Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2

The cheesy, cheery and oh so cheeky Club Tropicana sashayed its way into Manchester this week taking audiences right back to the 80’s with an outrageously camp night of good natured theatre escapism.

Bride Lorraine’s (Karina Hind) hair may be big but her doubts are even bigger as with a little help from her friends she decides to play runaway bride and head to her honeymoon with the girls for some sun, sea and soul searching.

Heartbroken groom Olly doesn’t need much convincing that a little break in the sunshine could be what he needs to forget being jilted at the alter and you guessed it, heads with his pals to the same hotel! Add to this their arrival coincides with that of a mystery hotel inspector, hotel owners who are secretly in love and an ill-tempered Spanish housekeeper and you’ve got a great recipe for a night of hilarious mischief and raucous mayhem.

Fan favourite Joe McElderry is at the helm of the production as entertainment host Garry; camp, colourful and absolutely chockfull of charisma he is every inch a star performer. From teaching the audience a Macarena style dance routine at the start of Act I to leading the cast in an 80’s singalong he more than rises to the occasion. Oozing charm and bursting with talent his panto style interaction is lapped up while he takes every opportunity to prove what a vocal talent he is in the multiple 80’s classics which come thick and fast in this jukebox jape.

Kate Robbins is hilarious as Spanish housekeeper Consuela, full of sarcasm and dry wit she proves what a talented character actress she is, her scene stealing performance is lapped up by the audience who are treated to several of her most loved impersonations.

Former Sugababe Amelle Berrabah is in fine voice as hotel owner Serena, her strong vocals if anything are a little underused while Nye Rees does a fine job of covering for Neil McDermott who is unable to perform tonight.

Nick Winston’s choreography adds sass to the production and offers something visually solid when the paper thin plot needs a boost. The ensemble scenes are high energy and delivered with enthusiasm and precision by the incredibly talented cast.

Shakespeare is it not, nor is it trying to be and judging by the riotous standing ovation Club Tropicana will keep audiences entertained even when the drinks aren’t free. While the plot may be as shallow as a paddling pool and as predictable as Brits abroad tucking into a full English the audience are getting exactly what they came for, feel-good, frivolous fun and are loving every minute of it.

Club Tropicana is on at Manchester’s Opera House until Saturday 8th June, tickets available here.