Category: Music

Lionel Barts Oliver! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Oliver – Manor Musical Theatre Company

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

Monday 24th October 2022 – Dress Rehearsal

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Nigel Gambles Photography

We were back at the Town Hall the second time in a week and Manor Musical Theatre Company were “Considering Us Part Of The Family”

Yes Oliver has returned to the Town Hall and you will absolutely be asking for more.

Directed by Pam & James Garrington, the staging of the production is very traditional, helping the audience be transported to the era, the set costumes lighting and props were all sympathetic to this. The set was fantastic and a special mention to “Going Dark Theatrical Services” for the atmospheric lighting. Coreography is by Jennie Mason who has created some great routines considering the size of the ensemble and stage keeping them in style of the set. Musical Director is Tim Harding and the nine piece band did a lovely job although I do think the volume was too loud in some cases with the soloists struggling to compete at times.

For this production there are two sets of youngsters team jelly and team custard! We were treated to team custard who are Evan Taylor playing Oliver Twist who very much looked the part and told the story well coming across more confidently as the show progressed. Jack Goode played the Dodger. For me he was one of the stand out performances, his command of the stage was excellent and the the confidence of his performance superb. His rapport with Nancy and Fagan  was also very good.

Fagan is played by Barry Styles a regular with the group, his character portrayal is superb and convincing taking command of the stage on every appearance

Nancy is played by Paula O’Hare who you might remember as an excellent Maria in the company production of Sound of Music earlier this year. She brings great energy and enthusiasm to this iconic role her vocals strong and clear.

Bill Sikes is played by Peter Bushby, suitably scary and menacing.

There are far too many roles to really mention in this review but I will say that all the cast and ensemble were excellent and seemed to throughly enjoy themselves and I felt that the overall acting and storytelling was very strong. The vocals and choreography were excellent. Well done to all on stage and behind the scenes.

We Will Rock You ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

We Will Rock You (young@part) – Sutton Coldfield Musical Youth Theatre

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

Monday 17th October 2022 – Dress Rehearsal

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Nigel Gambles Photography

 

Sutton Coldfield Musical Youth Theatre rocked back into the Town Hall for their second show of the year with Queen & Ben Elton’s best selling jukebox musical “We Will Rock You (young@part)”

Directed by Paul Lumsen, choreography by Maggie Jackson and musical director Chris Cocoran.

Set in the future on iPlanet where all musical instruments are banned, computers generate the music and everybody downloads it. This is a world where it is cool to conform, be compliant and live your life on the internet (sound familiar), where rock music has been long forgotten. Ruled by Killer Queen played by Sienna Renshaw who gives a fine  performance. Enter Galileo our leading man played by Nate Wallace who is plagued by dreams and memories of songs long gone, he joins forces with Scaramouche played brilliantly by Amelia Waldron who has a fantastic presence and wonderful vocals delivering a great  version of Somebody To Love. Amelia and Nate also deliver some stunning duets, Under Pressure and Who Wants To Live For Ever bouncing off each other well.

Together they set off on a mission to discover the last surviving instrument aided in their quest by a motley crew of Bohemians including Oz and Brit played by Ellie Summerfield and Finley Hunt, both have a wonderful stage presence and deliver lovely vocals in “I Want It All”. For me the highlight of the show was when Ellie sang “No-One But You”…. stunning is all I can say and I bet there won’t be a dry eye in the house.

The second half of the show is where the magic happens, the plot becomes secondary and the hits come thick and fast with classics like We Will Rock You, We Are The Champions and of course Bohemian Rhapsody.

Special mention to Oscar Ralley playing Buddy wonderfully.

This show is pure entertainment and will have you on your feet clapping and singing along.

 

Maet Live – Meat Loaf Tribute

So the Never Neverland Express and Maet Live stormed into the Town Hall Friday and Saturday night playing to sell out audiences.

From the set and lighting to the singers and band I have to say this is one of the most professional tribute bands I have seen, and that from a life long Meatloaf fan ( I must have seen him at least a dozen times).

The vocals were powerful and clear courtesy of Craig Halford and the backing singers Jodey Lea and Melissa Gardner. The rest of the band were played brilliantly special mention to Adam Willis great guitar work.

The set was littered with all the hits you would expect and a few surprises you wouldn’t necessarily expect. I would definitely recommended this show it was a classic rock and roll night out with the audience up and dancing

https://www.facebook.com/groups/maetlive

 

SCMYT Preview “We Will Rock You” In The Gracechurch Centre

Saturday saw Sutton Coldfield Musical Youth Theatre appear in The Gracechurch Centre to give passing shoppers and stores a preview of their forthcoming production “We Will Rock You” which showcases the music of Queen. I have to say Im really looking forward to seeing the show after some stunning performances fro Mille and Elle pure magic. Watch out for a video coming tomorrow showcasing some of the songs.

This electrifying production, is at Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Hall from 18-22 October

For tickets book here https://www.suttoncoldfieldtownhall.com/whats-on/12105/ or call 0121 296 9543. 🎾

Priscilla Queen Of the Desert ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Priscilla Queen Of The Desert – Lichfield Operatic Society

Lichfield Garrick Theatre

Tuesday 20th September 2022 – Opening Night

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Robert Yardley Photography

Priscilla Queen of the Desert storms in boldly and brashly, taking the audience on a whirlwind, drag-laced tour through not just the Australian outback, but also attitudes towards drag, transsexuality, and acceptance – while featuring a phenomenal back catalogue of karaoke classics to a glittery shoe

I have to admit I have neither seen the show or the film before so I knew I was in for a surprise. This fabulous production directed by James Pugh races through at a scary pace with songs and routines coming thick and fast which leaves the audience cheering for more. From the opening “Its Raining Men” to First Act closer “I will Survive” It was non stop..

In Pete Beck, Adam Gregory and Patrick Jervis’s performance of Bernadette, Felicia/Adam and Tick/Mitzi we are given life, love and a bit of lip- syncing. They are equal parts sassy and soft, while brilliantly bring their characters stories to life. All while managing to maintain a wonderful tongue in cheek playfulness and thankfully never taking themselves too seriously.

I have to add that the understated stars of the show who take the vocals and dancing to the next level have to be the ensemble who were truly magnificent and must be totally worn out at the end of the show with all the costume changes.

The show is witty and clever eliciting plenty of oohs and aahs. I cant finish this review with out mentioning the choreography. Charlotte Jervis has worked miracles putting together all the dance and chorus routines from her own very creative mind and taught with mazing skill and dedication.

It might not have the best storyline or the most complex or intense performance, but thats not what you are there for, you are there to be taken on an amazing colourful eye popping, sing a long with spectacular dance and an iconic musical score under the guiding hand of David Easto. I guarantee you will be up on your feet and dancing in the aisles by the end of the show.

Made In Dagenham ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Made In Dagenham – Tudor Musical Comedy Society

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

Monday 19th September 2022 – Dress Rehearsal

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Nigel Gambles Photography

Made in Dagenham, the musical based on the 2010 film that tells the true story of the 1968 sewing machinists’ strike at the Ford factory in Dagenham, Essex, is Tudor’s first production of 2022.

This show certainly packs a punch with a strong feminist message, catchy tunes and electrifying performances from its talented cast. This was musical theatre at its best!

Led by a great creative team Paula Lumsden in the director’s chair, Andy Timmins heading up the orchestra and Jenny Morris setting the dance moves. Made in Dagenham a show full of life and humour with wonderful toe tapping tunes from the opening number “Made In Dagenham” to the closing “Stand Up” All in all this is a show not to be missed.

The real strength in this performance was the ensemble with their slick choreography and phenomenal vocals.

This is a cast that cares about the story, loves working together and knows how to put on a great show.

Natasha Cartwright led the Dagenham girls as Rita O’Grady, the machinist-turned-campaigner. From not wanting to get involved then letting her fiery side take over and leading the ladies in their fight. Her vocals throughout were strong and clear and she blew us away with her stunning voice in her final call-to-action, Stand Up!

Nathan Rock played Rita’s forgetful but eventually supportive husband Eddie, in a mature and sensitive performance. His vocals reflecting his character well. Nathan is joined on stage by his daughter Sharon, playing his daughter Scarlett alongside Jake Silvester who played his son Graham. These two youngsters play their parts with great professionalism.

Hannah Wys had the audience laughing with her hilarious take on Beryl, the bawdy factory worker who wants all the gossip on her colleagues’ love lives, Rhiann Horsley as Sandra the resident “dolly bird” flirtatious but struggling to adjust to the strike and Georgia Young as Claire so well meaning but always struggling to find her words and Louise Grifferty brought pathos and power to the show as the seasoned union convenor, Connie. These ladies bring real substance to the show.

Paul “Lumpy” Lumsden plays the pipe smoking, gannex wearing Harold Wilson perfectly and Charlie Ward as Barbara Castle is his perfect foil this pair will have you laughing out loud and gripped by their great vocals and charm.

Grease ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Grease – Script Youth Musical Theatre

Highbury Theatre

Monday 4th July 2022 – Dress Rehearsal

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Nigel Gambles Photography

We all know Grease we’ve all seen the film with Danny, Sandy T-Birds and Pink Ladies. Script Youth are and will be performing it in style and you will be “Hopelessly Devoted To It”

So off we go to Rydell High where the students are returning after summer break . Danny leader of the T-Birds meets up with the rest of the gang and reminisces about his summer on the beach and the girl he met, played by Ollie Roberts. He captures the strutting tough guy leader to perfection his vocals are strong and he sings with confidence and passion. Meanwhile Sandy played by Erin Moony is a school newcomer and is introduced to the Pink Ladies and she also tells of her summer romance while being put down by Rizzo, more about her in a while. This brings us to the duet “Summer Lovin” Erin plays Sandy  with a shy naivety  her voice lovely crisp and tuneful.

Back to Rizzo played by Evie Rice. Evie was made for the role playing it with such style and class. She could be a clone of Stockard Channing (played Rizzo in the movie) as she turns the lesser known “There Are Worse Things I could Do” into a hands down show stopper. I think we have a future star in the making here.

The rest of the cast play their roles with passion and commitment bringing energy to the dance sequences and power to the group vocals indeed “Hand Jive” is just that and encourages audience participation, so you better brush up on your hand jive.

Louise Farmers production of the show is excellent you feel her passion and commitment shine through. The cast show this in their polished and slick delivery. Full credit must also be given to the costumes makeup and backstage crew.

This is a youth production, but you would not think so from the quality and maturity of the performances. Its a first class show and you will need to be like “Greased Lightning ” to get your tickets as Im sure this is going to be hugely popular.

For your tickets click the link 👇 https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/script-youth-musical-theatre-company

The Addams Family Musical ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Addams Family Musical – Sutton Coldfield Musical Theatre Company

Lichfield Garrick

Tuesday 5th July 2022 – Opening Night

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Nigel Gambles Photography

I was very kindly invited to the opening night of Sutton Coldfield Musical Theatre Company’s latest production of “The Addams Family Musical” at The Garrick Theatre in Lichfield. If like me you grew up in the 60’s then I’m sure you will remember that..creepy, kooky, mysterious and spooky family, the catchy theme tune and snapping fingers.

The musical is based around the main characters of the TV series with a script from a book by Brickman and Elice and music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa.

The story revolves around Wednesdays budding romance with normal boy Lucas and families meeting for dinner at chez Addams, obviously the course of true love never runs smoothly and the ensuing antics accompanied by some wonderful one liners it makes for a very uplifting show.

Mark Skett who plays  Gomez the Father, is wonderful with an outrageous phoney Spanish accent and desperately trying keep Morticia in love with him. Kate Pilling who plays Morticia superbly reminding me of Carolyn Jones the original Morticia.  Her voice is sultry and beautiful and with some alluring dancing nails the character.

Charlotte Jervis who plays Wednesday with a demonic zest, swapping between her brothers tormentor and torturer and the love struck youngster easily and confidently her voice is powerful and harmonious.

As for the rest of the cast James Fisher playing the wacky Uncle Fester gives a glorious performance even when he breaks into his ballad “The Moon and Me”.  Paula Lumsden who plays Grandma is hilarious delivering a crazy witch like character with some of the best one liners. Pugsley the son is played by 2 actors depending on which performance you go to. On this occasion it was Alfie Stevens giving a energetic performance trying to send his sisters romance off the rails. Finally Lurch played by Tony Orbell wearing a pair of platforms high enough to be the envy of any 70’s glam rock band. Although his is a performance with only grunts, he makes sure that his presence is always felt and the surprises us all with a lovely rendition of “Move Towards the Darkness”

The Beineke family who are travelling to the big city to meet the Addams family are wonderfully played delivering doubt, reservations and surprise. Simon Smith as Mal and Sarah Cordin as Alice the repressed wife but not for long.. and son and Wednesday’s love Lucas played by Louis Patterson whose mellow tones work very well with Wednesday.

Finally the ensemble cast paying the Ancestors (cavemen, ballerina gladiator, sailor and so many more) absolutely fantastic the dancing so in sync Maggie Jackson choreographer has done an amazing job. Also a massive well done to the costume, make-up and set depts. Great job!

Summing up I have to say this was one of the best performances I have seen from an amateur group. Slick, professional, fantastic dance routines and perfect singing an all round mega hit, congratulations to Chris Stanley producer, and his team.

Oh and for those of you thinking someone or “Thing” is missing keep your eyes peeled!

The Addams Family Musical runs at the Lichfield Garrick Main Theatre from Tuesday 5 to Saturday 9 July, performances start at 7.30pm, with a matinee at 2.30pm on Saturday 9 July. Ticket prices start from ÂŁ20 and can be purchased at the Garrick Box Office, ring 01543 412121 or book online at: www.lichfieldgarrick.com/whats-on/all-shows/the-addams-family-presented-by-sutton-coldfield-musical-theatre-company/2937#schedules

Northern Live – Do I Love You at Sutton Town Hall

Last night we were taken back to the mid 1960’s to the time when a new music movement was emerging in the Northern clubs “Northern Soul”

Northern Live looked like they had just walked out of the pages of history a tight 11 piece band looking and sounding perfect. This brand new show keeps faith to the original sounds that swept the Northern clubs. Playing such classic like “Tainted Love”, “Do I Love You” “There’s A Ghost in My House” and so many more  it was long before the audience were joining in.

If you get the chance and love this era, get a long to one of their shows you won’t be disappointed.

West Side Story 5⭐

West Side Story – Trinity Players

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

Monday 6th June

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Nigel Gambles Photography

Trinity Players are back at the Town Hall with their production of one of the most memorable musical’s of all time “West Side Story” We were lucky enough to be at the Dress Rehearsal on Monday and wow are you in for a treat.

This epic love story surrounded by hatred, violence and prejudice is as popular as ever especially in the light of the recent movie re-make.

Trinity tackle this show with true professionalism, set in New York City two rival street gangs the Jets and the Sharks battle it out as two young lovers get caught in the crossfire.

I don’t think you could get a better Maria and Tony ( Libby Buick and Dan Barnes). Libby portrays Maria with such softness and grace her singing voice is superb, Dan plays Tony in a plain speaking and down to earth way of someone trying to escape the ties of gang life.

Ross Gilby who plays Bernardo, Maria’s over bearing and very protective brother hits the mark perfectly portrayed with subtle arrogance and aggression.

The singing and dancing of the supporting cast is fantastic full of life, enthusiasm and energy.

For me the highlight scene has to be the one on the fire escape, at this point I have to mention the amazing set. It has to be one of the best I have seen at the Town Hall and perfectly portrays the rundown feel of the New York tenements. Tony climbs to Marias window where she is singing Tonight, picked out perfectly by a soft spotlight, as Tony joins in and we get a beautiful duet.

I can’t finish this review without mentioning the “Rumble” expertly choreographed by Natalie Haslam with the fight scene seeming specially realistic.

Congratulations to directors Matthew Collins on his directorial debut and to Jennifer Holyhead for bringing this show to life. Its spectacular yes we all know most of the songs but here they are performed with passion and energy by a totally amazing cast.

If you have not already then get your tickets now there are a few remaining so hurry.

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/trinity-players

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