Author: FairyPoweredProductions

Malvern Theatres – until 7 March 2020

Reviewed by Vanessa Gibson

5*****

Stanley Yelnats (James Backway) – that’s Stanley spelt backwards, can’t catch a break. His family is cursed and he unfortunately is in the wrong place at the wrong time when a pair of expensive trainers literally falls into his hands. Accused of stealing the trainers he is offered the choice between prison and a labour camp. Imagining a fun filled summer camp he is in fact dispatched to a labour camp in a desert infested with poisonous critters. Here, he is told, his task is to dig a new hole, every day, in the sweltering heat. Stanley and his fellow prisoners are told this is to build their character- but is this true? Of does the very forceful and at times funny Warden (Rhona Croker) have an ulterior motive and if so what is it? And so the scene is set for a several stories which are beautifully interwoven to bring the past very much into the current day and help resolve Stanley’s seemingly hopeless situation.

This story speeds along with a mix of song, dance, well timed humour and puppetry. We particularly enjoyed the fabulous shower scene which saw Stanley take a very self-conscious shower to the soundtrack of Rockwell’s ‘Somebody’s Watching Me’– brilliantly done this scene caused some gentle laughter within the very mixed audience. The speed and variety on stage really kept our interest, with rapid scene changes, flitting between the interwoven stories we weren’t quite sure what was coming next.

All cast members held up some very impressive and convincing American accents throughout the performance. In addition several cast members played multiple roles and were able to give each its own personality. The energy and enthusiasm of the cast was clear to see. Of note was the portrayal of Stanley’s friendship with Zero (Leona Allen) this relationship was central to the play and built wonderfully from initial mutual suspicion to a friendship which gave an unexpected conclusion to the play.

The production is a joint production with The Children’s Theatre Partnership and it was lovely to see so many young people at the performance enjoying such a varied, skilled and enthusiastic performance.

We would recommend Holes- but just look out for the snakes and yellow spotted lizards.

The Grand Theatre, Leeds – until Saturday 7 March 2020

Reviewed by Aimee Liddington

5*****

It is Berlin in the early 1930s. Germany is in the midst of political and economic turmoil and there is an overwhelming feeling of decadence and laissez-faire. With the country dancing on edge of the Nazi rise to power, the KitKat Club opens its doors and welcomes us into a world where moral boundaries are blurred and people frolic and fool around on the edge of society. In this club, anything goes and drugs, sex and American jazz is used to distract the nation from their fear and incertitude.

From the very beginning of the production John Partridge charms the audience with his cheeky and salacious portrayal of Emcee. As the (almost) omnipresent narrator, Partridge illustrates an unbridled sexual freedom and makes extreme sexuality and eroticism appealing. With his electrifying promiscuity and audacity, the audience can do nothing but embrace the thrilling awkwardness he creates. With his strong singing voice, convincing accents and ability to convey a variety of emotions, this EastEnders actor swaps the screen for the stage and he couldn’t seem more at ease.

By the same token, Kara Lily Hayworth sparkles and dazzles playing her dream role as the divinely decadent Sally Bowles. Hayworth manages to portray the light-hearted, coquettish lure of the character whilst also exposing her desperate sadness. Her powerful voice sends chills down your spine, particularly in numbers such as ‘Maybe This Time’ and the famous ‘Cabaret’.

Each of the members of the cast could be named individually for their efforts as they are all memorable in their performances and the creative team deserve to be applauded for bringing the talent together with their imagination and direction. Although I won’t give too much away, the direction of the finale scene is particularly powerful and really highlights the devastation of the Nazi treatment of the Jews among all the excitement and self-indulgence in the city of Berlin.

‘Cabaret’ is a tale of sex, love, debauchery and sadness – ‘What good is sitting, alone in your room? Come hear the music play! Life is a cabaret, old chum! Come to the cabaret!’

Lyttelton Theatre

MANOR

a new play by Moira Buffini

Playing from 7 April, final performance 15 July.

A violent storm sweeps the coast. Diana Stuckley and her daughter are struggling to keep the roof on their run-down manor house, when neighbours and strangers begin to appear on their doorstep, seeking shelter from the floods.

One of these unexpected arrivals is Ted Farrier, the charismatic leader of a right-wing organisation: he could be Diana’s saviour – or pull the fragile household to pieces.

Stranded together, this explosive mix of people must survive the weather, and each other.

Nancy Carroll plays Diana and Ben Daniels plays Ted in this thrilling, witty new play. Michele Austin, Peter Bray, Gillian Dean, David Hargreaves, Shaniqua Okwok and Eliot Salt also join the previously announced Amy Forrest and Edward Judge.

Writer Moira Buffini is reunited with director Fiona Buffini for the first time since the acclaimed DINNER.

Set and costume design by Lez Brotherston, lighting design by Paule Constable, composition and sound design by Jon Nicholls, video design by Andrzej Goulding and fight direction by Kate Waters.

Edinburgh Festival Theatre – until 7 March 2020

Reviewed by Manetta Anderson-McIntosh

5*****

Just A Boy in a Dress

This is by far the best original musical I have seen in a long time, not just for the acting/singing, but for the script, the lyrics and the music, Dan Gillespie Sells and Tom MacRae, stand up and take a bow. There was nothing not to like about this musical, based on the real life of Jamie Campbell, who knew from a young age he wanted to become a drag queen. The way this was dealt with during school career class was thought provoking and comical at the same time, all kids seem to want a quick way to fame these days, but some kids have the capacity to achieve it.

The story is about a teenager, Jamie New (Layton Williams), who knows what he wants to be and shows how, with the right support you can achieve your dreams. Williams was superb in the role, he is charisma in heels. Jamie is supported in his quest by amazing people played by an amazing cast. Hugo/Loco Chanelle (Shane Richie), Jamie’s mum, Margaret (Amy Ellen-Richardson), Rey (Shobna Gulati) are his main supporters and it was an absolute treat to hear Shane Richie sing. Everybody should have a Rey in their lives, she’s like the cool aunt who would kick anyone’s backside for hurting you but kick your backside when you need it as well. The script was sensitive, serious and hilariously funny, but when Amy Ellen-Richardson sung He’s My Boy, you could have heard a pin drop, all the emotion of the love of a single mum for her only son was captured beautifully in this song.

The supporting cast were evident and energetic, not just background furniture. Every hero has a nemesis and for Jamie, his was Dean (George Sampson), he plays a baddie quite well and portrays all the stereotypical dislike towards Jamie that we sadly still see so much of in today’s society. Whilst there was much humour, the struggles that kids who are different go through were touched on sympathetically. There was so much to like about this production, the writing and the music, as I have already said, where fabulous but I think for me, seeing Sandra Bollock (Cameron Johnson) tucking himself … yes I said tucking, was comedy gold.

If this musical was an animal it would be a sparkly unicorn, despite the issues dealt with this is an absolute feel good production and will have you singing along and tapping your toes when you hear the music again.

TICKETS ON SALE SOON FOR THE FAIRY GODMOTHER OF ALL PANTOMIMES, CINDERELLA, AT DARLINGTON HIPPODROME

Tickets for Cinderella, this year’s spectacular festive family pantomime at Darlington Hippodrome, will go on sale at 10am on Tuesday 10 March.

You shall go to the ball this Christmas with the spectacular family pantomime Cinderella at Darlington Hippodrome. Packed with all of the traditional pantomime ingredients audiences expect, Cinderella features laugh out loud comedy, stunning scenery, beautiful costumes and plenty of boos and hisses.

Join Cinders as she goes from rags to riches, outwits her ugly sisters with help from her best friend Buttons and meets her dashing Prince. This Christmas bring your family to the most magical of all pantomimes where you can make festive memories as precious as a glass slipper – but you won’t have to wait until midnight to buy your tickets as they go on sale at 10am on Tuesday 10 March.

Cinderella will be produced by Qdos Entertainment, the world’s biggest pantomime producer, and the team behind Darlington’s annual pantomime, who guarantee another must-see production packed with audience participation, sensational music and dancing, jaw-dropping special effects and fantastic festive entertainment suitable for all ages.

Star casting to be announced soon!

Cinderella runs at Darlington Hippodrome from Saturday 5 December 2020 to Sunday 3 January 2021. For full details and to book visit www.darlingtonhippodrome.co.uk or call 01325 405405.

Alhambra: Bradford – until 7 March 2020

Reviewed by Katie Goldsbrough

4****

Beautiful tells the story of American singer songwriter Carole King who, after partnering with Gerry Goffin, went on to write number one hits for the Drifters, the Righteous Brothers and many more. She became a singer herself writing her own songs and having hits with (You Make me Feel Like) a Natural Woman, You’ve got a Friend and many more.

This production starts with 16-year-old Carole (Played by Hollyoaks star Daisy Wood-Davis) meeting Gerry Goffin (Adam Gillian) at college and follows their professional and personal relationship, writing music together while being married and sharing 2 children. Beautiful will have you feeling a range of emotions, there is joy and laughter alongside heartbreak for Carole as her relationship with Gerry becomes strained. Ultimately, we see how successful she becomes with the show opening and closing with her performance at New York’s Carnegie Hall.

Daisy Wood-Davies is extremely good, portraying Carole from a 16-year-old college student through her divorce at 28 and on to her own career. This transition is portrayed effortlessly by Wood-Davies. Adam Gillian, is also great, showing Goffin’s struggling between wanting to be a family man and wanting to feel young and progress in his career. The two of them work very well together and have great chemistry on stage.

Other notable performances come from Laura Baldwin and Cameron Sharp, who play Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann. Rivals and friends of King and Goffin. Their performances add humour to the show, they bounce off each other and add a lighter note to some of the more serious moments. The ensemble is also very good with performances from the Drifters, the Righteous brothers and Little Eva among others.

The Direction (Marc Bruni), Choreography (Josh Prince) are difficult to find fault with and the set design and costumes were excellent, really fitting with 1960s setting.

This is a fantastic show, if you like 60s/70s music you will have a great time, even if you don’t know Carole King, I can almost guarantee you will know her songs and will be singing along.

Hackney Empire presents
JACK AND THE BEANSTALK

• HACKNEY EMPIRE ANNOUNCES JACK AND THE BEANSTALK FOR ITS 2020 PANTOMIME, RUNNING FROM 21 NOVEMBER 2020 TO 3 JANUARY 2021.
   
• CLIVE ROWE WILL BECOME THE FIRST PATRON OF HACKNEY EMPIRE AND WILL TAKE TO THE STAGE ONCE MORE IN THE ICONIC ROLE OF  THE DAME.
   
• TICKETS FOR JACK AND THE BEANSTALK GO ON SALE ON FRIDAY 6 MARCH AT WWW.HACKNEYEMPIRE.CO.UK

Hackney Empire today announces Jack and the Beanstalk for its 2020 Christmas production opening in London this November and marking its 22^nd pantomime at the East End venue.  Jack and the Beanstalk will run from 21 November 2020 to 3 January 2021, with press night on Thursday 3 December. Tickets will go on sale to the public from Friday 6 March 2020 at 12noon.

This year, Hackney Empire is proud to announce Grande Dame Olivier Award-winner Clive Rowe as its very first patron of the theatre. Clive will also make his 14^th pantomime appearance this Christmas starring as Dame Daisy Trott. The full creative team and casting will be announced in due course.

Yamin Choudury, Artistic Director, and Jo Hemmant, Executive Director, from Hackney Empire said: “Nothing could feel more perfect than Clive Rowe becoming our first patron. As Hackney Empire’s pantomime Dame he has captivated, delighted and charmed audiences with his award-winning performances. As we head towards Hackney Empire’s 120th birthday, we look forward with great excitement to the next chapter of life at the theatre.”

Clive Rowe said: “I cannot truly express how honoured I am to have been asked to be Hackney Empire’s first patron.  My relationship with the building over the years has always been based on love and respect not just for the theatre but also for the community it is part of. I would like to thank Hackney Empire for this. I will cherish my patronage.”

As only Hackney Empire can, Jack and the Beanstalk will get the festive season underway, bringing all of the fun, magic and razzle dazzle that Hackney audiences love.

When happy-go-lucky Jack is tempted into selling his family’s beloved cow for a fistful of magic beans, he finds himself tangled in an adventure of epic proportions! Join Jack on his journey up an enchanted beanstalk as he tries to outwit a rampaging giant, all with the help of his larger-than-life mum.

This tall-tale is packed full of slapstick comedy, laugh-out-loud topical gags, outrageous costumes, dazzling song and dance numbers and plenty of chances to cheer, boo and hiss.  Hackney Empire’s pantomime has become one of the city’s most anticipated annual highlights bringing West End value at East End prices to attract an ever growing local, national and global fanbase.

Over 44,000 people attended last year’s pantomime Dick Whittington and His Cat including 10,000 schoolchildren. 41% of the audience were first time visitors to Hackney Empire.

Tickets for Jack and the Beanstalk go on sale on Friday 6 March from 12pm at www.hackneyempire.co.uk.

THE CHILDREN’S THEATRE PARTNERSHIP PRESENTS

A BRAND-NEW PRODUCTION OF GEORGE ORWELL’S SATIRICAL MASTERPIECE

ANIMAL FARM

DIRECTED BY THE CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED & MULTI-AWARD WINNING

ROBERT ICKE

WITH DESIGNS BY BUNNY CHRISTIE & PUPPETRY BY TOBY OLIÉ

ON AN EXTENSIVE UK TOUR FROM 2022

The critically lauded writer and director Robert Icke (The Doctor/Hamlet/Mary Stuart/Oresteia/1984), will direct The Children’s Theatre Partnership’s(CTP) upcoming production of George Orwell’s classic satirical fable, Animal Farm.

The production, which will tour the UK from 2022, will also combine the forces of some of UK theatre’s most talented creatives, including designs by the multi-award winning Bunny Christie (A Midsummer Night’s Dream/Company/Ink/The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time), and puppetry by Toby Olié (Running Wild/The Grinning Man/War Horse).

Robert Icke, said, “I’m thrilled to be working on another of Orwell’s seminal classics, and collaborating again with Fiery Angel. I could not be more excited to bring this important and timely story to a broad and diverse audience across the UK, and work alongside two of the industry’s most talented artists, Bunny and Toby.”

‘Four legs good, two legs bad’

Orwell’s biting political novelwas first published in 1945 and tells the story of the uprising of the animals of Manor Farm against their human, Farmer Jones, in the hope of creating a society where animals can be equal, free, and happy.

Icke previously worked on another of Orwell’s classics, 1984, which he co-adapted/directed alongside Duncan Macmillan, garnering him his first Olivier Award nomination for Best New Play in 2014. Animal Farm also reunites Icke and Christie following their celebrated 2016 collaboration on The Red Barn at the National Theatre. 

Further information about the production and the full 2022 tour schedule will be announced in due course.

Omnibus Theatre – until 8 August 2020

Reviewed by Heather Chalkley

3***

An unusual piece that reflects on what a successful apology really is, whether in the public eye or behind closed doors. Each act is written by 3 separate writers. Together they create a relentless introspection into the real cost of public apologies.

The Director Jane Moriarty has not differentiated between the characters enough to prevent melding. Act I gives more light and shade to the character. Act II and III begin to blur and may benefit from being separated by Act I.

Gabrielle Scawthorn delivers a sustained emotional out pouring. She is believable in her portrayal of 3 angry women, although there are times when the similarities are a distraction from the topic under debate.

The creative team make good use of the space, employing single item statement props for each character. Greater contrast in costume may help to separate the characters.

It is a relevant and thought provoking piece, rightly uncomfortable in its subject matter. Each act gives the human casualty perspective behind the constant media diatribe we have become so accustomed to.

Theatre Royal Windsor – until 7 March 2020

Reviewed by Carly Burlinge

3.5 ***

The Black Veil is written by Charles Dickens and Directed by Karen Henson.

Set back in the 1800’s in London. Stephan Ruggles (Christopher Brookes) who plays a young, chatty, well spoken, polite, very committed and newly qualified Doctor, who has come to London in order to set up practice and start his new career. He returns home one stormy evening, warming himself up in front of the fire when an old mysterious lady dressed in black, covering herself with a veil asks for his help. He invites her in to get warm, as outside the weather is ghastly and she is soaked through and concerned she will get a chill. He asks her to take his chair in order to get warm and dry. She remains quiet at first, takes a seat, asks him to sit with her with just a hand gesture which comes across very creepy and wondering if she will say anything at all! 

Once both seated Ada Crawlings (Dorkas Ashar) begins to talk and reveal that she needs his help and seems somewhat distressed as her grandson is ill. She plays the part well, slowly moving around the stage with a walking stick at times, has a rough old voice, her appearance and her demeanour make the audience feel somewhat sorry for the position she has found herself in,  but also the feeling that something isn’t quite right and that maybe she has an ulterior motive. She continues to tell Doctor Ruggles that her grandson is ill but is very adamant that he is unable to attend to him straight away and only until the following morning. Leaving the doctor  confused and a little unsure but he finally agrees to help but why does she remain uncovered? And why has she chosen him in order to help her? As the story unravels there becomes many twists and turns.

Although the first half seems slow at times  whilst building the story, the second half unravels very quickly, is lively with lots to absorb. The Black Veil is a well plotted, chilling and eerie thriller to watch.

The set was very dark with the use of black sheeting hung from around the stage, giving it quite a frightening bleak look throughout. With a chair set before a very effective pretend fireplace, with the use of just a flickering light to give the impression of a fire burning before them. Everything looked darkened and shadowy to fit in with the dramatic feel of the show . The lighting perfect for the show, with their shadows appearing in the background throughout. The sound affects were exceptional and sombre fitting in well.