Tag: Musical

Fame The Musical – Lichfield Musical Youth Theatre ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Fame The Musical – Lichfield Musical Youth Theatre
Lichfield Garrick
Wednesday 25th March 2026 – Opening Night
By  Tracey Spare
Photography – Lichfield Musical Youth Theatre

For those of a certain age, the very mention of Fame The Musical instantly evokes leg warmers, sweatbands and the unforgettable journey of young performers chasing their dreams in New York’s High School of Performing Arts — and this latest production by Lichfield Musical Youth Theatre captures that spirit brilliantly.

This energetic and ambitious staging charts the students’ journey from audition through to graduation, navigating the highs, lows and relentless demands of life in the performing arts. It’s a show that naturally calls for a large, versatile company — and here, that depth of talent is one of its greatest strengths.

At the heart of the production are the principal performers portraying the recognisable characters of Nick Piazza (Ollie Clay), Serena Katz (Imogen Willis), Joe Vegas (Zach Andrews), Tyrone Jackson (Connor Orchard), Carmen Diaz (Molly Darby), Iris Kelly (Romelly Collier) and Mabel Washington (Isabella Hamilton) — each bringing focus, character and confidence to their roles. Vocally strong and emotionally grounded, these performances anchor the production with real credibility.

However, what truly elevates this show is the ensemble — the “Class of 2026” students — whose presence is felt in every moment. Whether filling the stage with tightly choreographed routines or supporting the narrative through movement and atmosphere, they deliver an impressive sense of scale. At times, with over thirty performers on stage, the coordination, energy and discipline on display is remarkable.

The choreography is sharp and dynamic, reflecting the intensity of a performing arts environment, while the musical numbers are delivered with both power and sincerity. There’s a clear sense that this is a company fully committed to the material — and crucially, enjoying every moment of it. Any hint of opening night nerves is absent, replaced with confidence and cohesion.

Behind the scenes, the production is steered with precision by Director Patrick Jervis, supported by Musical Director Oliver Rowe and Choreographer Jessica Bennett, whose combined vision brings clarity and pace to an otherwise demanding production.

The backstage and technical teams also deserve huge recognition. From lighting (Stephen Rainsford) and sound (Sam Burkinshaw) to costumes, props and stage management, every element contributes to a slick, well-executed performance that feels both professional and polished.

A particular highlight is the live orchestra, led by Oliver Rowe, whose musicianship adds depth and authenticity throughout — elevating the production beyond expectation for youth theatre.

The audience response on the night spoke volumes. A packed house — filled with proud families, friends and local theatre lovers — responded warmly throughout, culminating in a rousing finale as the full cast returned in glittering costumes to reprise the iconic title track Fame. It’s a moment of pure theatrical joy and a fitting celebration of everything the show represents.

This is a production that doesn’t just showcase emerging talent — it celebrates it. A vibrant, high-energy, and thoroughly enjoyable evening of theatre that proves Lichfield Musical Youth Theatre continues to go from strength to strength.

Performances continue throughout the week at The Garrick Theatre, with evening shows and a Saturday matinee available.

Jesus Christ Superstar – SCMTC ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Jesus Christ Superstar – Sutton Coldfield Musical Theatre
Sutton Coldfield Town Hall
Monday November 3rd – Dress Rehearsal
By Nigel Gambles
Photography – Studio 55 Photography

I know this show has enduring appeal; friends had raved about various productions of the rock opera, citing its powerful score, emotion, and timeless themes. Yes, the show still feels hauntingly relevant today. Telling the story of Jesus’s last week, themes of betrayal, fame, fear, bullying, and salvation can all be interpreted through a modern lens. Add to that a soaring, emotionally charged score, and you have a musical that still resonates today.

I first saw this show in 1973, it was the original production starring Paul Nicholas and Dana Gillespie when I was a young and impressionable teenager on a school trip to London. To this day, and after seeing many different musicals since, Jesus Christ Superstar remains one of my absolute favourites. It left a lasting impression on me through the sheer power of the music, the extraordinary vocals, and its timeless themes, which still feel just as relevant half a century later.

It takes no small amount of courage to stage Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s Jesus Christ Superstar, a rock opera that demands powerhouse vocals, razor-sharp musical timing, and a flair for the theatrical. Sutton Coldfield Musical Theatre’s production rises to the challenge with energy, conviction, and moments of genuine brilliance.

From the opening guitar riff of “Heaven on Their Minds,” it was clear this was a group ready to give their all. Leo Foëtu-Foster’s Judas anchored the show with a strong voice and emotional intensity, navigating the character’s moral torment with a raw, human touch. Opposite him, Tom Well’s Jesus balanced serenity and anguish, delivering “Gethsemane” with a vulnerability that will hush the room. Definitely a standout moment of the evening.

Juliet Fisher’s portrayal of Mary Magdalene was another standout performance. She brought warmth and quiet strength to the role, balancing tenderness with emotional depth. Her performance of    “I Don’t Know How to Love Him” was delivered with sincerity and beautiful control, providing a gentle contrast to the intensity of the surrounding scenes. The chemistry between Mary, Jesus, and Judas was believable and added a human touch to the story’s spiritual themes.

The chorus brought strong energy to ensemble numbers like “Hosanna” and “Superstar,” and their enthusiasm, vibrant presence and commitment creating a dynamic atmosphere.

Making his debut as director Simon Smith has made imaginative use of the modest stage space, using minimal props barring some stepped section at the rear and sides of the stage and the cross in the finale. Doing so he has created a fast-paced production that never loses its sense of intimacy.

A particular highlight of this production was the choreography, which was both imaginative and dynamic. Under the direction of Maggie Jackson, the movement was tightly executed and visually striking, enhancing the storytelling without ever feeling forced. From the pulsating energy of the crowd scenes to the subtle, expressive gestures in the more reflective moments, the choreography added a layer of professionalism and polish that lifted the entire production. It was clear the cast had worked hard to master the demanding routines, and their commitment paid off beautifully.

The live band, led by Sheila Pearson, provided a solid rock backing that gave the show its essential drive. At times the volume seemed a little overpowering, but the overall sound was impressive.

Lighting by Going Dark Theatrical heightened intensity and mood, while the costuming blended traditional and contemporary elements effectively. More than the technical achievements, what shone brightest was the passion of the entire company.

This production was clearly a labour of love, and that heartfelt commitment carried right through to the final moments.

My Fair Lady – Cloc Musical Theatre Company ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

My Fair Lady – Cloc MTC
Sutton Coldfield Town Hall
Wednesday 22nd October 2025 – Opening Night
By Nigel Gambles
Photography – Studio 55 Photography

‘My Fair Lady’ is a wonderful show. The musical is set in London, in that great period at the beginning of the 20th century, when the Empire, King and country were all Great with a capital G, and tells the story of a famous English Language phonetician, Henry Higgins, who makes a bet with friend and fellow linguist, Colonel Pickering, that he can turn a working-class flower seller into a high society lady in six months. The challenge is accepted, since Eliza herself the “guttersnipe” flowergirl wishes to learn to speak properly in order to work in a flower shop.

I have seen the show once before about 25 years ago with a star studded cast including Jonathan Pryce, Martine McCutcheon and Dennis Waterman, very nice you might say, but my point is that this cast from Cloc MTC could easily take their places, so polished and professional are their performances.

First off, this is a long show nearly three hours so get comfortable for a long but rewarding journey in uncomfortable theatre chairs!

The set is predominantly a huge screen showing scenes of London, Covent Garden, Ascot and general street scenes. This worked superbly with only a  few  props having to be moved on and off stage.

John Biddell plays Henry Higgins. One of the standout aspects of Johns’s portrayal was his ability to capture Higgins’ arrogance and condescension. Higgins is a character who is used to getting his way and sees himself as superior to those around him, particularly Eliza. John was able to convey this sense of superiority through his posture, facial expressions, and vocal inflections, at the same time he also showed Higgins vulnerability and humanity. John managed to show this complexity through his performance and particularly his interactions with Eliza.

Moving on to Eliza Dolittle, Audrey Hepburn who made this role unmatchable that is until Samantha Rogers took on the role, her fabulous voice and wonderful acting gave soul to the character. Her vocal range is incredible and she demonstrates excellent control. She brought Eliza to life in a way that few performers have before. Her performance was subtle and detailed and her singing had wonderful quality that draws the audience in and keeps them engaged.  Her incredible voice, combined with her acting skills, made her portrayal of Miss Doolittle truly unforgettable. She left a lasting impression on us.

Matt Beebe made a lively, spritely, and considerate Pickering. A lovely clear voice and diction as well as a great stage presence helped his character along nicely. Hayley Howen as Henry’s mother, Mrs.Higgins was a delight, as was Stacey Muxlow’s Mrs Pearce. Alex Nash gives a wonderful performance as the lovestruck Freddie and his rendition of On The Street Where You Live was beautiful and really endearing.

The principals were supported by a large and enthusiastic chorus of all ages, filling the stage where necessary.

Producer Rosemary Ravenscroft has done an excellent job pulling together this mammoth show whilst installing a level of commitment and enthusiasm from what must be hours and hours of rehearsals, that is off the scale, this can be seen in the dance sections choreographed by Teresa Biddell which are superb and so in sync – perfect.

The orchestra led by Peter Wingate were excellent if not somewhat over powering in a few sections. Lighting by Going Dark was as usual “spot on”.

Beauty & The Beast – Script Youth Musical Theatre ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Beauty & The Beast – Script Youth Musical Theatre Company
Crescent Theatre
Thursday 11th September 2025 – Dress Rehearsal
By : Nigel Gambles
Photography by : Studio 55 Photography

This familiar story, is a magical tale of mystery, sorcery, dreams, sadness, longing, and a just-in-time happy and moving ending.

A young prince, cursed and imprisoned in the form of a beast must find true love before the last rose petal falls to break the spell.

The true love appears in the form of Belle played by Erin Phillips, a wonderful singer with an amazing voice, a village girl who is being pursued by the narcissistic and arrogant hunter Gaston played to perfection by Findlay Laidlaw a strong and powerful vocalist, along with his side-kick LeFou the talented and hilarious Evie Rice, more on Evie later.

Belle refuses Gaston’s advances, yet the other village girls Effie Jobling, Isabelle Round and Darci Rice very amusingly fawn for his attention and affections.

Belle comes face to face with the Beast Samuel McCormac in his castle, whilst looking for her father Maurice, Zachariah Scrivens, who has been captured and selflessly ends up swapping places to gain his freedom. Belle soon befriends a host of wonderful characters in the ‘enchanted’ castle, who hope ‘this is the one to break the spell’. This magnificent group – Lumiere (Kian Haden), Mrs Potts (Chloe Mason), Chip (Oliver Malkin), Cogsworth (Amiee Whillis), Madame De La Grande Bouche (Jess Lewis) and the constantly amusing Babette (Louise Heard) are forever memorable.

Despite a turbulent beginning, a deep friendship develops between Belle and Beast and eventually the curse is broken. The true prince is revealed, Gaston is seen off, and peace, dance and merriment ensue. Therein lies the underlying message of the play: inward characteristics such as kindness should forever be valued over superficial qualities like appearance.

Forgive me for not mentioning by name the many other young actors, but they were all fantastic and the final number including the whole cast was a total delight.

Well done to Louise Farmer for such creative, enthusiastic production and once again ensuring that she got the maximum enthusiasm and effort from the whole cast and Kelly McCormac for the meticulous choreography.  A very special mention to Evie Rice who upon finding out the group would be doing Beauty and the Beast jumped at the chance to design and make Belles dresses as part of her finals at BOA, they are superb.

I have always thought that putting one’s trust and faith in children and young people brings out their best. Script Youth Musical Theatre certainly helps in this by promoting positive growth opportunities such as confidence building, creativity, communicating and working with others, as well as enabling the skills of acting, singing and dancing.

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie – SCMYT ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Everybody’s Talking About Jamie -Sutton Coldfield Musical Youth Theatre
Sutton Coldfield Town Hall
Monday 23rd June 2025
By : Nigel Gambles
Photography by : Studio 55 Photography

After the success of Footloose last year and previous shows Les Mis and Legally Blonde , SCMYT is definitely the best if not one of the best youth groups in the West Midlands

Their latest show Everybody’s Talking About Jamie, and wow! What an incredible show it is! Bringing this musical sensation to life – including Northern accents, multiple set and costume changes and complex dance numbers – was ambitious. Talented young performers aged just 13 to 18, poured their hearts and souls into a performance that was dynamic, professional, and full of impressive talent. It had heart, humour and heels so high I wouldn’t be able to walk in them, let alone dance!

From the opening scene it was packed with raucous energy and perfectly delivered sass that immediately transported us to a gritty Sheffield comprehensive, where Year 11s contend with the wonderful and frightening possibilities that lie ahead of each of them. Jamie New, an openly gay 16-year-old who dreams of becoming a drag queen was instantly likeable as he and the rest of the cast swept us into his pop-fantastic daydream ‘And You Don’t Even Know It’.

What made this amateur ‘Youth Edition’ so special was the thrill of watching real teenagers bring these teen characters to life. Under Georgia Young’s amazing and expert direction the cast delivered a level of talent that could easily be on the West End Stage. The way she fills the cast with enthusiasm and energy is quite remarkable.

Choreography by Charlotte Jervis assisted by Ethan Bowley, was stunning high energy and superb synchronisation especially in the dance duet. More of that later,

The whole ensemble was brilliantly cast, with every member delivering a believable storyline through genuine and multi-dimensional acting, powerful vocals and sharp choreography.

Toby Foetu-Foster was made to play Jamie he brought the perfect mix of camp charisma and youthful innocence to the role, whilst also capturing Jamie’s wit, cheekiness and vulnerability. His rendition of ‘Wall In My Head’ was captivating, building beautifully into an emotional crescendo that gave me chills!

Meanwhile, Zadie Beschi gave Pritti Jamie’s loyal, studious best friend, a quietly headstrong presence. Her solo ‘Beautiful’ was sung with elegant control, allowing each phrase the space and diction needed to feel both precise and spontaneous. The production honoured the spirit of diversity by respectfully representing the Muslim community, complete with hijabs.

I  have to say I was very moved by Neve Mathews’s portrayal of Jamie’s mum Margaret, especially her song ‘He’s My Boy’. It was heartfelt and mature, with excellent vocal range, and had me reflecting on the bittersweet truth that while we strive to shield our children from pain, life will inevitably hurt them, and yet we thrive on seeing them live authentically.

Another standout came from Jamie Wilson as the school bully who’s harsh lines stung, but showed subtle remorse that added depth to his characterisation.

Oscar Ralley was commanding as Hugo and playful as Loco Chanelle, offering a refreshing contrast between the characters.

The set design was simple but effective. Transitions between classroom, kitchen, bus stop and prom seemed to happen as if by magic, enhanced by effective lighting and seamless costume changes, from school uniforms to dazzling prom gowns. The spotlight reveal of Jamie’s red dress was especially powerful, leaving the audience wanting more.

Dynamic choreography and colourful harmonies elevated the production, from coordinated group numbers to breakout moments allowing individual characters to shine. Particularly memorable was the schoolgirls’ clapping routine in ‘Spotlight’, reminding us of the characters’ young age, while a dance duet between Gracie Drain and Euan Barnby during Margaret’s ‘If I Met Myself Again’ added a poignant, dreamlike quality to the song. The choreography was so beautiful. I especially loved the title number ‘Everybody’s Talking About Jamie’, which kicked off Act II, with its excited, gossipy feel, as multiple characters bounced their individual lines off each other before erupting into an energetic and synchronised dance sequence that had the whole room buzzing!

It’s genuinely hard to believe this was an amateur musical theatre. The level of professionalism, emotional authenticity and pure talent displayed by every single cast member absolutely blew me away. These young performers truly brought a little bit of glitter to the grey.

Guys & Dolls – Trinity Players ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This a  hugely fun and energetic production of the Broadway classic which showcases the incredible talent that exists in Trinity Players and is a perfect choice for their 50th anniversary as a society . Just the kind of tonic we all need!

As popular as it may be, it is a challenging piece to stage; multiple scenes, lengthy dance sequences, an abundance of songs, all add to a long list of hills to climb. Trinity Players production confronts these matters head on and delivers a hugely enjoyable, wonderfully performed show which illustrates the enormous pool of talent that exists in the group

Throughout, the standard of singing, dancing and acting is hugely impressive. The dance sequences are carried off successfully through skilful choreography from Celine Kirton. She has pushed the performers, but never beyond their capabilities, resulting in vibrant production numbers which really work. Bearing in mind that there is no huge budget available, the sets work well and the transitions from one to another are generally seamless. There are more than a few costumes required with this cast of thirty plus, and they are perfect adding lots of colour and style

The central four characters grabbed their roles with both hands and immersed themselves into their characters with great effect. Matt Hunt’s Nathan Detroit has a wonderful level of lovable incompetence and bluster – I couldn’t help thinking of Oliver Hardy. He is matched perfectly by Bexs Perry who gives Adelaide a beautifully touching vulnerability, but with a steely determination. Their love for each other is unmistakable. Sasha Barnes is a feisty Sarah Brown with a fabulous voice and her resistance/submission to the charms of Sky are completely believable. As Masterson, Dan Barnes is outstanding – cool, calm, collected and in control until he falls for Sarah. His singing voice is wonderful and he exudes a likeable confidence.

Paul Wescott has huge fun as Nicely-Nicely and his rendition of the iconic ‘Sit Down, You’re Rockin’ the Boat’ doesn’t disappoint and will surely have everybody clapping along. Rick Jones adds a splendidly antagonistic (and frustrated) Lieutenant Brannigan and there is a delightfully performance from Di Mannion as Arvide, whose plays s one of the older missionaries.

Throughout, the Hotbox Girls, Mission Band and the Crap Shooters give great energy to every minute of the show and serve the score and lyrics of Frank Loesser really well.

There is a good sized band, and they bang out the wonderful score with great enthusiasum under the excellent direction of Peter Bushby. With an ensemble of that size you need a good sound engineer who knows exactly how to balance vocals and instruments – it’s brilliant work.

As mentioned, Guys and Dolls is not straightforward or easy to stage, very far from it, but Director Richard McNally-Reilly and Producer Lewis Wescott have pulled it off in this happy, lively and splendidly performed production by a wonderfully talented team. It is a hugely uplifting tonic which is something we could all do with at this time

Cloc MTC – The Addams Family

The Addams Family Musical – Cloc MTC

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

Monday 28th October 2024 – Dress Rehearsal

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Studio 55 Photography

I was very kindly invited to the dress rehearsal of Cloc MTC’s  latest production of “The Addams Family Musical” at Sutton Coldfield Town Hall. 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.

John Biddell who plays  Gomez the Father, is wonderful with his phoney Spanish accent and desperately trying keep Morticia in love with him and keeping Wednesday happy. Katie Lewis who plays Morticia gives a polished and charismatic performance.  Her voice is sultry and beautiful and with some alluring dancing nails the character.

Eloise Tanley who plays Wednesday with a demonic zest, swapping between her brothers tormentor and torturer and the love struck youngster with ease her voice is powerful and harmonious.

As for the rest of the cast Ravin Thakrar  playing the wacky Uncle Fester, for me stole the show and gives a glorious performance even when he breaks into his ballad “The Moon and Me”.  Charlene Payton who plays Grandma is hilarious delivering a crazy witch like character with some of the best one liners and is quite unrecognisable. Pugsley the son is played by Abi Crosby giving a energetic performance trying to send his sisters romance off the rails. Finally Lurch played by Rob Whitehouse 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. I feel Dan Benton as Mal was maybe the weakest cast member this being his first role on stage in 10 years.  Sam Rogers as Alice the repressed wife was superb her vocals were beautiful and strong. Finally Lucas the son and Wednesday’s love played by Alex Tuckwell 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 Teresa Biddell choreographer has done an amazing job. Also a massive well done to the costume, make-up and set depts for a superb job!

Summing up I have to say this is among one of the best performances I have seen from an amateur group. Slick, professional, fantastic dance routines and perfect singing an all round winner, congratulations to Laura White house producer, and her team.

The Addams Family Musical runs at the Sutton Coldfield Town Hall from Wednesday 30th October to Saturday 2nd November, performances start at 7.30pm, with a matinee at 2.30pm on Saturday 2nd November. Ticket prices start from £18 and can be purchased at the Box Office, ring 0121 296 9543 or book online at: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/sutton-coldfield/sutton-coldfield-town-hall/the-addams-family/e-azekqp

 

Bonnie & Clyde – Sutton Arts Theatre ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Bonnie & Clyde – Sutton Arts Theatre

Sutton Arts Theatre

Thursday 20th June 2024 – Opening Night

By Nigel Gambles

Disclaimer: Gifted tickets in exchange for an honest review.

Before I begin, I have to say that unbelievably this was my first visit to Sutton Arts Theatre and it will not be my last. What a wonderful venue. It may not be as large as others but it has a wonderful friendly feeling.

Also this is my first time seeing Bonnie and Clyde so I was wondering how they would transpose this story to the stage.

The tale of Bonnie and Clyde is one that is fast paced, spanning a few short years, before they faced their end. The incredible songbook by Don Black and Frank Wildhorn truly made the show nothing short of spectacular

This is a dramatic retelling of the infamous story of star-crossed lovers turned ruthless outlaws on the run. While Bonnie dreams of magazine covers and stardom, Clyde fantasizes about a life of crime and driving getaway cars. When the unlikely pair fall madly in love, they embark on a journey of becoming front-page news as gun-toting criminals, as they flee the long arm of the law. Along with Clyde’s slightly more reluctant brother Buck and his god-fearing wife Blanche, the Barrow gang become some of America’s most notorious thieves and murderers, increasingly sought after by the Sheriff’s department and hurtling towards a sticky end. As the cops draw in, both Bonnie and Clyde are content with reaching their bitter end and how they lived their lives together.

The production leans into its heavily stylised 1920’s setting, both physically and audibly. The music is a real strong point, with gorgeous speak-easy style melodies combined with tongue-in-cheek lyrics about love and crime. Bonnie’s stand out ballad “Dyin’ Ain’t So Bad” in the second act, the softness and warmth of the song makes you almost want to root for this criminal duo. Clyde’s “Raise Some Hell” is incredibly powerful and shows you just how far he is willing to go to be remembered. Each song seemed to sweep you away into the roaring 20’s and the applause from the audience seemed to cement that fact and earn plenty of commendation from the audience. The set design is interesting to say the least, its really quite bare with minimal props, but the use of screens and projection helps to fill out the stage. This all helped by the very atmospheric lighting by Going Dark Theatrical Services

The stand out performances inevitably come from the brilliantly cast leads, Sophie McCoy as Bonnie and Tom Cooper as Clyde. Sophie makes the role her own. Every bit of sass, confidence, and sultriness as she needs put into this femme fatale. Tom is a powerhouse, producing a gritty yet loveable rogue. Neither of them put a foot wrong vocally, and their voices are stunning, both as a duo and individually. They have undeniable chemistry, drawing us in from their first meeting to their last breaths.

Janine Henderson is suitably frustrated as the increasingly desperate Blanche, while Dan McCloskey gives both a powerful and skulking interpretation of loyal brother ‘Buck’ Barrow.

Olly Foster and Paul Atkins lead a fabulous ensemble with some jaw-dropping vocals as the Deputy and Preacher respectively.

Bonnie & Clyde is a show that raises hell and leaves you remembering the story of this iconic killer duo. It puts what we have learnt in stories and books onto a stage to a killer soundtrack that everyone will be singing for days after

Emily Armstrong as the director of this show should be extremely proud as this is certainly a production that could be put on in the West End. Nick Allen, the musical director ensures that the orchestra give their all to wonderful effect

For Tickets click the link 👉 https://suttonartstheatre.savoysystems.co.uk/SuttonArtsTheatre.dll/

Kinky Boots – Sutton Coldfield Musical Theatre Company ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Kinky Boots – Sutton Coldfield Musical Theatre Company

Lichfield Garrick Theatre

Monday 20th May 2024 – Dress Rehearsal

By Nigel Gambles

Photography – Studio 55 Photography

Ever since Sutton Coldfield Musical Theatre Company (SCMTC) announced they were taking on the production of ‘Kinky Boots’, I have really been looking forward to it (I’ve never seen it before). Following their superb ‘Shrek’ last year, I was sure that the audience were in for something special with this feel-good story from the pen of Tim Firth – and I was definitely not disappointed.

The story tells the tale of Charlie Price who is thrust into the running and ownership of his family’s shoe business – Price and Co following the unexpected death of his father. Unbeknown to him, the company is not doing well and a chance meeting with a drag queen Lola puts the seed of an idea in Charlie’s mind about how he may revive the company’s fortunes and save the jobs of the workers.

Patrick Jervis and Daniel Surj are outstanding in the roles of Charlie Price and Lola aka Simon and they both sing the roles with heart, honesty, and warmth. The nuances that they bring to the roles is not to be underestimated, this takes significant acting skill. Charlie battles his own demons and Patrick captures this sensitively with his acting and singing performances. It is very easy to overdo the role of Lola down to the cross-dressing element – and to play it for laughs. Daniel brings the sassy, comedic warmth to the character while maintaining the sense of torment and resentment Simon carries with him from the rejection he got from his father as a younger man. Charlotte Jervis also gave a brilliant performance of Lauren, and really embodied her character and her performance of ‘Wrong Guys’ was fantastic and had the audience in stitches as the loved-up worker chased after Charlie.

Kerrie Penrice as director in her first production for SCMTC draws on her experience directing for the youth company to bring the story to the audience and the show stopping dance numbers choreographed by Maggie Jackson are superb. Land of Lola and the finale of act one are as accomplished as any professional production that I have seen.

The set, costumes and props are all appropriate and would not look out of place in a touring production.The lighting by Going DarkTheatrical Services is glitzy and glamourous as it should be when appropriate.

There is not a weak link in this performance from the two boys who played the younger incarnations of Charlie (Ewan Tall) and Simon (Joe Thomas) alongside Mr Price Sr (John Johnson) and Simon’s Dad (Mark Wright) through all the magnificent angels including all the factory workers. Particular praise goes to Paul Lumsden who performed the unenviable role of roughty toughty straight man, Don, and Sarah Jordan in her role as the equally unlikeable Nicola.

The night ended with the entire cast wearing the iconic kinky boots and strutting their stuff

The performance would not be complete without the superb orchestra who were outstanding and brilliant, Musical Director Sheila Pearson and Musical Director/Conductor Andy Timmins.

Anything Goes – Manor Musical Theatre Company ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Anything Goes – Manor Musical Theatre Company
Sutton Coldfield Town Hall
Tuesday 7th May 2024 – Dress Rehearsal
By Nigel Gambles
Photography – Studio 55 Photography

Manor Musical Theatre Company have done themselves proud. Anything Goes, this year’s production of choice is a superb showcase of rich talent and enduring passion. Overseen by the Directors, Pam & James Garrington,  the production is confident, powerful and brimming with enthusiasm and joy.

It is also packed with transporting, clever Porter classics: I Get a Kick Out of You; You’re the Top; It’s De-Lovely.

Set on an ocean liner the SS American, bound from New York to London, Anything Goes follows the madcap antics of those on board. Central is Billy Crocker, a charming young stowaway who has fallen in love with wealthy heiress Hope Harcourt (played by Sasha Barnes), who is already engaged to an English aristocrat Lord Evelyn Oakleigh (played by Matt Cotter). Crocker is played expertly by Dan Barnes, while Leigh-Ann James effortlessly embodies Reno Sweeney, a nightclub singer who assists Billy in his bid to win Hope’s heart.

Paul Wescott as public enemy number 13 – Moonface Martin showing his  comic side gives an easygoing, shoulder-rolling, soft-shoe-shuffling performance as low-league criminal Moonface Martin that reminds you what a pro he is. His duet with Leigh- Ann James on the song Friendship is a playful delight

Sasha Barnes provides an outstanding rendition of Harcourt. Her acting style is sensitive, congenial and expressive, providing her scenes with sophistication and warmth. Dan Barnes’s rendition of Crocker is rich with boyish charm and a strong sense of fun.

Sarah Watts is a sultry Erma , who is having a ball playing the ships sailors  off against one another for her hand in marriage, while also warning them that she is not easily pleased. Sarah is  amusing, endearing and unsettling in her command of young men’s hearts.

Also strong is Paul Stewart, playing the Ship’s Captain, his performance is very assured. Mary Singh, who plays the Ship’s Purser, offering a comedic and charismatic performance.

But the best songs and the biggest moments belong to Leigh-Ann James as Reno and she knocks them out the park

While the acting quality is compelling across the whole cast, this is a musical, and the musical facet of this production is exquisite thanks to musical director Peter Bushby. The orchestra lays on melodious accompaniment throughout, which makes the actors’ and actresses’ performances shine all the more. Sound and lighting move in tandem with the onrushing of the plot, guiding the production from each set-piece scene to the next. The setting of an ocean liner is great in its design, owing to the diligent work of stage manager Lewis Wescott and the back stage team

Perhaps most striking in this production is the use of dance, choreographed skillfully by Isabelle Larkin. The professionalism and passion each cast member demonstrates is truly stirring, with evident care made to ensure a smooth run. Each radiant scene glides into the next, moving with water’s easy tread and supple fluidity. The dancing scenes are elegant, and subtle yet profound – they are in their execution quite simply excellent.

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