THE MIKADO (Battersea Barge & The RISE Leicester Square)

Jamie Chapman Dixon (behind recent Molly Wobbly) & Nick Martland bring you The Mikado. The classic Gilbert & Sullivan show, directed by Drew Baker is set in a lady boys nightclub in downtown Bangkok, with choreography by Holly Hughes, all sorts of fun and frolics are unfolding. 

Cast

Anton Stephans as The Mikado

Katisha – Molly Marie-Walsh

Ko-Ko – Michael James Porter

Pish Tush – Harry Wright

Yum Yum – Jade Spivey

Nanki Poo – Oliver Metcalfe

Pooh Bah – Niall Rooney

Pitti Sing – Natalie Bush

Peep Bo – Ellie Self

Ensemble: Jamie Papanicolou, Marc Gee Finch, Joseph Foyster. Dean McCullough, Perri Hanson-Wilde, Rachael Lea-Gray, Emily Barnett-Salter.

See the show at Battersea Barge from 5 - 8 May. Book tickets here.

* JUST ANNOUNCED *

From Mon 19 - Thurs 29 May, The Mikado transfers to The RISE, No 1 Leicester Square in a new and exciting site specific production. On you arrival you will take the VIP lift into an active club where you will be served by lady boy waitresses and waiters until the show begins. Will Katisha get her man? will Nanki Poo get his girl? will Ko-Ko become a full-time lady boy? Join us at The RISE, No 1 Leicester Square to find out! (next to M&M World)

With tickets at £15 and student tickets at just £5 you really cannot miss The Mikado in this new and exciting setting. Book tickets for The RISE transfer here. Booking fees apply.

Vincent & Flavia's DANCE 'TIL DAWN (UK Tour) Review April 2014

It's the golden age of Hollywood dance, film-makers putting song and dance on the silver screen. Far from the late night bar of Buenos Aires (the setting of previous hit Midnight Tango), the formidable pair take to the stage in 1940's L.A. as Sadie Strauss (Cacace) and Tony Deluca (Simone) - the romantic leads of a comedy about a beautiful starlet and her handsome beau.

Talking through proceedings as the narrator Tommy Dubrowski is Teddy Kempner, a favourite who returns from Midnight Tango whose humour is both clever and welcome. The need for frequent plot updates is perhaps unneeded, there is excellent narration within the choreography - however, Kempner is expert at breaking up the already succinct action with witty one-liners, There is a comedic rapport with the excellent Abbie Osmon as Lana, who must get her hands on incriminating photographic evidence of her fling with Bobby Burns - the man Sadie is contracted to make films with... but of course she follows her heart (thankfully!) and teams with Simone's Tony Deluca. 

The Strictly duo are effortless in rhythm, pace and finesse, completely at one with the soundtrack - the perfect blend of 'tangoed' favourites such as Moon River, Stand By Me and more recent hits Paolo Nutini's Pencil Full Of Lead, Caro Emerald's That Man and Bruno Mars' Runaway Baby is a great, high-energy climax to Act I. The live band are excellent and the perfect accompaniment to Oliver Darley's fine vocal. 

There is an incredibly strong ensemble who master all aspects of the piece co-choreographed by the Strictly professionals and Karen Bruce, who also directed. The evening feels very much like entertainment on a cruise ship - in the best possible way and by no means derogatory - it's glamorous, it's luxurious. That feeling you only get on holiday somehow takes over you in a night of excitement, sophistication, beauty and passion. 

Dance 'Til Dawn is the perfect blend of styles and theatrical mediums and for this it's almost certainly better than the excellent Midnight Tango. It's a dance show, that is a musical, that is a masterpiece.

See the show at Birmingham New Alexandra Theatre until Saturday 26 April 2014. Book tickets here. 

Cast List: Flavia Cacace, Vincent Simone, Oliver Darley, Teddy Kempner, Abbie Osmon, Faye Best, Tyman Boatwright, Ivan De Freitas, Carly Mercedes Dyer, Ben Harris, Jamie-Rae Hartshorne, Annie Kitchen, Stephanie Powell, Tom Scanlon, Giovanni Spano, Danny Stowell, Gemma Whitelam, Anna Woodside. 

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Midnight Tango Review

EVITA (UK Tour) Review April 2014

The second leg of a UK tour for Evita sees the production visit Birmingham for two weeks, where the breathtaking musical is set to stun audiences most certainly. 

Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical adaptation of Eva Perón's life story is once again fronted by Portuguese singing sensation Madalena Alberto. From flirtatious, brunette latino girl, to the blonde high-flying woman of business, Alberto completely encapsulates each moment of the brutal, tragically short life of Eva Perón - spiritual leader of the nation. 

Cynically assessing the immediate mourning of Evita's death is Che Guevara - the Argentine Marxist revolutionary, 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'.  Whilst he may not be the most obvious choice for the role, Pellow's less angry, more subtle tones accompany the sarcasm of his words and create a character that is not only narrating but forewarning. Mark Heenehan remains a strong addition as Perón and Nic Gibney's impressive vocal range is evident in his few outbursts as the less-often featured but crucial character, Magaldi. One of the productions stand-out moments comes from Sarah McNicholas as Perón's Mistress and her beautiful version of 'Another Suitcase In Another Hall'.

A strong ensemble play a variety of roles - with ample time to showcase their versatility. In particular, Perón's Latest Flame is a strong group effort - regimented choreography executed with the tightest of timing. I wouldn't say Evita was a dance musical, but this dynamic, energetic and enthusiastic ensemble make sure it's worthy competition.

Madalena Alberto proves to be the ultimate Eva Perón and makes her way through the powerful and demanding score with effortless conviction. From the steamy and fast paced partying in Buenos Aires to the tender, fragile final moments upon her deathbed you'd be forgiven for thinking you saw two different people - the contrast is almost unbelievable.

The score is most beautiful and played by a fine orchestra - combine with an incredibly talented cast such as this and the audience are well and truly drawn in. You cannot help but fall in love and have your heart broken by Evita. Do not miss the musical masterpiece at Birmingham Hippodrome until 19 April. Get tickets here.

Cast List: Marti Pellow, Madalena Alberto, Mark Heenehan, Sarah McNicholas, Nic Gibney, Michelle Pentecost, David Brewis, Verity Burgess, Errol Clayton, Joel Elferink, Callum Fitzgerald, Alyn Hawke, Ryan Limb, Joe McCourt, Anna McGarahan, Stuart Maciver, Ceili O'Connor, Lizzie Ottley, Olive Robinson, Chris Stoddart

WEST END SWITCHED OFF (St James Studio) Rebecca Trehearn and Simon Bailey join the line up!

Rebecca Trehearn and Simon Bailey join Alice Fearn, Sophie Linder-Lee and more for launch of West End Switched Off at the St James Studio!

Fresh from playing the lead role of Molly in the UK Tour of Ghost The Musical to critical and audience acclaim, Rebecca Trehearn will be joining a superb cast of West End performers to launch new album West End Switched Off in an intimate concert at the St James Studio on Sunday 27th April.

The launch night at the St James Studio on Sunday 27th April at 6.30pm will give the audience the chance to have an up-close and personal experience of some of the never before heard tracks on the album before the official release. Tickets are available from just £15.

Trehearn will be joined by Simon Bailey, who’s performance as Liam O’Dreary in I Can’t Sing the Independent recently called ‘spot on’, and Alice Fearn, who can currently be seen in Dirty Rotten Scoundrels at the Savoy and recently Shrek The Musical and on stage and screen in Les Miserablés.

Completing the line up will be Wicked’s current Stand-by Glinda and Elphaba; Sophie Linder-Lee and Emma Hatton. The thirteen-strong cast also includes West End regulars Chlöe Hart, Adrian Hansel, Dean John-Wilson and Dale Evans as well as Jordan Lee Davies, Tori Allen-Martin, Thomas Sutcliffe and Ambra Caserotti. A live band led by the album’s musical director Kris Rawlinson will accompany the performers.

West End Switched Off, produced by Parallel Productions, is set to be the first in a series of albums that arrange musical theatre songs that you know – and a few that you may not – into unheard acoustic, 'unplugged' covers. The eleven-track album which features Ashleigh Gray, Ian Stroughair, Jodie Steele and more will be available for purchase on iTunes, Amazon and other platforms from Monday 28th April.

Listen to exclusive clips on Official London Theatre here.

For more information visit www.parallelproductions.co.uk or follow Parallel on Twitter @ParaProd.

Preview | DICK WHITTINGTON (Swindon Wyvern Theatre) Nigel Havers headlines as King Rat!

Following a plague of headlines in the news last week that huge rodents are taking over Britain, the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon announce that Nigel Havers will headline this year's pantomime Dick Whittington, playing the biggest rat of them all, King Rat!

Nigel Havers has been a star of stage and screen for 40 years and is well-known for a variety of roles. On TV he is most recently known for his role as love-rat Lewis Archer in Coronation Street, for which he won Best Exit at the 2013 British Soap Awards. He also recently appeared in another of ITV’s top-shows, when he starred in the Christmas Special of Downton Abbey. He has been in constant demand for stage work and has starred in many plays, as well as starring in pantomimes for many years.

This Summer, ahead of performing on stage in Swindon at Christmas, Nigel will star alongside Sian Phillips in a West End revival of Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest at the Harold Pinter Theatre.

“It is a real coup for Swindon to secure a pantomime star of Nigel Havers’ stature for this year’s production of Dick Whittington,” said Theatre Director Derek Aldridge. “Nigel will no doubt bring a certain element of charm to the role of King Rat, which will make audiences love to hate the royal rodent!”

The Wyvern Theatre’s dazzling production of Dick Whittington will be spectacularly brought to life with an abundance of comedy, sensational song and dance numbers, fabulous costumes and stunning sets plus, as audiences have come to expect from Swindon’s number one pantomime, plenty of audience participation. Read reviews for previous pantomimes Aladdin and Jack And The Beanstalk which feature returning Swindon panto favourite - David Ashley.  

Nigel Havers is joined by the previously announced David Ashley who returns to Swindon for a fourth year after playing Ugly Sister Windy Wendy in Cinderella, Abanazar in Aladdin and Dame Trot in Jack and the Beanstalk.

Book tickets for Dick Whittington, which runs from Sat 6 Dec 2014 - Sun 4 Jan 2015 online here. Alternatively call the Box Office on 01793 524 481.


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Jack And The Beanstalk 2013 Review
Aladdin 2012 Review

Review | WEST SIDE STORY (UK Tour) April 2014

The highly anticipated fiftieth anniversary production of Bernstein's classic, West Side Story has arrived in Birmingham and with a three week residency at the New Alexandra Theatre, there are few excuses to miss this legendary classic.

 Romeo and Juliet are no longer in Verona, it's 1950's New York and amidst the ill-fated love story for Tony and Maria, their families the Jets and Sharks clash over status. The predictable story is well known and I wouldn't say that it's for this that the people come... Fifty years on, the iconic music of Leonard Bernstein is still as exciting and fresh-feeling as a first night. The music, coupled with Joey McKneely's reproduction of Jerome Robbins' choreography is something very special, the two combine to create a visually stunning production. With little in the way of set it's all about Renate Schmitzer's colourful costumes worn by an incredibly versatile, dynamic and endlessly energetic young cast. 

Louis Maskell is charming as Tony, who's impeccably controlled vocal brings the audience into awe , particuarly during the song Maria, an obvious highlight. Owing to the indisposition of Katie Hall, the role of Maria is played by Charlotte Baptie. Having seen both girls in the role, it is apparent they are of equal worthiness. Baptie impresses with a belting soprano voice, championing her way through classics such as Tonight and I Feel Pretty. The girls, led by Djalenga Scott as Anita are sensationally sexy, sassy and fun addition to the otherwise dark plot. 

The show perhaps belongs to the brilliant boys, rival gangs who fight through dance - adventurous yet  extremely well connected, an incredibly talented line-up. Whilst the stylised flighting is not the most realistic, the artistic values completely outweigh anything else here. However, it is when the entire company unite for the Procession and Nightmare that the spine tingles. 

West Side Story is all about the dance, incredible vocal performances do break through the booming score but ultimately the re-invented, high energy routines are what will stick with you. And a warning, you will walk away whistling and humming the songs for a long while after!

See West Side Story until 19 April at the New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham. Click here for tickets. Read my interview with Katie Hall and Louis Maskell here. 

Photos by Alastair Muir.

View the trailer:

Cast List: Louis Maskell, Katie Hall, Djalenga Scott, Javier Cid, Jack Wilcox, David Delve, Jason Griffiths, Siôn Tudor Owen, Matthew Hawksley, Fraser Fraser, Bruce Aguilar Rohan. Samuel Salter, Scott Rayner, Matthew Croke, Charlie Cameron, Rachel Crocker, Fenia Tsikitikou, Rachel Ensor, Danielle Cato, Niko Wirachman, Sergio Giacomelli, Sergi Terns, Devon McKenzie-Smith, Nathan Ryles, Liam Paul Jennings, Sinead Kenny, Charlotte Baptie, Katie Singh, Challyce Brogdon, Nicola Coates, Lisa Dent, Dom Hodson, Alex Pinder. 

SINGIN' IN THE RAIN (UK Tour) Review March 2014

Chichester Festival Theatre have produced some excellent productions in recent years - including Sweeney Todd, Another Country soon to open at the Trafalgar Studios, The Pyjama Game opening at the Shaftesbury Theatre and Cameron Mackintosh's revival of Barnum which is about to embark on a UK tour. Singin' In The Rain enjoyed success in Chichester in 2011, the West End in 2012 and now a tour of the UK and Ireland is making a splash in Birmingham. 

Singin' In The Rain tells the story of the first Hollywood musical, when the silver screen found its voice and left silent movies - and some of its stars – behind. This show leaves none of it's stars behind and from the outset you are whisked away to the Hollywood glamour of 1920's Los Angeles. The magic of the MGM musicals is truly at the heart of the show - I don't recall a time when I've ever been so enchanted at the theatre, which is easily done with the grandeur of Jonathan Church's production.

Before you can talk about anything more, the choreography by Andrew Wright must be credited for taking the show from one that looks great to one that is great - and so full of energy. Even without the rain these dancers were dripping, with sweat. Scenes that are concentrated heavily with dialogue benefit greatly from an injection of incredibly creative, complex and breathtaking routines. The tap is fast and furious, both the dance kind and the water kind. 14,000 litres of soak the stage (and the first few rows of the auditorium) in a spectacular finale - a downpour that provokes a well earned standing ovation.

James Leece as Don Lockwood

Following in the soggy footsteps of Gene Kelly is James Leece as Don Lockwood. A charming performance, Leece is great to watch, particularly when splashing around in the title song or when together with Amy Ellen Richardson who is a delight as Kathy Selden. The perfect face of Hollywood glamour, Richardson excels not only in her irresistible presence but is in fine voice throughout.

It is Make Em Laugh that perhaps receives the loudest applause for a dry routine, perfectly executed within split seconds of comic timing, the incredible Stephane Anelli is difficult to move your attention from as the buffoonish Cosmo Brown, relishing the role for all it's worth. Also scene-stealing is Faye Tozer ("from Steps") as movie star Lina Lamont. With a ghastly shrill voice she earns raucous laughs with her song What's Wrong With Me? - ironically, the character can't sing and the fact that Tozer isn't given the opportunity to showcase her vocal talent here is somewhat of a shame.

Faye Tozer as Lina Lamont

The story may induce times where you're left thinking "just hurry up and rain!" but in it's entirety you can't possibly have seen this show better than it it's presented here. There is an incredible orchestra that guide you through an evening of Hollywood glamour presented only by the most dynamic ensemble.

Go on, splash the cash on a ticket to the show that showers you with nothing but pure talent and class. Book tickets online here - runs until Saturday 5 April at Birmingham Hippodrome. 

View the show's trailer:

Cast List: James Leece, Amy Ellen Richardson, Stephane Anelli, Maxwell Caufield, Faye Tozer, Jacqueline Clarke, Paul Grunert, Luke Dowling, Jenny Legg, Kim Strommen, Abigail Brodie, Adam Denman, Rebecca Fennelly, Olivia Fines, Lauren Hall, Aimee Hodnett, Nia Jermin, Sammy Kelly, Joshua Lovell, Matthew Malthouse, Phil Marriott, Tom Partridge, Tom Woods, Albey Brookes, Matt Crandon, Lucy James, Soeli Parry

INTERVIEW with Sandra Marvin - March 2014

Sandra Marvin's theatre credits not only include her critically acclaimed performances of Miss Motormouth Maybelle in Hairspray in the West End and Tour but she recently appeared as Matron Mama Morton in Paul Kerryson's Chicago at the Leicester Curve. Amongst other theatre credits that include Porgy and Bess, Ragtime, A Midsummer Night's Dream and The Lion King at Disneyland Paris, Sandra can also be heard on the Oscar-winning soundtrack of the recent blockbuster film Gravity. If that wasn't enough, Sandra is now headlining her own cabaret show... 

You're about to do your first solo cabaret after quite while in some incredible productions. Lets start with last year - the majority of which was spent on tour with Hairspray. You're no stranger to Motormouth Maybelle having played the role in two UK tours and in the West End, how do you look back on your time with the show?

I have the fondest of memories of my time in Hairspray! It really is a timeless, funny, witty amazing show with the best music and biggest heart! And the people! I've met the most fantastic people, & many of my best friends on this job. To this day we all still have reunions to share the Hairspray family love! So much love for past casts, crew and creatives. Also nothing but love for the role of Miss Motormouth Maybelle! I'll always be "Big, Blonde and Beautiful!" - 'lol' ... Also getting the chance to sing "I know Where I've Been", such an honour. Loved being blonde!

And most recently you took on the role of Mama Morton in Chicago at the Leicester Curve - I believe this was always a dream role of yours? How was that experience for you?

Yes, she was one of my dream roles. Years ago, the first theatrical demo I recorded was "When You're Good to Mama", so finally being able to play her was certainly a dream come true. Also working with Paul Kerryson, we were given the opportunity to revisit the original play of Chicago and rediscover who our characters were and play their different traits. It was all very exciting and the fresh new choreography by Drew McOnie just topped it off! And such an amazing cast!

Sandra as Mama Morton, Chicago at Leicester Curve.

I've never known a theatre audience erupt quite like at the end of your song in Hairspray - I Know Where I've Been. You've more than proved that you've got an incredible voice. Do you remember a time when perhaps you discovered singing and worked and worked at it, or have you always known that this voice was there inside?

Ah, Thank you Scott! All I know is that I've just always loved singing! Whether it was when I was a kid singing along with my dad's old records, to this present day. Whether I'm on stage or letting rip whilst washing up the dishes! Singing lifts my spirits, and I hope that I can share that with people when I sing. I still have singing lessons now with my teacher Tom Pearce. I think it's good to make sure you keep up a good technique, but other than that, it's all about singing from the heart. "I Know Where I've Been" is a beautiful, powerful song that means a lot to me.

Who are your musical inspirations? Was there anyone or anything that inspired you to follow this career?

Well I'm the only musical one in my family, though they certainly introduced to some incredible vocalists from a young age. My mum and dad adored Tina Turner and Dolly Parton. Both phenomenal artists. There was of course also Whitney, Aretha and Ella too. But it was my sister who introduced me to Barbra Streisand's first album and I was hooked from then. I still adore all of these artists now and I'll be paying homage to many of them on Sunday too.

Besides these roles, you've appeared as a guest singer for Michael Ball, you've done intimate West End cabarets as part of a line up - but now it's all about you! What can you tell us about your cabaret show at Lauderdale House?

My passion for music is so varied, so I'll be singing jazz, musical theatre, soul, rock, acid jazz...! Many of my favourite songs to share with you all. But mostly Sunday will be a fun, laid back, intimate celebration of music that inspires me and touches the soul.

Sandra as Motormouth Maybelle in Hairspray, Shaftesbury Theatre.

For your upcoming concert, Sunday Sessions, you're re-united with your Hairspray-son Adrian Hansel, who played Seaweed, what does it mean to have him alongside you?

Adrian is actually my musical brother from another mother! We both have a love for very much the same type of music, though he's so much more current than I am. He often surprises me with a mix of "songs you don't know, but should know" playlist of the most amazing songs that become fast favourites. It's an absolute honour to have him with me, as not only has he one of the most stunning voices I've ever heard, he's also one of my dearest friends.

Is there anyone else we can expect to see as a guest?

I'm also excited and honoured to have Amy Diamond with me too who absolutely has the voice of an angel! My amazing MD Peter White, and Jonathan Cooper (the funkiest bass in town) and Dave Gonella (percussion).. All amazingly talented musicians so I'm excited to be working with again. We're gonna rock Lauderdale House!

Finally, what's next for Sandra? Anything you'd like to do?
I'm also singing Friday and Saturday 21st/ 22nd March at soul/jazz bar Hideaway, Streatham. Ooooooh and there is something that I'm excited about to be announced soon! 

You can book ticket's for Sandra's cabaret by clicking here or by calling 020 8348 8716. Sunday Sessions features Adrian Hansel and Amy Diamond at Lauderdale House on Sunday 23 March - 4:30pm. 

LET IT BE (UK Tour) Review March 2014

After a triumphant run in the West End, Let It Be is now giving the regions a taste of Beatlemania. 

Known as 'The Beatles Musical' - this is more of a glorified tribute show, but this concert-like performance is one hell of a crowd-pleaser. There isn't much to say about it: four guys who closely resemble each band-member take you chronologically through the Beatles back-catalogue of hits. What is clever is that the story is told through news reports and real TV footage from the archives that fill in the time between set changes. With each change of scenery is a change of venue and often country. You journey from the humble beginnings of The Cavern, their appearance on the Royal Variety Performance of 1963 at the Prince Of Wales Theatre - where this show played in late 2012 and into America. 

At times you are reminded that this is but a reflection upon the 60's, a conscious imitation with reference to CD's and Ringo's narration of Thomas The Tank Engine. Where the show perhaps lacks is with dialogue between the boys, it's very much imitation of live performance after live performance, it may have been interesting to delve deeper into the backstories but for the hardcore fan it's crowd-pleasing hit after hit. 

I can't say that I ever listen to The Beatles and have never really taken an interest in their music but there's something euphoric about a large group of people singing along and swaying to Hey Jude! Not that I gained much in the way of nostalgia as I wasn't there to begin with but what this does offer is the chance to live and experience the 60's in what felt authentic. 

The absence of Yellow Submarine (one of the only Beatles songs I know!) wasn't too disappointing - the show is more than packed with hits including the title song Let It Be, I Want To Hold Your Hand, Strawberry Fields Forever, Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds, Hard Day's Night, Sergeant Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band and When I'm 64 to name but a few... 

Beatles-wise this is as good as you'll get. Even with my little Beatles experience I was able to enjoy this all-round quality production. You'll be standing, clapping and waving your arms and flags before you know it! You can see the show at Birmingham New Alexandra Theatre until Saturday 22 March. Book tickets here. 

Cast List: Emanuele Angeletti, Michael Bramwell, John Brosnan, Ben Cullingworth, James Fox, Michael Gagliano, Steve Seere, Reuven Gershon, Graham Harvey, Stephen Hill, Paul Mannion, Luke Roberts (Each performance of the show is performed by five members of the company.)

PARALLEL PRODUCTIONS (St James Studio) West End Switched Off Album Launch

Parallel Productions today announce the first in a series of albums that arrange musical theatre songs that you know – and a few that you may not – into unheard acoustic, 'unplugged' covers, collaborating with a wealth of talented musicians and performers. 

West End Switched Off will feature a range of familiar faces on the album including Ashleigh Gray, recently seen as Stephanie in Cool Rider and as Standby Elphaba in Wicked, Chlöe Hart who until recently was appearing in Wicked and previously played Tracy Turnblad in Hairspray, Adrian Hansel who was recently seen as Seaweed in Hairspray, Jodie Steele, currently appearing as Carmen Diaz in the UK Tour of Fame and recently seen as Mimi in Rent, and Jordan Lee Davies, recently seen on the BBC’s The Voice and as Alan in Bare the Rock Musical.

Some of the guests involved with the album and the launch include Chöe Hart, Dale Evans, Jodie Steele, Ian Stroughair, Adrian Hansel, Dean John-Wilson, Jordan Lee Davies and Ashley Gray. 

The album will be launched in style with an intimate evening of entertainment at the St James Studio on Sunday 27th April at 6.30pm, with tickets available from just £15. Accompanied by a live band, there will be a stellar line up of guests which already includes Chlöe Hart (Hairspray), Emma Hatton (Wicked), Dean John-Wilson (From Here To Eternity), Dale Evans (Miss Saigon, From Here to Eternity), Ian Stroughair (Rent 20th Anniversary Tour, Chicago) and Jordan Lee Davies (The Voice). The launch night will give the audience the chance to have an up-close and personal experience of some of the never before heard tracks on the album before the official release. The album itself will be available for purchase as a CD or digital download on iTunes, Amazon and other platforms from Monday 28th April.

This launch follows on from the success of charity project A Very West End Christmas, that saw an unprecedented number of musical theatre stars come together in the final months of last year to record the five-track EP including a version of Do They Know It's Christmas. Feel festive all over again and listen to the song below:

You can book tickets for the launch at the St James Studio on 27th April here. For more information, visit the website.

THE PRINCE OF THE PAGODAS (Birmingham Royal Ballet) Review February 2014

As the centenary celebrations of Britten are almost past, Birmingham Royal Ballet present what could be the climax to it all - David Bintley's reworking of Britten's only comissioned ballet, first performed in 2011 in Japan.

Initially, we're greeted by a Fool, danced by Lewis Turner. He sits with his legs dangling into the orchestra pit, playing with the audience in a clown-like mime. He offers noodles to a family sitting in a box and rouses applause repeatedly. It's a pre-show gimmick that you'd expect at the circus but it's more than welcome here. Turner remains a delightful, charming presence throughout. Equally as charming is the beautiful Yaoqian Shang as Sakura...

The Emperor and The Fool. (Photo by Phil Hitchman)

Uninterested by any of the four kings presented to her, Princess Belle Sakura journey's to the kingdom of the Salamander Prince - danced expertly by Yasuo Atsuji. As the princess, Yaoqian manages to combine gleeful dizziness and moments of controlled despair. Seemingly inspired by an eclectic mix of existing stories, there are themes for all audiences. This both works and doesn't... At some moments so much is going on that the unfamiliar story can get a little lost. What works however is the fact that regardless of clarity, the dance itself is spectacular and sustains your interest through the three acts. The dance, coupled with the exquisite costumery is a dazzling spectacle... most of the time. 

Not all the costumes are dazzling, the Yokai, are grotesque costume-characters, it's almost like Disneyland for zombies. At first they appear somewhat out of place - they're unlike anything you'd usually see at the ballet but as the story progresses you accept them as part of the oriental birdcage of fascinating creatures that you find yourself in. The Yokai are a perfect example of accessible ballet for everyone. 

Sakura, a Yokai and the Salamander Prince (Photo by Phil Hitchman)

I did believe that the central couple were lovers (they always are, right?) until reading the synopsis confirmed that here, they are in fact siblings... the love is still as strong but despite a sometimes hazy narrative, which differs from the original (not that I was familiar), The Prince Of The Pagodas is evidently a vehicle for creative choreography that offers audiences a completely new experience. Worth a visit to Birmingham Hippodrome this week to see a creative interpretation of Britten's exciting, multifarious score. To book online, click here. 

For backstage blog insights into The Prince Of The Pagodas, click here. View the trailer below:

You can listen to Lewis Turner talk about his roles in last weeks Three Of A Kind and The Prince Of The Pagodas.

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Birmingham Royal Ballet Reviews

TONIGHT'S THE NIGHT (UK Tour) Review February 2014

Tonight's The Night is back in town! Last touring in 2006, the Rod Stewart musical is once again sailing around the UK and stops off in Birmingham this week. This is the story of Stuart Clutterbuck, a shy, geeky boy from Gasoline Alley who's lack of self confidence prevents him confessing his love for the beautiful Mary. Stuart seeks help from Satan who grants him the chance to swap souls with rock God Rod Stewart - but is that life all it's cracked up to be? 

The musical, written by Ben Elton first opened in the West End in 2003, just a year after his other musical, We Will Rock You. Running for just over a year at the Victoria Palace Theatre, Tonight's The Night hasn't enjoyed half the success of Elton's collaboration with Queen... which is still packs out the Dominion Theatre after 12 years. Judging by tonight's reaction however, you'd believe it was on par. 

The audience go crazy and from the moment the curtain lifts, spirits are high and kept alive by a cast of incredibly talented performers. Topping the bill (albeit in a slightly lesser role than some others) is Sugarbabe Jade Ewan who was the UK's Eurovision entry in 2009 with Andrew Lloyd Webber.  Ewan, who plays Dee Dee reminds us of her incredible voice with a rendition of The First Cut Is The Deepest. 

Jade Ewan

Also in fine voice is Jenna Lee-James as Mary - she can belt, and regularly impresses, particularly with Reason To Believe and I Don't Want To Talk About It. Tiffany Graves revels in her role as Satan and is sexy and sassy as Baby Jane. Both girls have previously appeared as Killer Queen in Elton's We Will Rock You and attack this with a similar vocal power. 

Ben Heathcote is suitably Stewart-esque as Stuart. With similar vocal tone he delights Rod's fans who clearly aren't regular musical bookers and here for the closest thing they can get. Michael McKell reprises his role from the original West End production as Stoner - rousing humour amongst cast and audience and ensuring everyone is up on their feet by the end. 

There is a strong ensemble who bring life to Rod's back-catalogue with exciting and adventurous choreography. With the corrugated iron set, piles of car tyres and cowboy hats it can feel a little Footloose at times but this has a much faster pace. The storyline is, as most jukebox musicals, a little obscure but the likes of the devil appearing in the mirror just adds to the fun. 

This should appeal to both fans of Rod and the musical-lovers... whilst it isn't by any means groundbreaking, it's a pleasant evening out - and for no extra cost, you get a hat to wear during Sailing... although I had mine on for the duration! 

Tonight's The Night is at the New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham until Saturday 1 March. You can book online here. 

Cast List: Ben Heathcote, Jenna Lee-James, Jade Ewan, Michael McKell, Tiffany Graves, Andy Rees, Michelle Antrobus, Joshua Dever, Amy Diamond, Rosie Fletcher, Rosie Heath, Sinead Long, Craig Mather, Tom Millen, Darryl Paul, Ricky Rojas, Spin, Lindsey Tierney

MOLLY WOBBLY (Phoenix Artists Club)

Jamie Chapman Dixon (producer, 'Singer’s Soirée') is proud to present the London premiere of hit musical comedy 'Molly Wobbly' for a strictly limited season at Phoenix Artist Club from 8 - 19 March. The show began life in 2011 as a sell-out Staged Concert at Belfast’s Lyric Theatre before its larger 2012 production at the Assembly Rooms in Edinburgh where the show received four and five star reviews across the board.

The women of Little Happening are desperate - all three are trapped in loveless marriages and stuck with failing businesses. There is only one person who can help them - a woman they’ve never met whose name is … Molly Wobbly! Margaret, Ruth, and Jemma receive unexpected makeovers when a stranger arrives on Mammary Lane in this comedy by Paul Boyd that was the talk of the 2012 Edinburgh Festival Fringe!

CAST ANNOUNCEMENT

For the 2014 Phoenix Artist Club Staged Concert version, Olivier Award Winner ('Hairspray') Leanne Jones returns to the role of Margaret, and is joined by 'Rent'’s Kate England as Ruth and 'Les Miserables'’ Lucy Garrioch as Jemma. 

Stars of the original 2011 and 2012 productions are also performing - Conleth Kane returns as Jake, Christopher Finn plays Robbie, and Russell Morton is reviving his iconic Ithanku. New to the show for 2014 are Alastair Brookshaw (Southwark Playhouse’s 'Parade') as Malcolm and 'The Voice UK'’s Jordan Lee Davies as Kitten.

8 - 19 March 2014

The Phoenix Artists Club

Tickets £10 (£8 concessions)

Book tickets online here. 

THREE OF A KIND (Birmingham Royal Ballet) Review February 2014

Just four months after the success of Penguin Café, Birmingham Royal Ballet present another triple bill of favourite ballets. Previously, the celebration of David Bintley's award winning pieces and now the coming together of three comic ballets - Card Game, Slaughter On Tenth Avenue and Elite Syncopations. 

The first ballet, Card Game, first performed by Birmingham Royal Ballet in 1976 is perhaps the most visually simplistic I've seen from the company for there are no gimmicks - but it works perfectly. Here is a card table - a stage covered green with male dancers dressed in unitards, females in tutus - both decorated to represent a particular card in the pack. This piece focuses on the intricacies of poker and is split into three deals. Even for non-players the piece is easy enough to follow and is a witty, lively and collectively camp display of cards as they progress through the game. The fun begins when the Joker is dealt. Danced by Jamie Bond, the Joker tries to replace cards to sway the game with humours consequences. Bond has unrivalled speed and has a charming charisma despite villainous intentions. Cleverly between deals, other dancers, hidden behind the backs of human sized playing cards, enter and shuffle about to trade places with others. Throughout, the synchronicity is almost an impossible perfection.

Slaughter On Tenth Avenue is the crazy tale of gangsters, a high-kicking stripper girl and a happy go lucky hero who literally dances for his life. This lively piece is most unlike much else in Birmingham's repertoire. Beginning with dialogue, the scene is set with the pending disaster of gunfire in which the piece steadily builds towards... This is indeed a ballet, but so much more. An incredibly slick 26 minutes of more contemporary ballet that even features an exciting, intricate tap solo. Tyrone Singleton and Céline Gittens as the Hoofer and Striptease Girl command all attention and remain sensationally sexy, sassy and passionate. There is a great moment between the two bartenders (Kit Holder and Oliver Till) who use the choreography to light each other's cigarettes, striking matches across the bottom of their shoes. Slaughter On Tenth Avenue is received like a musical, there is very much a West Side Story feel to what is probably the stand-out act of the three. 

Stripping back the stage to nothing more than lighting rigs and the bare back wall is perhaps a little underwhelming at first... What is most magical about Elite Syncopations is that despite the lack of scenic elements, this piece is in fact one of the most vibrant. It is nice that here the dancers are joined on stage by the band who play a delightful arrangement of Scott Joplin - whose ragtime moods inspired the ballet. Casually the dancers sit around the perimeter and take turns to present their routines. The costumes are a delightfully colourful exaggeration of the era paraded by dancers who are able to experiment with a less formal presentation. Jonathan Higgins conducts the band on piano who create a sufficient and merry soundtrack. This particular piece is your proof that talent is entertaining enough without the need for anything else. 

The three succinct ballets are concentrated with pure delight. For an evening of lighthearted merriment, visit Birmingham Hippodrome until Sat 22 February. Book online here. 

You can listen to dancer Lewis Turner talk about his roles in the triple bill and The Prince Of The Pagodas which plays from 25 February - 1 March. You can book tickets here. 

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Birmingham Royal Ballet Reviews

RENT IN CONCERT (UK Tour) Review February 2014

When you consider concert staging of musicals, you come to expect a reduced version of the original full-scale production, usually commemorating an anniversary and often for a similar (and of course, more expensive) price bracket. Les Misérables have done it twice – at the Royal Albert Hall and the O2 Arena for their 10th and 25th anniversary and have done so on a very grand and elaborate scale. For other musicals however, even outstanding performances can perhaps leave you a little underwhelmed with lack of action or set. Rent lends itself particularly well to the genre, as there was never much there to begin with… Traditionally performed with very little in the way of set, this concert production very much keeps the feel of an original production.

This is the 20th Anniversary celebration of Rent, which opened on Broadway in 1996… the initial reading and workshop versions of which came in 1993 and 1994 – hence the anniversary now as opposed to 2016. Date logistics aside, any reason to riff up the incredible score by Jonathan Larson is valid. We should probably expect another tour in 2016 and judging by audience reaction it would be welcomed back with open arms… and plenty of tissues.

Kerry Ellis as Mimi

Emotion was rife, both on stage and off as an incredible cast came together to do the piece true justice. Headlining the cast, Kerry Ellis stars as Mimi. With previous roles including Meat in We Will Rock You, Elphaba in Wicked and Nancy in Oliver, Ellis is used to playing the gutsy and feisty female. Exploring the playful side of Mimi early on and later the frail, Ellis takes us on a believable journey and it's nice to see her ability to perform a much less glamorous role.

Ian Stroughair as Angel

Mykal Rand is a sensation as Collins, his I’ll Cover You reprise brings the evening to a standstill. Joined by Ian Stroughair as Angel, the pair create a true relationship that leaves the heart aching. Rory Taylor surprises as Roger, the former ITV Superstar contestant excels and his One Song Glory is particularly impressive. There's a sweet connection between Taylor and Ellis in Light My Candle. Paul Ayres makes a great Mark - a character who really just guides the story, but is brought to life with charm.

Rory Taylor as Roger

Joanne (Lisa-Marie Holmes) & Maureen (Ruthie Stephens) are both powerhouses and raise the roof with their playfully fierce Take Me Or Leave Me. The lesser seen of the principals, Kenny Thompson completes the cast as Benny and gives the part enough to leave a strong lasting impression.

Seasons Of Love is one of the reasons you love this show, the opening song of the second act feels like the climax to the show and is later featured appropriately as an encore. It is here where Beth Humphreys and Tim Prottey-Jones get their moment in the spotlight – receiving rapturous reactions to their solos.

There are perhaps slight sound issues, it is almost too rock concert-like at times where music is much louder than vocal but it's hardly concerning. A combination of impeccable casting and a very strong band - in all, this concert version of Rent is a triumph.

Cast List: Kerry Ellis, Ruthie Stephens, Rory Taylor, Paul Ayres, Ian Stroughair, Mykal Rand, Kenny Thompson, Lisa-Marie Holmes, David Hinton-Gale, Beth Humphreys, Tim Prottey-Jones, Joel Harper-Jackson, Kate England

ANTON DU BEKE BALLROOM TO BROADWAY with Summer Strallen (UK Tour) Review February 2014

Despite the absence of his usual partner, Erin Boag - due to pregnancy, Anton Du Beke goes ahead with his annual tour. This year, he delights audiences in a partnership with Summer Strallen on a musical journey to the heart of Broadway. 

Any Strictly withdrawal symptoms are instantly ridden as the London Concert Orchestra set the tone for the evening with an overture of Mack & Mabel. Imagine musicals week on Strictly... almost impossibly, this is better. 

Between breathtaking ballroom, Anton has comical interludes in which he interacts with the audience, answering questions and dishing the dirt on life backstage at Strictly Come Dancing. He perhaps couldn't survive the whole evening as a stand-up comedian but what he manages is a perfect balance of dance and audience involvement. Anton is joined by Faye Huddleston as his ballroom partner and just as you would expect with Erin, they are faultless. Their duet to Phantom Of The Opera's Music Of The Night is unquestionably a highlight. There is a strong, energetic and enthusiastic ensemble who are a welcome edition to the vast stage. 

You could possibly count on one hand those who are enough to rival Summer Strallen, recent star of the West End production Top Hat. Strallen is every inch the beautiful Broadway lead and sings through  a varied catalogue of show-tunes including an incredible version of All That Jazz which at one point sees her signing whilst suspended upside down in a split lift... 

Lance Ellington, popular vocalist on Strictly Come Dancing is on fine form and delivers Broadway favourites such as This Is The Moment from Jekyll and Hyde to a house that whoop and cheer - all whilst keeping the sophisticated atmosphere, of course. 

Throughout the whole evening I felt like I was somewhere completely different, you know that feel-good energy you have when you're on holiday? that... for two hours.

This is a spectacular evening of entertainment in it's finest form. For tour dates and booking information, visit the website here. Ballroom to Broadway tours until 30 March 2014. 

Cast List: Anton Du Beke, Summer Strallen, Lance Ellington, Faye Huddleston, Simon Coulthard, Gemma Facinelli, Crystal Hantig, Scott Coldwell, Sam Patrick and the London Concert Orchestra led by Richard Balcome