An Officer and a Gentleman Musical

 I saw the show recently, opening night.  The was one sound issue on the opening number. It was sorted straight away.  You expect the odd sound issue, especially a touring company and not a show that is in a theatre for a week.

The set was very clever, how the stairs moved to double up as extra scenery and different levels to give it more levels and layers. And having the crew dressed as if they were part of the cast. Give you something different to watch.

Act 1 set up the story I thought very well. I only have vague memories of the film, so I was seeing it fresh. I also thought the first act showed the start of the camaraderie of the characters and how they were eventually going to be there for each other.

 Jamel Crawford @jamalkcrawford played Gunnery Sargent Emil Foley brilliantly. At times your eye was drawn to him without realising. With his reactions and acting in the background, got me wanting to know more about the character, which we found out in the second act. 

Luke Baker @lukeybaker I thought give Zach Mayo depth.  And once he told Paula played by Georgia Lennon @georgiaalennon about what happened to him, (who matched  him scene for scene and vocally).  I liked how when he was taking to the Navy recruitment officer on the stairs was able to show how he looked younger.  

You then realised that why Mayo's dad is the way he is. Tim Rogers @timrogers001 playing Bryon was subtle, you could see that his character was from a generation that had a hard time opening up. The way at times he was in the bar and missing the bar stool was a great acting choice. Funny, but sad when you think of the character. I have seen him in Whistle Down the Wind and in JCS, so his acting fits well with his character here.  

Danny Whelan @danny123w was on as Sid Worley and i really got involved with his story.  Especially in the second act and what happens to his character along with Sinead Long @sineadlonguk as Lynette Pomeroy broke my heart.  At that point he stole the show.  Melanie Masson @melanie.masson.official as Esther Pokrifki had a powerful voice and acting made me feel for her.  It’s A Man’s World had me and the audience spellbound. 

The ensemble were enthralling every time they were on stage.  I loved when the cast broke the fourth wall to get us singing.  But pulled it back before it became a sing a long. Very well done.  

I thought Olivia -Browne as Casey Seegar was brilliant, showing how a lot of women were treated wanting to join the Navy.  And her friendship with Zach evolved.  I got really invested and how her story ended was great to see. 

Wendi Harriott @wendiharriott as Aunt Bunny needs a mention her vocals and acting really stood out. My eye would go to her even when she was on the side of the stage.  I wish I could mention everyone, they all deserve it. 

I’ve seen a lot of jukebox musicals (A phrase I dislike) over the years, and personally I think the music and songs which are worded slightly differently, fits the story and drives it.  So that I and the audience I was with really enjoyed it. Though for me it doesn’t count as a jukebox musical, just a film reimagined.

One I will remember for quite a while. 

Blood Brothers 3rd August 2022 Belfast Grand Opera House

 Blood Bothers tells a story of two twins separated at birth, when Mrs Johnstone (Niki Colwell Evens)  can’t afford to keep both.  She is a cleaner to Mrs Lyons (Paula Tappenden) who can’t conceive her own children.  Mrs Lyons realises that both women could get what the other needs, both a child of their own.  Mrs Johnstone already has seven.  They agree that Mrs J could see her son while working at the house.  As with life, nothing goes to plan.

When I sat down in the auditorium in A1 of the refurbished theatre.  A wave of emotion hit me, the curtain was down, but I noticed the red peeking out, I suddenly remembered how the show started.  The band hadn’t even started yet and I was a bag of nervous energy.  The curtain rose, the music started and I saw the scene that always sticks in my mind, the cast gather on the dimly lit stage, and then you see Mickey (Sean Jones) and Eddie (Jay Worley) walk down.  They exchanged a haunting look.  And I was afraid to breathe. Feeling I would break the moment.  As most of you know how it starts, I won’t go into the details but when The Narrator (Richard Munday) came down stage to say 

“So, did y'hear the story of the Johnstone twins? 

As like each other as two new pins 
Of one womb born, on the self same day 
How one was kept and one given away? 
An' did you never hear how the Johnstone's died 
Never knowing they shared one name 
Till the day they died, When a mother cried 
My own dear sons lie slain 
An' did y'never hear of the mother so cruel 
There's a stone in place of her heart 
Then bring her on and come judge for yourselves 

How she came to play this part.”   A shiver ran down me.  It always does, but being so close I got even more emotional, I just couldn’t hold it in! It felt like I had been caught looking at Bill Sykes, you look but you’re not meant to.  The Narrator role always makes me feel like that!

Then the wedding scene between Mr and Mrs J and how they came to be an item.  Niki sang beautifully and gave it light and shade.  Niki and Nick played off each other so well I was grinning like mad.  Love the music and energy of it!  Out of the corner of my eye, down S.R (if you’re on stage) I saw a wee face. ;-). But I didn’t want to spoil it for myself.  Though it makes sense everyone else is at the wedding.  My Child and Easy Terms breaks my heart for both women trying to do right by the children. 

 Fast forward to the scene that makes me want to go play on an imaginary horse….Mickey! I’ve seen Sean play this since 1999 and it never gets old! It actually becomes more believable! When Mickey is talking about Sammy, I started grinning again..the poor toy car lol!  I love how Mickey is telling us, but without feeling like the fourth wall is being broken.  The giggle and the twinkle in the eye. Genius!  I wanted to be seven year old Mickey’s friend.  After it in comes Jay as Eddie, he’s a wee dote, again never question the age.  He’s seven … nearly eight, just like Mikey.  And that’s that. 

Sammy, what can I say?  Lol Tim Lucas had me in stiches, I forgot about the worms and plate! His ten old Sammy was adorable.  Sammy at the end, roughly about 28 -29 and to see his story was marvellous. Thanks Tim!

 Seeing the cast play Kids Game (Carly Burns, Jacob Yolland, Andy Owens, Josh Capper, Grace Galloway, Melissa Potts, Tim Churchill, Sean and Timothy) even though you know it is rehearsed to a tee, it feels spontaneous and I wanted to join in! I never played games like that when I was seven! Hehe! I actually had to stay near the gate!  Sorry to stay I nearly started to sing along.  Caught myself, but crossed my fingers lol!

I couldn’t take my eyes off the stage.  I was glued.  Maybe too invested?  Can you be, with a show like Blood Brothers?  Maybe not!

 Every scene, believable.  Every transition.  Each different character, believable.  I forgot how many different parts the cast play.  Hats off to them.  They are amazing.

Carly as Linda from start to end.  The character grew and evolved.  I knew a fair few seven year old Linda’s growing up.  What I love is Linda and Mickey’s bond, right to the end.   

 Niki as Mrs Johnstone, you can see your own mum or anyone else’s, you see how she is toward Mickey and her other children.  Love shines through.  And Paula playing Jennifer Lyons and her love so strong for Eddie. Is heartbreaking to see, as I could see the guilt on her face. Amazing acting. But one thing was sure she loved Eddie. No doubt.

 Nick Wilkes going between the two teachers, amazing! Still never did find out the answer…not fish and chips!  Poor Perkins wee finger!  Well done Andy, I was kind of a swat, if it was English or theatre related lol 

Carly and Sean at the end, I held my breath in that scene.  When Mickey says he wants to be invisible in nearly a whisper…I wanted Linda to turn and hold him when he was pleading with her. Behind her, into her ear.  I’ve never gotten goosebumps with any show or scene.  But right there, I did.  Congratulations to Sean and Carly.  That will stay with me for a very long time.

Also at the end Mr Lyons and the compassion he showed towards Mrs Johnstone and Eddie. Both played amazingly by Niki and Tim Churchill.  And the mirror to it with The Narrator and Mrs Johnstone.  I felt maybe he changed his mind about her and what she did.  Both were only little moments, but Richard played it so well and Niki’s reaction was beautiful.  I was busy trying not to cry.

Okay Jacob Yolland got me good.  He was right beside me at the end….I held onto the seat not to jump…. that worked, but I screamed at the top of my lungs!  Might have given Linda a run for her money lol probably not!  You would think I would know what’s about to happen.  But nope, I was afraid to move until the very last note.  And we came full circle to the scene at the start.  I couldn’t get out of my seat quick enough!  My hands couldn’t clap fast enough!

I know I’ve waffled, but I wanted to try and remember everything and hopefully give credit where I could.  This year was a special visit to Blood Brothers.  I booked it quickly and wanted to get back to the GOH and see if all the memories of the first show came back, and they did!  Thank you to each cast member and crew members, including Mr Andrew.  You all brought the characters to life to where I nearly forgot I was sitting in the theatre.  I appreciate all the time and energy you put into the show and I know this run and the next ones will be full houses.  And that is down to each and everyone of you and all your hard work and love for the piece. Thank you.

 Hi everyone! Long time since I posted I just wanted to let you know Glenn Carter from the West End and Broadway has an endorsed fan page on Instagram the link is Glenn Carter Fan Page it’s a wonderful page and I hope if anyone is still here to have a look

Lourdes

Hi all!

Thought I'd share with you a vlog I made the other week. Please like, share and comment please.

Dearest All

To all Princes', Princesses, Rosebuds and flower petals,

Thank you for visiting me.  I have seen many of you come and visit me in carriages that move with you using a button or kings and queens helping by wheeling you.

Some of you, according to Belle have walking aids to help you. Some of you may have things that I cannot see, that you know and see. But know this, each of you my roses are special and unique.  Listen to me, never let others say different and you are never alone. Not ever.

I have friends from other kingdoms, even Ariels twin, who helps me on long trips. Even if its just holding my arm, well Charming cant always come. I also use a wheeling carriage like some of you if I have to travel to a far kingdom.

Darlings you are special. Hope is a powerful spell, use it! There are things that even I cannot do, but I do not let it stop me. I find things that I can do instead. Everyone of you has your own personal wishing well inside of you. It's up yo you. Dreams don't have to die just because you think you're different or not conforming to people's ideas of what it should be.

Illness and disability do not define who you are or who you will become in the future. It is up to you to see the light on the darkest of days. Maybe that is only just waking up on that day. Make that a good day for you.

Your kings and queens can help. Speak to them, tell them your dreams. Even Doc told me doctors can help. There is nothing wrong with asking for help. Your dreams can still be achieved.

My friends and I may look perfect but each of us has something we don't like or restrict us.

Ariel likes swimming but finds her fin restricting, so she is learning with her legs.

Aurora has a condition that makes her sleep, and not just a spinning wheel.

Cinderella liked her cleaning but she has Gus and Lucifer to help her now.

Belle tries not to be vain and see the best in everyone, yes even Gaston.

Jasmine helped her Kingdom see past Aladdin's appearance.

Mulan, Pocahontas, Tiana, Rapunzel and Merida showed how you can be independent and not always need a prince, though sometimes true love found its way to them.

Even sisters, Elsa and Anna showed that true love doesn't mean a man, but love for each other and for yourself.

With your own battles you can be just like us. 

Don't tell yourself you can not, because even if it isn't exactly like you expect, you are still the person you are meant to be and doing what you are meant to do. I know some of you have had friends leave to kingdoms in the sky, and a lot of times it isn't their choice, they are still with you, helping you slay your inner dragons.

They are your bluebirds on your shoulders.

Darlings keep being you, not matter what your outter appearance may be. I love meeting each of you, as you give back to me the love and the magic I give you.
My love
Snow

Thank you Singing in The Rain The Musical

I would like to say everyone should see Singing In The Rain the musical. I had the pleasure of seeing this show earlier in the year.

The lighting, staging, orchestration and set made you feel you had been transported back in time. Gene Kelly would have approved. And the rain! It has to be seen to be believed. Sit in the front row; it’s the best way to get the full effect!

The musical has remained faithful to the movie, while giving the audience a fresh taste of a classic. I grew up watching this film and I was worried all my favourite scenes and musical numbers wouldn't be included, yet they were. They were so much better live!

One favourite has always been Moses Supposes. I had marvelled watching this on film, wondered could it be done live. For me it outshone the film. The singing while tap dancing and comic timing looked so effortless, I am very sure it was a lot of hard work. It brought the house down!

Stephane Anelli made me and the audience go wild at the speed and precision of his dancing. I am sure Donald O Connor had magically come back on stage for Make Em Laugh.

I saw two different actors play Don Lockwood. James Leece and Matthew Malthouse. The ability of both these gents to play the same character, yet make it their own was an honour to watch.

Amy Ellen Richardson I was spellbound by. She sang, danced, made you laugh, and want to cry for her character of Kathy. There was realness to her, Amy’s Kathy felt like someone everyone in the audience would know or have known at some time their lives.

A thank you to each of the dancer/singers who added to the Hollywood magic.
The extra song for Lina was a memorable scene played by Vicky Bins. It brought out a side of her character that you don't see on film. Paul Grunert had me laughing in my seat as the frustrated film director. Jacqueline Clarke got some great lines also.

I have to admit when I heard about this musical I did think that Hollywood actor and theatre star Maxwell Caulfield would have been playing Don. I am very glad he was given the part of R.F. Simpson the studio boss also his character is fleshed out more on stage. I saw this show four times and every time, I was sure R.F. would sing his song in full. Thank you sir for the kindness at the stage door, also the surprise you sent me from Southampton. It was very kind of you.

Thank you to Mr SITRBAND man :) it was nice to put a face to the name. If you are in Tokyo please watch this show.

Thank you all cast, crew, backstage and wardrobe for making this show one that I will remember for a very long time.

Hairspray

Last night I watched Hairspray the musical, which is touring at he moment.  Over the years I have seen the show roughly four times. While that's not that many, it's a lot for me. 

I was dancing at the end.  

It was interesting to see different actors to take on some of my favourite characters. Now the times I've seen it, I've seen Michael Ball play Edna. This time Mark Benton took on the role. He added his own style to the role, for me though you knew it was him in the costume. The first time I saw Michael Ball as Edna, I had to keep looking and people round me were asking 'Is that him?'  

The two other names in this show were Marcus Collins and Lucy Benjamin.  Now Marcus I knew was a talent show singer. But let me tell you this, his future is in musical theatre, his voice blew the house down.  Lucy Benjamin I only knew as an a actress. The lady can act, sing, dance and has amazing comic timing.

Hairspray you can't fault. It has the feel of the 60s with a touch of technicolor. The entire company sing and dance their hearts out right to the encore. And you can't stop dancing. And I did.  It does cover all issues, race, weight and feeling like the outsider. But the message for me, is look on the inside and not the outside. And try to see past people's differences.

I enjoyed it so much I'm going back again.  

Everyone should see the stage musical!!

You Can't Stop The Beat!