Grand Opera House York- until 22 April. Reviewed by Michelle Richardson
Bill Kenwright and Laurie Mansfield bring their production of Dreamboats and Petticoats, a 50’s and 60’s inspired musical, to York.
It tells the story of teenager Bobby (Alisair Higgins), and how he was in a group, for all of 5 minutes, thanks to super cool Norman (Alastair Hill). We see unrequited love, and Bobby’s love of music and his experience of love and relationships with Laura (Elizabeth Carter), Sue (Laura Darton) and his best friend Ray (David Luke).
The set complimented the theme, covered in posters of the rock ‘n’ roll stars of the time. I particularly enjoyed the use of the dodgems, which made an appearance a couple of times during the show. Set changes were seamless with all the cast members facilitating this. It was all live music and the band, “The Conquests”, played on a platform in the background, as well as appearing centre stage for certain pieces. They were one of the highlights for me and had a lot of stage presence, especially Jay Osbourne on lead guitar.
Every one of the cast performed with passion and they all looked like they were having a ball, which is infectious and made it more enjoyable for the audience. They were certainly a multi-talented cast, singing, dancing, and acting through the whole show.
We are treated to over 40 songs from the era, most of which I had heard before, and had a few of the audience singing along to themselves, me included to a couple of tunes, I’m sad to say, especially if anyone has heard me sing before.
The biggest highlight for me were the 2 acapella performances that the whole cast delivered, they really showcased the talent of the whole cast, Palisades Park was just lovely.
Although a lot of the audience were of a certain age, and certainly seemed to enjoy their rock ‘n’ roll I would say it appeals to anyone who enjoys a bit of music and fun, and certainly by the end most of us were up singing and dancing along.
Showing in York until Saturday 22nd April.