'9 to 5 - The Musical' review

The New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham

9 TO 5 - THE MUSICAL (The Ambassador Theatre Group Ltd)

Jackie Clune, Amy Lennox & Natalie Casey

If you’re looking for an uplifting show that’s different to the usual fare available at this festive time then you couldn’t do any better than going to see “9 to 5” the amazing, new musical, direct from Broadway. Based on the seventies movie, it highlights the daily struggles three, very different, women have trying to succeed in a ‘man’s world’, while working for a sexist, egotistical, lying, hypocritical bigot. Fortunes change when the ladies are pushed to their limits and events take an unexpected turn with life-changing consequences.

Bonnie Langford as Roz Keith

In addition to the popular title track, we are treated to a whole bunch of new songs, written especially for the show by the legendary singer songwriter, Dolly Parton, as well as several ‘virtual’ appearances from the southern belle throughout the performance. A superb cast bring this story to life with great characters, incredible vocals and slick dance routines. Jackie Clune, Amy Lennox and Natalie Casey deliver magnificent performances as the downtrodden, but ultimately triumphant, trio of Violet, Doralee and Judy, with stunning voices, brilliant storytelling and hilarious comedic moments, while the impressive Ben Richards is perfectly detestable as their nemesis, Franklyn J. Hart. The nation’s favourite, Bonnie Langford, gives a jaw-dropping, awesome performance as Hart’s smitten assistant, Roz Keith, leaving the audience howling with laughter in her number ‘Heart To Hart’. The talented members of the ensemble are fantastically energised and keep the musical flowing from scene to scene with their choreographic interjections.

Ben Richards as Franklyn J Hart

Jeff Calhoun has to be commended on doing such a wonderful job as director and choreographer, as this magical production truly inspires and motivates and is pure escapism at its very best. 9 to 5 The Musical will have you grinning from ear to ear and wishing it would never end. I sincerely hope that it will get the West End transfer that it surely deserves.

Go and see it now at the New Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham now before the tour ends on 5^th January 2013.

'Cinderella' review

Malvern Festival Theatre

CINDERELLA (UK Productions)

Jamie Rickers, Emma Nowell & Ruth Madoc

UK Productions triumphantly return to Malvern Theatres, this festive season, with the magical, rags to riches tale of Cinderella. They have breathed refreshing, new life into their show this year with the accomplished director, Scott Ritchie, whose choreographic background shines through in the telling of this fairytale.

A seasoned panto professional, Ritchie, slickly directs a lovely cast to present a great story, with traditional pantomimic elements, interspersed with song and dance spectaculars. Clearly inspired, Alastair Bull’s choreography is his best yet, with highlights including the Keystone Cops inspired woodland hunt and ‘Voguing’ in the palace ballroom. The professional dancers, many of whom are graduates of Cecilia Hall Dance Centre, excel themselves and revel in the opportunities afforded them, as do the current Cecilia Hall girls. Rob Thorne Jnr. brings his musical expertise to the mix to wow us with great vocal harmonies and instrumental accompaniment.

The legendary, iconic and truly wonderful Ruth Madoc opens the show as a mere ‘Fairy-on-top-of-the-Christmas-tree’ but soon finds herself promoted to the more matriarchal character of the Fairy Godmother that we expect. Hi-Di-Hi fans are in for a treat too! The brilliant Jamie Rickers gets the award for “The Best Entrance On Stage Ever In The History Of Pantomime”. His performance, as Buttons, is as hilarious as his physical comedy is impressive. Emma Nowell is absolutely adorable and perfect as the down trodden, yet ever hopeful and kind, Cinderella. Don Crann portrays an understated and gentle Baron Hardup, while Bobbie Kent’s vertically challenged, aging, ugly sister provides a perfect contrast to Anthony West’s more youthful and imposing sibling, whose fabulousness is reflected in his fantastic frocks. An unexpected delight is to be found in the roles of Prince Charming and his valet Dandini, superbly played by Owen Thompson and Bobby Windebank respectively, as they croon, tap dance and even energetically ‘Gangnam Style’ it through the show. This double act breathe a much needed and very welcome, new life and energy into these two characters, completing the ensemble.

Your Christmastime won’t be complete without this theatrical treat for all the family. Cinderella runs until Sunday 6^th January. Check with Malvern Theatres for times of performances. Wishing you all a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year!

'The Ladykillers' review

Malvern Festival Theatre

THE LADYKILLERS (Fiery Angel Productions)

Paul Bown

As Malvern Festival Theatre’s autumn showcase of fantastic productions comes to a close, it seemed a tall order to match last week’s sell-out performance of The Mousetrap and yet they did better than match it, they smashed it, saving the best until last! The Ladykillers is magnificent, hilarious, stunning, wonderful… simply awesome!!!!

Clive Mantle

A strikingly, awe-inspiring set, the genius of Michael Taylor, full of surprises right to the final curtain, provides the perfect environment for the shenanigans of an ill-fated collection of crooks as they concoct a scheme to undertake a grand robbery. Disguised as musicians, they end up unavoidably embroiled in the life of their delightful landlady with unexpected, deadly consequences.

Shaun Williamson

The gifted Graham Linehan must be congratulated on taking this Ealing comedy classic and scripting such a superb stage show. An incredible cast of great theatrical talent perfectly bring director, Sean Foley’s creative vision to life. His staging and impressive physical comedy is beautifully executed with shocking hilarity.

Michele Dotrice

The actors ooze with talent from every pore and all equally revel in their respective roles, with Michele Dotrice as the doddery, old landlady, Mrs Wilberforce, Paul Bown’s Professor Marcus, the brains of the bunch, Clive Mantle as curious Major Courtney, William Troughton’s pill-popping Harry Robinson, Chris McCalphy as the not-so-clever, One-Round and Shaun Williamson’s moody ganster, Louise Harvey. Marcus Taylor and Beverley Walding present a couple of delightful cameos ably supported by aspiring actors from the local community who made up a giggling, gaggle of geriatrics.

The Ladykillers is gob-smackingly brilliant and one you must absolutely go and see!

'The Mousetrap' review

Malvern Theatre Review

THE MOUSETRAP (Sir Stephen Waley-Cohen & Adam Spiegel)

Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap Tour

After a record-breaking run in the West End, The Mousetrap is celebrating its monumental 60 years on stage by undertaking it’s first ever tour of the UK. Penned by the mistress of murder mystery, Agatha Christie, the show is playing to packed theatres all over the country. An opening night sell out is a phenomenon usually reserved for Andrew Lloyd Webber shows and Blood Brothers but the full house at Malvern Festival Theatre is a reflection of the popularity and intrigue of this timeless classic.

Ian Watt-Smith perfectly directs a brilliant cast of eight characters who, due to extreme winter weather, find themselves cut off in the isolated Monkswell Manor, while reports of the murder of a woman in London circulate the country. The hunt for her killer leads to the country house and the discovery that the killing spree may not be over, but whodunit?

Bruno Langley and Jemma Walker charmingly play the inheritors of the manor, who naively decide to open it as a guesthouse. Steven France is superb as their first arrival, in the guise of Christopher Wren, whose childish enthusiasm quickly irritates most in his company, particularly the pernickety Mrs Boyle, superbly characterised by Jan Waters. Graham Seed is wonderfully aloof as Major Metcalf and Clare Wilkie is excellent as the strikingly self-assured Miss Casewell. Karl Howman and Thomas Howes revel in their respective roles of Mr Paravicini and Detective Sergeant Trotter, the unexpected guests that make up the fated eight.

A beautifully functional set, delightful period costume, atmospheric lighting and sound complete the sparkle on this diamond anniversary production. What makes this different to the other Agatha Christie plays is the quality of script, story and characters. The first act moves the story along at a pace, leaving a trail of clues that tempt us to unravel the mystery of each individual as we play detective to uncover the deadly scheme and unmask the murderer before all is revealed on stage.

'Driving Miss Daisy' reveiw

Malvern Festival Theatre

DRIVING MISS DAISY (Julian Stoneman Associates Limited)

Gwen Taylor as Miss Daisy

The 2012 award winning production of Driving Miss Daisy comes direct from Broadway and the West End to Malvern Festival Theatre this week, absolutely justifying its critical acclaim and rave reviews.

This incredibly heart-warming play affectionately explores the relationship that develops between an elderly, Jewish widow and an aging, black chauffeur, who was hired by her son, despite her objections, after she wrote off her new car, taking out a couple of buildings in the course of the unfortunate event. The story, set in the Southern American state of Georgia, unfolds over two decades from 1948 to 1973, during the height of the Civil Rights Movement.

Despite what many believe, this moving tale was originally written by Alfred Uhry for the stage, premiering off Broadway, before being made into an Oscar winning film, starring Jessica Tandy and Morgan Freeman. Since then it has enjoyed much theatrical success with numerous stars adopting the lead roles, soon to include Angela Landsbury and James Earl Jones in a production in Australia next year.

Don Warrington as Hoke

The immensely talented Gwen Taylor is outstanding in the eponymous role of Miss Daisy, perfectly articulating her Southern drawl and physically transforming, with absolute believability, as the character ages from her early seventies to mid nineties. Don Warrington, another national treasure, is utterly authentic as the driver, Hoke, creating a perfect partnership with whom to share the journey. Ian Porter brilliantly brings the final piece of this ensemble together in the guise of Boolie, Miss Daisy’s frustrated son. The rapport on stage, between these three actors, is a joy to experience.

David Esbjornson, who directed the play’s West End and Broadway debut, uses a simple set and cleverly enhances this production by integrating lovely underscoring with emotive lighting and projections to create a positively enchanting atmosphere for the telling of a tenderly moving tale.

This is possibly the best production to have played at Malvern this year and is definitely worth seeing. Without an interval, it is one and a half hours of uninterrupted indulgence. Driving Miss Daisy runs until Saturday.

'Haunting Julia' review

Malvern Festival Theatre

HAUNTING JULIA (Hall & Childs Ltd)

McFadden, Preston & O'Callaghan

It’s a joy to go to the theatre and see a lesser performed Alan Ayckbourn play, rather than the more popular, slightly outdated, revivals usually on offer and this week, Haunting Julia, is a real gem. Although it isn’t as frightening as The Woman In Black, it certainly has enough scares to qualify it as a thrilling ghost story.

Andrew Hall eloquently directs a superb cast of three who effortlessly deliver Ayckbourn’s dialogue heavy script with immense focus, while maintaining an impressive level of tension throughout proceedings. Duncan Preston, most famous for his work with Victoria Wood, is simply excellent in the role of Joe Lukin, the grieving father of his daughter, Julia, a musical genius who tragically died twelve years ago, at the age of nineteen. Soon after turning the site of her demise into a museum dedicated to her life, Joe begins to become aware of some unusual happenings, that he shares with his daughter’s ex-lover, Andy, perfectly played by the devilishly handsome, Joe McFadden, who’s delectable Scottish accent becomes the perpetual voice of reason. The arrival of a well-wishing psychic, quirkily characterised by Richard O’Callaghan, soon brings about a series of confessions and unnerving events that uncover the reason behind Julia’s death.

This is a wonderfully written and brilliantly performed piece of theatre that utilises the ghostly theme extremely well, while providing the perfect mix of comedy and drama. Trick or treat? Haunting Julie is a spookily perfect Halloween treat and runs until Saturday at Malvern Festival Theatre! Go and see it!

'The Handyman' review

Malvern Festival Theatre

THE HANDYMAN (Guildford's Yvonne Arnaud Theatre)

Timothy West as Romka

Acclaimed writer, Ronald Harwood, explores the unlikely but emotive subject of war crimes and genocide in his play The Handyman, which is enjoying a revival at Malvern Festival Theatre this week. No stranger to this delicate subject, Harwood, who won an Oscar for his screenplay, The Pianist, presents an excellent platform for morale debate with this story of an elderly, Ukranian-born, handyman living very simply among the affluence of the Home Counties, who is unexpectedly accused of horrendous war crimes. The handyman, Romka, pleads his innocence, with the support of his surrogate family who employ him and a female lawyer with a tenuous Jewish connection. As the evidence against him mounts, the protests of his actual innocence come in to question.

Timothy West stars as the accused handyman, Roman Kozachenko, giving the quality of performance you would expect from such a theatrical great. Caroline Langrishe and Adrian Lukis are perfectly detestable as the affluent, Mr and Mrs Field, who laughingly compare their middle class troubles to the atrocities of the holocaust, while often begrudging the inconvenience being caused them. Carolyn Backhouse wonderfully intimidates the Fields as the striking lawyer, Marian Stone, but is gently supportive of the accused during the interrogation by the stereotypical detectives, convincingly played by James Simmons and Anthony Houghton. The infamous Steven Berkoff evens makes an appearance, albeit on screen, as does the brilliant Vanessa Redgrave, who gives a stunning performance.

Joe Harmston’s direction was simply effective and contained some beautifully choreographed scene changes on Sean Cavanagh’s quite beautiful set. Despite the subject matter this play contained a fair amount of humour that helped lighten what could have been a very depressing tale. Although this may not be everyone’s idea of a fun night out, it is definitely thought provoking and worth seeing.

'Rough Justice' review

Malvern Festival Theatre

ROUGH JUSTICE (Tom Kinninmont Production)

Tom Conti with Elizabeth Payne as prosecuting counsel

A gripping moral dilemma is presented in Terence Frisby’s brilliantly written, courtroom drama, Rough Justice. Tom Conti stars in the role of the accused, James Highwood, a public figure who has admitted to killing his infant son. He has decided to defend himself on a plea of manslaughter instead of murder and as the story evolves we, the jury, are encouraged to challenge the law and British legal system. The premise of this play is an excellent one but it is flawed in the fact that the audience, who are integrated into proceedings, are privy to information imparted outside of the courtroom, meaning that the ‘jury’ are not making a judgement on the facts presented to them but the actual facts of the case, which are ultimately conflicting. Therefore the post-show ‘chat’ is irrelevant and actually unnecessary. This however, doesn’t spoil the enjoyment of the production.

Conti is suitably arrogant as the TV journalist, accused of the heinous crime, and gives an epic performance, although there is no need for him to play for laughs, as he does on occasion, when the script so cleverly does that, relieving high tension with vital humour. Royce Mills is suitably pompous as the judge but his performance is unfortunately marred but his dependence on whatever is on top of his desk that prevents him from addressing anyone for any length of time, a technique that considerably diminished the climatic ending. Carol Starks gives an honest and endearing performance as the accused’s wife and David Michaels is brilliant as their, slightly awkward, legal representative, while Simon Murray, Mary Lincoln and Shaun Morton give perfect cameos as expert witnesses. The greatest accolade, however, must go to Elizabeth Payne for her stunning portrayal of the prosecuting counsel. This is an incredibly wordy play and she never errs once in her delivery, keeping the pressure on, as her role demands, throughout the entire play, giving a truly magnificent performance.

The subject matter of this production is fascinating and interestingly challenges the current legal system and the ethical and moral view on mercy killing and euthanasia. Rough Justice is an enthralling and engaging drama that is well worth seeing.

'Great Expectations' Review

Malvern Festival Theatre

GREAT EXPECTATIONS (Beckman Unicorn)

Paula Wilcox as Miss Havershim

There are so many wonderful reasons to go and see the latest reincarnation of Charles Dickens’ masterpiece, Great Expectations at Malvern Festival Theatre this week, the first being that this is a rare opportunity to see it prior to it opening in the West End later this year.

You would be forgiven for thinking that the king of gothic fantasy, Tim Burton, had had a hand in this extravagant production, but it is actually the brainchild of Graham McLaren, who also directed the proceedings. The faded grandeur of Robin Peoples’ breathtaking set superbly compliments the absolutely magnificent costumes created by Annie Gosney and Giovanni Bedin. Add to this, atmospheric lighting and sound, courtesy of Kai Fischer and Matt McKenzie, with Simon Slater’s haunting underscoring, and a magical, Dickensian circus of horrors is presented for your delectation by an excellent cast of players.

The fifteen actors that tell this tragic tale of heartbreak and loss literally slip in and out of the set, using every nook and cranny as a platform from which to expound. McLaren perfectly moves the story from desolate marshes to London town, without every leaving the crumbling walls of the poor Miss Havisham’s palatial prison. The dramatic physical and vocal portrayal of the characters is captivating and particularly well executed by Isabelle Joss and James Vaughan as the hideously appealing Mrs Joe and Wopsle, who set the bar extremely high, very early on in proceedings, with their energised performance, an energy unquestionably matched by Jack Ellis as the lawyer, Jaggers, and Nathan Guy as the eccentric Herbert Pocket. Paula Wilcox cleverly underplays Miss Havisham, giving a refreshingly naturalist characterisation, as does Taylor Jay-Davies as the protagonist, Pip. This is a real ensemble piece and the entire cast and creative team must be congratulated on this exquisite production.

"Radio Times - The Musical" Review

Malvern Festival Theatre

RADIO TIMES - THE MUSICAL (The Watermill Theatre Ltd)

Vivien Carter as 'Radio Girlfriend', Amy Chapman

At last, local audiences can enjoy the delights of a Watermill Theatre musical on their doorstep, with their first ever visit to Malvern Festival Theatre, and what a delight their first offering is. Radio Times, the musical, is a toe tapping, frolic through the live broadcast of a radio variety show during the London blitz, which will have you grinning like a Cheshire Cat from beginning to end. The show is a tribute to the works of Noel Gay, a musical genius best known for the stage hit ‘Me And My Girl’, and includes a multitude of classic songs from the roaring twenties and thirties.

The prestigious Watermill Theatre, home of the incredible, all-male Shakespeare troupe, Propeller Theatre Company, is famous for their stunning actor/musician musicals, an idea conceived by the immensely talented John Doyle, once artistic director of Worcester’s Swan Theatre, where the actors not only sing and dance but play a multitude of musical instruments to accompany the numbers, while performing. Radio Times was revived at the Watermill Theatre last August and has since been rewritten, revised and re-jigged to create, in my opinion, a much better show than the original 1992 production.

The cast simply ooze with talent. The lovely Gary Wilmot headlines as ‘cheeky chappy’ Sammy Shaw, creator of the BBC’s Variety Bandwagon, whose antics leave his long suffering girlfriend Olive, sweetly played by Sara Crowe, with an uncertain future until the return from America of an ‘old flame’, Gary Strong, portrayed by Michael Hobbs, now a successful movie star, who is keen to reignite past passions. Suddenly aware of what he might lose, Sammy enlists the help of his comedic sidekick and lifelong friend, Wilfred, perfectly played by Ben Fox, who does his best to keep everybody happy including the BBC and Home Office. Jared Ashe, Rob Copeland, Ed Currie, and Paul Herbert are brilliant as the band and Sophie Byrne, Amelia Cormack, Sally Peerless and Sarah Scowen provide wonderful vocals as the fabulous Grosvenors, while Christian Edwards is adorable as the awkwardly funny, sound effects maestro, Jeeps. Undoubtedly the stars of this show are the amazingly talented, and stunningly beautiful Vivien Carter, as the delectable ‘Radio Girlfriend’, Amy Chapman and the equally talented and hilarious John Conroy as BBC producer, Heathcliffe Bultitude.

This is the hidden gem of musicals, with mass appeal, that will have you beaming from ear to ear. For a guaranteed, great night out, go and see Radio Times. It runs at Malvern until Saturday.

'Relatively Speaking' review

Malvern Festival Theatre

RELATIVELY SPEAKING (Theatre Royal Bath Productions)

It’s over four years since Alan Ayckbourn’s hilarious comedy, ‘Relatively Speaking’, had its last airing at Malvern Festival Theatre and the new tour is playing to packed houses again. This tale of mistaken identities and miscommunication continues to delight the audience, evident by the raucous laughter throughout the evening.

Set in the late 60’s, when it was originally written, the play opens in a small London basement flat as young lovers Greg and Ginny prepare for their day. Mysterious phone calls, copious amounts of flowers and hidden chocolates create a great deal of interest for Greg who decides to follow his girlfriend on her day trip, out of the city, to visit family. The action moves to a beautiful house in the country where we meet Philip and Sheila, a retired married couple who harbour suspicions about each other’s lives. Before long Greg arrives, later followed by Ginny, and stories unravel causing linguistic mayhem and utter confusion on all parties prior to, during and after Sunday lunch.

The ‘cheeky’, Max Bennett confidently plays Greg, titillating onlookers, in the first scene, as he bears all! The articulation of his accent made delivery of the wordy dialogue difficult to understand at times but not to the detriment of his overall performance. The stunning, Kara Tointon, more known for her television work, definitely showed her metal as a brilliant stage performer, in the role of Ginny, and one of whom I hope we see much more. Her strong vocal and physical performance were a delight to watch and she commanded the stage with ease, even when in the presence of seasoned professionals, Felicity Kendal and Jonathan Coy, who were simply brilliant in their respective roles of Sheila and Philip.

Lindsey Posner perfectly directs this crowd-pleasing play, with impressively substantial sets designed by Peter McKintosh, produced by the fantastic Theatre Royal Bath Productions, but be quick if you want to see it because tickets are selling like hot cakes! Relatively Speaking runs until Saturday.

'Little Shop Of Horrors' review

Malvern Forum Theatre

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS (Malvern Theatres Young Company)

Horrific delights await audiences at Malvern Theatres this week courtesy of their Young Company's production of Little Shop Of Horrors. A joyously talented cast present Alan Menken's awesome musical, the first of hopefully many that we will get to enjoy over the coming years.

Director, Andy Reiss, showcases a wealth of young talent who tell the story of a man eating plant that mysteriously appears in Downtown Skid Row, following a sudden and unexpected, total eclipse of the sun, that results in a murderous, bloody rampage on local residents.

Douglas V. Watts is brilliant as the underdog, Seymour, who's wonderful vocals are effortlessly matched by the delightful Abbie Steele playing the downtrodden Audrey, the unknown recipient of Seymour's affections. Both suffer the cantankerous, flowershop owner, Mr Mushnik, a challenging role that Jacob Kippng attacks with gusto. Matthew Heels is suitably obnoxious as Audrey's sadistic boyfriend, Orin the dentist, and is the first to fall foul of the ferocious plant, Audrey II, to whom Liam Brown gives a superb soulful voice. Bryony-Rose Ward, Jo Edwards and Charlotte Heels give a slick, confident performance and handle the difficult harmonies with ease in their respective roles of the perky trio - Crystal, Ronette and Chiffon. A great ensemble also features some lovely comedic cameos and show off Katie Leeming's effective choreography. Hats off too to Musical Director, David Lane, for accomplishing such a pleasing sound from the cast in such a short time and to his band for bringing to life the fantastic score.

Everyone involved with this show must be congratulated on producing a thoroughly enjoyable night out. Support this inspiring company of young performers by seeing Little Shop of Horrors before it finishes on Sunday.

'Volcano' review

Malvern Festival Theatre

VOLCANO (Bill Kenwright Productions)

Believed to be based on the Bond writer, Ian Flemming’s martial transgressions, Volcano is one of Noel Coward’s lesser know plays, mostly due to the scandalous content, which censors of the time would have struggled with approving for public consumption. Nowadays, however, the issue of infidelity and broken relationships is all too frequently plastered over glossy magazine covers in a desperate attempt to increase readership and satisfy the need of some to revel in other’s trials and tribulations.

Set on the fictional Pacific island of Samolo, Simon Scullion’s set design beautifully replicates the Colonial home of Adela Shelley, subtly portrayed by the iconic Jenny Seagrove. This idyll is often frequented by playboy, ‘Guido’ Littleton, suavely played by Jason Durr, whose desperate attempts to sleep with Adela are thwarted by her at every turn. Emotions run high with the imminent arrival of Guido’s long-suffering wife, Melissa, played by Dawn Steele, who perfectly explores the vulnerability of this poor lady that exists with the tour-de-force façade. Focused on the affair of which she suspects her husband to be embroiled, she fails to notice the blossoming romance developing with Perdita Avery’s beautiful Ellen Danbury, who’s vocal performance is a wonderful homage to Coward and superbly matched by her awkward husband, Keith, played by Tim Daish. The arising conflicts are mimicked in nature with volcanic disturbance and despite the optimistic attempts of kindly neighbours, Grizelda and Robin, adoringly characterised by Finty Williams and Robin Sebastian, things come to a head as the volcano erupts.

This is a gentle play that doesn’t really get going until the second act. Roy Marsden’s direction is a joy to watch as he cleverly changes the audience’s visual perspective through simple, yet effective staging (and up-staging) and creates lovely tableaux throughout the story. Mike Robertson’s lighting and, the appropriately named, Matthew Bugg’s sound evoked the ideal ambience and backdrop. This play has some classic, cutting Coward quips and gives insight into another side of this iconic writer. Volcano runs until Saturday.

'School For Scandal' review

Malvern Festival Theatre

SCHOOL FOR SCANDAL (Royal Theatre Bath Productions)

Choosing to sit in a darkened room for a couple of hours on one of the few, truly beautiful, summer’s evenings this year is quite an ask for even the most loyal theatre goer. However, the considerable audience gathered on the Malvern Theatres terrace, in the glorious Winter Gardens, for pre-show drinks before enjoying the delectations on offer, was a clear accolade of the guaranteed quality of a Theatre Royal Bath production. Those sacrificing the sunshine were, yet again, rewarded with a wonderful evening of exquisite entertainment.

An all-star cast, including Maggie Steed and Ian McNeice, presents Sheriden’s classic, School For Scandal, an 18^th century farcical exploration of the scandalous debauchery among the elitists of the time. Although the start of the play is incredibly wordy and overloaded with information on a multitude of individuals, some of whom we meet and many whom we don’t, it is eloquently delivered by Stuart Ellis and Serena Evans in the respective roles of Snake and Lady Sneerwell. The verbal confusion continues with additional tales from fellow gossipmongers, including the flamboyantly outrageous Crabtree and Sir Benjamin Backbite, perfectly portrayed by David Killick and Grant Gillespie. Edward Bennett is outstanding as Joseph Surface, delivering a magnificent vocal and physical performance throughout, beautifully matched by Susannah Fielding’s tour-de-force, Lady Teazle. It was a pleasure to see Nigel Harman again, after his award winning performance as Lord Farquaad in the West End’s Shrek – The Musical and John Conroy must be commended on his attention to detail with period movement in his role as Rowley. This is a real ensemble piece and the double casting utilises this talented cast to it’s fullest.

Despite some dubious ‘up’ staging decisions made by director Jamie Lloyd, which seems to be a tragically current directing fashion, he must be congratulated on some superb creative genius with the comical ‘screen’ scene and most magnificent ‘portrait auction’. Literally breathtaking! Soutra Gilmour’s set was suitably adaptable and proved a stark backdrop for the colourful characters adorning it. Everyone involved with this production must be congratulated.

This play is undoubtedly the forerunner to “Real Housewives” and “The Only Way Is Essex” proving that little has changed in the last three hundred years. School For Scandal runs until Saturday.

'The Lady In The Van' review

Malvern Festival Theatre

THE LADY IN THE VAN (Hull Truck Theatre & Richard Jordan Productions)

Teaming up the immense writing talents of Alan Bennett with the epic theatrical skills of Hull Truck Theatre, two of Britain’s biggest creative contributors to the arts for the last half a century, was a stroke of pure genius. This autobiographical tale introduces us to an eccentric character that, literally, pulls up in Alan Bennett’s life one day to become an unavoidable part of his existence for the next fifteen years. This mysterious lady has a deeply profound effect on him and his psyche, both of whom recount these events for us, in their typical Bennett fashion.

Casting Nichola McAuliffe in the eponymous role of the lady in the van was a second stroke of genius. Her performance is exceptional! She gives a masterclass in character acting that puts her up there with two other untouchable theatrical performances, one by Dame Maggie Smith in Bed Amoung The Lentils and the other by Jane Lapotaire in Henry Eighth. Sean McKenzie and Paul Kemp brilliantly match McAuliffe’s performance as the two Alan Bennetts and delightfully capture his nuances and affectations with reassuring truth and believability. The remainder of the cast are perfect in their roles as they drop in and out of this fascinating story and undeniably help make this the superb show it is.

Sarah Esdaile has truly shown her metal here as a wonderfully encouraging director to achieve such incredible performances and help generate a future stage classic. Ben Stones set is utterly enchanting and the final “ascension” is the third stroke of genius. Inspired!

The Lady In The Van is theatre gold or, more appropriately, crushed mimosa… possibly! This is one definitely to see. If you liked The History Boys, you’ll love this! It runs at Malvern Festival Theatre until Saturday. Go and see it!

'Ladies In Lavender' Review

Malvern Festival Theatre

LADIES IN LAVENDER (Daniel Schumann and Lee Dean with Charles Diamond and Royal & Derngate Productions)

An all-new stage production of the charming film, Ladies in Lavender, is enchanting audiences at Malvern Festival Theatre this week. Sisters, Ursula and Janet, find the regularity of their Cornish idyll is interrupted when a mysterious, young foreigner is washed up on the beach one morning in 1937. This serendipitous event reignites dying embers of love for more than one of the village’s residents, changing their lives forever.

The legendary Hayley Mills and Belinda Lang are brilliant in their respective roles of the sisters, Ursula and Janet. They give equally exquisite and believable performances that make it impossible not to fall for their delightful characters. Robert Rees is perfect as Andrea, the Polish stranger, demonstrating excellent vocal dexterity with the accent and foreign language. Robert Duncan gives a wonderfully awkward performance as Dr Mead, whose puppy-dog love advances are deftly parried by the artist, Olga, stoically played by Abigail Thaw. Carol Macready positively revels in the superb role afforded her as the housekeeper, Dorcas. Ever present and quick to comment, she has the audience in the palm of her hand throughout.

Superbly directed by Robin Lefevre using a stunning set, cleverly designed by Liz Ascroft, the audience are transported to from the craggy coast to the quaint cottage in the blink of an eye with the help of Mick Hughes’ beautifully lighting, as John Leonard’s sound design evokes the peace and tranquillity of Cornwall. This is a gentle, endearing story of unrequited and lost love that provides the perfect escape for an early summer’s evening this week.

'Educating Rita' Review

Malvern Festival Theatre

EDUCATING RITA (Theatre Royal Bath & Chocolate Factory Productions)

Theatre Royal Bath and Chocolate Factory Productions bring the modern classic, Educating Rita to Malvern Theatres this week. This charming, inspirational play was brought to the mainstream in the early eighties with Michael Cane and Julie Walters starring in the movie version of this two-hander. Penned by the creative genius behind the record breaking musical Blood Brothers and the endearing Shirley Valentine, this semi-biographical play explores the divide between social class and education.

Matthew Kelly revels in the role of disillusioned lecturer, Frank, who has developed an unhealthy relationship with whiskey to help himself cope with his failed career and doomed relationships. His path to self-destruction, however, is momentarily interrupted by the arrival of the brash and witty Rita, a frustrated hairdresser with a passion for learning and desire to better herself, played by the lovely Claire Sweeney.

Tamara Harvey’s direction challenges conventional stagecraft creating, a real sense of voyeurism, leaving the audience feeling as if they are witnessing moments of a private relationship rather than watching a play. Stepping into roles made famous by two British screen icons will be difficult for any actor and although Kelly and Sweeney are secure and handle the text with ease and dexterity, there is an overall lack of variety in their performances. The emotions tend to be of a similar level, throughout the story, when many more emotional highs and lows were needed. It is apparent that these actors are lovely people but this is to their detriment, as there is a general lack of tension between them, sexual or otherwise. Casting Sweeney in a role for which she was a good decade too old doesn’t help.

Having said this, Willy Russell’s script is an absolute delight, full of humour and pathos and definitely worth experiencing. The story is truly inspirational with some brilliant one-liners.

'Barefoot In The Park' Review

MALVERN FESTIVAL THEATRE

BAREFOOT IN THE PARK (Guildford's Yvonne Arnaud Theatre)

Maureen Lipman directs and stars in Neil Simon’s brilliant, romantic comedy, Barefoot In The Park, at Malvern Festival Theatre this week. This superbly written play observes the devastating impact on relationships when romanticism crashes into reality for newlyweds, Corrie and Paul, as they move into their first, New York, apartment together.

Faye Castelow is a true star in every sense of the word. She owns the stage throughout the entire performance with her incredible vocal and physical expression as the dramatically, romantic Corrie Bratter. Her focus and energy is amazing! Lipman delivers a masterclass performance as Corrie’s mother, Mrs Banks. Her comedic physicality is hilarious while remaining subtle enough to be entirely believable. Oliver Cotton, is thoroughly enjoyable as the enigmatic Victor Velasco, who lives in the roof and Dominic Tighe is perfect as lawyer, Paul, who’s ‘stuffed shirt’ persona is tested to its limits as the story unfolds. There is a brilliant cameo performance from David Partridge as the cheery, telephone repair man and possibly the funniest, non-verbal, cameo appearance ever from Hayward Morse, as the delivery man. Pure comedy gold.

Actor/directors have a conflict of interests and it is questionable as to whether someone who stars in a show can effectively direct it as well. There is no doubt as to Lipman’s skill as a director, which was evident in the bucket loads, but there was a definite difference in the style of direction when she was in the scene, although Peter Cregeen did an excellent job as co-director. The quality of the production was clearly enhanced Olivier Award winning, Tim Goodchild provides an absolutely magnificent set that is a real feast for the eyes.

This small cast articulates the story, both physically and verbally, with slick precision and apparent ease. The entire performance is theatrical perfection and clearly rehearsed down to the finest detail. The company must be congratulated on such a stunning production!

'Murder On The Nile' Review

Malvern Festival Theatre


MURDER ON THE NILE (The Agathe Christie Theatre Company)

The Agatha Christie Theatre Company returns to Malvern Festival Theatre this week with the exotic classic, Murder On The Nile. Simon Scullion's set design is stunning and Mike Robertson's lighting, along with Matthew Bugg's sound, evoke a real sense of a late Egyption summer afloat the Nile.

A diverse collection of characters embark on a journey of love, money and class conflict that inevitably leads to murder, intrigue and the reassuring final confession. Unlike the film, staring Peter Ustinov as Poirot, the play doesn't contain the infamous Belgium detective. Canon Pennefather, faultlessly played by the superb Denis Lill, adopts the role of crime solver on this paddle steamer.

One by one the passengers board with Kate O'Mara adding light relief to proceedings as the self-centered, Miss ffoliot-ffoulkes (who will be delighted to see the correct lack of capitals in her surname!). She is accompanied by her Scottish neice, Christina Grant, played by the delightful Jennifer Bryden, who is pestered by the seemingly 'classless' William Smith, notably performed by the very talented Max Hutchinson. Susie Amy is brilliant as the glamorous and wealthy, Kay Mostyn, honeymooning with her new husband Simon, played by a company regular, Ben Nealon. The arrival of his spurned lover, Jacqueline, passionately portrayed by Chloe Newsome, causes tensions on deck that have deadly repercussions! The remaining cast of characters are perfectly played by Mark Wynter, Vanessa Morley, Sydney Smith and Hambi Pappas.

Despite his undeniable, high-profile directing credits, Joe Harmston's stage direction is poor in places, with basic stagecraft being ignored, for apparently no good reason. The cast of experienced actors compensate for this through their performance and the result is a thoroughly enjoyable evening of mystery and mayhem. Murder On The Nile runs until Saturday.

'Some Like It Hotter' Review

Lower Broadheath & Alfrick/Lulsley Village Hall


SOME LIKE IT HOTTER (The Watermill & Oxfordshire Theatre Company)

Lower Broadheath and Alfrick/Lulsley Village Halls played host to some curiously ethereal goings-on last week. They were visited by some ghostly, Hollywood greats starring in The Watermill's professional touring production of the musical comedy 'Some Like It Hotter' performed by the Oxfordshire Theatre Company.

Written by Richard Hurford and inspired by the movie classic, Some Like It Hot, the story centers on the untimely departure of Charlie, who gets to play out his dream of 'Red Hot' Charlie in the movie classic, Some Like It Hot, with his screen idols, as is the right of every recently deceased, before entering Heaven. However, there seems to be more to this visit than is initially anticipated.

An immensely talented cast of four actor musician's delighted the audience with superb impersonations of these Hollywood hotshots, witty dialogue and fantastic musical numbers. T J Holmes as Jack Lemmon, Paul Matania as Tony Curtis and Sarah Applewood as the delectable Marilyn Monroe, gave the most stunning performances, delivering the voices and mannerisms of their respective characters perfectly. Patrick Bridgman gave an equally wonderful performance as he took us on his emotional journey of self-discovery. All were not only gifted actors but also accomplished musicians and vocalists.

This was part of Shindig's programme to get live arts to rural areas and into local communities. As a regular visitor to The Watermill Theatre in Berkshire, it was a real treat to get to see a show of this incredible standard on the doorstep. To find out more about Shindig and forthcoming events visit http://www.shindig.org.uk.

'Blood Brothers' Review

Malvern Festival Theatre

BLOOD BROTHERS (Bill Kenwright Productions)

A standing ovation and four curtain calls was testament to the quality of the latest touring production of Blood Brothers. Now in its phenomenal 22^nd year of playing to packed houses, it returns to Malvern Festival Theatre to delight audiences for the next two weeks. A new cast and some fresh, new staging makes this arguably the best production of Blood Brothers to visit Malvern Theatres in many years.

Maureen Nolan tells Mrs Johnstone’s tragic story with beautiful vocals along side the equally gifted Craig Price as the ever-watchful Narrator. The moments these two share through song are spellbinding. Sean Jones is outstanding as the loveable Mickey as he journeys from being ‘nearly 8’ to the broken man he inevitably becomes. Matthew Collyer is charming and adorable as the slightly awkward Eddie and Kelly-Anne Gower is perfect as the devoted, fun loving Linda. Daniel Taylor is frighteningly believable as, the less than appealing, Sammy and Tracy Spencer presents possibly the best interpretation of Mrs Lyons to date as she takes what can often be an insipid character and gives her real depth, showing her mental anguish as she transforms from the dutiful housewife to a crazed woman. The remainder of the cast are brilliant in the many roles afforded them, in particular Graham Martin and Jonathan Vickers.

Special mention must be made of the incredible band, led by Musical Director, Kelvin Towse. The sound they produced was stunning and gave immense gravitas to Willy Russell’s inspired score. Whether this will be a returning visit or your first experience of the show, this show is definitely worth seeing. A brilliant, emotive, inspiring, live theatrical event!

'Swallows and Amazons' Review

Malvern Festival Theatre


SWALLOWS AND AMAZONS (Children's Touring Partnership)

Let your imagination run wild this week at Malvern Festival Theatres with the incredible new production of the children’s classic Swallows and Amazons. From the same production company as Goodnight Mister Tom and directed by Tom Morris, who co-directed the smash hit War Horse, this show has brilliance stamped all over it and it certainly delivers in the bucket load!

Arthur Ransome’s original story has been magically adapted for stage by Helen Edmundson for an immensely talented cast of thirteen actor musicians to creatively tell the tale of a group of children and their fantastical adventure on Wildcat Island one summer, as they join forces with marauding pirates to defeat the treacherous Captain Flint and recover his lost treasure.

The joy in this production is endless. It is visually spectacular and a delicious feast for the senses. The wonderfully inventive use of props and cast perfectly capture a lost sense of childhood that is injected into the audience who switch from spectator to participant as the play progresses. Every single cast member is brilliant, without exception, and demonstrates the most superb talent, not only as actors, but accomplished musicians and vocalists who enhance the storytelling with Neil Hammon’s delightful music and lyrics.

This is definitely a production that you have to experience and it will spark the imagination of young and old. Swallows and Amazons runs until Saturday.

'On Golden Pond' Review

Malvern Festival Theatre

ON GOLDEN POND (Middle Ground Theatre Company)

Middle Ground Theatre Company present another mighty fine production, this time with a revival of Ernest Thompson’s emotive On Golden Pond. This 1978 off-Broadway play was turned into the immensely popular, Oscar winning film in 1981, starring Henry and Jane Fonda and the delectable, Katharine Hepburn.

The lone, mournful wail of the Loon calling to its mate, on Golden Pond, evokes a true sense of the enduring love shared between the play’s main characters, Ethel and Norman Thayer, a couple in their twilight years spending another summer at their lakeside retreat. This particular summer of 1978, while preparing for Norman’s 80^th birthday, brings the unexpected arrival of their prodigal daughter who leaves them with a gift that will change the course of their lives forever.

Michael Lunney, not only directs an endearing production, but also provides a stunning set, which, when twinned with the atmospheric sound and lighting, creates a wonderfully enchanting idyll. Stefanie Powers, fresh out of the celebrity jungle, does a superb impression of Katherine Hepburn’s Ethel, who is plagued by creatures of the forest as well as her infuriatingly pessimistic husband, brilliantly played by Richard Johnson. The love, affection and tenderness these two characters share is remarkably believable and what makes this production so watchable. Elizabeth Carling, as their daughter, Chelsea, has incredible stage presence and is part of a great supporting cast made up of Victoria May, Kasper Michaels, Graeme Dalling and Tom Roberts.

This is a delightful tale that will whisk you away to a gentler pace of life and tug on your heartstrings. Go and see it!