Hull New Theatre – until 17th March 2018. Reviewed by Catherine McWilliams
5*****
Let’s be clear from the start I am not a Take That fan so I went to the Hull New Theatre last night wondering whether I would enjoy The Band and a tad dubious about seeing another “Jukebox” musical. I shouldn’t have worried what a fabulous night I had as this sleek, high-energy, high-powered musical is a triumph.
As we waited for the show to start Ceefax entertained us with pages from September 1993, setting the scene beautifully. The show’s story revolves around five teenagers who adore “The Band” and win tickets to a concert of their heroes. The second act sees a reunion of four of the women 25 years later. Tim Firth’s writing is very carefully observed and makes us laugh, cringe, cry and cheer for the women who this musical is really about. The teenagers were superb and took me right back to the days when I too adored a pop star and made promises I was so sure I would keep.
Take That’s music is very cleverly interwoven into the story adding to the whole piece and helping to tell the story, but not taking it over. I loved the way “The Band” popped up to sing in the most unlikely places. The version of Back For Good sung by the teenagers to their adult selves was particularly moving. The music is an integral part of the show and reminds us how important music is to so many and that it has the power to inspire, to support us when we’re down and to instantly transport us to another time and place.
The scenery, lighting and special effects are simply stunning and at times it was difficult to know where to look next. I don’t think I have ever seen gladiators, singing statues, and planes in the same piece before!
It would feel wrong to single out one member of the cast for praise as they were all outstanding, all playing their parts superbly. This really is an ensemble piece and the cast have to be at the top of their game as the tale unfolds and the music weaves in and out of the story. It was like watching a 1000 piece jigsaw being put together, all the individual bits adding up to an extravaganza to please all the senses.
I came out of the theatre buzzing, having loved every minute of this spectacular show. If you get the chance go and see for yourself – you won’t be disappointed.