Flare Path centres on the fears and frustrations that derive from an interminable war, seen through the eyes of three married couples. Although its central love triangle can be more distracting than compelling, overall this is a fine production with a host of excellent performances and an admirably tense atmosphere.
Take two drag queens, a transvestite, a big bus and enough sequins and glitter to sink the titanic, put them together with a talented cast and a plethora of modern pop and disco classics in a big pink bus, and you pretty much have all the ingredients that make Priscilla a joyous night in the theatre.
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.
It’s almost impossible not be on your feet by the end of the show cheering on this cast of talented performers. Love Me Tender must be West End bound. I’d take a bet that it will find a home in the West End following its current tour. A 5 Star Hit! Don’t Miss It!
Now undertaking its 4th UK Tour, Avenue Q continues to be one of the funniest musicals onstage at the present time. Whether you are an Avenue Q newbie or if like me you have seen the show MANY times you would be a fool to miss this production.
Key to the success of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is the onstage relationship between Jameson played by Michael Praed and Benson played by Noel Sullivan. There is an immediate chemistry between these two, you get the feeling that they are having far more fun than we as the audience are and it’s infectious. It’s a chemistry that was missing in the West End, but this touring production has it in spades and then some.
It’s great to see so many people of all ages enjoying and loving The Sound Of Music. There’s a magic about the Sound Of Music that defies explanation, generation after generation fall in love with this tale of family, love and adversity and the message of hope that it expels into the audience in wave after wave. How could you do anything but love it.
It was fascinating to hear the animated discussion in the auditorium, in the intervals or scene breaks, about the identity of the murderer(s) (not to give anything away, you know) and there was an audible gasp from many when the final revelation came. It is rare indeed – and an indication of the success of the piece – to witness this level of genuine engagement between stage and audience. Gravitas comes from a detached but dead-accurate performance from Paul Nicholas and Ben Nealon’s welcome brio is the pulse of the play.
