Guys and Dolls, West End and UK Tour

I was again stuck in a hotel room and decided to pop off to Birmingham to go and see Guys and Dolls on 24^th November 2015 on its UK tour. I am a creature of habit and of course decided to go to Nando’s for tea; and I really should order something different. I can’t really make this blog overly personal as not much happened apart from the actual show. Apart from me always being late, rushing to get tickets from the stupid self-service machines as well as the annoying train journey there and back. On the way there you get screaming school girls (I shouldn’t judge I am sure I have annoyed plenty on a train journey or two), people on hands free phones (why?) and then on the way back I am minding my own business when some weirdo gets on at Wolverhampton. He sits right opposite me as I am on one of the luxury (lol!) table seats to charge my phone (and the plug doesn’t work) when he sits right opposite me, trying to make eye contact as I try to act as though I am aimlessly looking out of the window. He was a right tool. He put his ear phones in and pretended to play the imaginary drums. I was so annoyed, how ridiculous. And it gets worse. He then decides to be a bloody one man band and plays the imaginary piano. Ridiculous! Well maybe I can make this blog a bit personal even if I was on my lonesome.

 

 

Guys and Dolls was fabulous, as would be expected. I have never seen a production before or the film from 1955. The show is about an illegal crap game (dice to us non-New Yorkians); Nathan Detroit who runs the illegal game and his partner Miss Adelaide who hates him playing these games and just wants to get married. Sky Materson turns up and Detroit bets him he can’t take Sister Sarah Brown to Havana; well you guessed it Materson does take her and the both fall in love. Well there is the shortest synopsis I know.   The musical is written by Jo Swerling and Abe Burrows with music and lyrics by Frank Loesser. Guys and Dolls hit Broadway in 1950, three years later arriving in the West End with a film adaptation in 1955 (which I really want to see). Since the 1950’s there have been many Broadway, West End, international and national tours. Guys and Dolls has been a huge success; winning Five Tony Awards in 1951 (including Best Musical, Best Leading Actor and Best Featured Actress). The original London production couldn’t win any Olivier’s as they were not awarded out until the 1970’s however it did win five of them in 1982 for the London revival (including Best Musical and Best Actress). Guys and Dolls has continued to win Olivier’s, Tony’s and many other awards for all its revivals (who knew one of my favourite actresses Imelda Staunton was nominated in 1996 for her role as Adelaide – wished I had seen that and congratulations to Staunton for winning the Evening StandardAward 2015 for Best Musical Performance). Right now you know all you need to about guys and Dolls I better review what I saw at The New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham.

 

The set was great and depicted New York billboards. I thought the way the billboards assist in the telling of the story and provided additional information to the audience was interesting, and I wonder whether previous and in fact the original productions incorporated this element.  The set doesn’t change apart from what billboard is lit up but I liked the simplicity of this set. The show is over 60 years old however I don’t think the music reflected this. Some songs felt more modern then the 1950’s. I had not heard much of the Guys and Dolls soundtrack before, obviously ‘Luck be a Lady’ and ‘Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat’. I thought the song ‘Guys and Dolls’ was different and I always remember a Simpson’s episode with an actor who had been playing Detroit (can’t remember who). I have a song in my head that is quite jazzy with the lyrics “Guys and Dolls” but this was not in the production. I love the song ‘A Bushel and a Peck’ and poor Adelaide’s Laments (poor woman – I loved her). The dancing and choreography was second to none – the company and ensemble were really on point and fabulous with their moves (Carlos Acosta and Andrew Wright were the choreographers).

The cast were familiar and worked seamlessly together. David Haig played Nathan Detroit; I recognised Haig from Soldier Soldier and The Thin Blue Line. Haig played the part well and had a surprisingly nice voice. I am always amazed when I hear different accents, maybe as I am so terrible at putting on an accent myself. Jamie Parker played Sky Masterson, also having a very fine voice. I have not seen Parker in singing roles before and I recognised him from The History Boys film. He has been in loads which I didn’t realise and was in the Chichester production of Guys and Dolls. His duets with Sarah Brown were gorgeous and their voices really complemented each other. Brown was portrayed by Siubhan Harrison who I had not heard of before and she has a beautiful voice. I would describe her voice as slightly high pitched but I think this really suited the prudence of her character and that voice could really travel. The show for me was stolen by Sophie Thompson playing Miss Adelaide, and the audience agreed with me according to the reaction she got at curtain call. Her voice, her walk, her dramatics, her woefulness, her humour, HER in general was awesome. She really embraced the role of Adelaide and I warmed mostly to her, she was so sweet. I would have really loved to of seen Imelda Staunton play this role but you can’t have everything in life. Guys and Dolls can be easily seen this year and way into 2016. It arrives at The Savoy Theatre in London on the 10^th December for 13 weeks; after which it is visiting some big cities and theatres including Liverpool, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Dublin, Norwich, Leeds, Glasgow and Cardiff with many other locations too. It really is worth the gamble to go and see this show.

Cats at The London Palladium

Hello. Sorry for the delay, I went to The London Palladium on Saturday 14^th November 2015 to see Cats. Was a lovely day, filled with laughter and memories (get the link!). I would just like to say that after the events that happened in Paris through the night on Friday my thoughts and sentiments go out to all those who lost someone in those horrific attacks; Libertė, Égalitė, Fraternitė. I went to London with Ma Beez and the usual giggles and childishness played out through the journey there. No point sharing as no one else will find this funny but we certainly did. Arriving promptly in London and heading straight to the Slug and Lettuce off Regent Street for a slap up meal and a vino. We meet Ma Beez’s family (Mands, Nige, Jules and Di) and it was lovely to catch up with them. It was only then a short walk over the road to The Palladium – I never knew how close The Palladium was to Oxford Street haha! I am sure I got a taxi there once when I was super close. I love The Palladium – I think it’s because it’s on the TV so much that when I am there I think I’m on the TV. This was only the second time I have been to The Palladium, the first being last Christmas to see Cats; starring Nicole Scherzinger– AMAZEBALLS! Today (well few days ago) was actually the fifth time I have seen Cats live, plus the countless times I have watched the recorded performance on DVD; the first was when I was eight and Nanny Cora took me to The New London Theatre to see it – I can remember it, even though a little patchy. I may have said this before but this was the day I started to love musical theatre and this is why I believe Cats holds such a loveable and sentimental memory for me. I then saw the show twice on its most recent UK Tour, once in Leeds with my close friend and housemate Emma and again at The Norwich Theatre Royal with Nanny Cora (who also joined me for the fourth time I saw cats live with Scherzinger). Now I was attending for the fifth time and as you can most probably guess Cats is my favourite musical!

 

Since returning to The West End following its 21 year run (from 1981-2002) for the original production and the tours since, there have been a few changes to the show. And unfortunately being an old-fashioned bore with few modern appreciations I am not a fan of these changes. Firstly the change of Rum Tum Tugger from a sexy Elvis-like character with the mane and suave attitude he has become a rapper; and the song, for me, does not work with the rest of the show, bring back Tugger. “Growltiger’s Last Stand” has also had some significant changes with the Ballad of Billy McCaw being cut and the music going to a swingy-jazz style; again I prefer the original version of this song. I think there have also been some changes to the music composition in the Jellicle Ball scene; I think. This being one of my favourite songs of the whole performance I was slightly disappointed when I realised this. I just don’t see why something that worked well and was clearly loved by many needed to change and be updated. And yes I do know the answer to make Cats more modern; to appeal to a wider audience? I would hazard a guess; however I do honestly feel the original productions, scenes and songs were much better than the new modernised versions. As Gus says himself, “These modern productions are all very well, But there's nothing to equal from what I hear tell, That moment of mystery when I made history”; Cats made history with the original production – no need to modernise it.

 

To say cats is my favourite musical you would not believe so regarding the previous paragraph of this post. I think because it is my absolute favourite I have felt so passionate about these changes. The same reaction would happen if some of my other top 5 (Rocky Horror or Priscilla) changed. I am now going to highlight why the show is my favourite. The music is ultimately gorgeous and Lloyd Webber has simply excelled with his orchestral pieces within Cats and the music he has composed to compliment the collection of poems regarding Cat behaviour in T S Eliot’s ‘Old Possum's Book of Practical Cats’. If People haven’t read the collection it really is a funny and enjoyable read, many of the poems make the lyrics to the songs of Cats. Some of my favourite songs  in Cats are the Prologue (Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats – I love the bit where we find out all different types of ‘cal’ cats; which actually had additional material written by Tervor Nunn and Richard Stilgoe). I am a big fan of the songs Demeter and Bombalurina sing (mainly Grizabella and Macavity) – I so want a collection of cats to name them all these fantastical names. Skimbleshanks and Mr Mistoffelees are most probably two of the most well-known songs from Cats and these also form part of my top-Cats song list (no pun intended). I absolutely adore Gus (Asparagus) and Jellylorum who both sing ‘Gus: The Theatre Cat’ and I can actually sing the song word for word which if you know me clearly makes this one of my all-time favourite songs in any context (they also sing ‘Growltiger’s last Stand). I would be shocked if anyone has not heard of memory; the classical song from Cats. Grizabella who sings the song is not part of T S Eliot’s collection and the character was created by Lloyd Webber for Cats and lyrics to Memory were by Trevor Nunn. This song is absolutely gorgeous and so emotional. Beverley Knight portrays Grizabella in this new production of Cats and she was absolutely amazing. Her voice, so powerful and soulful, really gives you goose pimples especially when she hits that note near the end of Memory (reprise), I was shivering.  Knight really shone during the production even though poor Grizabella does not feature for that long in the performance (a rest after her Memphis stint). One problem I did have with Knight was her cackle during the first rendition of Memory – I did not get this and have never seen another Grizabella cackle.

 

The Choreography is phenomenal and I don’t think anyone can doubt or criticise how much effort goes into each performance; the main chorus of cats must be mentally and physically exhausted after dancing like that. Gillian Lynne was the original choreographer for Cats and actually returned for the make-over of the show. Lynne won the 1981 Olivier for Outstanding Achievement of the Year in Musicals for Cats. She also won a special Olivier award at the 2013 ceremony and Cats performed The Jellicle Ball on the night showing off her amazing talent as a choreographer. Bill Deamer was the creator of the Gumble tap dance in The Old Gumbie Cat scene. The lighting is gorgeous and takes a lot of work due to the amount of characters coming out at different times and the old fashioned coloured bulb is beautiful, especially during the more up-beat songs. I feel the lighting immensely reflects the mood on stage and the emotions of the cats; Howard Eaton was the lighting designer originally designed by David Hersey. I have to comment on the fantastic make-up of the actors, they look so good and offer some real feline personality. Designed by John Napier and developed by Karen Dawson I would happily let them make me up into a cat (I think Bill Bailey’s patchy face would suit me!). Trevor Nunn also directed the performance and we are a big fan of Nunn as he is a fellow Suffolkeon.

 

I need to mention Adam Linstead who played Old Deuteronomy; the leader of the Jellicle Cats. This character has a lovely song, ‘The Ad-Dressing of Cats’ which ends the performance. Old Deuteronomy remains on the stage during the interval and you can go and meet him. So of course me and Ma Beez went to queue, pushing past all the kids to get to the front. He was so lovely and signed my programme; the fifth one I now have for Cats J. He asked if I was enjoying myself and I of course said “Yes”, stating it was my fifth time and he suggested I knew the show better than the cast. Of course I naturally agreed with him and offered my services to the show if anyone was sick or ill. He did say that there was a few off sick today hence why I have not mentioned any names within the main body of the post for individual actors in case they actually were not in it – it’s difficult to tell from programme to a face on stage that looks like a cat. However the cast were all fantastic (apart from the new Rum Tum Tugger – sorry the character is supposed to be sexy and confident not a comedian). No in all honesty the cast are fantastic and really put a lot of effort into each performance.

 

I am going to have to finish this post soon it is becoming huge and my longest post yet (size does not matter lol!). If I have forgotten to mention anyone else from the production team or cast I whole heartedly apologise but I am running out of space – let me know and if I feel you deserve a comment I will make additions. Cats is a fantastic show and you have to see it if you never have and why not see it multiple times; I still love it. Even if you prefer the original full performance it is on DVD so you can watch it there; I think people should be aware some major revisions have occurred which may cause surprise. Cats has been translated into 20 different languages and toured all over the world in most continents (maybe all??); currently playing in Australia, France and Japan. The current stint at The Palladium is running until January 2^nd 2016 so there is not much time left to see it. The show won the 1981 Olivier for best new musical and has been nominated for two this year (winning neither L); in 1983 winning 7 Tony’s too. So it is a really fantastic show! So until the next time I see Cats live, and who knows where that will be, enjoy yourselves.

Handbagged @ Norwich Theatre Royal

Hello everyone and hope all is well. A surprise visit cropped up last night (10^th November 2015) to The Norwich Theatre Royal to see ‘Handbagged’; and I definitely wasn’t turning that down. I invited Nanny Cora with me of course so I had to dash from work Tuesday afternoon, get to Norwich and meet her. She decided to get the bus which I was dubious about for obvious reasons. I met her in Norwich and we had a quick tea in a very well-known fast food McRestaurant which filled a hole prior to the stroll to the Royal. I have said it before but to any new readers Norwich Theatre Royal is attracting some great touring performances and I have word that these great performances will be continuing into 2016 (great news!). As the title of the blog suggests I am a musical theatre fan however I do not look down on a musical that does not have any singing or dancing, i.e. a play. I have written previously about plays and I really enjoy them. My theatrical philosophy on this is that the musical and the play offer audiences something very different, yet pulls at the same artistic heart strings as theatre-goers have. I will always prefer a musical as I love to sing and dance, not well I hear those who know me shout,  however I am becoming a bigger fan of plays the more I see and I may have to take the word ‘musical’ out of the title of my blog if this continues. So we went to see Handbagged and I was super impressed I have to say; Handbagged won the 2014 Olivier award for Outstanding Achievement in an Affiliate Theatre. I have heard on the grapevine that Handbagged has been receiving great reviews from those in musical theatre so this programmed my mind and the play had to live up to my now positive preconceptions. And, it did!

For those of you who have not heard about Handbagged before I will provide a simplistic synopsis. Based on the lives of Margaret Thatcher while in post as Prime Minister and the weekly meetings she had with Queen Elizabeth II, Handbagged is a laugh a minute satirical play. The play adopts a mix of styles and approaches to theatre which complimented each other throughout the whole performance. There are elements of flashbacks, with lesser important (apologies) characters also acting as narrators and talking to the audience, as well as The Iron Lady and The Queen too. I like the breaking of the fourth wall, or as some call an actor aside; meaning the actors are talking directly to the audience. Thatcher and The Queen are portrayed both at different ages and times in their lives; once when Thatcher is in post and the other when she is out of post looking back on her time and Elizabeth at these times. Initially this was confusing for me; I almost thought young Queen was nervous and seeking reassurance from Old Queen when making eye contact with each other. I actually loved this way of portraying the Queen and Thatcher, for me it made them feel real and genuine. This approach allowed both characters to have vulnerable sides and look back on their time together and dispute what they may or may not have said and comment on their past actions. I am not going to dwell further on this as you should see the play for yourselves and make your own minds up

 

Moira Buffini is the British playwright who is the brains and talent behind this brilliant play. Indhu Rubasingham directed the play with Richard Kent as the designer. The show originated as a one act play (and I think Queen Elizabeth the II wished it still was). The staging is very minimalist however when Oliver Fenwick (lighting designer) kicks his talent into the play the background lights up which represented true Britain. Randomly there was a song or two if I remember quite rightly and this may be why a lot of musical theatre fans have warmed humbly to Handbagged (thanks Carolyn Downing, sound designer). I think this play does sell itself to those individuals who were interested in politics during the Thatcher reign or those that had a vote. Any royalist will also have a great time when watching Handbagged; highlighting alongside the satire and hilarity some of the serious moral issues and complications both queen Elizabeth II and Thatcher faced in the 1980’s. I think if I didn’t have an interest in politics or was a big royalist I may not have enjoyed the show as much, plus the A-level in politics and government helps out. I would suggest if one did not have an understanding of this time period one might not laugh as much as one would hope. One.  

For me the star of the show was definitely Susie Blake who portrayed Q (older Queen Elizabeth II). Blake is a well-known British actress who has warmed the hearts of many viewers with her portrayals in Corrie, Mrs Brown Boys, Victoria Wood and much more, even starring in Wicked in the West End. For me Blake stole the show with her quick wit which had the audience in stitches. Her acting was also impeccable; she really was able to portray the Queen and I am sure if Blake puts on the costume and does the Christmas Speech for 2015 no one will know. Young queen or Liz was portrayed by Emma Handy who also gave a really top notch performance. Kate Fahy played T or older Thatcher and her attention to acting detail really made her performance stand out, from the walk to the hand twitch she really had the Iron Lady fully on stage. Young Thatcher or Mags is played by Sanchia McCormack and I have nothing to say but ace acting and what a voice. All four actresses really suited to sharing the stage even though only two people were being portrayed at any one time, artistically crazy! It was clear that Blake and Handy as well as Fahy and McCormack are playing the same character. I think to be able to do this demonstrates some pretty excellent acting skills and just shows how fantastic the creative team worked on Handbagged to make it what it is. Actor 1 (Asif Kahn) and Actor 2 (Richard Teverson) play various roles (about ten each, maybe more) throughout the performance of those people who Thatcher and the Queen came into contact with over the years. Although sometimes I thought they took the attention away from the ladies (and I suspect intentionally) I thought they really performed all parts well; and Mags and Liz soon put them in their place. It definitely shows some talent to flit between characters on stage; plus the bit of cross dressing had me at Handbag! I will comment on voice acting and accents before I leave you in peace. All six performers (such a small cast) had the most fantastic accents, particularly the ladies. They really portrayed Thatcher’s voice and intonation as did those playing Liz and Q. A post royal accent to a non-Grantham middle class Oxford accent, even Thatcher’s booming voice was there. I hope I have sold this show and you go and see it; I don’t want to give any more away as it really is a great show. The play is whole heartedly a comedy and it really does get the audience laughing and giggling, as I was leaving the theatre everyone was commenting on how good it was and how much they enjoyed it. Handbagged definitely deserved a standing ovation even thought they didn’t get one (I was standing up in my head). Handbagged is at the Theatre Royal, Norwich until Saturday 14^th November before going to Cheltenham, Richmond and Bath, presented by Tricycle Theatre. I do hope you get to see it and if you don’t I hope the team decide to continue the tour or do another one soon. It really is a right ol’ political-laughing, royal-loving, Handbaggin’ night!

 

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!