Musical Theatre

Kinky Boots

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Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

With a Tony nominated book by Harvey Fierstein plus Tony and Grammy award-winning songs by Cyndi Lauper, Kinky Boots, based on the film of the same name by Geoff Deane and Tim Firth struts into Storyhouse this month and this all-new revival is just as fun as you’d hope it to be.

When Charlie Price’s father passes away, he inherits the failing family shoemaking business. Torn between saving the factory and leaving it all behind for a new life in London with girlfriend Nicola, Charlie is at a crossroads. A chance meeting with a flamboyant drag queen called Lola, opens Charlie’s mind to the fact that he might just have it within him to save the business while also unexpectedly saving himself.

Danny Becker is a wonderful Charlie Price. His impressive journey is filled with heart as he explores, (at times without realising) who he truly is. He draws you in and has you rooting for him throughout while his vocals soar, particularly during Soul of a Man and the incredibly beautiful Not My Father’s Son. This duet with Duane-Lamonte O’Garro as Lola, while one of the simplest moments in the show genuinely packs an emotional punch.

Duane-Lamonte O’Garro is perfectly cast as Lola, bursting with soul and sass he convincingly embodies Lola and gives us a character we wholly believe in. Fiercely fabulous one moment, sucker punching us the next with his heartfelt performance during Hold Me In Your Heart. A multifaceted performer who really shines.

Leah Vassell brings warmth and heaps of humour as a charismatic Lauren, raising the energy of the show during her solo The History of Wrong Guys. From here the show really gets into its stride.

Gareth Cassidy as factory foreman George is a joy while Roddy Lynch is a perfect Don.

Of course there’s no Kinky Boots without Lola’s Angels; James Lowrie, Remi Martin and Thomas Sankey are heavenly as they join Lola on stage, giving us slick vocals and complex choreography all while wearing six inch heels.

Add to this a multi-talented ensemble of muso-actors and you’ve got everything you need for a great piece of theatre. That said there are moments when instruments felt a little distracting during certain scenes such as Don entering the boxing ring with his guitar around his neck and Nicola suddenly whipping out a trumpet after declaring she’d found her perfect shoes.

Director Amber Sinclair-Case has made some inspired choices with the finale really giving us that memorable moment we all wish for.

This is hugely entertaining, uplifting theatre that not only entertains but gently educates in the most wholesome of ways, showing beautifully how challenging prejudice and embracing difference can lead to true acceptance of both ourselves and each other. Kinky Boots will raise you up, an up, and up!

Kinky Boots is on at Storyhouse Chester until Saturday 18th May, tickets available here.

Bonnie & Clyde

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Reviewed by Matt Forrest

Opening Night verdict ⭐⭐⭐1/2

Following the Wall Street crash of 1929, the USA was hit by the great depression, money was scarce, unemployment was rife. As a result of these tough times America saw an increase of violent crime and armed robbery, notorious criminals such as John Dillinger, The Ma Barker Gang and arguably the most infamous of them all Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow. Dillinger, Ma Barker and Bonnie and Clyde have all had Hollywood films made about them, however it’s only that later has a musical about them. 

Direct from the West End Bonnie & Clyde, arrive in Manchester as part of a full UK tour. With the involvement of Oscar winning lyricist Don Black and Grammy,Tony and Emmy nominated composer Frank Wildhorn, expectations for this one are obviously high. 

©Richard Davenport

Set in and the ‘Dust Bowl’ of America, the production opens with Bonnie and Clyde, dead in their car, taken down in a hailstorm of bullets, but how did these 20-somethings end up in this situation? 

We are introduced to the violent pair as Bonnie (Katie Tonkinson) dreams about being a big movie star like her idol Clara Bow, whilst Clyde (Alex James Hatton) wants to go down in history like his hero, Billy the Kid. A chance meeting between the pair, sees them become fascinated with each other, he a fugitive from the law, a career criminal, intent on making a life following his family’s eviction from their farm. She, an aspiring actress, singer and poet determined to quit her waitress job and find excitement, adventure and the American dream.  

©Richard Davenport

Clyde, and his brother Buck (Sam Ferriday) have broken out of prison, and whilst Clyde  continues robbing grocery stores and continues his relationship with Bonnie, his brother Buck is persuaded to turn himself in by his wife, Blanche (Catherine Tydesley) a devout, god-fearing Christian women, determined to carve out a good, honest life for her and her husband.  

However, eventually the law catches up with Clyde, who is sent back to prison. Finding life on the inside is tough going, especially without his brother. He and Bonnie hatch a plot to spring him from jail, and so begins the pair’s infamous crime spree of bank robberies and murder.  

©Richard Davenport

Whilst not perfect there is a great deal to admire about the show. The music is a mix of late 1920’s early 30’s illicit speak-easy tunes infused with elements of gospel rock. There are several stand out musical numbers including the narrative setting Picture Show, the powerful huge ensemble number, Made In America and the heart-breaking Bonnie/Blanche duet You Love Who You Love.  

The cast are exceptional and certainly the highlight of the production. Alex James Hatton is in fine form, playing Clyde with a hefty dose of charisma and charm, aided by the fact he has a tremendous singing voice. Katie Tonkinson is in superb as Bonnie, her portrayal is one of determination and borderline fanatical belief that she is destined to be a star. The chemistry between the two leads is there for all to see, making the pair a captivating watch. Tonkinson’s powerful duet with Catherine Tydesley on the aforementioned You Love Who You Love is the highlight of the show.  

©Richard Davenport

Catherine Tydesley displays not just her fine vocal range, as well as measured, at times comedic turn as the increasingly desperate Blanche.  Whilst Sam Ferriday is sympathetic is the dim-witted yet loyal Buck, torn between doing the best by his wife and his brother. The foursome are supported by a hardworking and impressive ensemble that include Daniel Reid-Walters as the well-meaning Deputy Sheriff, Ted Hinton determined to save Bonnie from her bloody fate. 

At times I do think the pace and tone of the show is somewhat hit and miss. Once the characters are established it takes a while for the plot to really start moving along. The production is desperate for you to love the central protagonists, attempting to make the pair Robin Hood like characters, at times glossing over just how evil the pair really were. Whilst some of the comedic elements to the production work at times, on other occasions it does feel out of place.  

©Richard Davenport

Overall, this is an enjoyable night at the theatre, a tremendous hard-working cast with some great tunes and exceptional performances. Whilst the story doesn’t always hit its mark, the cast certainly go out with all gun’s blazing! 

Bonnie and Clyde is on at Manchester’s Palace Theatre until Saturday 11th May. Tickets available here.

42 Balloons

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Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Bursting with bops, bangers and brilliant ballads, 42 Balloons tells the incredible true story of Larry Walters, his determination to fulfil his dreams and the amazing people who helped him to take flight.

Using just a lawn chair and 42 helium filled weather balloons, Larry Walters achieved the seemingly impossible, flying sixteen thousand feet above Los Angeles; and so, ‘Lawn Chair Larry’ was born.

How he achieved his dream, and what happened during and after his 1982 flight are all wonderfully revealed in this exhilarating new musical.

This uplifting production which was originally performed as a semi-stage concert back in 2022 makes its world premier at Salford’s Lowry theatre and soars from the moment the Prologue begins. The original score with its strong 80’s influence feels both inventive and nostalgic while Godfrey’s catchy lyrics ensure you’ll be singing these tracks long after the curtain call.

The impressive staging ties-in superbly with the 80’s influence as Andrzej Goulding’s retro video projections illuminate Milla Clarke’s impressive set design, lit to perfection by Bruno Poet. 

Charlie McCullagh takes on the role of Larry and delivers a heartfelt, heartwarming performance. He immediately hooks you in, taking you along for this emotional ride while ensuring you are rooting for Larry from the off. His depth of character allowing us to truly believe in Larry, his dream swiftly becomes a goal we all collectively wish for while his vocals are simply stunning.

Portraying Larry’s partner, Carol Van Deusen, is an excellent Evelyn Hoskins. She brings warmth and wit to the role while giving us world class vocals. Her solo Helium in particular offers the perfect opportunity to showcase her incredible range, ensuing this power ballad packs an emotional punch any 80’s diva would be proud of.

Gillian Hardie has incredible stage presence as Carol’s Mom, singing the Blues in superb style while Lejaun Sheppard, as Larry’s friend Ron adds a further level to this fascinating story. His rich vocals and slick delivery reminding us of Hamilton one moment, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air the next, so creative and inventive is this score.

The leads are supported by an incredible ensemble. They feature almost consistently throughout taking on various roles and elevating this already glorious production to the next level. They deliver Alexzandra Sarmiento’s 80’s inspired choreography with sass as they cleverly move the story along with each impressive scene.

It really does feel like you’re watching the next big thing with its inspired writing, brilliant songs and wonderful storytelling. 42 Balloons truly soars.

The highs are exhilarating while the lows are sensitively and delicately portrayed resulting in a contemporary piece of theatrical perfection. The nostalgic feel will appeal to audiences who lived through the era while its innovative design along with bops a plenty will cement 42 Balloons popularity with younger audiences too.

Special mention must also go to orchestrator, arranger and musical supervisor Joe Beighton. This score will no doubt become a firm favourite amongst theatre fans across the county and no doubt beyond. Delivered on the night by an impressive band led by Flynn Sturgeon with superb sound design from Paul Gatehouse.

The Sky’s the limit for this truly special piece of theatre, get yourself to the Lowry immediately and watch Larry take flight.

42 Balloons is on at The Lowry until Sunday 19th May tickets available here.

Images by Pamela Raith

Little Shop of Horrors

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Reviewed by Matt Forrest

Opening Night verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐

At the start of April the world witnessed the unusual phenomenon of a total solar eclipse. This rare occurrence plunged parts of North America into total darkness. It’s probably too early to tell if that event has led to any strange goings on: a martian invasion or even the introduction of a “strange and interesting plant” into the echo’s system. I mention the latter because this is the premise of one of the Octagon Theatre’s big spring shows, Little Shop of Horrors.

Set in 1950’s New York, we are transported to the dark side of the city, Skid Row, where we meet timid florist Seymour, (Oliver Mawdsley). Seymour works for the rather unpleasant Mr Mushnik (Andrew Whitehead), who blames his failing shop on the meek botanist. To add to Seymour’s worries, he is desperately in love with his friend and work colleague, Audrey (Laura Jane Matthewson). However, Audrey is blinded to his affection due to her turbulent relationship with the sadistic dentist Orin Scrivello, (Matthew Ganley).

However soon the fortunes of Mushnik’s soon change when Seymour discovers an unusual looking plant. Naming it Audrey II the strange flower soon becomes a media hit, bringing in more customers, more money as well as bringing Audrey and Seymour closer together. However, following an accident with a rose bush, Seymour soon learns that Audrey II has an appetite for something a little stronger than Miracle Grow. With Seymour running out of veins he looks at other means to feed the wanting weed, but the big question is, is it worth it for fame, fortune and him landing the girl of his dreams?

What absolute joy this production is: jam packed with great catchy tunes and a super talented cast, this is another triumph for the Octagon Theatre.

Oliver Mawdsley is in fine form as Seymour, showcasing great comic timing and a fine singing voice to boot. Laura Jane Matthewson is equally impressive as Audrey, with the pair’s stunning duet on Suddenly Seymour being just one of the production’s several highlights.

Matthew Ganley is suitably deranged and perfectly OTT as cruel Orin Scrivello DDS and very nearly steals the show, however the undoubted star is of course Audrey II, masterfully controlled by puppeteer Matthew Hewood, and superbly voiced Anton Stephans. His vocals on Feed Me (Get it) and Suppertime are sublime.

Musical director, Levi Van Warmelo has done a great job with the score, who along with drummer Migdalia Van Der Hoven and the supporting cast do a great job transitioning  between slow tempo tunes and funky upbeat numbers.

Throughout the performance Janna May, Zweyla Michell Dos Santos and Chardi Shaw showcase their talents as the do-wop trio Chiffon, Crystal and Ronnette, acting as our guides around Skid Row as the drama unfolds. Not only do these actors have tremendous voices, and a commanding stage presence, they are also talented musicians pitching in on guitar, bass, and keyboards.

All that said, the show isn’t without its flaws: I did find the closing sequences between Audrey, Audrey II and later Seymour and Audrey II looked awkward. In addition, the subject matter of domestic violence does make it unsuitable for younger audience members.

This is a highly entertaining, joyous night at the theatre, filled with black comedy, catchy toe-tapping tunes and plenty of bite!

Little Shop of Horrors is at the Octagon Theatre till May 18th tickets available here.

The Wizard of Oz

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Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Wizard of Oz is as classic a tale as they come, invoking warm fuzzy memories quicker than you can say ruby slippers, this bold, bright reimagining however shakes things up, bringing it bang up to date with its terrific technicolour and futuristic feel.

Adapted by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Jeremy Sams this new revival directed by Nikolai Foster retains many of the much-loved classic’s elements while updating it for modern audiences. The result is a full-on, fast-paced feast of colour. The black and white of Kansas is gone, while Oz is presented as a neon dream with the Emerald City projected in vivid technicolour as an impressive backdrop which envelopes the simple staging.

Stepping into the ruby slippers is Aviva Tulley, with pitch perfect vocals she leads the cast as Dorothy with genuine warmth and huge charisma. She skilfully makes the part her own while remaining true to the essence of the character, adding plenty of self-assured sparkle along the way.

Benjamin Yates has heaps of charm as the Scarcrow, embodying the role brilliantly and bringing plenty of laughs along the way. Aston Merrygold’s Tin Man is enormously endearing and takes full advantage of the opportunity to showcase his impressive dance skills, while Manchester favourite Jason Manford is hilarious as the Cowardly Lion. He has the audience in his paws from the very first roarsome growl. The trio make a perfect team bringing a whole heap of fun to the production as they join Dorothy in her quest to get home. We also mustn’t forget Toto, who is brought to brilliant life by puppeteer Abigail Matthews.

The Wizard of Oz wouldn’t be complete of course without the witches, as good witch Glinda, Emily Bull is a joy, her crisp vocals are delivered with an effortless ease as she whizzes round the stage on her perfect pink scooter. The Vivienne takes on the iconic role of Wicked Witch of The West and brings just the right amount of villainy to the piece. She pitches her wickedness perfectly ensuring a sense of menace and mischief without traumatising any children in the audience. Her impressive solo, Red Shoes Blues gives the opportunity to really show her talent and versatility as a performer.

Visually this show really dazzles, Rachael Canning’s costumes are incredible while Douglas O’Connell’s video projections impress throughout. Lloyd Webber has composed some new additions to the score however it’s the originals such as We’re Off to See the Wizard and Ding-Dong! The Witch is dead that truly shine.

This revamped revival is enormous fun with heaps of heart and some serious style. The talented cast joyously prove that there’s no place like Oz. Uplifting escapism for all ages.

The Wizard of Oz is on at Manchester’s Palace Theatre until Sunday 5th May tickets available here.

Pretty Woman

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Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Following successful runs on Broadway and in London’s West End, Pretty Woman arrives in Manchester this week as part of its first ever UK tour.

The musical stays faithful to the iconic 1990 movie starring Julia Roberts and Richard Gere, much to the delight of the audience who clearly revel in the nostalgia of the familiar.

For those unfamiliar (and I can’t imagine there are many) this is a classic Cinderella story with a twist, the twist being our ‘Cinderalla’, Vivian, is a sassy sex worker on the Hollywood Boulevard and our Prince Charming, Edward, is a money motivated entrepreneur, neither are looking for love but can just about cope with a week of no strings company.

Taking on the role of Vivian Ward at tonight’s performance Paige Fenlon captures the essence of the character so iconically created by Julia Roberts brilliantly. She draws the audience in, getting them on side immediately with her warmth and wit. Her confident delivery of ‘I Can’t Go Back’ is a real highlight while her characterisation guarantees we all fall completely in love with her Vivian.

Ben Darcy makes for a wonderful Edward, ensuring the audience soon warm to him once his walls begin to come down. His vocals really shine while he makes Edward’s journey convincing and thoroughly enjoyable. The two have great on stage chemistry ensuring we’re really rooting for their happy ever after.

Previous Strictly champion Ore Oduba is a huge asset to this production as (Happy Man/Mr Thompson). A versatile performer with heaps of charisma he is a real joy to watch. Popping up when you least expect him to, each scene he delivers with a confident ease, endearing him wonderfully to this engaged audience. His pairing with Noah Harrison as bell-boy Giulio, is inspired. The talented pair really elevate this production, each scene more brilliant than the last, I wouldn’t say no to a Mr Thompson and Giulio spin-off, they are superb!

Special mention must also go to Natalie Paris who blows us away with her stunning vocals as Vivienne’s best friend, Kit De Luca. She really is a world class talent and adds to this production enormously.

Director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell ensures this faithful retelling gives fans of the film everything they’d hope for in musical form. The iconic lines are there as are the classic scenes we all know and love. The opera scene particularly is stunning with Lila Falce-Bass and Josh Damer-Jennings delivering pitch perfect performances.

Pretty Woman ticks all the boxes for a perfect night of theatre escapism. It doesn’t take itself too seriously and delivers a super fun show as a result. It will entertain, charm and uplift you, make no mistake!

Pretty Woman The Musical is on at Manchester’s Palace Theatre until Saturday 16th March, tickets available here.

Unfortunate – The Untold Story Of Ursula The Sea Witch

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Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Malifcent and Cruella have both had their moments in the spotlight, so now feels like the perfect time to spill the tea on Disney’s most iconic villain, the queer queen herself, Ursula.

This is a deep dive like no other and a musical parody you won’t forget in a hurry as Ursula’s mysterious past is explored in the most hilarious way. It’s camp, colourful and completely outrageous.

Shawna Hamic takes on the titular role and succeeds entirely. She’s sassy, self assured and super fun with a hint of vulnerable where necessary. She blasts out powerhouse vocals with ease and quickly makes you realise perhaps you were wrong about Ursula all along.

Her scenes with Thomas Lowe as Triton are superb. They bounce off each other brilliantly ensuring this sharp script gets the quality delivery it deserves. They’re deliciously OTT, Hamic delivering Ursula’s cool, effortlessly while Lowe camps it up as Triton, all hair flicks and wanting sighs, hamming it up to perfection.

Allie Dart as Sebastian and multiple other characters is incredible, she delivers and then some. Such a brilliant actor, she doesn’t miss a beat in this fast paced parody. Her scenes with Jack Gray are a joy, their interpretations of Ursula’s faithful eels Flotsam and Jetsam are hilarious, a real highlight of the show as they weave effortlessly through Melody Sinclair’s brilliant choreography.

River Medway as the flame haired Ariel is hilarious. Ditsy, dim and desperate for a fumble ensuring the audience understand completely why Ursula sent her down the path she chose. Of course where there’s a whiff of Disney there’s always a Prince Charming, step forward Jamie Mawson as Eric. Mawson hams it up perfectly as the brattish, flute playing royal. Every line and every lyric exaggerated to level ten, he is a scream.

The cast are supported by a talented ensemble who bring further sass to this brilliant piece, they hold nothing back and make you feel like you’re part of this inclusive party.

There are bops and bangers, all delivered by a top notch cast. At two and a half hours this is a fairly long parody which might pack a little more punch with a slightly shorter running time but this really is a minor quibble.

Unfortunate is bold, brilliant theatre. Outrageous, unapologetic and a whole heap of fun.

Unfortunate – The Untold Story of Ursula The Sea Witch is on at The Lowry until Saturday 2nd March tickets available here.

The Wizard of Oz

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Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Continuing their ever-popular offering of half term pantos Regal Entertainment bring The Wizard of Oz to St Helens Theatre Royal this February.

This reimagined version of the 1939 Hollywood film adds plenty of panto elements to the classic story resulting in an entertaining treat for all the family.

While the Wizard of Oz isn’t traditional panto fodder this version cleverly reworks the original story ensuring there are plenty of opportunities for booing the Wicked Witch, cheering for Dorothy and shouts of ‘It’s behind you’. There’s even a blast from super soakers during the show, you have been warned!

Theatre Royal regular Maddie Hope Coelho slips perfectly into the ruby slippers. She’s a fabulous Dorothy with a voice to match as she delivers the iconic ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ with effortless ease. Michael Alan-Bailey is a highly entertaining Scarecrow, his natural comedic ability is lapped up by the audience while his close to the bone jokes give the adults in the audience more than a giggle or two. Lewis Canning makes a strong professional debut as the Tin Man while Benjamin Keith’s Cowardly Lion is great fun.

Hayley Russell as Glinda and Abigail Middleton as the Wicked Witch have great banter as they bounce off each other with their rhyming sparring. Middleton laps up the boos from the audience and is clearly enjoying every minute of wickedness. While Warren Donnolly makes up the company as the wonderful Wizard of Oz.

As well as songs from the original film and various hit musicals there’s a sprinkling of modern pop songs that the little ones particularly enjoy. The use of a TikTok routine to the tune of Dua Lipa Dance the Night during the traditional ‘Ghost and Ghoulies’ scene is a big hit with my mini reviewers while a scene between the Scarecrow (Michael Alan-Bailey) and the Wicked Witch (Abigail Middleton) which uses multiple songs in response to her attempts to control him had us in stitches.

There’s strong support from both the senior and juvenile dancers who deliver Nazene Dannielle’s chorography with great enthusiasm. While Regal Entertainments Ltd costumes and lavish scenery really add to the impact of the show.

Theatre Royal once again deliver a fun-packed production that will be enjoyed by young and old alike.

The Wizard of Oz is on at St Helens Theatre Royal until Sunday 18th February tickets available here.

The Rocky Horror Show

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Reviewed by Sean Harris & Amy Mercer

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

From its debut in 1973 this show was breaking boundaries, causing people to gasp in shock at what they were witnessing on stage. We can tell you first hand that this has not changed. Though the story is the same as the one we have always known and loved, the new jokes and witty comments bring a breath of fresh air to this show. The narrator (Philip Franks) throughout makes reference to current world issues which really helps this 50-year-old show feel modern and relatable.

Not only were the performers incredible but you become really emersed in the show and we don’t think it’s too far to say that the audience is just as important as the actors on stage, whether you’re getting up on your feet to do the time warp (again) or shouting out crude jokes to the cast on stage, this show is just good fun. You can really see when watching the show how well trained these actors are for a show such as this, not many shows enjoy having the audience shout profanity at the stage and sing along to the songs, however Rocky Horror thrives on this. The comedic timing of this show is second to none with the actors being well prepared and sometimes even going off script to suit the audience’s reactions.

Richard Meek and Haley Flaherty who play Brad and Janet excellently portray the sexual journey each character takes from their prude and naive beginnings to their sexual awakening, guided through the allure of Dr Frank-N-Furter. A highlight of Brad and Janets time on stage were their respective bedroom scenes with Dr Frank-N-Furter, each of these scenes had the whole audience aching with laughter. The vocals throughout this show are amazing and never dip in energy. We personally thought that the Usherette played by Suzie McAdam did an incredible job at opening the show with her incredible vocals and ditsy, sassy attitude. Another favourite vocal moment of ours was during the chorus of the song ‘Eddie’. The piece opens with Dr Scott played by Joe Allen singing his solo but as the chorus ensues the whole cast join in. The harmonies and fullness of the vocals in this section were phenomenal and it really had us taken aback.

We wouldn’t be talking about The Rocky Horror Show if we didn’t talk about the sensual and hilarious character of Dr Frank-N-Furter, this role is truly iconic and Stephen Webb did not disappoint, we were truly in awe of the talent and charisma shining out of this actor. It takes a lot of confidence to get up on stage in front of so many people and portray such an outrageous character but not only did he present the character perfectly, but he made this iconic role his own with his groundbreaking interpretation, not to mention doing it all in platform heels.

The wonderfully strange gang consisting of Riff Raff, Columbia and Magenta played by Kristian Lavercombe, Darcy Finden and Suzie McAdam respectively, really made the show for us, the trio’s vocals and comedic quips made for a brilliantly whimsical performance. The energy from each character never wavered with Columbia stealing the show with her charisma and confidence in every appearance, not to mention the tap sequence in Time Warp which had the audience enthralled.

The four part ensemble were magnificent and we have to take a second to talk about the choreography. Truly jaw dropping, there was always so much going on and the chaotic energy was enthralling and made everyone want to get up and join in.

All in all everything about this show was absolutely astonishing: the actors, musicians, lighting, sound, set and not to mention the gorgeously seductive costumes and make up throughout. This show has it all and it would be a shame to miss such a vibrant and exciting show like this. So, get out your fishnet stockings; feather boas and get down to see this phenomenal performance.

The Rocky Horror Show is on at Manchester’s Opera House until Sunday 28th January tickets available here.

The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals

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Now a much-welcome fixture to lift the January spirits, the National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals returned to the AO Arena in Manchester on Monday evening – bringing once again some spectacular musical theatre performances expertly compared by seasoned pro Jason Manford.

Featuring a mix of absolute classics to more modern hits, the evening was a big-budget affair that saw some of the biggest and best shows in London and on the road performing alongside a full size orchestra and host of talented singers.

Photo by Jeff Spicer/Getty Images for The National Lottery

Tanisha Spring and Dom Simpson gave an absolutely gorgeous performance of ‘Your Song‘ from the current West End hit Moulin Rouge. With thousands of mobile phones lighting up the arena, it was a really beautiful moment.

The Broadway hit Hadestown is due to open this side of the pond soon, so it was a really exciting moment getting to watch the first UK TV performance of the West End cast as they performed ‘Wait For Me’.

Photo by Jeff Spicer/Getty Images for The National Lottery

The cast of the critically-acclaimed immersive revivial of Guys & Dolls, lead by Cedric Neal as Nicely Nicely Johnson raised the roof and audiences to their feet with the brilliant number ‘Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat’.

Daniel Boys popped down the road from the Palace Theatre to give a crowd-pleasing turn as King George III with ‘You’ll Be Back’ from Hamilton, showing again what a gift of a number for a performer that song is.

Photo by Jeff Spicer/Getty Images for The National Lottery

Another clear winner was the quartet of Jean Valjean’s from Les Miserables (Milan van Waardenburg, Alfie Boe, Killian Donnelly, Pete Jöback) singing a specially-arranged version of the beautiful ‘Bring Him Home’. 

Another iconic show performing to big cheers was The Phantom of the Opera – John Robyns and Lily Kerhoas clearly enjoying belting out the famous title number to a 12,000 audience.

Photo by Jeff Spicer/Getty Images for The National Lottery

And plenty of shows heading towards Manchester in the next few months also got a chance to show what audiences can look forward to.

Curve’s production of A Chorus Line heads to The Lowry in July, ahead of a London run, and the dazzling full company performance of the show-stopping ‘One’ was a highlight of the evening.

Photo by Jeff Spicer/Getty Images for The National Lottery

The tour of Disney’s Aladdin heads to the Palace Theatre in May and Genie Yeukayi Ushe gave a brilliantly high energy rendition of ‘Friend Like Me’.

There was also a glimpse of new musicals to look forward to this year – including 42 Balloons which comes to The Lowry in April.

Other shows performing included clear audience favourite Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, new musical Mrs Doubfire, as well as classics Grease and Wizard of Oz, both of which come to Manchester this year.

(Photo by Jeff Spicer/Getty Images for The National Lottery)

And the show also shone a welcome spotlight on the important work done by the National Lottery in funding theatres and theatre programmes around the country. Also highlighted time and time again was the important of supporting your local regional theatre.

 You can catch the show on BBC One and Iplayer this Saturday – it genuinely is a must-watch for musicals fans.

Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World

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Reviewed by Jodie Crawford

Opening Night verdict ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Fantastically Great Women is based on the book by Kate Pankhurst. Oh, that name rings a bell doesn’t it? Although not a direct descendant of The Great Emmmeline, Kate is in fact a distant relative. With connections like that it is no surprise that Kate has written about so many women in history that have changed and shaped the world. 

Director Amy Hodge and the creative team have taken Kate’s books and woven lives of these great women together through music, humour, history and plenty of pizzazz! 

In the opening scenes we meet Jade ( Georgia Grant-Anderson) who is on a school trip to a museum and gets separated from the group. Jade is going through some personal issues and is feeling vulnerable and unheard. She finds herself in the gallery of greatness, where her adventure really begins. 

She meets at array of great women, each has a lesson for Jade and gives her guidance on how she too can make an impact on the world around her.

This is hands down one of the greatest family shows I’ve seen. It’s got everything: a magnificent cast, live musicians, creative costumes, an interactive stage, catch songs, and so much more. The depiction of the characters is so imaginative and informative. We learn things while also being entertained and being able to follow a strong narrative. The whole cast is astonishingly good. 

Elena Breschi’s colourful and mesmerising performance as Frida Kahlo is truly magnificent. My 7 year old was transfixed from the moment she came onto the stage and chatted about her for the entire way home in the car.

Jennifer Caldwell, is a brilliantly enigmatic Emmeline Pankhurst, in her military gear and rapping in Deeds Not Words (my favourite number of the show). Chloe Hart is just perfect, I’m lucky enough to have seen Chloe in a few different shows and she never disappoints. Her vocals are outstanding, she is dynamic and entertaining throughout the whole show. I’m a big fan! 

Leah Vassel stole my heart as Rosa Parks, so gentle and powerful, she had us all hanging on to her every word. 

Millie Kiss is simply wonderful in her adult stage debut as Anne Frank, and Georgia Grant-Anderson is divine, she has so much talented. She carried us through the narrative from start to finish, we laughed with her, felt empathy towards her and generally just wanted to be a little bit like her. 

The cast work so well together. This is the strongest cast of this show that I have seen. And I would keep going back to see them again and again.

I loved everything about this and will be singing the songs for months to come – until, I no doubt, go and see it again. 

Every single girl, woman, and ally should go and see this show and maybe then, together we can make a little difference too. Each of us a fantastically great woman in our own right. 

Fantastically Great Women is on at The Lowry until Sunday 7th January tickets available here.

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt

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Reviewed by Emily Aitchison and Mummy Jo

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The much loved theatre production of Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury’s ever popular children’s book returns to Salford this Christmas and our mini reviewer Emily took her Mummy Jo to The Lowry to check it out.

Sally Cookson’s adaptation is hugely inventive, paired with a beautiful score from Benji Bower, this really is the perfect introduction to theatre for little ones. With a strong emphasis on fun, the cast cleverly use everyday objects to help tell this wonderful story; transporting us into their playful world as they go.

Emily’s Mummy Jo said “Emily was beaming all the way through. She loved it! Especially the during the snow storm and splashing through the river. The interaction with the audience was wonderful, it was such an entertaining production. Emily loved that the audience were encouraged to join in and sang along to every song, it was so much fun.”

We join the family, including their musical dog, as they go outdoors in search of a bear, lead by great outdoors lover Dad, played brilliantly by Tim Hibberd. Daughter Neha Eapen bursts with energy and interacts wonderfully with the little ones in the audience while her brother Benedict Hastings ramps up the fun of the piece. Ben Hills shows off immense talent as the musical family dog, playing multiple instruments and singing throughout.

Benji Bower’s superb soundtrack really helps to set the tone of this family friendly piece with much of the fun coming from their insistence that they’re not scared. The multiple invitations to shout out and interact with the performers as they encounter so many wonderful things along their way from the oozy squelchy mud to the splishy splashy river really makes this piece stand out. It felt welcoming, relaxed and had little ones enthralled from start to finish. In Emily’s worlds “It was brilliant!”

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt is on at The Lowry until Sunday 7th January. Tickets are available here.