Danny Coleman-Cooke 
American Idiot is a bit of a frustrating production; whilst the music of Green Day has plenty to offer a musical, it doesn’t seem right for a sung-through stage adaption. However, whatever it lacks in plot and characterisation, it more than makes up for in energy, passion and pure good fun.
Lovett + Todd is a valiant effort at breathing new life into the tale of Sweeney Todd. Unfortunately, it feels like a missed opportunity – some intelligent staging can’t hide the gaping flaws in the plot and script.
The original creators can be proud; I Sing! is a wonderful show with a wonderful cast and deserves to find a home for longer than the scheduled week.
The Mentalists is a fun and lively Pinteresque farce from a very talented playwright. Whilst there are a few thematic flaws, an amusing script guarantees an interesting afternoon, brought to life by two actors who are at the top of their game.
Coleman worked in an era where Broadway was consistently part of the Top 10. Not every number presented as part of Rhythm Of Life deserved placement in the show, but audiences were left with no doubt that he was clearly a very talented composer with an ability to craft some surefire hits. A talented and versatile cast means that even a big spender would not come away disappointed.
Sibling Revelry is nothing revolutionary or groundbreaking and nor does it claim to be. However, if you’re looking for some top class performances from some Broadway veterans then you can’t go wrong with the Callaways – the true sister act.
East is East is set in the early 70s, was written in the 80s and released as a film in the mid 90s. And yet it’s remarkable how little it has dated. Since the film was released we have seen 9/11, the ‘War on Terror’ and the rise of the Islamic State. meaning questions of identity amongst British Muslims are as important and relevant as ever.
The Dreamers is a real mixed bag. Musically it is often very strong; the musical direction and band are both terrific. However, lyrically and dramatically it falls short, especially the paper-thin first act. Despite this, it would be cruel to be too dismissive of The Dreamers
