Music

Only Fools and Horses: The Musical – The Opera House, Manchester

Leave a comment

Reviewed by Matt Forrest

Opening Night verdict: ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Undoubtedly the most famous Reliant Regal in the world has rolled into Manchester this week, for a two week stop, as Only Fools and Horses: The Musical arrived as part of a UK tour.

Often voted Britain’s best loved sitcom, the show has countless fans who love it, whilst those that don’t will still have some reference point as memorable scenes are seldom far from our TV screens. So it almost seemed inevitable that it would receive the musical treatment and in 2019 writers Paul Whitehouse and Jim Sullivan (son of the TV show mastermind John Sullivan) created Only Fools and Horses: The Musical which had a very successful West End run and now embarks on its first UK tour.

We are transported back to Peckham at the end of 1980’s. Del Boy (Sam Lupton) is attempting to wheel and deal his way, rather unsuccessfully to becoming a millionaire. However, younger brother Rodney (Tom Major) is sick of being the family lackey for Del and Grandad (Paul Whitehouse). Both Del Boy and Rodney are in need of a change: Del, tired of seeing everyone settle down, joins a dating agency in a bid to find love. It is here that he meets aspiring actress Raquel (Georgina Hagen) and the two instantly hit it off.

Rodney needs £2000 in order to secure a flat for him and fiancée, Cassandra (Nicola Munns). However things don’t run so smoothly for the brothers as Del’s penchant for exaggeration catches up with him and the involvement of local gangsters, Danny (Peter Watts) and Tony Driscoll (Darryl Paul) throws a massive spanner in the works.

Whilst it may have initially seemed a foolhardy venture, Whitehouse and Sullivan have played it safe by drawing on two of the show’s most cherished episodes Dates and Little Problems for the plot. They have also cherry picked some of the most memorable gags, one liners, and set pieces from the TV show’s 22 year broadcast back catalogue to fill out the show. It’s a smart move as these gags still stand the test of time now. The pair have managed to strike the right balance between comedy, pathos and sentimentality which was always the beating heart of the series.

As well as the trademark catchphrases, much loved characters all pop up, including dodgy used car salesman Boycie (Craig Berry), complete with his trademark laugh, his long suffering wife, Malrene (Nicola Munns in a dual role) and everyone’s favourite dim-witted street sweeper, Trigger (Lee VG). 

The cast is superb. Sam Lupton is excellent as Del Boy, a performance packed full of charm and charisma. The main concern would be this impression of Derek Jason, playing Del Boy, but those fears soon disappear as Lupton puts his own stamp on Derek Trotter and you soon become immersed in his world. Tom Major is somewhat underused as Rodney, whilst it’s an impressive turn, you just wish there was more for him to do.

Paul Whitehouse brings a touch of star power to proceedings and is clearly having a ball as Grandad, lighting up every scene he’s in, but make no mistake this is Sam Lupton’s show from start to finish. 

The supporting cast are in great form throughout but special mention to Craig Berry and Lee VG, who are both outstanding as Boycie and Trigger.

Where the production struggles is the musical numbers are something of a mixed bag.  The Only Fools and Horses/Hooky Street mash up at the beginning perfectly sets the tone of the show, however some of the original songs are forgettable, especially when it comes to the more sentimental numbers. The songs that do work well are ones that have a bit of cheek to them like the Del Boy led Mange Tout and later Bit of a Sort. I also enjoyed the bonkers Gaze into my Ball, a send up of the future gentrification of Peckham. The Tadpole Song is anything but subtle, but no less enteraining. The undoubted music highlight was Gloria Acquaah-Harrison’s spine tingling rendition of Simply Red’s Holding Back the Years.

Whilst not perfect, this is an enjoyable, nostalgic trip down memory lane, which showcases some of Britain’s finest comedy writing. Gags and one liners a-plenty are performed by a great ensemble cast that will have you grinning throughout. 

Only Fools and Horses: The Musical is on at Manchester Opera House until 23rd November. Tickets available Here

Here You Come Again

Leave a comment

Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Set during the first Covid lockdown, 40 something Kevin is down on his luck, work sucks and to top it all off he’s just been dumped. Seeking refuge in the attic of his childhood home, Kevin soon realises quarantining can be a lonely business, especially when you’ve only got your old Dolly Parton records and posters for company.

Fortunately for Kevin, Dolly quickly makes her presence felt, think Mary Poppins but with more sass, bigger boobs and a whole lot of sparkle. Through Dolly, Kevin gradually begins to remember just how wonderful and varied life can be, as he finds the courage within to pick himself up, dust himself off and transform his life for good. It reflects on the madness of the pandemic while demonstrating that we all have the ability to expand our own personal horizons even while stuck in our parents’ attic.

Written by multi-Emmy award-winning comedy and songwriter Bruce Vilanch with Gabriel Barre (who also directs) and writer/actor Tricia Paoluccio (who co-writes and stars as Dolly), Here You Come Again has already enjoyed successful runs in the US, ahead of embarking on this current UK tour the creatives called on much-loved writer Jonathan Harvey who added additional material for UK audiences. The result is a joyful, feel-good, heartwarming musical that will delight theatregoers for years to come.

Steven Webb is tremendous as Kevin, he bursts with loveable energy endearing him to audiences immediately. While incredibly funny Webb also skilfully taps (quite literally) into Kevin’s vulnerabilities which adds depth and relatability to this beautiful story. Sharing the stage with Webb is Tricia Paoluccio as Dolly, she absolutely shines in the role, her characterisation of Parton is perfection. She has real star quality and gives an unforgettable performance. The relationship between Webb and Paoluccio is what really anchors this show, cementing it as a wholesome, heartfelt production. They bounce of each other brilliantly, keeping you guessing as to what’s to come while skilfully engaging the audience with their animated performances.

Joining Webb and Paoluccio on stage are Charlotte Elizabeth Yorke and Aiden Cutler. Both brilliantly bring multiple characters in Kevin’s world to life adding further heart and humour to proceedings. They also add gorgeous backing vocals which in turn further lifts the energy of this joyous production. Special mention must also go to the onstage band made up of Luke Adams, Ben Scott and Kevin Oliver Jones who frequently become part of the scenes with great effect.

Paul Wills’ set design is intricate and effective, transporting the rest of us forty somethings in the audience to a place of sentimentality as the attic plays host to artefacts from our childhoods, a Bluebird Toys Big Yellow Teapot, a creepy Chucky doll and of course a box of discarded tangled tinsel.

This show is all about fun and ensures that’s exactly what the audience experience, the cast cleverly acknowledge that there may be Dolly fans in the audience bursting to sing along and that opportunity is given while being gently controlled by the cast, so it remains within the predetermined moments.

The placement of Dolly’s songs has clearly been done with great care. The lesser known are given their moment in the spotlight while the big hitters like 9 To 5 arrive just when you want them to.

Here You Come Again while set during the pandemic is anything but heavy, it’s uplifting, hopeful and sparkles with joy. A reminder to us all to: ‘Stop looking in mirrors and start looking out of the window.’

Here You Come Again is on at The Lowry until Saturday 2nd November tickets available here.

A Chorus Line

Leave a comment

Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Created by Michael Bennet in 1975, A Chorus Line lifts the curtain on the sacrifices performers make in a bid to book a job within the chorus of a Broadway show. Using real life interviews with Broadway dancers as it’s source material, A Chorus Line offers audiences a wholly authentic glimpse into both the audition process and the lives of the performers we so often see on stage yet know very little about beyond their beaming smiles at the curtain call.

This Leicester Curve production with Director Nikolai Foster at the helm has taken this much-loved story and executed a beautiful, memorable revival.

A Chorus Line is a complete ensemble show, there are no real leads, a stripped back set and few costume changes ensuring the characters and their stories are at the absolute heart of this piece. The whole cast are on stage for almost the entirety of the production as they deliver their own individual stories that go way beyond blood, sweat and tears in a bid to make it to the illustrious Broadway stage.

Opening impressively with I Hope I Get It the standard is quickly set for this revamped production. As numbers get cut the chorus line of hopefuls under the watchful eye of director Zach (Adam Cooper), take their moment in the spotlight, giving us a glimpse into their lives beyond the stage, their struggles to get there and the life experiences which have shaped their personalities.

Ellen Kane’s exquisite choreography is integrated superbly within the individual testimonies, it feels fresh, punchy and exhilarating. This is further enhanced by Howard Hudson’s stunning lighting design, which is at times breathtaking. The addition of close-up filming at times which is then projected largely onto the back of the stage could be polarising for audiences, for me it didn’t feel necessary and at times proved to be a distraction rather than an enhancement.

This cast are undoubtedly excellent, each has a unique ability to draw you in. From Chloe Saunders brilliant and witty delivery of Dance: Ten; Looks: Three to Manuel Pacific’s emotive personal disclosure scene as wannabe star Paul San Marco, each character feels authentic and believable.

Returning to the production are audience favourites Carly Mercedes Dyer as Cassie, and Adam Cooper as Zach, they are joined by an immensely talented cast who each showcase their skills both physically and vocally. Jocasta Almgill as Diana Morales gives a powerhouse performance with her knockout rendition of What I Did For Love. Amy Thornton, Lydia Bannister and Kate Parr are equally as affecting during At the Ballet while Redman Rance showcases Kane’s choreography to perfection during, I Can Do That.

This cleverly crafted revival feels fresh and exciting and takes the audience on a journey of exhilarating highs and painful lows as we feel for each and every auditionee. The devastation for those who don’t make it is swiftly followed by elation for those who do, that’s showbusiness as they say.

Running straight through at 1hr 50mins we are rewarded with a thrilling finale as the familiar intro for One begins. Stories of struggle and sacrifice make this dazzling finale seem all the more magical as the cast high-kick in unison while the pyrotechnics illuminate the stage in a finale that will long live in the memory.

A Chorus Line is on at The Lowry until Saturday 27th July tickets available here.

The Brit Fest – Ashley Show Ground

Leave a comment

Opening Night verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

If there’s one thing us Brits love, it’s a summer festival, come rain or shine, if there’s a festival to attend, we’ll make a party of it whatever the weather. Thankfully Cheshire’s brand-new family friendly festival, The Brit Fest, was blessed with sunshine (mostly), a superb lineup and a little something for everyone to enjoy.

This three-day extravaganza hosted by presenters Jenny Powell and Mike Toolan was packed with top class musical acts, surprise special guests, creative workshops, fun activities and fabulous food offerings. The brainchild of brothers Anthony and Edward Prophet, The Brit Fest is a true celebration of music, community and culture.

paulvelasco@mac.com

Staged at Ashley Hall & Showground in Cheshire over the weekend of 5th, 6th 7th July and bringing acts as varied as Scouting For Girls and Bonnie Tyler to the stage it was clear to see the appetite for a family friendly festival right here in the heart of Chesire is huge and The Brit Fest well and truly delivered. The brilliant big names such as Kim Wilde and Heather Small were complimented by up-and-coming acts such as The Lottery Winners fresh from their Glastonbury set as well as a brilliant mix of fantastic regional talent.

With over 15,000 attendees joining the party over its inaugural weekend the festival looks set to become a permanent fixture in Cheshire’s social calendar with a return in 2025 officially confirmed.

paulvelasco@mac.com

With general entry and a VIP option available The Brit Fest offers choice and great affordability with both weekend and day tickets on offer. What we loved so much about the festival was the vast age range of attendees and the super friendly vibes, from babes in arms to their glorious grandparents everyone was made welcome at this innovative event. There is also the option to camp, glamp or even bring your own motorhome to the event with pitches just a short stroll from the main arena. The entertainment options went way beyond the music with a fairground, artisan market, a family cinema, comedians, and classic cars as well yoga and self-love workshops in the ‘Mindful Meadow’.

paulvelasco@mac.com

With such a successful first year we can’t wait to see where 2025 takes The Brit Fest when it returns on 4th, 5th and 6th July. This feel-good festival is the perfect summer celebration.

Sign up now via the link below to be the one of the first to know the 2025 line-up and also be in for a chance to win VIP tickets for next year’s event.

https://thebritfest.co.uk/

Burlesque

Leave a comment

Reviewed by Nikki Cotter

Opening Night verdict ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Credit: Johan Persson

Based on the iconic 2010 film starring Cher and Christina Aguilera, Burlesque introduces us to Ali, a small-town girl who finds herself in the big city where life is about to get spicy, and the stakes are gonna get a whole lot higher.

This much-anticipated stage adaptation switches up elements of the film’s storylines so those looking for a faithful retelling will without doubt find something new to discover here. Some storylines and characters have been removed while others are further developed adding new dynamics to the production.

Credit: Johan Persson

We follow Ali (Jess Folley) as she leaves her home in the Midwest in search of her birth mother Tess (Jackie Burns). A stressed-out debt-ridden Burlesque club owner isn’t quite who Ali expects to find but she sticks around nonetheless as she awaits an opportunity to tell Tess the real reason she’s there. Life suddenly begins to take a dramatic turn and almost accidentally Ali becomes the star of the Burlesque show.

Taking a keen interest in Ali is Jackson (Michael Mather) the friendly bartender who has more than bourbon on his mind while there’s added depth given to Tess’ husband Vincent (George Maguire) who becomes the villain of the piece, adding an entertaining element of jeopardy as well as an opportunity for a gloriously camp male tap ensemble piece.

Credit: Johan Persson

Jess Folley is superb as Ali, her vocals are incredible, she has big shoes to fill taking on the role made famous by Christian Aguilera and she does so convincingly, while managing successfully to make the part her own. She is a true star. Her talents don’t end on stage as she also takes writing credits for several of the show’s new songs, it really feels like we’re witnessing the launch of a world-class talent here.

As Tess, Jackie Burns delivers a Broadway quality performance right here in the heart of Manchester, she has a strong chemistry with Jess Folly and the duet Got It All From You between the two is one of the most heartfelt moments in the production. Burns brings strength and sass to the role while gradually allowing her softer side to show.

Credit: Johan Persson

Ramping up the fabulous is a sensational Todrick Hall as Tess’ right-hand man and club assistant Shaun. An incredible performer who commands attention from the moment he appears on stage. His epic numbers are flawless, showcasing his extraordinary talents perfectly. His performance feels fresh, effortless and uniquely creative. A generous performer, he pitches things just right ensuring while his lead numbers pop his shared scenes are balanced and nuanced.

Special mention must also go to Nina Ann Nelson who is clearly having great fun as mean girl Nikki. While B Terry makes for a wholesome Midwest bestie, reminding us just how different life is becoming for Tess.

Credit: Johan Persson

The ensemble numbers are sensational, proving that Burlesque really is BIG. Film favourites Express and Show Me How You Burlesque whip the audience into a frenzy with Nick Winston’s sizzling choreography matching the quality of the stunning vocals perfectly. Add to this Soutra Gilmour’s lavish set design combined with Ryan Dawson Laight’s incredible costumes and Jack Knowles’ dramatic lighting and these pieces have wow factor worthy of winning awards. The additional element of Nina Dunn’s video design further takes the visuals up a notch.

Steve Antin’s book is fairly light and frothy but manages to steer away from cheesy however it’s the epic ensemble scenes that really steal the show. Some punchier dialogue in parts would bring a little more balance to the piece however judging by tonight’s audience reaction no one really came her for the convos.

Credit: Johan Persson

This incredibly talented cast go all out to deliver an exhilarating night of fierce, feel-good, fabulousness. The audience lap up the dazzling design and killer choreography with expectations of outrageous escapism fulfilled as we all head off into the Manchester night feeling a whole lot sassier than when we arrived. Burlesque will go far with the West End and Broadway surely beckoning, catch it in Manchester while you can!

Burlesque The Musical is on at Manchester’s Opera House until Saturday 29th June, it will then return from Thursday 3rd October until Saturday 2nd November tickets are available here.

The Rocky Horror Show

Leave a comment

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.

Take That – Greatest Hits LIVE

Leave a comment

Writer Kate Goerner

Regular readers of Opening Night will know that we’re pretty big fans of The Band, the musical based around the songs of Take That.

Combining a moving coming-of-age story of acceptance and loving yourself with the many hits of Gary, Robbie, Howard, Mark and Jason was a recipe for theatre magic in our (often tear-filled) eyes.

But disclaimer, we were fans of the group itself first – so as such here at Opening Night we were looking forward to going back to The Band’s roots thanks to Take That’s current Greatest Hits 2019 tour. Always theatrical, always dramatic – what would the group have in store this time?

The tour, which is in Manchester all this week, followed their recent album Odyssey – itself a tribute to those hits, reimagined.

Looming over proceedings is a giant orb, recreated from the from the Odyssey album cover, in spectacular fashion. Part stage, part projections, it really is a spectacular backdrop to the show.

And what a show! It’s as nostalgic as you’d expect – but with dazzling hi-tech staging that means the material and performances never feel old hat.

In fact it feels like the freshest tour in a while – while being a genuine love letter to a 30 year career.

There’s a feeling of the passing of the decades that’s reflected throughout the evening in the staging – from the Seventies-style Evel Knievel jumpsuits the lads wear to open the show (to the uplifting Greatest Day) to the monochrome Sixties section, the Eighties hair metal motorcycle tribute and a nice nod to the Nineties.

The hits are all there – with some real ‘lump in the throat’ moments on the big screen like a video of Robbie performing Everything Changes, or the Bee Gees in How Deep is Your Love.

We even got Mark singing Babe, a beautifully stripped back version of Pray with sign language (although we did miss the Pray dance!) and Lulu – YES LULU – joining Gary, Mark and Howard for Relight My Fire.

The evening ended in magical fashion with Rule The World complete with fireworks.

So while Opening Night hopes to see The Band hit our stages again some day, Take That prove that the original is usually the best!

Further tour information can be found here.

Interview | Nathan Lewis | Motown The Musical

Leave a comment

Nathan Lewis Headshot

X Factor finalist Nathan Lewis heads to Manchester next week as part of the sensational Motown the Musical. Playing the legendary Smokey Robinson, Lewis is amongst a talented cast who bring the legends of Motown to glittering life in a musical adaptation which uncovers the true story of the legendary record label that changed music history and created the soundtrack of a generation.

We caught up with Nathan to hear a little more about the show and how it feels to be making his theatrical debut in such a thrilling role.

For your first musical production this must be an absolute dream role?

Absolutely 100%, it’s the first time I’ve done any kind of theatre production before so it really is a dream come true. Beforehand I was so so nervous even just about auditioning for the role let alone playing it and Smokey Robinson was such an important part of the Motown story that it really is an honour.

How did you feel ahead of your 1st performance in front of an audience?

It was very, very nerve-wracking but at the same time we have such a great team here, an amazing cast, fantastic creatives, director, sound, wigs, costume, everyone is just so encouraging that while of course I was nervous the support I had from this great team really helped prepare me and helped me to feel comfortable and ready to take it on. Part nerves, part excitement!

13. MOTOWN THE MUSICAL. Nathan Lewis 'Smokey Robinson'. Photo Tristram Kenton

Do it add pressure playing a real person?

I think it definitely does, you have to be very careful not to make any of the characters too different from their real selves; it’s so important they don’t become caricatures. With it being based on real people and real events you do have to reflect that but it’s a lot of fun because their stories and lives are so real and so interesting.

It’s such a fast paced show including 50 Motown classics how do you look after yourself and stay well?

I’ve recently just got over having a little bug and I think what helps with recovery and getting back performing is just really knowing your body, some people can bang out eight shows a week no problem, others have to be really careful. For me things like honey, ginger, lemon, hot water, the occasional steam and even long hot showers all help in looking after my voice. Also and this may sound stupid but knowing when to shut up, when you have time off it’s best to use it as well as you can and to rest your voice, just chill out and relax.

How do you prepare for each performance?

I just try to get myself feeling nice and relaxed really, I might listen to some music, drink some hot water, ginger and honey, occasionally might go over my lines. I find feeling relaxed helps me to feel confident and ready to perform.

Which Motown artists dead or alive would you love to meet or even sing with?

Oh my God that’s such a tough question, I’d definitely love to meet Smokey, to sing with him would be amazing and also he’s such an incredible song writer. It would be incredible to not only see him perform but also to pick his brain as well and find out a little more about him and how he did things. Michael Jackson would absolutely be one of them, he’s one of the biggest stars there’s ever been, meeting him would be amazing, and I’m definitely gonna put Stevie Wonder on the list as well, 100%.

You’re with us in Manchester from 26th Feb until 23rd March have you made any plans while you’re here?

I’ve only been once or twice before so I’m looking forward to doing some sightseeing, when you get to stay at a venue for a longer time it’s great as you get the chance to get comfortable in the place you’re at, it can be quite jarring when you’re just doing a week somewhere then onto the next place so a longer spell is really lovely and an opportunity to discover somewhere new.

The show has been a huge hit on the West End and now the tour is taking audiences by storm, what makes it such a fan favourite?

I’d have to say the music, it’s got to be the music, it is so iconic. For me having never done a theatre production before being lucky enough to get Motown as my first has been amazing I can totally see why audiences love it so much. The music in it is all my favourite kinds of music, its high energy, great storytelling about real people. To say the music of Motown shaped the world is an understatement, the music and the creative way in which its delivered is what makes it so popular.

You can see for yourself why Motown The Musical continues to thrill audiences when it arrives at Manchester’s Opera House on Tuesday 26th February tickets available here.