Grand Opera House York – until Saturday 12th November 2022
Reviewed by Michelle Richardson
5*****
Based on the Roddy Doyle novel of the same name, who has also adapted this musical, and directed by Andrew Linnie, The Commitments is back on tour after its successful debut over 5 years ago. Back in York at the Grand Opera House, will it still prove to be a success?
The Commitments tells the story of “the hardest working band in the world”, put together in Dublin by Jimmy (James Killeen). He wants to create a sweet soul band, with auditions at his house, a house he shares with his Da (Nigel Pivaro, most notably known for his role in Coronation Street). The auditions are very hit and miss, but somehow, he manages to create his band of musicians and singers. What follows is a rollercoaster of a ride.
After getting drunk, at the works Christmas party, and showing off his vocal skills, there can only be one lead singer, Deco (Ian McIntosh), obnoxious that he is. Providing the backing vocals are Imelda (Ciara Mackey), Natalie (Eve Kitchingman) and Bernie (Sarah Gardiner). All three have superb, powerful voices and certainly hold their own, with some great numbers, Chain of Fools and Think amongst them.
As the story unfolds the band goes from strength to strength, as they get used to playing their respective instruments. They truly are a talented bunch of musicians, acting and singing, all whilst playing. Unfortunately, things implode with Deco’s shoddiness and attitude, he is always late for rehearsals and shows and has a complete disregard for anyone else. I enjoyed their Irish brogue.
McIntosh is magnificent as Deco, he sure can sing, I could listen to him forever, and obnoxious as his character is, I could not help but be drawn to him. Check out his Superman undies as he strips off. When the cast were performing the encore, his true personality shone through, with his cheeky grin. He has such a great stage presence, a natural born star. Another stand out for me was Ronnie Yorke as the skinhead Mickah. He was menacing as the bands bouncer and was so hyper and fired up, his energy never let up.
Everyone in the cast really looked like they were having a blast. I enjoyed their Irish accents and the vitality they portrayed. I wannabe part of the band, even though I’m completely tone deaf and can’t sing, dance or play an instrument.
The set was impressive, from Jimmy’s two storey house to Joey’s garage, where they held the rehearsals, and the bingo hall for the bands fist gig. The whole stage was utilised to the max.
By the end of the show and the finale, we were up on our feet, dancing and singing along to Mustang Sally, the fabulous song that is synonymous with the film, with even more songs to whet our appetite. When it came to the applause, it was never ending, the whole theatre erupted and just kept on going and going.
This is a fabulous show with some fabulous music and fabulous entertainers. A must see for anyone who loves that sweet soul music.