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.