Alhambra Theatre, Bradford – until Saturday 20th April 2019.
Reviewed by Aimee Liddington
5*****
If you’re looking for an uplifting evening that is packed full of iconic music, great talent and fun that never stops, then look no further. Motown the Musical is waiting for you. You will find yourself laughing, singing and bopping through the tales of young, ambitious, black artists reaching for their dream in 1960s and 70s America.
The storyline not only gives the audience an education on the history of Motown music, but also provides an insight into the American civil rights movement and the integration of white and black people after segregation ended in the United States. Such a serious topic is entwined with a light-hearted love story and through well-placed and well-timed humour, the story manages to makes us smile and laugh the whole way through.
The acting is fantastic and the singing is phenomenal. Cordell Mosteller as Berry Gordy and Karis Anderson as Diana Ross bring the soul that we all expect from Motown music. Anderson really captures the heart of the audience through her rendition of Reach Out and Touch (Somebody’s Hand), bringing members of the audience onto the stage to sing with her. Of course, the actors are immensely supported by a very talented band. From high-energy, upbeat numbers to slower power ballads, this team certainly knows how to work together to produce a well-finished production.
A review would not be complete without a mention of the creative team. Simple electronic backdrops, lights and sound are used to transport the audience from America, to Great Britain and even to the Bahamas. Glamourous and realistic costumes, that mimic the clothes actually worn by artists such as Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye and Smokey Robinson, create a sense of credibility and really take the audience back to the Motown era.
Don’t waste any time, get yourself a ticket and see for yourself. It will not disappoint and you will leave feeling positive and full of energy. It certainly will build you up, buttercup!