Interview | ALEX BEAUMONT from DREAMBOATS AND MINISKIRTS

Dreamboats & Miniskirts is the sequel to the popular Dreamboats & Petticoats comes to Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from Tue 23 - Sat 27 June. Alex Beaumont who plays Bobby spoke about the show and the part he plays in it. 

This is your second run with Bill Kenwright’s production – what is it about this musical and your role that made you decide to continue into 2015?

The music, the 60s music, it’s incredible to get to sing it eight times a week, I really love 60s music. The character of Bobby, well, I do identify with him, I have a little soft spot for him, which makes me want to play him. We’re similar because we’re typical boys, we don’t really think about things, like girls feelings – an ignorant boy (laughs).

The cast must know each other so well now – is it like one big family?

Yeah, it really is. It’s also amazing to have the live band on stage with you as well because you feel like you have that support. Everyone gets on great, everywhere we go we all go for meals together or stay in digs together, so yeah, it really is like one big family.

You have a new Norman – how is Alastair settling in?

Brilliant, absolutely amazing, he’s such a pleasure to work with. We got on really well on and off stage, so it’s really nice. He has taken over from Ross (William Wild) and he probably was a bit nervous, but I experience the same thing when we started Miniskirts last year because there was only me and Ross who were new to the franchise, everyone else had been in Petticoats at some point. I did kind of feel it would be hard to slot in, but actually, it was really easy because they’re such a nice bunch of people.

For those that haven’t seen the show, tell us a bit about it and your character.

The show focuses on Bobby and Laura, they’ve just had massive success with Dreamboats and Petticoats, and in Miniskirts, you see how their relationship, professionally and romantically, is going to work and whether it will work. You also have recurring characters Norman and Sue, who are getting on nicely, they’re married. And then there’s Donna and Ray. Ray is now working in a salon in Bond Street and Donna’s working in her boutique and they’re going through every day relationship struggles too. They’re a little bit older, everyone’s matured apart from Bobby!

It’s a show set in the 1960s – do you find the audiences are of that generation or is it appealing to a younger audience?

A bit of both actually. Generally, the audiences we get are people who were the age of the characters in the show in the 60s, and the people we get to meet after the show, most of them will tell us it took them back to their youth and it was really nice to reminisce. But then also, that generation are then taking their children and their children’s children to come and see it as well. We’ve had young children in the audience, who, some of them, know all the words, which is brilliant. So it just goes to show that even if you weren’t around in that era, you can still appreciate it.

Has your music and fashion taste changed because of the show?

I’ve always loved 60s music, although it was more jazz and soul, Ben E. King, Ray Charles, Sam Cooke, all those great singers. And then in the show you’ve got Roy Orbison, Smokey Robinson and other amazing singers that you don’t really get these days. And their songs have stood the test of time and that’s why I like this kind of music. As for the fashion, I do like the Chelsea boots that I get to wear every night, and to have a nice sharp suit to wear is always really nice to wear.

You said you have grown as the show has gone on – how have you changed from your very first performance last August to now?

I’ve definitely relaxed into the role and what has really helped is finding those similarities between you as a person, and character, it makes it a lot easier to relate to. And it’s taught me not to be so hard on myself. Because it’s such a massive role in the dhow, no one’s superhuman, you learn how to conserve your energy but still make sure you give enough for every show. And those are skills that will hopefully carry on in the rest of my career.

At Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from Tue 23 - Sat 27 June. CLICK HERE to book tickets. 

The cast of OKLAHOMA prepare for Comic Relief at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre!

As the critically-acclaimed national tour of OKLAHOMA! arrived at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, members of the cast took time out from their busy schedule and put their toe-tapping skills to the test to take part in a special warm-up ahead of the first ever Comic Relief Danceathon this Sunday 8th March.

Nic Greenshields who plays Jud Fry in the show said: “We simply couldn't resist getting involved to show our support for this year’s Red Nose Day. The Comic Relief Danceathon looks really fun so we would love everyone in the area to get involved and help raise some all-important cash.”

Kara Lane & Nic Greenshields

Lucy May Barker in the role of Ado Annie said: “It’s always incredibly fun to get involved in Red Nose Day and this year will be no different. Simply pop on your dancing shoes this Sunday, grab your friends and get sponsored to dance along at home!

“By taking part you’ll be making a huge difference to the lives of people right here in the West Midlands, in the UK and across Africa.”

The charity is calling on fundraisers to get together at home, in village halls, gyms or any location and dance non-stop for six hours. Fundraisers can follow a live, star-studded Danceathon at The SSE Arena, Wembley on the BBC Red Button. Over 2,000 fundraisers will dance non-stop at the fun filled Wembley event, hosted by Claudia Winkleman and with a host of famous faces set to join in too.

The money raised by the Comic Relief Danceathon will be spent across the West Midlands, all over the UK, and across Africa, helping vulnerable and disadvantaged people living incredibly tough lives.

For more information about the Comic Relief Danceathon and to book tickets or get involved where you are head to www.rednoseday.com/danceathon. For other ways to get involved this Red Nose Day or to really look the part, fundraisers can pick up the official Red Nose Day t-shirt from TK Maxx, and of course Red Noses from Sainsbury’s. Fundraising kits, giving pages and all the latest Red Nose Day stories are available from www.rednoseday.com

OKLAHOMA! is on at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre until Saturday 7th March, tickets here and on tour around the UK until 8th August. 

Preview | OKLAHOMA (UK Tour) First look at the cast!

First pictures have been released of the upcoming OKLAHOMA tour, featuring Gary Wilmot as Ali Hakim, Belinda Lang as Aunt Eller, Ashley Day (The Book Of Mormon) as Curly and Charlotte Wakefield (The Sound Of Music) as Laurey. 

Touring the UK after premiering in Northampton, the production visits Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from Tuesday 3 - Saturday 7 March. Click here for tickets. 

Ashley Day & Charlotte Wakefield

The cast also includes Nic Greenshields as Jud Fry, Lucy May Barker as Ado Annie, James O’Connell as Will Parker, Paul Grunert as Andrew Carnes, Kara Lane as Gertie Cummings, Christopher D Hunt as Cord Elam and Barnaby Thompson as Ike Skidmore.

The ensemble features Simon Anthony, Christina Bennington, Robbie Boyle, Katie Marie-Carter, Lisa Dent, Emilie du Leslay, Ian Gareth-Jones, Hannah Grace, Ross Lee Fowkes, Perry O’Dea, Sasi Strallen and Gabriella Stylianou.

Belinda Lang

Hear our friends at The Milk Bar podcast talk to Gary Wilmot about his upcoming role:

The tour is directed by Rachel Kavanaugh - former Artistic Director of the Birmingham REP. She directed An Ideal Husband at the Chichester Festival Theatre last autumn. Other credits include The Sound of Music at the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre, Love Story in Chichester and the West End, and The Merry Wives of Windsor for the Royal Shakespeare Company. 

Ashley Day

Dance numbers are given the Drew McOnie treatment, the highly acclaimed young choreographer's credits include In the Heights for Southwark Playhouse, The Sound of Music and Chicago for Leicester Curve, Soho Cinders at the Soho Theatre, and Dames at Sea and On the 20th Century at the Union Theatre. He recently launched his own theatre dance company, The McOnie Company.

Gary Wilmot

OKLAHOMA!, with music by Richard Rodgers and book and lyrics by Oscar Hammerstein II, was based on the Lynn Riggs play Green Grow the Lilacs and was the first musical written by the duo. It was originally produced on Broadway in 1943 and the Academy Award-winning film was released in 1955. Set in the Oklahoma territory in the early 1900s, the musical tells the story of two sets of star-crossed lovers. Cowboy Curly loves Laurey, Aunt Eller’s niece, but Curly’s rival is the mysterious and dangerous hired hand Jud Fry. Meanwhile, Ado Annie is torn between cowboy Will and peddler Ali Hakim. Their stories are told with the help of some of the best loved songs in musical theatre history, including Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’, I’m Just a Girl Who Cain’t Say No, Surrey With a Fringe on Top, Kansas City, People Will Say We’re in Love and the title song.

Photos by Pamela Raith. Click here for tickets.

SEE THE CAST IN REHEARSAL

Ashley Day

Lucy May Baker and Gary Wilmot

Sasi Strallen, Drew McOnie and cast.

Director Rachel Kavanaugh and Choreographer Drew McOnie

Charlotte Wakefield and Ashley Day

Preview | TOP HAT (UK Tour) Interview with Alan Burkitt & Charlotte Gooch

Both fresh from the London production of Top Hat, Alan Burkitt and Charlotte Gooch talk about reprising their roles in Kenneth Wax's glittering stage production of the 1935 film which visits Wolverhampton at the Grand Theatre for two weeks from Tue 21 October - Sat 1 November.

For those Channel 4 viewers who saw The Sound Of Musicals earlier this year, you may remember Alan Burkitt as the ensemble member stepping in as the understudy for Jerry Travers on what should have been Gavin Lee’s press night. We asked Alan about his experience: 

I loved that night, everyone was asking me “are you terrified?” and to think about it, I probably should have been - it was a huge night in the West End but I always think with these sort of things that you get one chance, and I was going to take it! It was a lovely evening, the director went out before the show and apologised, saying that unfortunately due to illness Gavin Lee wasn’t going to perform in the show that night. The audience gave me a great big cheer and I thought “they’re with me!” so I went out there confident and had a great show and I got some lovely reviews the morning after.

Charlotte, like Alan, you’ve played your role in the West End production of Top Hat. How does it feel to be back with the show for the tour?

It’s great! I absolutely love the show, I love the role - it’s Ginger Rogers! Stepping into those shoes is a dream come true. When they asked me to come back I didn’t even have to think twice, to get into those costumes again and to do all of Bill Deamer’s amazing choreography, it was a no-brainer. To do the show with Alan too is great, we rehearsed so much together during our time in the London production but never got to perform. I was Dale when Tom Chambers was Jerry but I’d always rehearsed with Alan just in case, so when I heard he was Jerry for the tour I simply had to come back and finally get my chance to fall in love with him every day!

Alan, how challenging is the role of Jerry Travers for you, it seems rather demanding?

It’s very demanding! I’m hardly off stage for the whole of the first act. I don’t go off for at least 25 minutes, it’s pure song and dance and then straight into an acting scene! In the suits we get very warm, you’re sweating constantly and I’m eating like a Trojan at the minute to keep me going! Anything I like, cream cakes galore!

Charlotte, you’ve previously played Penny in Dirty Dancing, a show which happens to be at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre this September and now you’re playing Dale in Top Hat – did you have to learn particular styles of dance for these very different shows, or were they styles that you had experience with and could adapt?

They are very different, but it’s all within my inner dancer! When I came in to Top Hat I thought I’d get a little bit of a break after Dirty Dancing. Penny is all about high kicks and back bends but as it turns out, Dale does a few of those too! I love it though, dancing is my first love beyond everything… and the dresses! There’s a lot more to these costumes than the Dirty Dancing ones - I was strutting around in skimpy leotards but now I’m wearing these gorgeous dresses with feathers and miles of material! Getting into those dresses every day I feel like a princess! I’m the luckiest girl in the world to have been in both of those shows and the Grand Theatre is just as lucky to have them both within five weeks of each other.

Alan, do you a feel a pressure to live up to the movie, with Fred Astaire?

Not really, it’s such a nice thing that we’re bringing the 1935 movie version to the stage – it’s hard to believe that it hadn’t been done before now, but we’re not trying to be Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire. People say to me, “that’s such a ‘Fred’ thing about you”, which of course is flattering and a great compliment – he’s my absolute idol, but I’m not trying to be him, this is mine – Alan’s version of Jerry Travers and if it’s looked upon with such admiration then that’s great, I’m doing my job!

How do you feel about stepping into Ginger Rogers' iconic role Charlotte?

I took over from Summer Strallen in the West End which was pretty nerve-racking anyway. She was the only person who’d ever played it before on stage. To replace her, I had to try and make the role my own. The biggest shoes to step into were Ginger Rogers’ but both me and Alan always say that we’re not Fred and Ginger and we’re not playing Fred and Ginger – we’re doing characters that were played by them and they’re absolute icons but we just try to do them justice. For anyone who’s a fan of the old Hollywood movie musical, you can’t go wrong with this. A benefit of seeing it in the theatre is experiencing it live, you’ll see the Top Hat you love, but as you’ve never seen it before. With a film you cut and edit and jump from scene to scene but on stage it’s all real and just flows so nicely. I think what’s been created here is really great and the all the Olivier Awards it’s won, including Best Musical speaks for itself.

In your own words, Alan, why should people come to see Top Hat?

It is the most enchanting evening you will have at the theatre. The musical is full of beautiful costumes, stunning choreography and is absolutely hilarious! Get a ticket, it’s perfection!

And Charlotte?

It’s a legacy, if you’re a fan of the old Hollywood movie you’ll love it! But even if you’re not or you’ve never seen it, it’s a fantastic all-singing, all-dancing piece of theatre with beautiful music, beautiful costumes, stunning choreography all wrapped up in the exquisite 1930’s style. It’s perfectly romantic, come along and lose yourself in this magical Hollywood world. It’s a funny story, you’ll laugh, you’ll cry and you’re probably going to leave tap dancing!

See Top Hat at Wolverhampton at the Grand Theatre for two weeks from Tue 21 October - Sat 1 November. Book tickets here. 

Preview | THE CURIOUS INCIDENT OF THE DOG IN THE NIGHT-TIME (UK Tour)

As well as recently re-opening in the West End, the acclaimed National Theatre production of The Curious Incident Of The Dog In The Night-Time embarks on a UK tour throughout 2015. Winner of 7 Olivier Awards including ‘Best New Play’, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time brings Mark Haddon’s best-selling novel to thrilling life on stage, adapted by two-time Olivier Award-winning playwright Simon Stephens and directed by Olivier and Tony Award-winning director Marianne Elliott.

Christopher, fifteen years old, stands beside Mrs Shears’ dead dog. It has been speared with a garden fork, it is seven minutes after midnight and Christopher is under suspicion. He records each fact in the book he is writing to solve the mystery of who murdered Wellington. He has an extraordinary brain, exceptional at maths while ill-equipped to interpret everyday life. He has never ventured alone beyond the end of his road, he detests being touched and he distrusts strangers. But his detective work, forbidden by his father, takes him on a frightening journey that upturns his world.

The UK tour begins in December 2014 before visiting 31 venues including Wolverhampton Grand Theatre from 16 - 21 February 2015. Book tickets for Wolverhampton here.

Listen to some of the music from the production:

TO SIR, WITH LOVE (UK Tour) Review October 2013

Based on the autobiographical novel of the same name and 1967 film, Ayub Khan-Din has adapted a long awaited stage version. Reportedly 101 years old, author E.R Brathwaite's story is as ever relevant today. Although the race divide is thankfully less of an issue, classroom antics are not so far removed from today's.

It's 1948 and ex-Spitfire pilot Ricky Brathwaite, disadvantaged by his skin colour, has difficulty finding a job in post-war England. He signs as a teacher in an inner-city East End school where the headmaster Mr Florian has his own, unorthodox methods of running it. With pupils writing reports on the teachers and no punishment allowed Brathwaite has all the odds against him to turn his class of rebellious teenagers from viciousness and filth into sophisticated, educated young adults. 

Matthew Kelly is a delight as headmaster Florian. It's unfortunate that his character is in such a rush throughout the play and is often speeding through his speech between entrance and exit. If only every headmaster oozed such warmth - he is definitely deserving of more stage-time. Ansu Kabia remains poised throughout despite constant racial abuse. Brathwaite's progression is clearly charted in Kabia's incredibly admirable portrayal. Paul Kemp is a humorous addition as Weston. 

Stand-out pupils include Harriet Ballard as Monica, whose scene-stealing character awards her all of the laughs. Mykola Allen as Denham and Kerron Darby as Seales prove themselves as very strong additions. There is a high-energy, focussed young ensemble who assist in swift scenery repositioning and choreographed 'playground' interludes each of whom provide additional dialogue with conviction. 

Ansu Kabia and Mykola Allen

Action happens on a stunning set by Mike Britton, made in-house at the Royal & Derngate, Northampton where the play premiered. A bombed-out school that works convincingly as a variety of settings with simple lighting changes and the flying in and out of a blackboard. 

You can feel confident in saying - tonight Matthew, I'm going to be... thoroughly entertained by a top quality cast delivering a fast-paced and witty script. A sterling drama and heart-warming story of progression. 

This is a strong opening production from the Touring Consortium Theatre Company's programme of five plays over the next two and a half years. To Sir, With Love is at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre until Saturday 26 October 2013. Book here. 

Listen to part one and two of my interview with Matthew Kelly and Ansu Kabia:

Cast List: Mykola Allen, Harriet Ballard, Peta Cornish, Kerron Darby, Ansu Kabia, Matthew Kelly, Paul Kemp, Heather Nicol, Nicola Reynolds. Lauren Nightingale, Lorien Tear, Lauren Austin, Lorna Johnson, Callum Osbourne, Alastair Winning, Luke Bennett, Daniel Langford, Hugh Osborne, Amy Marchant, Linden Walcott-Burton, Daniel Cech-Lucas

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Interview with Matthew Kelly & Ansu Kabia

FIDDLER ON THE ROOF (UK Tour) Review October 2013

Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood received critical acclaim for his direction of Chess, a production that toured the UK throughout 2010/11 and made use of a cast of actor-musicians. This year, Fiddler On The Roof has been given a similar Horwood treatment. 

Actor-musicians, as the name suggests are not only actors but the band as well. The cast work incredibly hard at multi-tasking vocals and choreography to present a unique and contemporary production that would offer all the charm of the original - almost fifty years on. 

Leading the incredible cast is Paul Michael Glaser as Tevye. Glaser, who played Perchik in the 1971 film version is almost unrecognisable here from his Starsky & Hutch days. He opens the show introducing us to tradition, which throughout he learns to adapt. The story centres around dairyman Tevye - the papa. The father of five daughters, we see his attempts to maintain his family and religious traditions whilst outside influences encroach upon their lives. He must cope with both the strong willed actions of his three older daughters and each one's choice of husband moves further away from the customs of his faith and with the edict of the Tsar that evicts the Jews from their villages.

Paul Michael Glaser, Emily O'Keeffe, Liz Singleton and Claire Petzal

Although Tzeitel's relationship is the dominant story, each of the three elder daughters have plenty of time to showcase incredible talent. Karen Mann as Tevye's wife Golde provides both humour with occasional asides to the Almighty and tender moments in Do You Love Me? which exudes a genuine affinity. Susannah Van Den Berg's short spell as the butcher's wife from beyond the grave, Fruma-Sarah is one of the show's highlights - a commanding stage presence and a joy throughout. 

Susannah Van Den Berg as Fruma Sarah

Craig Revel Horwood's simplistic choreography has the perfect balance, from movement with instruments to traditional Jewish bottle dancing. Daniel Bolton, a recent graduate shows no inexperience as Fyedka - charming as the young Christian boy who falls for daughter Chava. Steven  Bor is a strong Perchik, the arrogant student and now guitar player! Jennifer Douglas is the mysterious but entirely captivating Fiddler. 

 Daniel Bolton as Fyedka (centre)

Act 1 is a lengthy 1 hour 40 minutes but time goes by in an instant. What I like about Fiddler On The Roof is that every new situation is dealt with immediately by Tevye and that helps keep a fast pace, there's a sense of urgency in these people's lives.  It's very real, easily relatable and the themes of love and loss are of equal relevance today than they would have been during its 1964 Broadway premiere.

Fiddler On The Roof is a blessing on your head Mazel Tov, Mazel Tov, to see a daughter wed, Mazel Tov, Mazel Tov... yes you'll be singing the songs long after! Tradition, Matchmaker, If I Were A Rich Man are all audience pleasers. The entire show is sung, danced and played live on stage by one of the most charismatic casts you'll see. You can book tickets to Fiddler On The Roof by visiting the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre website here. You can also listen to my interview with Paul Michael Glaser below!

Watch the show's trailer here:

Cast List: Paul Michael Glaser, Daniel Bolton, Steven Bor, Jennifer Douglas, Matthew James Hinchcliffe, Lilly Howard, Paul Kissaun, Liz Kitchen, Karen Mann, Tarek Merchant, Eamonn O'Dwyer, Emily O'Keeffe, Michael Paver, Claire Petzal, Neil Salvage, Liz Singleton, Jeff Smyth, Jon Trenchard, Susannah Van Den Berg, Ashley Pollitt, Javier Santos

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Interview with Paul Michael Glaser

DREAMBOATS AND PETTICOATS (UK Tour) Review September 2013

It's the swinging 60's and at the local youth club there are teenagers aplenty entering song writing competitions and falling in love... and that's about it for your storyline. Nobody comes to these jukebox musicals for a gritty story though because what they are always excellent at is showcasing the finest actor musicianship.

Character names are typical of sixties songs so Bobby (Stephen Rolley) and his girl Laura (Hannah Boyce) take the entire show to flirt, fall out, find other love interests before coming together at the end. You can predict the few twists and turns that the plot takes against the two leads and even most of the songs were being sung by members of the audience before the band began to play! 

(Previous Cast Photography)

Stephen Rolley is a strong lead as Bobby who provides great renditions of Let's Dance, Dream Lover and Runaround Sue (yes, there's also a character called Sue...) Hannah Boyce as Laura is the 'Ugly Betty' of the show - at first a geeky, shy "school-swat" who has a talent for writing music. As Sandy does in Grease she transforms into a more desirable young woman by the end, but keeps her morals! Boyce herself it seems is just as talented as her character with an impressive performance of Dream Baby Dream in particular. 

Each cast member is equally impressive with incredible musical talent but those in roles with the chance to shine include Matthew Colthart as Norman. Colthart is commanding, smooth and in fine voice throughout and manages to energise the audience with hits such as The Wanderer and Let's Twist Again. Louise Olley is a great addition to the cast as Sue and despite what they say about Sue's dancing  it's all eyes on Olley in this case. 60's singer Mark Wynter is Phil/Older Bobby and delights fans with his own encore at the end. 

The set, made mostly of backdrops featuring 60's album covers is sometimes distracting from the action. I found myself looking to see which I recognised and then remembered to watch the show again - there is no attempt at a realistic setting. Also, the boys playing ping pong in the corner takes away from the action many times! The fairground bumper cars are a fun addition. 

Jokes and references are clearly aimed at the show's target audience and those of a reminiscent age who do make up a very large percentage of the overall turnout. These musicals wouldn't be much without an incredibly versatile and talented cast that carry it through nearly three hours. It's a pleasant show, simple and easy to watch. Worth going entirely for the talent the young cast ooze. Book to see the show at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre until Saturday 21st September here. 

Cast List: Stephen Rolley, Matthew Colthart, Hannah Boyce, Louise Olley, Will Finlason, Laura Sillett, Mark Wynter, Robert Dalton, David Jay Douglas, Chloe Edwards-Wood, Mike Lloyd, Sheridan Lloyd, David Luke, Michael Park, Charlotte Peak, Josh Tye, Damien Walsh, Victoria Quigley

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WHAT TO SEE (West Midlands) 2013/2014

The 2013 season is steadily drawing to close and theatres in the West Midlands are beginning to announce spectacular shows that you can look forward to throughout the new year. Here is my round up of the three theatres you're most likely to find me at!

BIRMINGHAM NEW ALEXANDRA THEATRE

RENT IN CONCERT

Seeing 2013 out and 2014 in is the groundbreaking Ghost The Musical - based on the Oscar winning musical, the timeless fantasy about the power of love runs from Tuesday 17th December 2013 - Sunday 5th January 2014 (BOOK GHOST).  Kerry Ellis stars in the hugely popular return of Rent In Concert on Friday 14th February, a perfect Valentines treat? (BOOK RENT) The Rod Stewart musical Tonight's The Night played to sold out audiences on it's previous tour, catch it from Monday 24th February - Saturday 1st March (BOOK TONIGHT'S THE NIGHT). Vincent and Flavia bring their brand new stage show Dance Til Dawn to Birmingham from Monday 21st - Saturday 26th April (BOOK DANCE TIL DAWN). Finally, perhaps the biggest and most anticipated production this year is West Side Story (BOOK WEST SIDE STORY).

Other season highlights include Sleeping Beauty On Ice, Scrooge The Musical, Ha Ha Holmes (starring Joe Pasquale), Peppa Pig's Big Splash, The Vagina Monologues and The Dreamboys.

Full listings of what's on at the New Alexandra in 2014 can be found here. 

BIRMINGHAM HIPPODROME

WICKED

Seeing out 2013 at Birmingham Hippodrome are John Partridge and Gok Wan who star in Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs (BOOK PANTO). The West End hit Singin' In The Rain makes a splash from Tuesday 18th March - Saturday 5th April staring Faye Tozer from Steps as Lina Lamont (BOOK SINGIN IN THE RAIN). Marti Pellow continues to star as Che in Evita as the production tours to Birmingham from Tuesday 8th - Saturday 19th April (BOOK EVITA). The National Theatre's One Man Two Guvnors runs from Monday 26th - Saturday 21st May (BOOK ONE MAN TWO GUVNORS). The previously announced summer smash hit Wicked opens on Wednesday 9th July and plays until Saturday 6th September (BOOK WICKED). Finally, the Andrew Lloyd Webber phenomenon Cats will be bringing the Jellicle Ball in Birmingham from Tuesday 9th - Saturday 27th September. Tickets for Cats are on sale to friends of the Hippodrome from 10am on 7th October, group on 14th October and general, online and phone sales from 16th October (BOOK CATS).

Other season highlights include War Horse, War Horse: Only Remembered, Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake, Birmingham Royal Ballet and Welsh National Opera. 

VIEW THE NEW HIPPODROME 
SEASON TRAILER HERE

Full listings of what's on at the Hippodrome in 2014 can be found here.

WOLVERHAMPTON GRAND THEATRE

CABARET

Joe Pasquale headlines this years pantomime, Sleeping Beauty alongside Ceri Dupree and Lucy Evans from Saturday 7th December 2013 until Sunday 19th January 2014 (BOOK PANTO). Before the festivities however, West End heartthrob Oliver Thornton stars as Frank N Furter in the 40th Anniversary Production of The Rocky Horror Show from Monday 28th October - Saturday 2nd November 2013 with Dani Harmer and Ben Forster (BOOK ROCKY HORROR). Pop Idol winner Will Young returns to his award winning role of Emcee in Cabaret which also stars Siobhan Dillon from Tuesday 26th - Saturday 30th November (BOOK CABARET). The new year sees Noel Sullivan starring in Priscilla Queen Of The Desert from Monday 27th January - Saturday 1st February 2014 (BOOK PRISCILLA). The highlight of the 2014 season is Dirty Dancing which runs for three weeks from Tuesday 23rd September through to Saturday 11th October (BOOK DIRTY DANCING).

Other season highlights include The Upbeat Beatles, To Sir With Love, Brendan Cole License To Thrill, The Russian State Ballet of Siberia and Derren Brown Infamous. 

Full listings of what's on at the Grand in 2014 can be found here. 

You can book for any of the listed shows by visiting the theatres websites - click on the theatre to book: Birmingham New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham Hippodrome, Wolverhampton Grand Theatre. 

THREE PHANTOMS (UK Tour) Review September 2013

Three Phantoms is the concert creation of Earl Carpenter that brings together three previous Phantoms of the Opera. For the second leg of the 2013 tour Matthew Cammelle, Stephen John Davis and Glyn Kerslake take to the stage. Previous Phantoms have included Carpenter himself, John Owen Jones and Simon Bowman. 

The show doesn't take itself too seriously, beginning with a Glee rendition of Don't Stop Believing. A pre-show announcement joking that photography is encouraged as good exposure for the ex-Phantom's careers was immediately followed by ushers dashing around the auditorium telling patrons to put away their cameras... There were stories from each Phantom's time in the production, coupled with jokes that linked the early songs together. 

The first act was an exciting array of show tunes from hit musicals such as Chicago, The Scarlet Pimpernel, Wicked, Miss Saigon, Martin Guerre, The Book Of Mormon and an act 1 finale of Les Misérables. Highlights being One Day More and an a cappella version of I Dreamed A Dream featuring Rebecca Caine - the original Canadian Phantom cast Christine. Also included were three songs from Spamalot - perhaps the audience didn't fully get the humour in the songs out of context but they were a welcome break between some of the more classical musical theatre performances - a perfect mix. 

The second act was largely devoted to the musical of which the performers have in common - The Phantom Of The Opera. Not only the famous Lloyd Webber tunes but a selection from a few of the lesser known productions such as the simply named Phantom - hailed an American masterpiece that premiered in 1991 and received it's British premiere early this year at the Ye Olde Rose and Crown Theatre Pub, Walhamstow. Til I Hear You Sing from Love Never Dies was a highlight as was Rebecca Caine who brought the audience to rapturous applause with her rendition of Think Of Me. 

For this production the previous large orchestras are replaced by a pianist and a solo cellist. It gave for an intimate experience but in some of the larger numbers the lack of orchestra was a little underwhelming. Expertly and beautifully played however by Anthony Gabrielle and Laura Anstee. Three other performers Alistair Barron, Anette Yeo and Mandy Watsham Dunstall were an excellent addition to the cast.

Three Phantoms is stunning, a beautiful, sophisticated set up with a variety of musical styles to keep all theatre fans delighted. Humorous at times and seriously sensational throughout. With only one more chance to see in Wolverhampton on Sunday 15th September click here to book. 

Just had the five minute call before our first performance in Wolverhampton @WolvesGrand. Lovely theatre. pic.twitter.com/vKbHPl0rIw
— Three Phantoms (@Three_Phantoms) September 14, 2013

If you follow my updates from the Wyvern Theatre in Swindon you may be interested in booking to see the show there from 24th - 26th September 2013. Click here for more information and to book. 

Cast List: Matthew Cammelle, Stephen John Davis, Glyn Kerslake, Alistair Barron, Anette Yeo, Mandy Watsham Dunstall, Anthony Gabrielle and Laura Anstee

EVITA (UK Tour) Review August 2013

EVITA - the musical of Eva Perón, the Spiritual Leader of the Nation of Argentina celebrates it's 35th anniversary this year and after a Broadway revival last year is now touring it's 3rd UK tour within 5 years. 

Similarly to Blood Brothers, we begin at the end of the story with the announcement of Eva Perón's death. A flashback to her early life then progresses through her rise to become the First Lady of Argentina and to the ultimate and tragic end. 

Cynically assessing the immediate mourning of Argentina is Che Guevara - the Argentine Marxist revolutionary. Played in this production by Wet Wet Wet singer Marti Pellow. Che is a demanding sing and Pellow ploughs through the score with ease and holds a mightily impressive last note in 'And The Money Keeps Rolling In'. Mark Heenehan is an impressive Peron and Nic Gibney's impressive vocal range is evident in his few outbursts as Magaldi.  One of the productions highlights is Sarah McNicholas as Peron's Mistress and her beautiful version of 'Another Suitcase In Another Hall'. A strong ensemble play a variety of roles - showcasing their versatility. 

Marti Pellow

The show however belongs to Madalena Alberto who really does capture every moment of Perón's short life with effortless conviction. From the steamy and fast paced partying in Buenos Aires to the tender, fragile final moments upon her deathbed. Incredibly strong and stunning vocal throughout particularly her rendition of 'Don't Cry For Me Argentina' received a rather loud "wow" from the lady next to me who then apologised for her uncontrollable outburst. 

Mark Heenehan and Madalena Alberto

It's very difficult to fault this production but just one very distracting feature was the visibility of stage crew, complete with headsets moving Matthew Wright's stunning set of staircases around and clamping them into position. Surely there are slicker ways to do this, or disguise them. It reminds you that this is only a stage production, breaking the incredibly real situations the cast work so hard to create. 

Applause at the end of a production is what you come to expect, regardless of its overall quality. For quite a while Evita received nothing but a stunned silence as the lights went out. Here the silence speaks louder than any appreciative applause, the tragic but simply beautiful ending does leave you a little choked. Although, I must admit I was the first one to break the silence with a clap!

With Marti Pellow and Madalena Alberto

Evita really is a breathtaking production that you should make a point of seeing for the sheer talent and effort from the entire cast and fine orchestra.

"So what happens now?" .... You book tickets, that's what happens. EVITA runs at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre until Saturday 31st August and you can book tickets here. You can also read my interview with Marti Pellow here. 

Watch ITVCentral News coverage with Marti and Madalena here:

World famous musical, Evita, arrives in Wolverhampton http://t.co/4UJtJOJcwO via @itvnews
— ITV News Central (@ITVCentral) August 20, 2013

Cast List: Marti Pellow, Madalena Alberto, Mark Heenehan, Sarah McNicholas, Nic Gibney, Hannah Grover, Verity Burgess, David Burilin, Joseph Connor, Natalie Day, Joel Elferink, Laura Emmitt, Emily Goodenough, Antony Hewitt, Stuart Maciver, Joe Maxwell, Perry O'Dea, Lizzie Ottley, Ryan Pidgen, Anthony Ray

WEST END EXPERIENCE (Wolverhampton Grand Theatre) Rock Of Ages Workshop

This week West End Experience and Wolverhampton Grand Theatre are providing local youngsters with the opportunity to rehearse and perform like a West End professional. The week-long summer school really is the ultimate West End musical theatre experience with with top industry professionals visiting cities all over the country sharing their knowledge and expertise with aspiring performers. 

The programme is co-ordinated by Craig Whiteley who graduated from Mountview Academy with a 1st class BA Hons degree. Craig played Doc in CR7 for the BBC and made his West End debut in the 50th anniversary year of The Mousetrap playing Giles and Trotter. He then went on to play Eddie in Blood Brothers both on the national tour and in the West End. The dance is overseen by Daniela Valvano who trained at Bird College. Her recent credits include understudying the roles of Magenta, Columbia and Janet in the UK tour of The Rocky Horror Show, as well as in Singapore. Daniela was also Carmen Diaz in the Dutch national tour of Fame and Miss Carmichael in the world premiere of The Thorn Birds, a musical. 

Leading today's workshop for the youngsters was Zizi Strallen from the original London cast of Rock Of Ages. 

Zizi in the original cast of Rock Of Ages with Shayne Ward. (Photo by Bettina Strenske)

At 10am the older students sang through "Here I Go Again" - a song from the musical which they had learnt earlier with musical director Charlotte Fane. Some had solos, others provided backing vocals but the voices filled the room with rich harmonies - a powerful sound! One thing was clear, they were all very enthusiastic. After learning the routine from Zizi the students quickly put everything together towards a pretty polished performance. Reminding them that they were in an 80's rock bar, Zizi had them strumming air guitars all over the room with "rock star swagger" as the original choreographer called it. 

It was soon the younger group's turn to sing Don't Stop Believing for Zizi. As before, choreography from the show was given to them and within the hour there was another finished routine. The students had a natural ability for picking up their direction. Energy and focus came from everyone - a dedicated team working towards a concert on Sunday 11th August. 

Grace Gull from Codsall is now taking part for her fourth year: "It's absolutely amazing. The West  End Experience has been running in Wolverhampton for four years and I've been to all of them. This year has to be the biggest and best one yet. It's more challenging and even more demanding - which is great! My favourite workshop so far has been the A Chorus Line with Rebecca Giacopazzi who is dance captain for the show at the London Palladium. We learnt the routine for I Hope I Get it. As well as this week's experience I am in the theatre's Grand Circle Adult Choir which launched this year and I help at the Grand Ambition youth choir which is now in its third successful year. I'm really looking forward to the show on Sunday, I can't wait to perform the A Chorus Line section and sing some harmonies with the professional performers in the Circle Of Life!"

Another fabulous day at @WestEndEx and a lovely workshop with @ZiziStrallen :) #rockofages
— Grace Gull (@GraceGull) August 8, 2013

Too excited for Sunday, performing along side West End performers!! @WolvesGrand @WestEndEx #Stagey #WestEnd
— Daniel Langford (@DanLangford93) August 8, 2013

Grand Theatre Education Officer Louise Bent commented: “West End Summer School is now in its third year at the Grand and it gets bigger and better every year! It’s the most amazing opportunity for local young people to work with the professionals behind some of London’s biggest musicals. Everyone has a great time and talks about it for weeks afterwards - it really is the highlight of the summer for our young theatre fans!

Co-ordinator Craig Whiteley added: "This is my 3rd year of bringing the West End Summer School to Wolverhampton Grand. It is my favourite date in the diary as the kids here are so respectful. They eat, sleep and breath theatre. I previously performed at The Grand with Blood Brothers and from the hundreds of venues on tour it was - without a doubt - the best atmosphere so I just love coming back. Our aim is to feature every child in our concert alongside the stars and we treat the students like professionals which helps us achieve a fantastic final product. The course builds confidence and is a lot of fun. It shows the students how difficult and how rewarding a career in professional theatre can be. You work hard and you get results, you get rewarded!"

Students at @WolvesGrand . Some of the most hard working, disciplined young performers we've had the pleasure of working with! Thank you!
— West End Experience (@WestEndEx) August 8, 2013

You can book tickets to see the concert at the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre that culminates the hard work by the whole team. Featuring songs from The Lion King, A Chorus Line, Oliver, Rock Of Ages sung by the students and industry professionals. The concert is on Sunday 11 August at 7pm and you can book tickets here.

For more information about the fantastic scheme of West End Experience, visit their website here.

You can also find information about the theatre's Get-In! youth scheme with activities all year round, special ticket offers and exclusive opportunities here.