audit and categorise my programmes – is that sad? If so keep it to yourself).  Sian Reeves played Mayor Matilda Hyde (she’s been in lots of television programmes and I am sure you will have seen something she is in). Two other less known stars of the show were Laura Tebbutt who played Natalie and I’m sure she will have success in the West End. The other young star was Felix Mosse who played Dean; he had a beautiful voice and was a right cutie. He was in the Book of Mormon in the West End (which I need to check out if he was in it when I went to see it); however his voice surely means he will be back in the West End sooner rather than later.

So the biggest stars of the show were Mica Paris (playing Sylvia) and Shaun Williamson (playing Jim). I have to admit that I have not heard of Mica Paris (I am so sorry, but you were fantastic in this show and your voice is gorgeous). Paris delivers a beautiful ending to the curtain call with her rendition of ‘Burning Love’; well I think it was not sure. However whatever Elvis song it was she belted it and gave me those goose pimples. She was amazing throughout this bit just stuck in my mind. The funniest bit was when me and Mother were up dancing to the curtain call then Paris comes centre stage (we are row D practically eye to eye with Paris) and so I go to sit down to give her pride of place; well she only goes and stares me out and quite clearly tells me with her eyes and hand that I must remain standing and dance – well I sure did and this was the first claim to fame this night, thanks Mica for keeping me dancing. The second comes at the end of the show when me and Mother are outside sorting out our bags and gathering our bearings as we are in a new city and its no lie we have had a wine and sherry. So we are standing in the street and all of a sudden a door flings open and knocks Mother aside (funny!) so we gather ourselves and hear a call “sorry, sorry”. Well it’s only bloody Shaun Williamson, BARRY EVANS from EastEnders, coming out of the door. Well he apologises and has a quick chat with us saying it’s a right laugh in the show, saying that he liked my tie and shook my hand. I wish I whipped a pen or camera out but we were a bit shocked and Mother still dusting herself down. Well this was my claim to fame and it came while in York. The amount of times I wander the streets of London fame hunting. Well I have waffled on as always. Hope you enjoyed the read and won’t be long till I am back again telling you about some more musicals and the stories that happen along the way. Remember not long left till you can see this show and it is well worth travelling to see it; have a night out never know you might get hit by an opening door with BARRY EVANS on the other side. Bye xx

Memphis the Musical in the West End

So on Thursday 30^th July me and Mother travelled to London to see Memphis the Musical (MTM) at the Shaftesbury Theatre. Mother is not the greatest person to travel with as she does have a tendency to sleep during travel which is not exactly exciting for me; so I was with ole Zoe Ball and Jeremy Vine on BBC Radio 2 while she had a snooze. We had a lovely day in London going to a few shops on Oxford Street and mum treat me to a new blazer (thanks Mother). The funniest thing was when we were in Primark (can’t beat it!) at the tills. A lady on the store speaker announces “Can person x please make their way to the exit as your mum is waiting for you”; my mother starts to panic as she thinks the lady on the store speaker has announced “please go to the exits as there is a bomb”. WELL, I am in hysterics at this and cannot stop laughing and cannot walk. This is so funny; Mother is super deaf and miss-hears everything. Anyway what a laugh! Followed by a wine at Leicester Square (I can get three bottles for the price of a large there) and a rushed but enjoyable tea. Then it was off to Shaftesbury Theatre.

 

So we arrive at the Shaftesbury Theatre and this is another theatre I have never visited before; although it has hosted many great hits in the past. This was a gorgeous theatre and the interior décor was to die for; very pretty and grand to say the least. The programme was also divine. As you know I do love a programme and this one is beautiful with big glossy pictures, cast lists and information on how the show was created (a real keeper in my eyes). This leads nicely onto the creative team. David Bryan who is best known as one of the founding members of Bon Jovi and the keyboard player in the band wrote the music and lyrics for Memphis the Musical. It first hit Broadway in 2009 after successful showings from 2003 off-Broadway. It arrived in the West End in 2014 and is sadly due to close late in 2015 (around October I think), as Motown: The Musical is due to start showings in February 2016 at the Shaftesbury (which already sounds exciting). Bryan’s music in the show is immense and I have since bought the original London cast album which I have not stopped playing. With the support from Joe DiPietro who wrote the book and lyrics for the show the original score is addictive. With songs that I can’t stop listening to, including ‘Everybody wants to be black on a Saturday night’, ‘Someday’, ‘Radio’, ‘Memphis lives in me’ and my favourite ‘Steal your rock ‘n’ roll’. As already said the show is due to close in October 2015 which is a great shame and if you can make it go see it before it closes.

 

The show itself is spectacular. It won the WhatsOnStage Award for Best New Musical in 2015 which I believe it truly deserved. It was nominated for 8 2015 Olivier Awards for which it won Best Theatre Choreographer (Sergio Trujillo) and Best Sound Design (Gareth Owen). The dancing routines in Memphis the Musical are pleasing to the eye. I did not know where to look at some points as there was lots going on in some of the routines; which was fab! Everyone was in sync and by the end of the production I was up myself giving it the boogie with Mother. Unfortunately Memphis did not win the Olivier for Best New Musical although it was nominated. The 2015 award was tough competition from Beautiful, Sunny Afternoon and Made in Dagenham. I wish they all could have won as they all have/had their fantastical points. Levels are well utilised in Memphis. The stage is used to its full potential and the big song productions of ‘Steal your rock ‘n’ roll’ and ‘Radio’ are gorgeous. Costume design was great and the 50’s style was evidential. As said previously I love it when you can see the instruments and orchestra on the stage and this was repeated in Memphis the Musical and on some sings a screen was lifted to show them off; which is great for them as they can sometimes be forgotten when so much is going on. There were definitely elements of Hairspray, especially with some of the race and ethnicity storylines. However this does not deter Memphis from being its own huge success; which it definitely is.

 

Beverley Knight’s voice is huge and soulful; giving me a full body of goose pimples. I loved how much she enjoyed being on the stage and portraying Felicia. She appeared so happy with the reaction she received (a full standing ovation which she well deserved). I cannot wait to see Knight portray Grizabella when Lloyd Webber brings back Cats to the London Palladium later this year. The original Huey was portrayed by Killian Donnelly who has now left the production of Memphis and is getting ready for Kinky Boots (I have tickets for this so wait for that post). So I will hopefully be seeing Donnelly even if it’s not in Memphis (however he sings on the London cast album). Donnelly was replaced by the 2010 X-Factor winner Matt Cardle. I was pleasantly impressed with Cardle’s performance. I never really watched him on the X-Factor and felt I would love to go and see him live. Although I am so glad I have eventually seen him live. He gave a great portrayal of Huey, being funny, sincere and cocky near the end. His voice is fantastic and really booms in the auditorium. I really hope this is not the only West End show Cardle will star in. The role of Gladys (Huey’s Mother) is played by Claire Machin and she has a great role within the musical. She is funny and her southern USA accent is fab! Her main song, ‘Change don’t come easy’ is one of my favourites and she really gives it some welly; I found her very impressive. One more mention is the role of Gator (played by Tyrone Huntley). Gator does not speak until the end of Act 1 however when he does break into voice and song, well, you know about it. He is a cute lil thing and his voice is huge. Fab little singer and I think he will soon rise to bigger stardom in the West End. So I urge people to go and see Memphis the Musical before it soon comes to its end. There is a recorded version from the Broadway production which is on sale at the theatre and on the theatre’s shop website (Memphis shop). Although this will not give you the same experience it is still worth seeing. Unfortunately it will not star Knight, Cardle or Donnelly however it will have the fab Broadway cast which I am sure deliver just as good as the West End cast. So only one thing left to say; HOCKADOO!!!

 

Sunny Afternoon, The Kinks Musical

So day two in London begins and me and Ma Beezie had a fun night in the Belgrave Hotel near King’s Cross. As this is not a blog about hotels I have stayed in I will not dwell on the night in hand – it was not the best hotel I have stayed in. However we had a fun night and we even dragged me up; see my alter ego Facebook page (Erica!) currently named Erica Shon but thinking of adapting my name to Mis Sogynistic (comments welcomed). This is a work in progress and one day I will be as big as Ru Paul (LOL!). Anyway we start the day by going to visit ZSL London Zoo – I do love a zoo and love wildlife and the natural Kingdom. It is crazy to think that a zoo is in the middle of London and right next to Camden Town. There were some gorgeous animals there and some really really cute babies such as the baby gorilla and baby monkeys.  I prefer ZSL Whipsnade Zoo but the London cousin is still impressive although I would like some of the enclosures to be a little bit bigger and one lizard tried to escape! The eventful part of the visit was by far the giraffes. Well what seemed like a mating ritual the two giraffes were obviously in love and wanting a little giraffe in 15 months. We were not sure if they were displaying mating and courting behaviour (after a Google search on the way home we confirmed some of it was and some was new behaviour undocumented). Well I wish the giraffes of ZSL London Zoo all the best for their future. But the funny part of the visit was the parents explaining what the animals were doing: “Oh they are cuddling each other”, “maybe they are mother and daughter”, “the girl is kissing the boy giraffe”. BE HONEST WITH YOUR CHILDREN – THEY ARE MAKING A BABY AND IT DON’T INVOLVE NO FLYING STORK. Anyway wherever me and ma Beezie go there is always a drama LOL!

 

So I will move onto the second show we saw, Sunny Afternoon on Tuesday 28^th July 2015 at the Harold Pinter Theatre. Again this is not a theatre I have been to before and I love it. A small theatre tucked away just off Haymarket. It is so beautiful inside with baby blue and gold decor it really is a spectacle and I hope to visit this theatre again in the future. The stage comes out into the audience and some of the seats are set up like being in a little cocktail bar with seats and a table (and of course the Prosecco). I am not sure if this was only for this production but it was certainly effective. Anyway I only wanted to see this show as it won the 2015 Olivier Award for Best New Musical so I thought if it wins that it has got to be worth seeing. Watching ‘Made in Dagenham’ and ‘Beautiful’ (both nominated for the same award) earlier in the year (and unfortunately before this blog started) I was expecting great things as these shows were amazing and after seeing them I thought they deserved the award. Well Sunny Afternoon definitely deserved the award and Ray Davies has definitely a success on his hands which I hope runs for a long time as I would definitely see it again. If you are not sure of the story of Sunny Afternoon it follows the development and career of the famous band The Kinks. From their start up, difficulties keeping royalties and giving their managers way too much, from dynamics in the band going from good to bad to break up and also the relationship and love of Ray Davies with his wife Rasa. I absolutely loved this musical and would recommend all to see whether you are a fan of The Kinks or not.

 

Any fan of a rock concert and a musical will feel very at home seeing Sunny Afternoon. It incorporates the big productions of some of the famous Kinks songs alongside some dancing, gorgeous costumes and some comedy; where can it go wrong (it doesn’t). I am a big fan of actors on stage playing the instruments themselves (‘Once’ is another good musical where this style is used and succeeds in every manner). All the actors on stage play an instrument at various points of the performance. As I said it is like going to see a rock concert so if you struggle with loud noises take some bloody ear protectors. Some of the great songs such as ‘Lola’, ‘Sunny Afternoon’, ‘Waterloo Sunset’ and ‘You Really Got Me’ all feature in the musical and delivered in a unmistakably Kinks finesse; which if you closed your eyes would feel like one of the albums was being played. I also love a bit of confetti falling from the heavens of the theatre and if this ever happens I get some as a souvenir from my visit to the theatre – in my programme now I have a handful of red, white and blue confetti.

 

John Dagleish who played Ray Davies was amazing – he interacts so well with the audience and portrays Ray with ease. His voice is great and as said previously definitely could leave the Harold Pinter Theatre and start up his Kinks tribute band and live quite happily off the profits. Dagleish deserves his 2015 Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Musical. The other band members Edmund Derrington playing Pete Quaife and Adam Sopp as Mick Avory also give an outstanding performance. The role of Dave Davies is usually played by George Maguire who won the Olivier Award for Best Actor in a Supporting Role in a Musical. The performance I was at Dave was portrayed by understudy Ryan O’Donnell and he definitely will go far in his musical theatre career and would be the ideal replacement if Maguire decides to leave the show. Elizabeth Hill plays, at parts of the performance, Mrs. Davies the mother of the brothers and her performance is definitely of comic value and I wish I was sat in the seat where she interacts with the audience member when The Kinks are on Top Of The Pops. One more mention of a part is to Tam Williams who plays Grenville Collins – because he was gorgeous and his accents are to die for – grand job. So if you want to go see The Kinks, a West End Musical and get up and have a dance I suggest going to see Sunny Afternoon (KINKS!) as this will kill three birds with one hell of a gemstone.  

 

The Elephant Man, with Bradley Cooper

Hello again! I know it has been a while but I have been to see a show in a while and I thought seen as this was a musical theatre blog it would seem silly to just pop in and say hello (maybe I will next time there is a lull in my theatre antics). But, I am back and like buses, you wait ages for one and then three come along at once and this week I am going to see three shows in the West End so a lot of blogging to be had. My first two consisted of a double bill with Ma Beezie (Kayleigh who has been mentioned previously). We had arranged to go see a play and a musical this week and god I am glad we did. Before I get onto the first play we saw, The Elephant Man, I have to tell you briefly about our first day in The Big City. Well we arrived and headed to St James Park as I really wanted to see the pelicans. Well after what seemed like a twenty mile walk and a 20p toilet stop off (ridiculous) we found the pelicans and I was very pleased. They were quite far away but we did see them (however if you want a better look at pelicans go to ZSL London Zoo – see next blog). However I have provided picture evidence of the pelicans. This was followed by a little trip to the V&A Museum. I do like a museum and The V&A is a very grand one. We went to see the section they have on theatre and performance – it was fantastic to see some of the old costumes that were wore in the theatre and some modern ones too. I even tried one on but I am not providing a picture of that as I had the worse double chin ever – a visual illusion I still protest. However as always I have digressed and taken up a huge paragraph of my blog. So The Elephant Man …

 

 

So, on Monday 27^th July 2015 I went to see The Elephant Man at the Theatre Royal Haymarket (I love Haymarket and why the hell is it not on the Monopoly board – answers on a postcard please). Well as the blog suggests this is a musical theatre blog and I do love me some musicals. However I do also like the odd play although I do not often go and see them. I would not have seen this play however Ma Beezie wanted to go and her fiancée bought it as a birthday present for her. So I agreed to go along too and well I was very impressed. The theatre is a gorgeous little theatre – been past it loads of times as its right near Trafalgar Square, the only thing I did not like was the camera police who were crazy and also the Oscar Wilde room which row M (the row we were on) were all allowed in – we never saw the door to this room let alone the inside of it. Anyway following the huge success this play received on Broadway it has come over to The West End. All three main characters received nominations for Tony’s and I hope they are nominated for the 2016 Olivier’s as they definitely deserve it. Bradley Cooper plays John Merrick (aka The Elephant Man). Cooper by far is the best on stage from start to finish and it is completely different from some of his Hollywood performances we are all familiar of. He portrays Merrick in such a caring, innocent and empathic manner and he deserves high recognition for it. It also doesn’t hurt that Cooper starts off the play in his briefs which is worth the ticket cost even if the play was rubbish (which it wasn’t!).  Alessandro Nivola, another famous actor from Hollywood, gives a grand performance and is on stage more than any other character I perceived. He portrays Dr Frederick Treves who helped and cared for Merrick. Again the relationship between Merrick and Treves is compassionate although sometimes overly medicalised but this is a reflection of the times the play was based on. Again with two brilliant actors this relationship was portrayed gorgeously. Patricia Clarkson who played Mrs Kendal also played a smashing part and even had a naked seen (never seen a live naked scene in the theatre and it was somewhat artistically beautiful). The only thing I wish to have seen was some prosthetics on Cooper. Although he played the part of Merrick wonderfully with his body language, limp, immense facial expression and the adaptation of his voice a bit of prosthetics can’t go a miss. However who needs a fake face and head when Cooper delivers the part.

 

 

Unfortunately this production of The Elephant Man only had a 12 week run in The West End and closes on the 8^th of August 2015 (The Elephant Man). This is such a shame as I know there will be thousands of people who will not be able to see this fantastic, warming and emotional play. I would love to see this play go on tour around the United Kingdom and even if the three main parts are not played by the three talented actors I saw I still believe with the creative team working hard as they do this could be a successful smash-hit tour. I need to go and see more plays and not focus so much on musicals (but I love them too much). If by chance you are in London and there are spare seats at the Theatre Royal Haymarket get your cash out and go see it – you will not regret it. Right got to write blog #2 now.