Category Archives: Music

Rocky Horror Show, Richmond Theatre

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There really is no other musical like it – Rocky Horror has a cult fan base that passionately support it wherever it goes. Richmond Theatre was looking glitzier than ever last week as an assorted bunch in sequins and silk excitedly arrived for their favourite show.

Here anything goes… shouting at the stage is permitted, phones are switched on for props and singing along is wholeheartedly encouraged! Even the grumpiest of visitors can’t help but toe-tap, sing and dance.

I first saw the glistening body of Oliver Thornton in Priscilla Queen on the Desert (he starred as Felicia for three years in the original cast at the Palace Theatre) needless to say he has a knack for playing transvestites. But there is more to Oliver than his impressive physique, with a training in dance, vocal versatility and wonderful comic timing, he was made to play this part. With legendary Philip Franks as narrator and soapstar Roxanne Pallett as Janet, the rest of the cast are equally impressive.

Our performance was BSL interpreted for the hearing impaired, which I thought would be a distraction but in fact was a fabulous additional entertainment by the very talented Paul, sadly no second name was given in the programme. Dressed in a black lace corset and panties, he had buckets of swagger and charisma.

This eccentric show is addictive and this production does not disappoint. So dig out your fishnets and make sure you learn the words prior to attending!

Continues until 2 November in theatres around the contact, more information here.

Bianco, Roundhouse

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I would recommend not taking a bag to the Roundhouse when you go to see Bianco. The NoFit State immersive promenade circus show requires just as much energy and alertness from the audience as from the performers. Guests are required to be very mobile, moving around the circular venue after each act… a unique concept but one that was rather frustrating with a heavy handbag and coat.

Internationally renowned for its dramatic live contemporary circus performance, blending jaw-dropping skills with untamed elegance and subversive edge, NoFit State returns to the stage with Bianco. There is little narrative, or at least no story that I could grasp. Instead the show is a series of visual vignettes displaying artistic and acrobatic finesse… the only theme? The colour white. With a constantly evolving tale set to a pounding soundtrack performed by a live band, this is an all consuming theatrical experience. Under the direction of Firenza Guidi the talented cast present a vividly imaginative performance.

Though I felt this show lacked wow factor Bianco does offer fantasy and awe, and there are a few moments of magic. The Cirque du Soleil life-defying risks are instead replaced with visually breathtaking acts exhibiting immense physical strength and incredible flexibility. For me it was the band that made the whole night worth the hassle… the gut-wrenchingly passionate musicians provided a mesmerising soundtrack for the evening.

NoFit State continues to reinvent circus with this stunning performance. After London the show will tour Brighton, Cardiff, Bristol, Narberth, Bangor and Edinburgh.

In London until 27 April, more information and book here.

CATS, Manchester Opera House

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I have four cats. Dotty is the eldest with a distinctive coat of spots and a loud miaow, Cocoa is a cautious but cute chocolate coloured cat, Plum has a beautiful purple-grey coat but a mean hiss and little Geoff is the youngest and most affectionate, cuddling up to you whenever he’s given the chance.

Everyone has heard all about Lloyd Webber’s famous musical Cats which has set world records on both the West End and Broadway stages. Based on Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats by T. S. Eliot, it tells the story of a tribe of cats called the Jellicles, their antics and adventures. There is little narrative structure but the show is loosely held together by the magnificent musical motifs and melodies. Songs such as ‘Memory’, ‘Macavity’ and ‘Mr. Mistoffelees’ are much loved both in the context of the production and as pieces in their own right.

Currently on tour at the Grand Opera House in Manchester, this production is receiving enthusiastic audiences every night. I was sat next to a very enamoured fan who annoyingly sang along to every word, when I nudged her to shush she smiled apologetically but continued to mouth each and every syllable. Never before have I seen such a cult following at such a long running show, it is truly a testament to the quality of this musical.

I sang many of the songs as a child, and so was thrilled to hear them performed on stage, but I found the faultless dance routines and wonderful costumes even more exciting to witness. The cast are incredible, flexible and fabulously feline, hitting every note with vigour and vitality.

At last I understand what all the hype is about… this show is truly legendary, a musical phenomenon you have to experience at least once in your life.

CATS continues at The Manchester Opera House until 20 April 2013, book here.