Month: November 2019

Salford Lowry – 20 November 2019

Reviewed by Angelos Spantideas

5*****

Showing human arrogance and the excessive ambition of Dr Faustus the protagonist in its pursuit for more success sells his soul to the devil in exchange for having Mephistopheles as his servant for 24 years.

It is made obvious to the audience that making a deal with the devil cannot fill the emptiness of Dr Faustus lust which leaves him with an unbreakable contract and an everlasting wish for more.

The production is simple with everyday props which nevertheless does not make the play anything less than captivating.

The three actors brilliantly change characters in stage, are constantly engaging with the audience and are perfect fit for a production that makes sure to break every barrier between the stage and the audience. The energy of the three actors fills the theater and entertains throughout the duration of the play, with no scene seeming to be slow or boring.

The hour long play maintains high energy with members of the audience joining the stage, the audience actively engaging with the actors, who create a comedic atmosphere from the beginning of their performance.

A most certainly enjoyable play which due to its light, funny and entertaining nature is perfect for younger audiences, without missing the opportunity to use sarcasm and parody to address deeper and important issues which are relevant to all.

Leeds Playhouse – until 23 November 2019

Reviewed By Dawn Smallwood

3***

It’s True, It’s True, It’s True is currently playing at the Leeds Playhouse on the last stop of their tour. Breach’s award winning production returns to Bramall Rock Void’s intimate stage and retells the 1612 trial of Agostino Tassi for the rape of Artemisia Gentileschi, a baroque painter.

Ellice Stevens, Kathryn Bond and Sophie Steer star in this short one act play which is based on surviving court transcripts of the seven-month trail which had caught the attention of Renaissance Rome. This contemporary play is bold, daring, direct and dramatic which captures and grips the attention of the audience. The staging works well though a bit cluttered at times for retelling this dramatic documentary.

Breach theatre takes pride in their reworking of this production and ensures the darker messages, not usually encouraged, are just as relevant today than they were in the 17th Century. This is targeted for an adult audience, nudity being part of the show, and the themes and linked messages could not be any clearer. Breach theatre caringly supports local charities for those who have been a victim of rape or sexual violence.

The performance from Stevens (Artemisia) is very outstanding and one could not hear a pin drop as the whole audience is fixated to her powerful, emotive and poignant portrayal of the Baroque painter testifying as the victim and explicitly telling what exactly happened. As well as exploring sexual violence It’s True, It’s True, It’s True explores the role of women particularly in the patriarchal culture at the time and how the horrific experiences empowered Artemisia to become one of the most successful painter of her time. Though she felt revengefully expressed her experiences in the form of art, no doubt this was a saviour for her. Though the play is dark, hope and light are shared.

With an eclectic blend of modern music and modern language, under the direction of Billy Barrett and dramaturgic support from Dorothy Allen Pickard, this is an interesting and tense retelling of the court trial with the use of verbatim materials.

STAGE ONE ANNOUNCES REGIONAL HOSTS FOR 2020

Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse, Mercury Theatre Colchester and Cardiff’s Sherman Theatre have been announced as the hosts for theatre producers’ charity Stage One’s Regional Placement Scheme in 2020.

Stage One’s Trainee Producer Placement scheme offers unique hands-on training and development opportunities for outstanding entrepreneurial individuals. Stage One launched the Regional Producer Placement Scheme in 2013, in response to the success of their corresponding London scheme, which allows trainee producers to hone their skills in a West End producing office. Emerging producers can apply for both the London and regional placement schemes when applications open on Friday 10 January 2020.

The aims of the regional scheme are:

• To graduate 4 outstanding individuals from the programme who have developed their producing knowledge and increased their commercial contacts over a 12-month placement.
• To support subsidised venues in their plans to exploit work commercially and acknowledge the importance of the placements in supporting this cultural change.

Joseph Smith, Chief Executive of Stage One, said:

“The scheme aims to enhance communication, share knowledge and seed networks between the subsidised and commercial sectors. Stage One places an ambitious producer at the heart of a regional theatres production team. This enables the producer to learn from the regional producing team while at the same time adding to that team’s strength. We are delighted to be partnering with Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse, Mercury Theatre Colchester and Sherman Theatre in the upcoming year.” 

Sean Foley, Artistic Director of Birmingham Repertory Theatre said:

“The REP is extremely proud to be a 2020 host venue for The Stage One Regional New Producer Placement.  The REP has a history of supporting emerging artists from the region in their development, and we’re delighted to be working with Stage One again to create this opportunity for an emerging producer to join us as we enter a new era with myself as Artistic Director, along with my colleagues, Amit Sharma, new Deputy Artistic Director and new Executive Director Rachael Thomas.”

Victoria Rope, Producer at the Everyman & Playhouse Theatres, said:

“Stage One has made such a significant contribution to the UK theatre landscape by providing this incredible industry focussed opportunity to support early career producers. The Everyman & Playhouse are proud to be partnering with Stage One to provide this unique opportunity for an emerging producer, as it will develop skills, give insight along with invaluable experience and offer a bridge into the industry for a young producer.”

Tracey Childs, Executive Producer at Mercury Theatre Colchester, said:

“The Mercury is thrilled to be a host venue for a Stage One Regional New Producer Placement in 2020, as our refurbished theatre opens for it’s important first season. Having taken part in the scheme five years ago, we understand exactly how valuable these placements are in nurturing and supporting new talent and we are extremely grateful to the Stage One charity for their essential work in enabling the development of the producers of the future.”

Julia Barry, Executive Director of Sherman Theatre, said:

“We are delighted to be embarking upon this relationship with Stage One having long admired their work in supporting producers to be able to take an important step in their early careers.  The nurturing of emerging talent across all disciplines is a key priority for us at Sherman Theatre and to now partner with Stage One to support the development of a producer is very exciting.”

One week to go until magical ‘Christmas Carol – a fairy tale’ opens at Wilton’s Music Hall starring Sally Dexter as first female Scrooge on a London stage

·       Running 29 November – 4 January  

·       A brand-new reimagining of a Christmas classic written by Piers Torday

·       Staged in the most festive venue in London, Wilton’s Music Hall

One week today Christmas Carol – a fairy tale opens at Wilton’s Music Hall, with Emmerdale’s Sally Dexter starring as the first female Scrooge on a London stage.

Dickens’ festive tale has been reimagined by renowned children’s author Piers Torday especially for Wilton’s, and has taken the classic story of miserly Scrooge, a ghostly voyage of discovery and finding out the real meaning of Christmas and reinvented it as audiences have never seen it before…

Musical theatre legend and soap opera superstar Sally Dexter will play Fan Marley, the late Ebeneezer Scrooge’s sister who married Marley and who, as his widow, has inherited the business and his reputation as the meanest miser in town. Notorious as the lonely, penny-pinching and downright malicious misanthrope and despised by all who cross her path, three spirits visit Fan on Christmas Eve to show her why she must change her nasty ways.

Known to many as Emmerdale’sFaith Dingle, Sally has appeared in some of the West End’s most loved productions including Billy Elliot The Musical and Oliver! and won an Olivier Award for her performance in Dalliance at the Lyttleton Theatre.

Brought to Wilton’s by the team behind the critically-acclaimed The Box of Delights, this adaptation written by children’s author Piers Torday (The Frozen Sea, The Last Wild), has design by Tom Piper and directed by Stephanie Street, previously seen in James Graham’s Quizand Nightwatchmen at the National Theatre.

Brimming with spellbinding magic, haunting music and out-of-this-world puppetry, arguably the most famous festive story ever written will be retold beautifully at the most Christmassy theatre in London.

BRADFORD THEATRES ANNOUNCE
SPRING 2020 SEASON

Bradford Theatres are delighted to announce the Spring 2020 season which is jam packed with new musicals, returning favourites, world-class dance, family shows and top names in comedy and entertainment.

Adam Renton, General Manager Bradford Theatres says:
“With a wide range of exciting events taking place at all four of our venues, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in our forthcoming spring season.

There’s still time to grab a ticket for the fairest panto in Yorkshire, Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs, which runs at the Alhambra Theatre until the end of January. Then we launch into our spring season with, amongst other things, a superb range of dance productions. We have a welcome return by Rambert and Matthew Bourne’s The Red Shoes; and a Yorkshire exclusive visit by Acosta Danza, with a guest appearance by international ballet superstar Carlos Acosta.

We also have an array of amazing musicals this season at the Alhambra Theatre with the awe-inspiring We Will Rock You; and return visits by Beautiful, Joseph and the global phenomenon Disney’s The Lion King, which will take up its 8 week residency at the end of April.

The new Café at St George’s Hall is now open and we hope you will call in to enjoy a drink and some food with us. The spring season at our newly refurbished venue includes a fantastic mix of family shows and comedy, as well as classical music with visits from the Hallé including their popular New Year Viennese concert.”

December & January
Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs – Saturday 14 December 2019 – Sunday 26 January 2020, Alhambra Theatre. Signed: Thur 19 December 2pm, Audio Described: Thur 2 January 2pm/7.15pm, Captioned: Sun 12 January 1pm, Relaxed Performance: Tue 14 Jan 6pm.
Don’t miss the magic of this year’s enchanting family pantomime, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs starring Alhambra Theatre panto legend Billy Pearce, Steps star and Strictly Come Dancing finalist Faye Tozer and family TV favourite Paul Chuckle.

The Hallé – Sunday 5 January 3pm, St George’s Hall
Part of Bradford’s International Classical Music Season 2019/20 – 152nd Bradford Orchestral Season
An Evening with Alan Titchmarsh, Trowel and error – tales from my life on earth – Thursday 9 January 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
Sandi Toksvig Live! National Trevor – Saturday 11 January 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Sounds of the 60s Live with Tony Blackburn – Thursday 16 January 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Gary Delaney Gagsters Paradise – Saturday 18 January 8pm, The Studio. SELLING FAST!
I’m Sorry I Haven’t A Clue Stage Tour – Mon 27 January 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Join Tim Brooke-Taylor, Tony Hawks, Marcus Brigstocke, Richard Osman and host Jack Dee for an unmissable evening of inspired nonsense.

An Inspector Calls – Wednesday 29 January – Saturday 1 February, Alhambra Theatre
Captioned: Fri 31 January 7.30pm, Audio Described: Sat 1 February 2.30pm
Stephen Daldry’s multi award-winning production for the National Theatre of An Inspector Calls returns after a sell-out London season and American tour. Daldry’s visionary, radical, challenging version of JB Priestley’s classic thriller is hailed as the theatrical event of its generation

February
European Union Chamber Orchestra – Sat 1 February 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Part of Bradford’s International Classical Music Season 2019/20 – 152nd Bradford Orchestral Season

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor® Dreamcoat – Tuesday 4 – Saturday 8 February, Alhambra Theatre
Signed: Thur 6 February 7.30pm, Captioned: Fri 7 February 8pm, Audio Described: Sat 8 February 2pm
Bill Kenwright’s production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s sparkling family musical comes to the Alhambra Theatre. Starring Britain’s Got Talent sensation Mark McMullan as Joseph

Spirit of the Dance – Wednesday 5 February 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Clinton Baptiste The Paranormalist Returns! Thursday 6 February 7.30pm, The Studio
As seen on Peter Kay’s Phoenix Nights – Age recommendation 14+.
John Archer Against The Odds – Friday 7 February 8pm, The Studio. Age recommendation 12+
Good Vibrations Classic Beach Boys – Saturday 8 February 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Featuring The English Philharmonic Orchestra.

Rambert – Wednesday 12 – Friday 14 February, Alhambra Theatre Post-show Q&A with members of the company: Wed 12 February – free to ticket holders All great artists start somewhere. Don’t miss world-class dance company Rambert’s new show, bringing together three choreographers’ moments of breakthrough.

Steve Steinman’s Vampires Rock Ghost Train – Thursday 13 February 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
The Traveling Wilburys Songbook – Saturday 15 February 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
The Hallé – Saturday 15 February 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Part of Bradford’s International Classical Music Season 2019/20 – 152nd Bradford Orchestral Season
John Shuttleworth’s Back – Tuesday 18 February 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley

We Will Rock You – Monday 17 – Saturday 22 February
Signed: Thursday 20 February 7.30pm, Captioned: Fri 21 February 7.30pm, Audio Described: Sat 22 February 2.30pm
The worldwide smash hit musical by Queen and Ben Elton returns to the UK. The multi-million pound show dazzles all the senses in breath-taking style. Guaranteed to blow your mind, this musical phenomenon is not to be missed!

Tango Fire – Accompanied by the Tango Fuego Quartet – Wednesday 19 February 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Herman’s Hermits 55th Anniversary Tour – Thursday 20 February 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
Fascinating Aida – Thursday 20 February 7.30pm, St George’s Hall. Age recommendation 14+
With Dillie Keane, Adèle Anderson and Liza Pulman. Aria Quartet, Basel – Friday 21 February 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Part of Bradford’s International Classical Music Season 2019/20 – 32nd Bradford Chamber Season

The Sound of Music – Tuesday 25 – Saturday 29 February
Captioned: Fri 28 February 7.30pm, Audio Described: Sat 29 February 2.30pm
One of the greatest musicals of all time returns to the Alhambra Theatre. This wonderfully lavish staging tells the true story of the world-famous singing family, from their romantic beginnings and search for happiness, to their thrilling escape to freedom at the start of WWll.

Flo and Joan Before The Screaming Starts – Friday 21 February 8pm, The Studio
The Music of Prince – Saturday 22 February 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Menopause the Musical 2 Cruising Through Menopause – Wednesday 26 February 7.30pm, St George’s Hall. Age recommendation 16+.

Dom Joly’s Holiday Snaps Travel and Comedy in the Danger Zone – Thursday 27 February 7.30pm,
King’s Hall Ilkley. Parental guidance.
The Foundations – Friday 28 February 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
Boyzlife Tour 2020 – Featuring Brian McFadden and Keith Duffy – Saturday 29 February 7.30pm, St George’s Hall

March
Beautiful The Carole King Musical – Tuesday 3 – Saturday 7 March, Alhambra Theatre
Signed: Thur 5 March 7.30pm, Captioned: Fri 6 March 7.30pm, Audio Described: Sat 7 March 2.30pm
Beautiful tells the inspiring true story of Carole King’s remarkable rise to stardom, from being part of a hit song-writing team with her husband Gerry Goffin, to her relationship with fellow writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, to becoming one of the most successful solo acts in popular music history.

The Tiger Who Came To Tea – Tuesday 3 & Wednesday 4 March, St George’s Hall. Suitable for children aged 3+.
Andy Parsons Healing The Nation – Thursday 5 March 8pm, King’s Hall Ilkley Ages 14+ (parental guidance) due to swearing and adult content
Benjamin Grosvenor – Friday 6 March 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Part of Bradford’s International Classical Music Season 2019/20 – 32nd Bradford Chamber Season
The Tina Turner Experience – Friday 6 March 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
Lipstick on Your Collar – Saturday 7 March 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
Stephen Bailey Can’t Be Bothered – Thursday 12 March 7.30pm, The Studio. Age recommendation 16+

Acosta Danza Evolution – Friday 13 & Saturday 14 March, Alhambra Theatre
Audio Described: Sat 14 March 7.30pm Post-show Q&A with members of the company: Fri 13 March – free to ticket holders.
International ballet superstar Carlos Acosta and his critically acclaimed Cuban company Acosta Danza perform a programme of new and existing works. Acosta makes a guest appearance in the iconic Rooster, choreographed by Christopher Bruce to music by the Rolling Stones.

Matthew Bourne’s The Red Shoes – Tuesday 17 – Saturday 21 March, Alhambra Theatre
Audio Described: Sat 21 March 2.30pm. Post-show Q&A with members of the company: Tue 17 March – free to ticket holders A sell-out before its world premiere tour opened in 2016, Matthew Bourne’s triumphant adaptation of the legendary film returns after winning two Olivier Awards and dazzling audiences across the UK and the USA.
Age recommendation 7+

Adam Kay This is Going to Hurt (secret diaries of a Junior Doctor) – Sunday 15 March 7.30pm, St George’s Hall. Age recommendation 12+
Thank You for The Music The ultimate tribute to ABBA – Thursday 19 March 7.45pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
Northern Live – Do I Love You – Friday 20 March 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Ian Waite & Vincent Simone The Ballroom Boys Act Two – Monday 30 March 7.30pm, St George’s Hall

Senbla by arrangement with Opera International presents An Ellen Kent Production
La Bohème – Wednesday 25 March, 7.30pm, Alhambra Theatre
La Bohème is one of the most romantic operas ever written. This classic tale of Parisian love and loss features many famous arias including Your Tiny Hand Is Frozen, They Call Me Mimi and Musetta’s Waltz.
Madama Butterfly – Thursday 26 March, 7.30pm, Alhambra Theatre
Madama Butterfly is one of the world’s most popular operas. Highlights include the melodic Humming Chorus, the moving aria One Fine Day and the unforgettable Love Duet.

David Walliams’ Billionaire Boy – Tuesday 31 March – Saturday 4 April, Alhambra Theatre
Signed:Thur 2 April 10.30am
Joe Spud is twelve years old and the richest boy in the country. He has his own sports car, two crocodiles as pets and £100,000 a week pocket money! But what Joe doesn’t have is a friend. So he decides to leave his posh school and start at the local comp. But things don’t go as planned for Joe and life becomes a rollercoaster as he tries to find what money can’t buy!

April
Linos Piano Trio – Friday 3 April 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
Part of Bradford’s International Classical Music Season 2019/20 – 32nd Bradford Chamber Season
Kiri Pritchard-McLean – Empathy, Pains – Saturday 4 April 7.30pm, The Studio. Age recommendation 16+.

What’s In A Name? Tuesday 7 – Saturday 11 April, Alhambra Theatre
Captioned: Fri 10 April 7.30pm, Audio Described: Sat 11 April 2.30pm
You are invited to take a seat at the table for a riotously funny evening that questions whether a person’s name truly reflects who they are. Stars Joe Thomas (The Inbetweeners, Fresh Meat), Bo Poraj (Miranda, Musketeers) and Laura Patch (Afterlife, Star Stories). Age recommendation 14+

A Tribute to Amy – The Amy Winehouse Celebration – Thursday 9 April 7.45pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
Northern Ballet Presents Little Red Riding Hood – Thursday 9 April, St George’s Hall
Retelling the classic fairytale with a Northern Ballet twist, Little Red Riding Hood is the perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre. Suitable for children aged 3+
The Elvis Years – The Story of the King – Saturday 11 April 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
Exciting Science – Wednesday 15 April 11.30am, King’s Hall Ilkley
Faith – The George Michael Legacy -Thursday 16 April 7.45pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
The Real Thing Greatest Hits Tour 2020 – Friday 17 April 7.30pm, King’s Hall Ilkley
You Can’t Hurry Love The Music of Diana Ross and The Supremes – Saturday 18 April 7.30pm, St George’s Hall

BalletBoyz – Wednesday 22 April, Alhambra Theatre, 7.30pm
Get ready to meet Joey, Ben, Harry, Liam, Sandi and Will – the six exceptional young dancers who star in this feast of mesmerising and sublime dance, cleverly fused with the BalletBoyz trademark use of film and behind the scenes footage.

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac Live In Concert 2020 – Wednesday 22 April 7.30pm, St George’s Hall
The Hallé – Friday 24 April 7.30pm, St George’ Hall
Part of Bradford’s International Classical Music Season 2019/20 – 152nd Bradford Orchestral Season
Jimmy Carr Terribly Funny – Tuesday 28 April 8pm, St George’s Hall. Age recommendation 18+. SELLING FAST!

Disney’s THE LION KING – Thursday 30 April – Saturday 20 June, Alhambra Theatre
Signed: Thur 14 May 7.30pm, Audio Described: Thur 4 June 2.30pm, Captioned: Thur 11 June 7.30pm,
Relaxed performance: Tue 16 June 5pm
Brilliantly reimagined by acclaimed director Julie Taymor, Disney’s beloved film has been transformed into a spectacular theatrical experience that explodes with glorious colours, stunning effects and enchanting music. The Lion King is recommended for ages 6 and up. Children under 3 years of age are not permitted.

Amateur
Buttershaw St Paul’s Amateur Operatic & Dramatic Society Presents – Kipps The New Half A Sixpence Musical – Wednesday 22 – Saturday 25 January, St George’s Hall

To book for all of these shows please contact the Box Office on 01274 432000
or visit our website: bradford-theatres.co.uk
Booking fees apply

FOUR-TIME OLIVIER AWARD WINNER

IMELDA STAUNTON

TO HEADLINE NEW PRODUCTION OF THE ICONIC MUSICAL

The show reunites Imelda with Dominic Cooke,

the director of their acclaimed production of Follies

Jerry Herman’s unforgettable score includes

Put On Your Sunday Clothes, Before the Parade Passes By,

It Only Takes a Moment and Hello, Dolly!

Strictly limited season begins at Adelphi Theatre on 11 August 2020

Today Michael Harrison and David Ian are thrilled to announce that Imelda Staunton is back where she belongs in Hello, Dolly! as one of the most iconic musicals of all time comes to the Adelphi Theatre in 2020. This brand new production reunites Imelda with director Dominic Cooke,following the critically acclaimed production of Follies at the National Theatre.

With an unforgettable score by the legendary Jerry Herman, Hello, Dolly! will begin performances at the Adelphi Theatre in London on Tuesday 11 August 2020 for a strictly limited 30-week season. Tickets go on sale today, Friday 22 November 2019.

Multi Olivier and BAFTA Award winning Staunton plays meddlesome socialite turned matchmaker Dolly Levi, as she travels to Yonkers, New York to find a match for the miserly, unmarried ‘half-a-millionaire’ Horace Vandergelder. But everything changes when she decides that the next match she needs to make is for herself.

With music and lyrics by Jerry Herman (La Cage aux Folles, Mack and Mabel, Mame) and book by Michael Stewart (42nd Street, Mack and Mabel, Barnum), Hello, Dolly! is one of the most iconic musicals of all time. Jerry Herman’s timeless score includes ‘Put On Your Sunday Clothes’, ‘Ribbons Down My Back’, ‘Before the Parade Passes By’, ‘Elegance’, ‘It Only Takes a Moment’ and of course, ‘Hello, Dolly!’.

Imelda Staunton and Dominic Cooke most recently worked together to spectacular effect with the critically acclaimed National Theatre production of Stephen Sondheim’s Follies. Now Hello, Dolly! reunites star and director in this classic Broadway musical.

Hello, Dolly! also reunites Imelda Staunton with producers Michael Harrison and David Ian. Their production of Gypsy at the Savoy Theatre was awarded the Olivier Award for Best Musical Revival, and for which Imelda also won the Olivier Award for Best Actress In A Musical for her acclaimed portrayal of Momma Rose.

Imelda Staunton commented: “Well, I’m delighted and daunted in equal measure to be doing a new production of Hello, Dolly! in London next year. I am so excited to be working again with Dominic Cooke, Michael Harrison and David Ian, and we all can’t wait to bring Hello, Dolly! – which is a truly joyous show – back to the West End after all these years. “

Further casting for the production will be announced at a later date.

Sheffield Lyceum Theatre – until 30 November 2019

Reviewed by Carla Whittaker

4****

The smash-hit West End show Motown The Musical is currently playing to sell-out crowds at Sheffield’s Lyceum Theatre until the 30th November 2019. I was exceptionally lucky to be able to get a ticket with my friend in order to review.

The production tells a story of Berry Gordy (Edward Baruwa) and the roller coaster of rags to riches of a journey for the famous Motown record label which launched the professional careers of the timeless favourites of Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, Dianna Ross, Marvin Gaye and Michael Jackson plus many more. The audience are taking on a journey through Motown’s history from its beginnings when Gordy signs his first act Smokey Robinson. We see, the label grows with the signing of more acts having countless hits. It is the signing of the young Diana Ross who captures the heart of Gordy. During one of the performances Diana asks a member of the audience if they would like to join her on stage; one lady volunteered, and both gave a fabulous rendition of Reach Out. The orchestra and musical director accompanied the cast in fifty plus Motown hits including Stop! In the Name of Love, I Heard Through the Grapevine, I’ll be There, Ain’t No Mountain High Enough, My Girl, Dancing in the Street plus more had the audience going down memory lane; dancing, singing, whooping and clapping.

For me, a highlight of the show was the energy, passion and enthusiasm of the young Michael Jackson who was outstanding to watch and received a standing ovation at the end.

The production was perfect! It was sleek, and polished, using clever projection and archive footage of iconic event such as the assassinations of President Kennedy and Martin Luther King really sweep the audience into the nostalgia and right back into all things Motown in order to set context to the issues facing black musical artists during the Motown years.

The onstage chemistry between Gordy and Diana is electric, delivering outstanding, faultless performances. The choreography is sharp, and the choreographers have clearly gone to great lengths to ensure the recreation of classic Motown moves to show case the individual acts. The costumes are incredibly, filled with glitz, glammer and clearly no expense spared to recreate Motown outfits including the shiny suits of the Temptations and the red dress of Diana Ross.

For me, the show was much more than a celebration of Motown, it highlighted issues such as acceptance, racism, strained relationships, acceptance and the problems faced with fame and fortune which often musicians face. Motown the Musical did not disappoint. It was fast paced, professional and took me and my friend down an entertaining journey which left us leaving the theatre dancing and singing in the street!

St Helen’s Theatre Royal – until 23 November 2019

Reviewed by Carla Whittaker

5*****

I was delighted to be offered the opportunity to review Bill Kenwright’s production of Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat with my 8 year old son, at the St Helen’s Theatre Royal as part of its record-breaking tour. Last night’s show did not disappoint, what a blast! This biblical musical has been reborn as a modern day take on the vibrant, glitzy, all singing and dancing show, more than fifty years following its first production.

Narrated by Alexandra Doar the story like other productions of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat retells the biblical saga of Joseph and his coat of many colours and his eleven brothers. It tells the story of Joseph being his father’s favourite son who is blessed with prophetic dreams. His jealous brothers sell Joseph into slavery and taken to Egypt where he ensures an adventure that challenges his spirit. Joseph is purchased by Potiphar then thrown into prison for refusing the advances of Potiphars wife. Whilst in prison Joseph’s ability to interpret dreams catches the attention of Pharaoh which sees the rise of Joseph’s journey from slave to second in command.

At the start of the show, it was announced that Jaymi Hensley of Xfactor Boyband Union J in the lead role would be replaced by the understudy of Tom Bainbridge who would take the lead role of Joseph. Initially I was disappointed to hear of the replacement as I have always been a fan of Union J, but Tom did not disappoint, and any doubts instantly disappeared with his outstanding performance throughout the production. He certainly was no substitute! Tom captivated the St Helen’s audience, with a twinkle in his eye and his enthusiasm for the role shining through! Surprisingly for me, Tom’s vocals are phenomenal with an impressive range and fantastic jaw dropping operatic tones and power. I especially enjoyed Close Every Door and Any Dream Will Do which were amazing. On multiple occasions a tear was brought to my eye due to the emotion.

I was surprised to hear that Joseph was the professional debut for Alexandra Doar. Her vocals were beautiful, with an amazingly clear voice and clear passion for performing. She engaged beautifully with the audience adding humour to her narrating. Her vibrant personality shone through and I am sure she will be one to watch in the future!

My son was particularly taken by Andrew Geater who was entertaining, charismatic and so funny in his role as The Pharaoh. Additionally, the 11 brothers of Joseph brought exceptional humour and fun to the show. Every member of the cast worked exceptionally hard (often having more than one role), each bringing individual character to the show, leaving members of the audience unable to take the eyes of the stage with sublime new choreography by Gary Lloyd. The costumes, lighting and backdrops were effective, catchy and professional. I felt a connection with all the characters which, for me, is really important in order to maximise the enjoyment of the show.

The young choir sang their hearts out with pure passion and were amazing; I am sure several the choir members will be stars of the future!

Myself and my son love every second of the show. It was easy to follow, with it being both mine and son’s first-time seeing Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat. For me the finale at the end was outstanding. In all the shows and concerts, I have seen I have never heard so much whooping, cheering, dancing and interaction from the audience before, providing a vibrant and electric atmosphere which both myself and son will never forgot.

If you have not got tickets yet for Joseph I would highly recommend that you go and see the show whilst it is showing in St Helen’s. If I didn’t have plans over the weekend I would go and see it again. It certainly has a sense of a family’ feel good factor! As usual, the St Helen’s Theatre staff were exceptionally helpful, and the theatre is easily accessible to individuals who may have disabilities.

BARBRA STREISAND AND JOAN RIVERS ARE BACK IN BUSINESS…….

THE FUNNY GIRLS

BY ROY SMILES

WORKSHOP PERFORMANCE AT LONDON COLISEUM

27 NOVEMBER 2019

A workshop performance of Roy Smiles comic play The Funny Girls will take place at the London Coliseum on 27 November. Loosely based on Barbra Streisand and Joan Rivers, the play explores the egos and dreams of two of the greatest talents of their generation. It stars Debbie Chazen as Joan Rivers and Victoria Yeates as Barbra Streisand.

British playwright Roy Smiles’ comic two hander follows two New York Jewish actresses as they bicker across years of struggle and fame. From humble beginnings as they star in a lousy off off off Broadway play, Barbra terrified to go on stage, fearful of her mother’s criticism as she sits in the audience and Joan desperate to get her big break. It’s up to Joan to talk Barbra into going on stage: to become the star she will surely be. There is an agent in to see the show. It’s Rivers big chance. She will get Streisand on stage come hell or high water. Fast forward ten years: Streisand is playing Las Vegas. She is a huge star. Rivers is now a hugely successful comedian. The toast of The Tonight Show. She comes to visit Barbra. Both believe they are the most talented Jewish woman on the planet. One of them is wrong….

Olivier Award- nominated actress Debbie Chazen is a familiar face on stage and screen and will perform the role of Joan Rivers. Her theatre credits include Ruth in the stage show Calendar Girls from November 2009 to January 2010 at the Noël Coward and following breast cancer treatment she returned to the role for the national tour and subsequently the musical version The Girls at the Phoenix Theatre in the West End. Other credits include Mother Clap’s Molly House at the National Theatre, Dick Whittington and His Cat at the Barbican Theatre, The Cherry Orchard in Sheffield, The Girlfriend Experience at the Royal Court Theatre and The Young Vic.  Television credits include Holby City, Doctors, Eastenders, Gimme Gimme Gimme, Mile High, A Christmas Carol, The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby. She also starred in the Mike Leigh film Topsy Turvey.

Victoria Yeates is perhaps best known for her role as Sister Winifred in BBC’s Call The Midwife. Her theatre credits include The Crucible, Private Lives, The League of Youth (Nottingham Playhouse), Noises Off (New Wolsey, Ipswich), Rookery Nook (Menier Chocolate Factory), Wuthering Heights (Birmingham Rep), Don Juan, Pains of Youth (Belgrade Theatre Coventry), Dying City (BAC), Days of Hope (King’s Head Theatre), Big Live (Gate Theatre) and T5 (Thomas Hopkins Productions).  She also starred as Bunty in Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindlewald. She will play Barbra Steisand.

@funnygirlsplay 

FURTHER EXTENSION ANNOUNCED FOR

Book by Jessie Nelson
Music and lyrics by seven-time Grammy Award-nominee Sara Bareilles
Based upon the motion picture written by Adrienne Shelley
Directed by Tony Award-winner Diane Paulus

• Waitress today announced a further extension. The show will play its final performance at the Adelphi Theatre on 4 July 2020. Following the end of the West End season the production will embark on a tour of the UK prior to returning to the West End
   
• The tour will visit Manchester, Birmingham, Milton Keynes, Glasgow, Plymouth, Dartford, Eastbourne, Liverpool, Woking, Stoke, Ipswich, Aberdeen, Bristol, Canterbury, Dublin, Nottingham, Cardiff, Truro, Llandudno, Leeds, Hull, Southend, Wolverhampton, Oxford, Edinburgh, Southampton, Northampton, Crawley, Sunderland, Wimbledon, Bromley and Sheffield. With full dates and on sale details to be announced soon.
   
• Tickets for the performances until 4 July 2020 at the Adelphi Theatre are now on sale.
   
• Sara Bareilles and Gavin Creel will join the London company to perform as Jenna and Dr Pomatter from 27 January until 7 March

The producers of Waitress announced today a further extension to the West End run. The show will finish its run at the Adelphi Theatre on 4 July 2020.  Following the West End, the production will embark on a UK-wide tour which will take in Manchester, Birmingham, Milton Keynes, Glasgow, Plymouth, Dartford, Eastbourne, Liverpool, Woking, Stoke, Ipswich, Aberdeen, Bristol, Canterbury, Dublin, Nottingham, Cardiff, Truro, Llandudno, Leeds, Hull, Southend, Wolverhampton, Oxford, Edinburgh, Southampton, Northampton, Crawley, Sunderland, Wimbledon, Bromley and Sheffield. Full details of the tour will be announced soon. Following the tour producers plan for the show to return to the West End.

Waitress celebrated its official opening night at the Adelphi Theatre on 7 March 2019. In addition to London, Waitress is now playing on Broadway at the Brooks Atkinson Theater until 5 January 2020, on a North American tour, and will open in Australia and Holland in 2020, and Japan in 2021. The show’s producers are also in talks with over 20 international markets about future productions. The Waitress US tour is approaching a hugely successful 2-years on the road, currently extended to continue into 2021.

Based on the 2007 motion picture written by Adrienne Shelly, Waitress is the first Broadway musical in history to have four women in the four top creative team spots, with a book by Jessie Nelson, a score by seven-time Grammy Award-nominated singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles, choreography by Lorin Latarro and direction by Tony Award-winner Diane Paulus.

Waitress tells the story of Jenna, an expert pie maker in a small town, who dreams of a way out of her loveless marriage. A baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s new doctor may offer her a chance at a new life, while her fellow waitresses offer their own recipes to happiness. But Jenna must find the courage and strength within herself to rebuild her life. This American musical celebrates friendship, motherhood, and the magic of a well-made pie.

On its Broadway opening, Waitress was nominated for four Outer Critics’ Circle Awards, including Outstanding New Broadway Musical; two Drama League Award Nominations, including Outstanding Production of a Broadway or Off-Broadway Musical; six Drama Desk Nominations, including Outstanding Musical; and four Tony Award Nominations, including Best Musical.

Waitress is produced by Barry and Fran Weissler and Norton and Elayne Herrick.