Category Archives: Music

A Chorus Line, Palladium

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I went to A Chorus Line with my little sister, who is perhaps an even bigger musical theatre fan than me. Together we have seen most shows and have high standards. Needless to say she always has an opinion to voice when the final curtain falls… so I was concerned when I turned to her for her final verdict and she remained silent. Finally she whispered enigmatically “no words…” whilst shaking her head. It was so good that she had lost the ability to speak!

Many still remember the birth of A Chorus Line in New York in 1975… more than 30 years later it is still electrifying audiences. The story is modest and simple… a group of hopefuls try out for the chorus line-up, each showcase the character quirks that make them special and convey their individual hopes and dreams. Undergoing a gruelling audition process, they each reveal strengths and weaknesses. All are undeniably talented but only four girls and four boys can be chosen for the final chorus line… the paradox is they are all having their personalities analysed in order to get a job as a member in chorus of clones.

Director Bob Avian’s production needs no expensive sets or elaborate props… the cast are able to provide everything needed for a stunning and captivating performance. Stark virtuosic dancing astounds the audience, commanding our attention for two hours, no break. It is a whirlwind of overwhelming excitement and emotion. The inventive and inspiring choreography is by Baayork Lee, and the cast do not miss a step of the exhausting routines.

The music is ridiculously good, I wanted to own the soundtrack within minutes. Songs “I can do that”, “One” and “What I did for love” are most familiar, but all the numbers are brilliantly uplifting. The spirit and sounds of the show are addictive, thanks to the explosively electric band led by musical director Alan Williams.

All of the cast are wonderful and I feel mean singling anyone out for special mention… but it was feisty Victoria Hamilton-Barritt as Diana and Gary Wood’s endearing rendition of Paul that caught my attention.

Two hours of pure unadulterated joy, this is a must-see musical.

More information and book here.

James and the Giant Peach, Chelmsford

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Another Roald Dahl adaptation and another hit. It is no surprise that these highly imaginative stories translate so well to the stage, only bizarre that it hasn’t been done sooner.

Everyone knows about Matilda’s staggering success in the West End (and now Broadway too) and most are aware of the imminent arrival of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, but less have been notified of the smaller scale but equally magical production of James and the Giant Peach which is currently touring the country.

The heartbreaking problem is that this boutique show is not permitted within forty miles of London where the other bigger budget Dahl musicals are on stage in case families are persuaded by the lower ticket prices to choose it over the more expensive alternatives. Basically this means James and the Giant Peach won’t be coming to London any time soon; Matilda seems pretty permanent. It seems completely unfair that kids miss out on this marvellous production.

The Birmingham Stage Company bring life and laughter to this well known story about a young boy and his adventures with a giant peach. This inventive and enterprising show is a blast, suitable for all ages, equally entertaining for adults and kids. Every detail of the narrative is given thought, for which director Nikolai Foster should receive huge praise. The eight cast members (Tom Gillies, Chris Lindon, Claire Greenway, Sioned Saunders, Iwan Tudor, Rhys Saunders, Giovanna Ryan, Oliver Lynes) show astounding teamwork. Working together, they exceed expectations with an impossible task to provide a plethora of characters, dealing with set changes, arranging numerous props accordingly and providing the entire live musical accompaniment on about twenty different instruments. It is quite unbelievable how they do this so effortlessly and seamlessly throughout the two hour show, and I am in total awe of them all.

Amazingly this Birmingham based company has produced more Roald Dahl productions than any other company in the world and their knowledge and understanding of the writer is clear in the nuanced way the books are performed. James and the Giant Peach travels to a different city every week… please raise awareness for this show and try to visit it wherever you can, I promise it is worth the trip.

More information and book here.

Casablanca, Future Cinema, The Troxy

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This Valentines Day Future Cinema staged another hit event with the classic love story, Casablanca. As usual this exceptional company have thought of everything and the immersive cinema experience is as thrilling as ever.

Prior to one’s arrival in Casablanca, everyone has to register with the French Protectorate in Morocco. One is issued with an identity card and instructions regarding the journey to Casablanca. After inspecting and searching, guests are admitted to Rick Blaine’s Cafe Americain (the magnificently converted 1930s cinema, The Troxy in Limehouse).

In true Future Cinema style, the venue is reinvented to mimic the setting from the film. Round tables are arranged in a ‘cabaret formation’ with a stage showcasing the musical and dancing talent. The brilliant retro band, Benoît Viellefon & His Orchestra play through the familiar songs and the audience is encouraged to gather around Sam’s piano while he entertains.

Visitors can try their luck in the Café’s own Casino, and dance into the night with the Casablanca cast who seamlessly blend into the audience. While you enjoy the night the great love story of Rick and Ilsa is relived around you.

All one’s senses are aroused in Casablanca. Strong martini cocktails are on sale at a small side bar, simple but delicious. Moroccan delicacies are served at the Blue Parrot Café by Moro of Exmouth Market; dishes including chicken tagine with preserved lemon and olives, vegetable couscous with sweet onions, raisins and harissa, as well as sweet Moroccan pastries take the immersive cinema experience onto an olfactory level, recreating the smells and tastes of this Moroccan city.

After the fun and games, the film screen emerges from the ceiling for the great viewing. Fans of this motion picture will cry with fondness and newcomers will gasp in amazement. Casablanca is an immortal film and Future Cinema’s rendition is the best way to watch it.

Continues until 23 March, tickets available here.

www.futurecinema.co.uk