INTERNATIONAL DANCE FESTIVAL BIRMINGHAM

A WORLD OF DANCE IN ONE CITY

DanceXchange and Birmingham Hippodrome officially launch

International Dance Festival Birmingham 2014

This week, International Dance Festival Birmingham launched at Birmingham Hippodrome's Patrick Centre, just one of 17 venues including The Crescent Theatre, Symphony Hall, Birmingham Repertory Theatre and Birmingham Hippodrome's main stage that will host one of Europe's largest dance festivals. The award winning biennial celebration of dance, now in it;s fourth year, returns to the city from Thursday 20th April - Sunday 25th May for over four weeks of world premieres, unique collaborations, community events, outdoor spectacles and world-class performances.

IDFB 2014 highlights from Festival co-producer Birmingham Hippodrome include Swiss company Alias’ mesmerising Sideways Rain (click to book) and Vancouver’s Kidd Pivot (click to book) led by Crystal Pite (Sadler’s Wells’ newest Associate Artist), whose company perform her Shakespeare-inspired Tempest Replica. Celebrated names also include Sadler’s Wells’ hip hop spectacle Breakin Convention (click to book), and Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui whose new work m¡longa takes a modern approach to Argentine tango (click to book). Finally, Matthew Bourne’s internationally-acclaimed New Adventures and RE:Bourne bring a new production of Lord of the Flies to Birmingham Hippodrome featuring talented local young performers (click to book).

LORD OF THE FLIES, choreographed by Olivier nominated Scott Ambler, and adapted and directed by Matthew Bourne, is a rare and distinctive collaboration that will bring together professional dancers with young people from the West Midlands. The success of the production is mutually reliant on a unique partnership between some of the UK’s most exceptional dance talent alongside local people chosen from each region the show visits - some of whom may have never danced before.

The professional company includes New Adventures dancers Sam Archer as ‘Maurice’, Luke Murphy as ‘Sam’, Dominic North as ‘Ralph’, Sam Plant as ‘Piggy’, Alastair Postlethwaite as ‘Eric’, Danny Reubens as ‘Jack’ and Dan Wright as ‘Roger’. Making their New Adventures debut’s in this production will be Layton Williams as ‘Simon’ and Jack Hazelton.  The young people cast in the production will be unique to every venue. Birmingham Hippodrome’s young cast will be announced shortly.

Séquence 8

IDFB is delighted that one of the city’s leading theatres, Birmingham Repertory Theatre is hosting the Canadian circus company Les 7 Doigts de la Main’s new show Séquence 8 (click to book), the theatre’s inaugural dance event since it re-opened in 2013. This show will delight family audiences with truly awe inspiring acrobatics. 

Featured here are merely a selection of a whole range of performances to suit all tastes across the festival. For a full list of what's on during IDFB including how to book and ticket prices, check the listings page of the website here.  You can watch the season trailer below:

MATTHEW BOURNE'S SWAN LAKE (UK Tour) Review February 2014

Swan Lake is the most famous and beloved ballet in the world... there was a lot of resistance and concern when in 1995 Matthew Bourne presented his version - now famous for it's all-male flock of swans the production is still packing out theatres almost twenty years on.

"It's not how I remember Swan Lake!" I overheard someone say at the interval, there may not be a tutu in sight but this is very much the story you know and love, it just happens to someone else. Here, a young prince is awakened by a nightmare of a swan. He has a girlfriend, not the princess type, (think Legally Blonde) who after embarrassing the family is paid to leave. After a night of drinking, the prince contemplates suicide at the thought of never finding affection but he is stopped by the sight of swans in the lake of a public park. Initially rejected by the all-male flock, the prince is taken into the wings of the lead swan - finally realising what his heart had always desired. 

Coventry-born Andrew Monaghan shines as the prince, as a previous Junior and Mid Associate with the Birmingham Royal Ballet he now finds himself dancing the lead on home turf. A warm reception is always a given at Birmingham Hippodrome but Monaghan earned every aspect of it. Quite obviously exhausted by the bows he sustains charm having given every effort throughout the prince's troubled journey. Carrie Johnson delights as The Girlfriend, a comic role underneath which is a saddened soul. Johnson steals all attention with a beautiful, beaming smile - a character you can't help but love and feel great sympathy for. 

Chris Trenfield has incredible strength and is entirely commanding of the stage as the lead swan and also as The Stranger. Trenfield delivers intense passion - combining perfectly with Monaghan's truthful lust, there is a most definite and inspiring partnership between the two men. The all-male flock are far from the dainty tutu-clad, pointe shoe'd ballerinas but are full of attack as a feisty and muscular group who are utterly mesmerising. 

This is no ordinary night at the ballet... referred to by Bourne himself as more contemporary dance theatre than ballet, this opens up to a whole new audience. This modern telling will familiarise those who may feel distanced from a traditional ballet. Despite it's age, Matthew Bourne's Swan Lake remains fresh and it's themes couldn't be any less relevant today. Whilst being humorous and exciting this beautiful production is daring and tragic. This cannot be missed. For tickets call 0844 338 5000 or click here. 

Audiences attending the performance on 13th February 2014 will be treated to a special performance prior to the curtain up. In partnership with Matthew Bourne and Re:Bourne, the charitable arm of his dance company New Adventures, the Hippodrome's curtain-raiser fives local 16-18 year old students the exhilarating experience of working alongside professional dancers and choreographers. Over the past few months, students from Stratford Upon Avon College, Walsall College and Birmingham Ormiston Academy have been working closely with Dominic North, one of Matthew Bourne's principal dancers, and Claire Palethorpe, a freelance dance practitioner on creating the curtain-raiser. The five minute performance, part of Hippodrome Plus is inspired by Swan Lake will see 19 young men perform on the Birmingham Hippodrome main stage to nearly 1800 people. 

ALSO BOOKING at Birmingham Hippodrome: Matthew Bourne's New Adventures and Re:Bourne present Lord Of The Flies, Wed 14 - Sat 17 May 2014 (Book online here). Part of the International Dance Festival Birmingham, Lord Of The Flies brings together professional dancers with young people from the West Midlands. 

Cast List: Michael Barnes, Kerry Biggin, Stephanie Billers. Cordelia Braithwaite, Madelaine Brennan, Tom Broderick, Otis-Cameron Carr, Nicole Cato, Reece Hayden Causton, Emma Chadwick, Harry Clark, Tom Clark, Tom Cummings, Saranne Curtin, Chris Agius Darmanin, Iván Delgado Del Río, Freya Field, Robin Gladwin, Chantelle Gotobed, Glenn Graham, Tim Hodges, P J Hurst, Luke Jackson, Carrie Johnson, Jack Jones, Graham Kotowich, Katrina Lyndon, Jamie-Emma McDonald, Andy Macleman, Anjali Mehra, Edd Mitton, Andrew Monaghan, Liam Mower, Kyle Murray, Jonathan Ollivier, Ashley-Jordan Packer, Ashley Shaw, Paul Smethurst, Chris Trenfield, Simon Williams. 

INTERVIEW with Kris Rawlinson - February 2014

If you're keeping up with current West End trends, you'll know that an evening spent in an intimate cabaret venue is the new way to enjoy the incredible talent that London's theatre-land has to offer. Right at the heart of it is Kris Rawlinson, a musical director who before he's even finished university has built up a pretty impressive CV. Kris took some time out of a busy schedule to chat about his experiences so far.

At what age did you first take an interest in music and what was the first instrument you learnt to play?

I was about four when I started to play piano. I actually only started because my sister was having lessons, and I was insanely jealous of her (she gave up pretty soon after…). I carried on having lessons through school, and learnt the recorder (as most kids do!). Since then, I’ve learnt the saxophone and gig in a soul band travelling around the country, which is a laugh!

You study music at university, was that because you just liked it or did you always know you'd like to be a musical director?

I’m studying Music at Goldsmiths in New Cross. Whilst at school, I always knew I wanted to do something music related; I used to MD quite a lot of amateur stuff, including school shows, local pantomimes, review shows, and full scale musicals, and even directed a few things too; it was something I just landed in by lending a hand as a rehearsal pianist, which led to arranging and then eventually MDing. As a person, I always have to be in control and aware of everything going on, so I suppose a musical director is the perfect job! I wanted to study music to further my musical knowledge, and am really enjoying the course. The modules are really interesting, and I’ve met a lot of great musicians and lecturers. I finish in April 2015, so not long left!

When you think of musical director, you don't really think of someone as young as you - do you think there's a call for more younger directors?

There will always be young musical directors working their way “up the ranks”. I’m not in any pretence that I’m going to breeze straight into a West End job – I’m enjoying working on some great projects, and some brilliant fringe/off-West End jobs and I’m happy to continue this for a while. Sometimes it’s good for people to work with different, younger musicians, who have had a different musical education to some of the West End greats. There are a lot of talented people out there all looking for the same job, but like anything, people will move on, and there will always be the next job waiting to be snapped up if somebody starts another one.

Tell us about some of the projects you've been involved in already...

When I moved to London in September 2012, I got involved with Interval Productions playing for a few rehearsals of their production of RENT. In February 2013, they approached me to talk about a new project they were co-writing/producing called Streets Project, and I got on board as MD and arranger. The show was brilliant and the music was incredible, and we were lucky enough to get a transfer to Hackney Empire for two shows. I was also Assistant MD for their next show, “Another Way” staring the beautiful Julie Atherton and Andy Coxon in September 2013. I’ve also worked as Assistant MD on Geek, The New Musical, which debuted at the Tristan Bates Theatre starring CJ de Moii (aka. Eggheads). I’ve also set up a few projects of my own including “West End Switched Off” that I’m sure you’ll hear about soon!

Some of the performers involved with West End Switched Off, including Jeremy Legat, Jordan Lee Davies, Chlöe Hart and Ambra Caserotti

You've teamed up with Ed Theakston to create Parallel Productions - tell us a bit about the company and what we can expect from it in the future?

Ed is one of my best friends, and is my right hand man, and always knows what I should do, so having him involved with Parallel was a no-brainer. We both have the same vision in regards to new work, and are both very passionate. We’ve got a lot of plans this year; we’re working on a series of intimate gigs, and will be producing some more Switched Off gigs. We’ve also got the big album launch for our debut album later on in the year, and will be working on a few other albums this year, but I can’t say much more! On a personal level, Ed and I are working on a few writing projects too which is exciting! Darren Bell has come on board as Associate Producer for Parallel, and we are working closely on a few secret projects after the success of A Very West End Christmas!

Congratulations on A Very West End Christmas! Who's idea was that? And how did you round up so many established MT performers?

Thank you! It was a day in summer of 2013 after I had been in the studio all day, and I had been chatting to Darren, who is a fabulous photographer, and we decided to do something for Christmas. Within a few weeks it went from a YouTube video, to a 5-track EP, and on the 14^th October, 50 West End guests (including the likes of Cynthia Erivo, Michael Xavier, Simon Deacon, Jodie Jacobs, Chloe Hart) gathered at the St. James theatre and recorded something special. It was released on 15^th December and money raised is going towards Great Ormond Street Hospital and Cry UK, with a donation to the Band Aid Charitable Trust. The recording process was fun, and there were definitely a lot of personalities to contend with, but it was nothing we couldn’t handle!

You can buy A Very West End Christmas! on iTunes here. (Yes, it's not always Christmas, but it's a good listen!)

Is there a lot of work out there for aspiring MD's? Or do you have to largely impress by creating your own work/gigs first?

If you know the right people, and have the right attitude, there is plenty of work out there, from rehearsal pianist, to teaching, arranging and orchestrating. There are lots of different paths to go down in terms of music; personally I love arranging and orchestrating, but obviously also love the feeling of a show or gig. I have a go-get-it attitude; if you want something, you have to achieve it yourself, and this is why I decided to set up Switched Off. It’s something I’ve always thought about doing, and last summer I was chatting to my bass player and he convinced me to just book studio time and do it. So I did! We’ve got our first album finished up and it’s being mixed and mastered at the moment! Because I am still studying at university, I’m not particularly looking for work, so I thought that whilst I can’t commit to a heavy rehearsal period, I have the time to think about other projects.

Are there any musicals that you'd particularly like to MD in the future? Or are there any new musical scores that you've been impressed with?

I have a very eclectic taste in musicals. I’ve always loved Wicked; I won’t tell you how many times I’ve seen it… I love it for many reasons; the story, the strong female characters, the score is incredible. So I guess MDing Wicked would be a dream come true – it’s probably the show that properly got me into going to the theatre a lot. I’m currently obsessed with Ordinary Days, by Adam Gwon, which I would love to MD. It’s a show about 4 people living in New York who’s lives all intertwine without them realising. One piano and four people creates so many possibilities in something that should be quite limiting, and the melodies are beautiful. “I’ll Be Here” is one of my favourite musical theatre songs.

Finally, we all hear performers advice on becoming an actor or a dancer but what advice would you give to aspiring musicians/MDs?

Go for it. There is always going to be somebody that’s better than you for a job, so when they get the job instead of you don’t worry. Things will always work out so don’t get put off. It’s about the right time and the right place, and networking and being a good sport will allow yourself to be in these situations. 

For more information on Parallel Productions, visit the website here. Or for West End Switched Off, click here. 

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Parallel Productions Gala Launch

ALADDIN (New Wimbledon Theatre) Review January 2014

Usually before a show, there may be an announcement to turn off your mobile phone, a black out or a booming overture, but before this performance of Aladdin, out walks Wishee Washee... except it wasn't Alan Committe. George Wood from Family First Entertainment explained that Alan, taken ill at the eleventh hour was unable to perform and with no understudy he was stepping into the role clutching a script... only in panto could this happen and with a supportive audience well and truly on his side it was on with the show!

The show begins with a screen lowered in and a trailer for the DVD release of Shrek The Musical - it's very much like being at the cinema and theatre doesn't need this... It's followed by a short film about the stars that graced the Wimbledon stage and then some text which tells you to practice cheering and booing. Without the encouragement of a live actor it doesn't perhaps work as effectively as it should but as soon the curtain rises we're back to theatrical normality. 

Wimbledon has long been the home of London pantomime, since the London Palladium the New Wimbledon Theatre has been the place to some of the biggest names over the festive season, Priscilla Presley, Warwick Davis and David Hasselhoff, Pamela Anderson and Dame Edna Everage in recent years and now another line-up of stars make up the cast of Aladdin.

Oliver Thornton

West End heartthrob Oliver Thornton recently hung up his heels after a yearlong tour of the Rocky Horror Show - playing Frank N Furter. Here, he couldn't be further from the kinky transvestite as the dashing Aladdin. Perhaps not his usual singing style, he makes his way through a score of recent chart hits including Daft Punk's Get Lucky. A strong performance and a charming lead boy. Another ex Frank N Furter in the shape of David Badella is the villain Abanaza. With such a rich voice, he relishes the part and is a brilliantly booable baddie and his special effect fireworks are pretty exciting! Claire-Marie Hall is in fine voice as Princess Jasmine and her Beneath Your Beautiful duet with Thornton is a special moment. 

Top of the bill is comedienne Jo Brand, famous for her sarcastic and downbeat humour which I happen to love... it's perhaps not perfect panto humour but a nice contrast to the traditional lame panto joke. Despite appearing forlorn at every entrance she receives the biggest applause and is a welcome spin on the usual Genie Of The Ring. She can even twerk...

Jo Brand

Tonight Matthew, you're going to be... an audience favourite! Stars In Their Eyes host Matthew Kelly shines as Widow Twankey, camping it up as the village laundress with an array of fabulous costumes - the best perhaps is a pot of noodles. Britain's Got Talent contestant Shaheen Jafargholi is given plenty of opportunity to showcase his singing talent as the Genie Of The Lamp. "It's not an opera!" says Jo Brand to the boy who sings every line of his script... but, by doing so he proves just why he was worthy of singing at Michael Jackson's memorial concert in Los Angeles. At only 16 he's a particularly impressive member of the cast. 

Matthew Kelly

Dance troupe Flawless fit perfectly into the story as the Chinese police force, with their usual style of street dance they're at the most exciting when the lights go out and they perform a routine with only their silhouettes illuminated in different coloured lights. By the end of the show, George Wood has done an amazing job standing in as Wishee Washee, glancing only at the script for reference he performs with confidence and charm - a true panto professional. 

There could have been a lot more audience interaction, particularly with the dame. This feels like a particularly current pantomime, the beginning of a new breed almost... it's sparkling with star names - a jewel at the end of the District Line. You can book the final remaining seats via the website here. Tickets priced from £11.90 - £47.40.

Jo Brand will not be performing on Saturday 11th January, the part of the Genie Of The Ring will be played by Jenny Eclair. 

View the trailer:

Cast List: Jo Brand, Matthew Kelly, Oliver Thornton, David Badella, Alan Committie, Shaheen Jafargholi, Matthew Rixon, Claire-Marie Hall, John Conroy, Flawless, Lauren Carrick, Stephanie Langley, Chantelle McDermott, Charlotte Perry, Alexandra Tyndall, Emily Wilson. 

PETER PAN (Theatre Royal Nottingham) Review December 2013

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, David Hasselhoff is the most-watched TV personality of all time. According to audiences at the Theatre Royal, he's perhaps the most popular panto star yet to tread the boards! Qdos Pantomimes present a sparkling production of J.M. Barrie's much loved classic - the non traditional pantomime that in recent years has risen in audience popularity and with CBBC's Barney Harwood and TV Goddess Su Pollard also on board, what is there not to love?

Barney Harwood as Peter Pan and Hannah Nicholas as Wendy

Barney Harwood is a likeable Pan, perhaps not as innocent and childlike as you may expect from the boy who never grows up but he's certainly cool and you'd want to be in his gang! Flying around the stage with impressive aerial acrobatics and a conjuring up audience participation he's the guy all the children are in awe of. Something else to be in awe of are the Hoff's cHOFFstumes (that's not such a great pun is it....). As Captain Hook in his sparkling coats and feathered hats the Hoff commands the stage in spectacular fashion. The booable baddie - that you also want to cheer for because he's such a legend - has the entire theatre in the palm of his hand... the remaining hand that is. His song, This Is The Moment brings down the house, complete with showgirls donning the most gorgeous red feathered costumes, it's easily the show's highlight. 

Su Pollard as Mimi the Mermaid

This pantomime traditionally has no dame, but whatever would have been missing is all there by bucketload thanks to Su Pollard as Mimi the Mermaid who is cracking fish jokes all over the plaice. Making her grand entrance in a disco ball and later belting out Gaga's Applause she is the ultimate panto crowd pleaser. Celebrating her 40th year in show showbusiness, Su still oozes all the energy and the eccentric star is clearly a firm favourite with her home audience. 

Ben Nickless is a fantastic Mr Smee, delivering comedy impressions, witty one-liners and a clever story of recognisable chocolate brands is well deserving of a lengthy, appreciative applause. Isobel Hathaway skates her way through the show as Tinkerbell and is one of three strong female leads; Hannah Nicholas as Wendy and Billie Kay as Tiger Lily completing the trio, all in fine voice. The dancers are incredibly talented and master the fresh, exciting choreography. It's nice to see an ensemble used for more than just making up the numbers and filling out the stage - the male dancers get ample stage time to explore individual characters and they also prove to be experienced in the art of Twerking! 

Ben Nickless as Smee with Oliver Ramsdale, 

Lloyd Davies, Nick Woodford & Josh Harrison

With a megamix of Hoff'd classics, At The Hoff, Hoff Stuff ... (you get the idea) the show concludes with an elaborate gold and white finale. A fun and thoroughly enjoyable family show, this is Hofficially the panto to book for... hook whatever tickets are left on the website here. 

View the trailer!

Cast List: David Hasselhoff, Barney Harwood, Su Pollard, Ben Nickless, Isobel Hathaway, Hannah Nicholas, Billie Kay, Ruben Lawlor-Leckie, Taylor Daykin, Alexander Beardsley, Ryan Mathura, Rhianne Alleyne, Gabrielle Cocca, Lloyd Davies, Lauren Griffin, Josh Harrison, Laura Nicholson, Oliver Ramsdale, Nick Woodford. 

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JACK AND THE BEANSTALK (Swindon Wyvern Theatre) Review December 2013

It may only be a 635 seat venue but the Wyvern Theatre in Swindon always celebrates the festive season with a giant pantomime... appropriately so this year with a thrilling production of Jack And The Beanstalk. Once again, Qdos Pantomimes and One From The Heart combine to create Swindon's ultimate festive attraction. 

For a third year, Keith Chegwin returns in a madcap role, Billy this year... and he is silly! Cheggers' entrance is met with a wall of sound and boy it's loud! There's a warmth that Keith exudes and a strong connection between him and the townsfolk of Swindon, it's clear to see why he's welcomed back. However, you're not going to get off lightly by sitting back with a packet of Maltesers when Cheggers is involved... standing up, shouting, screaming, pointing, singing... the lot... and you do it... I was shimmying with someone's granny at one point! Complete and utter madness from start to finish but you'd search for a lifetime to find someone who does panto better than Cheggers. 

David Ashley, Keith Chegwin and Samuel Parker

Also returning to the Wyvern this year is David Ashley who's Dame couldn't be further from last year's villain Abanaza. A complete contrast, here we have an experienced dame - not a bloke in a frumpy frock harping on about a dead husband for two hours... of course there's the necessary amount of that but also a plethora of witty one-liners and clever audience participation - a credit to the writer Simon Aylin. 

Jennifer Greenwood makes an excellent fairy - Fairy Nuff who impresses with a rendition of Defying Gravity to close the first half, a spectacle to rival that of Wicked. Simon Wegrzyn is a very strong Fleshcreep who flits in and out of Childcatcher mode and Riff Raff from the Rocky Horror Show and  is excellent at sustaining a riotous booing. Andrew Whitehead is a great addition as the bumbling old King Manypence and Maria Holmes proves to be a tuneful Harp.

Jennifer Greenwood as Fairy Nuff

Samuel Parker is hero Jack and is every bit the man the young boys in the audience want to be. Laden with an axe and belting out hits of One Direction he's a pretty cool dude! Hollie Evans completes the pairing as Jill perfectly and brings the show into a more tender tone with her beautifully sung solo. 

Joanna Goodwin is perhaps the unsung hero of the show, as choreographer she has put together the ultimate team of dancers. Swindon pantomime always has a strong ensemble and the team of second and third year students from Laine Theatre Arts are as ever the consummate professionals with boundless energy throughout. Exciting tap routines are rare in most shows other than 42nd Street but here it's all on show, even Cheggers manages to fit in a few wings! Daisy the cow can also tap dance... who knew!? "Lainey's" are often the ones to look out for and this bunch are destined for a fine future. 

Keith Chegwin as Silly Billy with the ensemble.

Musical Director Robert Rayner is on fine form and great musical supervision from Ben Kennedy once again delivers the perfect blend of revised chart hits and some great but lesser known pantomime songs - even a Chegwinised version of the Friends theme tune is thrown into the mix!

Another unmissable family pantomime that prides itself on giant production values and prices to suit all pockets - so you won't have to sell the family cow to afford tickets! Be quick though - they're selling fast and the pantomime runs until Sunday 5 January 2014. You can book tickets by visiting the box office in person, calling 01793 524 481 or online here. 

Listen to the entire pantomime podcast coverage of interviews throughout the rehearsal process:

Cast List: Keith Chegwin, Simon Wegrzyn, Jennifer Greenwood, Samuel Parker, David Ashley, Andrew Whitehead, Hollie Evans, Maria Holmes, Aaron Jenkins, Reece Kerridge, Billy Mahoney, Zac Watts.

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Interview with Keith Chegwin
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SNOW WHITE AND THE SEVEN DWARFS (Birmingham Hippodrome) Review December 2013

It's Britain's biggest pantomime.... oh yes it is!!! Qdos Pantomimes present possibly the heaviest star line up any show has ever seen, seven lead cast members who sparkle, shine, sing and surpass all expectations in Birmingham Hippodrome's Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs! 

Gok Wan

Mirror, mirror, on the wall... well, not on the wall but magically flying in from the sky is everyone's favourite fashion guru Gok Wan. Dressed like a glittering disco ball the audience go wild at his sight... Definitely a crowd favourite, Gok is rewarded with rapturous applause and hysterical laughter with every appearance. Making his pantomime debut and even tackling the song 'Fabulous Baby' from Sister Act, he ensures every ounce of energy goes into his outrageously camp and thoroughly entertaining Man In The Mirror. 

West End leading man John Partridge is more than made for his Princely part, torn-off sleeves revealing his bulging biceps and just as strong a voice to match. Furthering the quality of a West End musical is Danielle Hope, BBC Over The Rainbow winner and fresh from playing Eponine in Les Misérables there is even a beautiful rendition of On My Own thrown in for good measure. Danielle is a delight and remains perfectly poised throughout the madness, an ideal princess. 

Gary Wilmot is a very impressive first-time dame. With two original songs written by himself he particularly showcases his talent and oozes a genuine warmth, his song about a Brummie Balti is a particular highlight. Dynasty legend Stephanie Beacham is an incredibly strong bad girl as the Wicked Queen. The strongest villain I've certainly seen in panto, she is definitely boo-worthy and deliciously dastardly. 

Stephanie Beacham

Paul Zerdin as Muddles and his sponge friend Sam delight the audience and mock others in equal part. I'm not particularly one for audience participation but tonight's married couple were good sports... they became ventriloquist dummies having mouth masks fitted to their heads. It's likely you've seen the gag before but with added humiliation the laughs keep coming... when the mask was replaced for one that worked! Staged corpsing and deliberate 'things going wrong' are aplenty and an integral part of pantomime now... perhaps this was just one of them. A secondary 'Muddles' or 'Buttons' type character is added to this pantomime in the form of Oddjob played by Matt Slack. More buffoonish than brother Muddles, Oddjob wins audience affection with slapstick routines and obscure facial expressions.

The dwarfs have less stage time than you'd perhaps expect from titular characters but they make the most of time they do have with a catchy song and individual regional accents. Lead by Ewan Goddard they move around the stage in costumes like that of Lord Farquaad in Shrek The Musical. They're a great, young and fresh alternative to traditional dwarfs and work incredibly well - a cute, enjoyable addition to the cast. The large ensemble of 10 dancers are incredibly dynamic and bring life to the already lively orchestration.

John Partridge and Gary Wilmot

The set and backcloths transport you instantly to a fantasy world, gone are the days of lengthy and awkward scene changes, everything happens seamlessly and within an instant here. This show is a plethora of special effects, whirling fireworks, a flying dragon and dazzling costumes. The first half is almost like a variety show, the second half like a musical but with traditional panto values well and truly at the heart of it all. 

You should never question purchasing tickets to the Birmingham pantomime - always a spectacle and Michael Harrison's new production lives up to and exceeds the expectations of previous years. Co-written by Alan McHugh, once again choreographed by Karen Bruce with Associate Director Tom O'Connell and Musical Director Robert Willis completing an expert team behind Qdos Entertainment's leading production. 

Find out more from the cast of Snow White in the podcast below and in my press launch coverage here. 

Don't delay in booking for what is an unmissable family pantomime or you may not be able to look yourself in the mirror! See Snow White And The Seven Dwarfs at Birmingham Hippodrome until Sunday 2 February 2014. You can book tickets by calling 0844 338 500, visiting the box office in person or online here. 

Cast List: Gok Wan, John Partridge, Danielle Hope, Gary Wilmot, Matt Slack, Paul Zerdin and Sam, Stephanie Beacham, Matt Bateman, Tom Brandon, Jon-Scott Clark, Ewan Goddard, Daniel Hope, Conleth Kane, Mark Laverty, Anne Smith, Chloe Ames, Callum Aylott, James Bennett, Michael Burr, Kage Douglas, Stephanie Elstob, Diana Girbau, Charlotte Scally, Luke Swattridge, Marie Walker

GHOST THE MUSICAL (UK Tour) Review December 2013

There's nothing that the Birmingham New Alexandra Theatre do better than delight the city, offering a large musical production around Christmas time each year. Always an alternative to pantomime, previous December offerings have included Spamalot, Grease, Dolly Parton's 9 To 5 and this year Ghost The Musical. 

Definitely the most ambitious and perhaps the most exciting production to play at the theatre this year, there is great expectation and as with the five previous times I've seen it, Ghost The Musical never fails to disappoint. 

For those that are unfamiliar with the story (and that must be very few...) Sam Wheat is murdered, leaving heartbroken girlfriend Molly Jensen behind to pick up the pieces with the help of the questionable psychic medium Oda Mae Brown. 

Stewart Clarke, Rebecca Trehearn and David Roberts

Solihull-born Stewart Clarke admirably rises to the challenges of being Sam. There is a broken interaction between the character and everyone else in the show - for Sam is dead and no one can see him. Clarke however manages to connect with both fellow cast and audience and does so by delivering incredibly heartfelt tender moments amongst angrier moments requiring a strong vocal belt. 

Other heartfelt moments are provided aplenty by Rebecca Trehearn as Molly. Beautiful ballads With You and Nothing Stops Another Day both showcase and compliment her voice. David Roberts is a deceitful Carl, originally likeable but soon enough a boo-able baddie... but this is far from a pantomime!

Keisha Atwell, Wendy Mae Brown and Karlene Wray

Comedy moments are not sidelined however - Wendy Mae Brown as psychic Oda Mae Brown is a sparkling jewel in this production. Outrageous costumes and a badass attitude ensure all focus is towards her and she is worthy in receipt of rapturous applause by the curtain call. Her numbers Are You A Believer and I'm Outta Here are both lively injections of fun to the otherwise tragic events. 

Wendy Mae Brown, Stewart Clarke and Lewis Griffiths

I admire a huge effort that goes on behind the scenes of Ghost, with a record get-in period that spans three days (and nights), miles of cable and 7 automated LED video screens. The illusions by Paul Kieve are mind-blowing, but I must recommend sitting in the centre of the auditorium for maximum effect when viewing for the first time. Unfortunately, sitting to the far sides and close to the stage will have an impact on the magic's effectiveness. The angle of far side seats will result in illusions becoming blocked by set pieces and ensemble members who are stood in the way. 

The orchestration is most powerful and there is a strong, soon familiar soundtrack to the show. The sound levels do alter quite dramatically, sometimes randomly with many of the earlier songs strangely quiet. Despite niggles with ambitious technology it is important that theatrical boundaries are pushed and with many new musicals failing to succeed greatly in the West End here is a show that has enjoyed a 15 month run at London's Piccadilly Theatre, Broadway and US national tour with productions also in Italy and South Korea. Whilst in Birmingham at the New Alexandra Theatre you mustn't miss your chance to believe in the power of love. Buy tickets here. An ideal alternative to pantomime which runs until Sunday 5th January 2014.

Cast List: Stewart Clarke, Rebecca Trehearn, Wendy Mae Brown, David Roberts, Ivan De Freitas, Stevie Hutchinson, Karlene Wray, Keisha Atwell, Maeve Byrne, Michael Cortez, Kimmy Edwards, Gabriela Garcia, Lewis Griffiths, Bradley Jaden, Gregor Stewart, Amy Webb, Amy West, Luke Wilson, Jaye Juliette Elster, Livvy Evans, Robert Knight and Michael Stewart.

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MIRACLE ON 34TH STREET (UK Tour) Review December 2013

Walking into the New Alexandra Theatre you'd think it was Christmas Eve. A freezing chill had everyone wrapped in scarves and wooly hats and families were piling through the doors. When it's done right, theatre is something for the whole family and more often than not it's Christmas time when it happens most - it's wonderful to see.

Miracle On 34th Street The Musical is a tough one to conquer... the 1947 and 1994 film versions are universally loved and presenting anything so popular in a different format is always going to face challenges. The musical with book, music and lyrics by Meredith Willson is full of heart. The songs are hardly rememberable and some scenes are weighted with heavy dialogue but throughout it all the Christmas spirit is well and truly present. 

Full Cast (Photo by Darren Bell)

The cast are highly motivated and carry the story incredibly well. Not only are they acting, singing and dancing but changing the set as they go. The set, by David Shields is a simplistic one, three blocks that rotate to reveal various locations. It is beautifully detailed and the finale of snow is pure delight. 

Genevieve Nicole is a powerhouse as Doris, presented with the best vocal part she manages to showcase some real talent as does Poppy Carter who plays daughter Susan. Although petite, Carter nor any adult could ever portray a 6 year old girl convincingly, but it works artistically, just as it does in Blood Brothers and you can looks past that. James Murphy makes the perfect Kris Kringle, full of merriment his portrayal is captivating. 

James Murphy as Kris Kringle (Photo by Darren Bell)

For an evening of fabulously festive fun after a trip to the Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market head to the New Alexandra Theatre before Saturday 7 December. Book tickets for Miracle On 34th Street online here. 

Cast List: Genevieve Nicole, Poppy Carter, Daniel Fletcher, James Murphy, Paul Cleveland, David Kristopher-Brown, Charlotte Jeffery, Caroline Bateson, Lorraine Graham, Inez Mackenzie, Stuart Matthews, Brett Shiels, Gary Roe, Shaun McCourt, Ellen Verenieks. 

THE NUTCRACKER (Birmingham Royal Ballet) Review November 2013

Having crept downstairs to play with her new nutcracker doll, Clara finds herself magically transported into a world where she is amongst a battle between toy solders and rats. Her beloved Nutcracker doll turns into a handsome prince and they leave for the Land Of Snow... 

Sir Peter Wright's fantasy Christmas classic returns to Birmingham Hippodrome, the theatre in which it premiered on 29th December 1990 and proves as popular as ever, for not a single seat around was left unoccupied. 

Momoko Hirata sparkles and shines as Clara, the young girl with the gift of dance is perfectly performed with mesmerising technique. The production also belongs to Nao Sakuma, the Sugarplum Fairy who delights and receives rapturous applause. Chi Cao continues to execute the finest performance, securing his place at the forefront. A chorus of leaping rats, dashing soldiers and beautiful ballerinas combine to complete the line-up of world class dancers. 

Photo by Steve Hanson

The staging is a spectacle in itself - we've all seen a set change but this is unlike any other. The element of magic as the room transforms is present throughout and would leave even the Scroogiest theatregoer spellbound. The magic and beauty of the entire production is enough to satisfy every Christmas wish. The perfect pre-Christmas treat, a fabulous way to begin the festive season. Make sure it's on your list! 

The Nutcracker runs at Birmingham Hippodrome until Thursday 12 December, book tickets online here.

Watch the incredible set being fixed up during the get-in below: