Grand Theatre, Leeds – until 24th June 2023
Reviewed by Katie Brewerton
4****
The Commitments, based on Roddy Doyle’s novel and the film of the same namecomes to Leeds this week. Telling the story of Jimmy (James Killeen), who decides to put together a soul band formed from working class people in Dublin. After Outspan (Michael Mahony) and Derek (Guy Freeman) come to Jimmy asking for help with what sort of music they should play to help them become successful musicians he points them in the direction of soul. Jimmy finds a range of amateur musicians to bring together to form ‘The Hardest Working Band in Dublin’ and form ‘The Commitments’ who quickly become fan favourites. He works hard with the help of Joey ‘The Lips’ (Stuart Reid), a professional musician, to secure gigs for The Commitments and gets press and finally a record label to come and watch them play. But as their success begins to grow cracks begin to form with band members fighting amongst themselves and focusing on other things, including entering Eurovision, exams and Jazz music.
Staring Nigel Pivaro (Terry Duckworth in Coronation Street) as Jimmy’s dad, this is a show truly full of soul, with an extensive range of fantastic songs including Proud Mary, River Deep, Mountain High and Mustang Sally.
The encore saw everyone on their feet clapping along and the talent on stage was clear. Despite playing the unlikable Deco, Ben Morris was a clear favourite bringing humour to the stage as well as having a beautiful voice.
With hit after hit of feel-good music this is a show that will have everyone up on their feet. With a wonderful cast of talented singers and musicians get your tickets now before it’s too late!