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!

One Man Two Guvnors

Last week I saw One Man Two Guvnors. Which is based on One Servant Two Masters.

If you go in early there is a nice surprise on stage. Thanks to Michelle for letting me know in time.

It is a comedy, that, to me, harks back to films like Laurel and Hardy or Abbott and Costello. That's just for the sheer amount physical comedy going on. I'm sure there are some bruises after each show.

The jokes are silly, good humoured type jokes. I never noticed any rude or offencive jokes, the show doesn't really give you time to breathe from one joke to the next.

Rufus Hound makes a great lead as Frances Henshall. A man hired as muscle for a local gangster, yet while he is sorting lodgings for his boss, another man asks him to work for him.  Yet poor Frances gets confused very easily and a lot of things start to wrong.

I'm glad I didn't know much about Rufus Hound as it helped to believe in his character. There are only sixteen main characters who double up on characters so seamlessly you don't even notice.

I did feel for the first two rows of the audience, as they became part of the show, the whole auditorium at times were in on the action.

I have never been in a theatre, where at the interval everyone is grinning or giggling as you pass them. It is such an upbeat atmosphere. I'm over the moon I got to see it.

Bring tissues. Glad I did. I laughed so hard that tears streamed down my face, also waterproof eyeliner. I looked a bit like a panda. But I wasn't the only one!

To go into detail would actually spoil it. I can think of a few scenes. Me being the chatterbox that I am, some people actually said they had been told of scenes and it spoiled some of the experience for them.

The clips on Youtube don't do the show justice, doesn't capture the magic of live theatre. It looks flat on Youtube.

So if it comes to you check it out. You will not be disappointed.

Health warning. May cause laughing!

Legally Blonde the musical

Last night I went to see Legally Blonde the musical. It was amazing! The cast were phenomenal, I mean to single anyone out would be wrong. I do have to say the actress playing Elle(Faye Brookes) had the Reese Whitherspoon look to a tee. Her voice was a treat to listen to. Being a touring cast, a lot of the actors had to play two and three different roles. The energy never faded if anything, it got even more upbeat. You can not sit still in your seat, you want to dance and sing, even if you don't know the lyrics! The dogs get the biggest round of applause when they take their run on. If you're a fan of Smash, The actor who plays Tom was in the broadway version as Emmett alongside Laura Bell Bundy. The show recieved a standing ovation and you can see why. I was up before everyone. You really can't find any fault, my face ached from smiling so much. Especially at the Riverdance scene! So this wannabe Elle says go find out where and when it's on and I promise you will not be disappointed "Just let me be Legally Blonde."

Hi all

I know I haven't posted in a while, hopefully in the coming weeks and months that will change.  Just letting you know I'm still going to keep this up.

Take care for now

DQ

Jack and the Beanstalk

You know Christmas is upon you when the pantomimes start.

I've seen Jack and the Beanstalk with 3D effects.

You've got Dame May Trot, Jack, King Crumble, Princess Apricot, Daisy the cow and Fleshcreep as well as the good fairy. There are a chorus of dancers and the babes.

Everyone acts, dances and sings their hearts out. No wonder the actors lose weight and their voice by the end of the run. Each show feels like the first show each time and that must have some pressure for cast and crew alike.

Fleshcreep has a child catcher type of feel about him. I saw a lot of Richard O'Brians characteristics in his role. Little four year olds hide when he appears. Jack the hero keeps the audience right behind him throughout.

The 3D, I find the adults enjoy more than the children at times. Ducking and diving out of the way.

Pantomimes are a great way to see a live show when your little.

(A little boy told me it was like watching a DVD but not the same as there were people there. His words, though he was four years old.) He was heading home, the bad boy frightened him.

If you want an evening of laughs and forget your troubles then I highly recommend finding your nearest panto and enjoy it. You will leave with a smile on your face!

That's all from me

Wish you all a merry christmas and happy holidays.

Beauty and the Beast

Last night the theatre came alive with the magic of Disney. This was an Am Dram version, but believe me, it was of such high standard you would have thought you were on Broadway watching it.

The cast were amazing from the enchanted chandelier to the wire work of the enchantress. It was spell binding. Little faces were taken with Belle, laughed at Gaston and Lefou.   Fell for Cogsworth and Lumiere, who got the best laughs plus the biggest cheer at the end.

I remember seeing this in NYC in the 90's and believe me not one thing was left out. The ensemble, pit singers and orchestra set the scene from the very start.

These are people who give up their nights and weekends to rehearse. They only had just over two months to put it together. Well they should be very proud, they did themselves and Disney proud.

Just wonderful!

Rhinestone Mondays

The views here are mine and mine alone.

On the 12th of October I went to see Rhinestone Monday's. A musical comedy set in the backdrop of a local pub in England where a line dancing group meets once a week to practice and socialise. Along the way there is romance, jealousy and many, many laughs. I was sat in the audience and the people around were enjoying it and were surprised to here it's heading into the last week in Newcastle http://www.theatreroyal.co.uk/


Part of me would have loved a CD as there were many highlights from 'Thank God I'm a country boy.' to 'Annie's Song'.For a cast of ten they acted sang and danced with 110% never failing to get the audience involved. Ally Holmes was brilliant as Carol her comic timing was perfect. Lyn Paul from the New Seekers has a powerful voice and it shows.

I think from what I could hear round me, people were surprised by Ian Watkins and Faye Tozer from Steps, they can sing, dance and have perfect theatre timing. If they read this, thank you both for stopping to chat after the show. I hope they get more theatre roles as they deserve the credit.

Anthony Topham and Shaun Williams are great as comic foils to each other. They're voices are amazing.

So check it out, as this show is one never to missed. Let's hope they get to tour again. I guarantee you will love it.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0yfKuZz7Zk

'Make my day'

The Witches of Oz

Not a theatre review but film/TV review.

Who here wanted to go to Oz when they were a child and don the magical shoes?

This is something everyone should see. A re-telling of one of the most loved stories of the 20th century. L Frank Baum gave countless generations a world more colourful and brighter than our own.

Leigh Scott's re-telling keeps true the the spirit of the original story.

Moving it to New York is clever, a city bright and bustling and let's dreams become true on Broadway. 

Dorothy has grown up as a children's writer. 'Making up' Oz or so she thinks. There are a few twists along the way, you have to watch to see. Billy Byod (lord of the rings) gets some great one liners.

There is a Star Wars or Harry Potter scene with the wands between good and evil. Depending on your age.  Glinda appears bubble and all, the actress Noel Thurman is the nicest person to hear from.  www.noelthurman.com She is also on Twitter and FaceBook.

No infringement intended

Did you know that Noels Glinda was meant to look like a Nordic Warrior?  As they wanted her Glinda to be as different as they could from previous Glindas.  Hence the "Crown of Doom". ( Credit Noel ).

For all you you who live in or around Kansas there is a Oztoberfest on the 1st October where the actors from this film and the 1939 film will be there as well as a screening of this film goto www.oztoberfest.com for more info.  It is also released on DVD just mind those flying monkeys, still very creepy.

Check it out on TV or cinema, a very well done remake of a classic tale.

http://www.witchesofozmovie.blogspot.com

http://twitter.com/#!/thewitchesofoz


Chat soon!

Dancing Shoes

Last night I saw Dancing Shoes, a musical that shows the life and times of George Best, known for his football/soccer star skills.

Most of the cast play multiple characters. All cast sang, danced and acted their socks off. Between the laughter there are moments that put lump in your throat. Check out the links below, to get an idea. It's well worth watching if you can. If not the CD is worth the money.



http://www.dancingshoes.biz/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U2zM-Zd2f9U

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AoDPeBAjYZI







Until the next time.

Ave Q versus Jukebox musical

Well last week, I went to see AveQ. It was interesting seeing the actors who seem to melt into the background, while your eyes seemed to focus on the puppets while they sang and danced through the show.

The puppety was very clever, how it stayed in sync while the actors changed puppets at different times through the show. It really impressed me.

Then I saw what could only be described as a juke box musical. Song after song, no story, justing singing. They sang their socks off, but the better quality was with AveQ.

It's always interesting seeing the differences in shows, Both enjoyable but in different ways.

Hope to update sometime soon.

Michael Ball Concert 25th May

What can I say about Michael Ball?

Well he brought the house down. He even started a minute early!


For running orders and all songs try the mbfc forum. http://www.mbfc.co.uk/discussion-board/index.php?showforum=53  I'm just going on memory.


Overture was music from Superman to Indiana Jones. Got the audience woke up.


First song I need a hero. Then we meandered through hits from Tom Jones, Barry Manalow and Neil Diamond.  


Play me


Misty


Glee/Journey's Don't stop believing.


All with reasons and memories of why they were picked. Most of these singers were Heroes.  Hence the name of the tour.


There was a New York section songs like new York(these streets are brand new) Broadway baby. On Broadway. Old blue eyes' New York.   The Fame theme tune, which I sang at the top of my voice.


After that, there was a guy who was getting back to his seat (front row) and Michael started laughing and said you missed the best bit!


I know I'm missing bits (annoying myself) I'm sure its on the forum. Sorry.


Second half started with We Never said Goodbye from Sunset blvd. Lyrics had been changed slightly more references to theatre but still powerful. Then Sunset blvd itself! Goose bumps! Never heard it sang so emotional before.  A voice so clear and commanding.


The band started up the next section Les Miz. Do you hear the people sing entwined with Red and Black. Its twenty six years old and we were told how the anniversary concert had felt when all of the original cast was brought back on stage. Even Nick Jonas got a mention. Which got a laugh.


Michael sang Empty Chairs at Empty Tables and I Dreamed a Dream. Got me, I welled up as that show holds a lot of memories.


Sweeney Todd was next with Pretty Ladies and Not While I'm Around. He's gonna be one scary Sweeney.


Then there was avenues and alleyways that led into 'Party time'


One Step out of time(Starts with a Gospel feel) Help yourself x2. Should say during Help yourself Michael bent down and hugged and kissed a little girl on the hand, it got a very big Aw (She was no more than seven).


Encore was Love Changes Everything and a slow one or two, but by then I was singing and swaying along, so I can't remember the last, last song or how the first half ended, again singing! But it gives you an idea of what went on.


Stage door a no show, but think that might have to do with the tour schedule. Will give benefit of the doubt lol! Tour bus was waiting to go to Scotland.

Spamalot

Well I said I would write about this. 

If you want a full belly laugh then this is the show for you. 
If you didn't already know the show is a take on Athur and the Knights of the round table.
The whole show is tongue in cheek, I assume they take bits from Monty Python's show (only that was before my time).  Check out Jody Prenger, she plays the Lady of the Lake.  Her voice is AMAZING, no joke.  She has wonderful comic timing and in my limited opinion steals the show when shes on stage.

Its a lot like a pantomime.  But don't be thinking that's what you well see.  As it's very slick, even costume changes on stage, blink and you'll miss it.  You could tell the cast worked hard, they played two and three parts between them, they even dressed as crew to Ozzy Osbourne  To do that each night and matinees.  I tip my hat to them. 


Phil Jupiter (comedian) made the house laugh as well as himself!  Todd Carty probably best known for Grange Hill and Eastenders was just hilarious!  The faces he could pull, had me laughing in my seat.  Everyone sang and danced their hearts out.


I liked the fact that all the characters got a back story and some got to flesh it out a bit more.  For an hour and a half, they packed a lot in, even when trying to make the other laugh!

YouTube this show, the songs are fantastic.

First Blog

Hi everybody DramaqueenAM here,

Well since my first, first blog has disappeared.  I'm trying again.

I think what I'll do is just talk about things I do, like I visit the theatre very often, so I'll write about things like that.

I also love reading, so if I find a good book and it's worth reading, I'll say.

So you know i like theatre, reading, TV well Sci Fi Stargate SG1 and Sanctuary.

If you can check out Stephen Maguire fab singer, http://www.stephenmaguirelive.com/  Love his music, very blues and jazz sound as well as a few others thrown in.

Fingers crossed this works again.

Last night was the ballet. 

The ballet was stunning. A modern twist on the story of Cleopatra.  The dancers out did themselves, the set was blank until a projector was turned on, we went from Egypt to Greece & back.  Shame it's was a small audience.There was more at the murder mystery upstairs.  The people who were there loved it and got a lot from it.

Next is a musical!  So I'll chat about that when I see it.