Tag Archives: singing

The Blonde Bombshells of 1943, Upstairs at the Gatehouse

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If you are travelling a long way for something you want to be sure it is worth the journey. I have visited the tiny loft theatre Upstairs at the Gatehouse in hilly Highgate before, but never have I witnessed such an evocative and fun production as The Blonde Bombshells of 1943, a show that overwhelms the limited stage space and entertains an audience of all ages.

This late Alan Plater work is filled with warm nostalgia and retro charm; I wonder why the production has been such a rarity in the London theatre. Set in the crucial year of 1943, the narrative portrays the struggle and trauma of the Second World War, the lost husbands and missing boys, the constant worry for those left behind. Bomb explosions echo throughout the show, contrasting the melodic musical numbers.

The story is simple and sweet… the bold Blonde Bombshells band provide light entertainment for audiences in the north of England in need of distraction from the war. The four band members are led by bossy but kind Betty (Louisa Beadel) a phenomenal saxophonist; they are in search of new recruits for a big television performance. A naïve nun comes on board, a giggly schoolgirl joins and a precocious army driver completes the group, together they are the Valentino trio, a close harmony unit resembling the Andrews Sisters. Rehearsing for their big showcase, each girl’s story unfurls, the challenges and sacrifices that they have had to face because of the war and the small pleasures they reap from their musical talent. When a war-evading young man comes along to play drums for the band, the group dynamic changes again.

Despite their young years, the cast present the show with a wise and touching sensitivity for this bygone era. Each character displays staggering ability on a variety of instruments, whilst also acting, singing and speaking in a broad Yorkshire accent! I was particularly impressed with Giovanna Ryan, the only real blonde in the group, who strums effortlessly on her double bass and sings beautifully and Emma Jane Morton who displays a youthful enthusiasm that is infectious and sings with an affecting lilt in her voice.

I spent the long bus ride home texting friends recommending the show, and I encourage you to buy tickets too.

Continues until 29 June, book tickets here.

Lady Rizo, Soho Theatre

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Lady Rizo is my kinda girl…feisty, fun and fabulous. Fresh from New York’s cabaret scene, she has arrived in England to make her London debut at the Soho Theatre.

I was initially attracted to Lady Rizo because of her name… any who know me well will know about my obsession with Grease and my ongoing ambition to play the rebellious Rizzo. When I researched Lady Rizo’s show, I realised there was more than just her name to love. She is a ballsy comedienne and chanteuse from America with fierce attitude, a wacky sense of humour, sensational vocal talent and an addictively daring character. She has an undeniable ability to entertain.

The show starts at 9.45 pm which is quite late for a weeknight, but I left more awake than when I arrived: her wit and wonderfulness leave you buzzing. I will admit we didn’t always ‘get’ the jokes, but the music, wow, it was incredible. Of the songs she performed, some are original compositions, others hauntingly beautiful covers. She effortlessly belts and bellows into the microphone, with exceptional tone and not a note out of tune… impressive considering the vocal range she displays.

It is a raucous night and audience members should expect to be fully included… so if you’re shy don’t sit in the front row or by the aisle! Sitting within easy reach I was the subject of one of her first jokes as she removed my glasses (with difficulty) and mucked around with my hair. Funnier though was when she picked a redhead to help her change outfit while asking her about how she lost her virginity. It sounds seedy but Lady Rizo manages to add glitz and humour to every situation and had the whole venue in fits of laughter.

On Wednesday 27th February we were lucky enough to have Noisettes singer, Shingai Shoniwa in the audience. She whooped and wolf whistled enthusiastically for her friend throughout until eventually she was asked up on stage to help Rizo with her spectacular encore. It was an excellent extra.

A comic who can move, a singer who can joke and an entertainer who can inspire, Rizo is a very special lady, catch her while you can at the Soho Theatre.

More information here.

Karaoke Box, Smithfields

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Sometimes when I review I am granted a ‘plus one’, but never before have I been invited with a ‘plus eleven’! At Karaoke Box Smithfields the more the merrier… there are sixteen private karaoke rooms of varying capacities (the largest can hold up to 40 people). The privacy of the rooms encourages guests to sing their hearts out without the embarrassment of strangers sniggering at nearby tables.

It all seemed pretty high tech to me, with flatscreen TVs, surround sound, wireless microphones and dimmer lights. A red button can be used for waitress service and guests are able to control the sound levels themselves. The song selection is vast and varied… over 9,000 songs searchable by artist or title. Those not in charge of the Karaoke playlist can flick through a paper booklet to find their favourites. Later I found out, amazingly, that the songs are also available in French, Spanish, Swedish and German, and five select rooms even have a Japanese option… ideal for multilingual show-offs.

As a singer, and self-confessed diva, this review was ideal for me, but finding friends willing to partake was more of challenge; needless to say most downed a few beers en route to the Smithfields venue. The Dutch courage must have worked because everyone seemed to be in high spirits and fine voice when we arrived at our booth. The first Friday of 2013 and Karaoke Box was silent and empty when my raucous group turned up at 8pm. Located in the city, this club has most of its business during the week, Fridays are quiet in comparison. It suited us perfectly, exotic fruity cocktails and oven-hot thin crust pizzas arrived without delay.

We spent a fun-filled three hours in the booth, chatting, singing, eating and drinking. The staff were efficient and helpful throughout and made the whole evening run smoothly.
Highlights of the evening included: a punchy version of Vanilla Ice, the girls’ renditions of Beyonce, Spice Girls and Cher classics, and some brilliantly brave boys attempting Eminem and Red Hot Chilli Peppers. And then of course there were all the usual Karaoke favourites, a Grease medley and even a Christmas duet.

With some throats hoarse, at 11pm it was time to stop though I would have happily continued singing all night. With facilities this good and a menu of good grub and cocktails to match, Karaoke Box is the ideal venue for any party or celebration. Or better still, just an excuse to sing your heart out.

Room prices vary according to size. For an hour costs range from £20 for a four person room to £150 for the fifteen person VIP area.

More information and to book here: http://karaokebox.co.uk/smithfield/