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The Ladyboys return to Manchester

The Lady Boys are back in town! In what has become a regular event the Lady Boys of Bangkok have returned to Manchester for their latest tour. Unlike a lot of shows that you see there is no overly drawn out introduction with too many warm up acts. This is a show that gets into the action straight away with a variety of different sets. If you enjoy camp you will love this show. The group does multiple musical takes on Greece and Lion King to name just a few.   One of the things that is very well done in these shows is keeping the audience engaged and that does mean audience anticipation so as they’d say during the show if they dance around you or drag you up on stage “don’t be offended!” You will also have the opportunity to have a photo during the interval, these boys are only here once a year so don’t miss out or you’ll be waiting another year. As someone who last saw the show 3 years ago one thing I can say is that this is much improved, there was nothing wrong with the show when I originally saw it but this was a smoother operation which had great pace and tempo. I highly recommend you get a ticket, this really was a brilliant night. The Lady Boys are in Manchester until the 24th June so you have plenty of opportunity to catch them while they’re here.

By Daniel Smith for Canal St Online

Book tix here..

https://www.quaytickets.com/Online/default.asp?doWork::WScontent::loadArticle=Load&BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::article_id=41140E7F-CD2B-42FE-80F9-0D66222B50F7&SessionSecurity::referrer=CanalSt

[canal-st-music-scene]

Trainspotting at The Lowry

With the well-received sequel T2, currently out on DVD and on demand, there is renewed interest in Irvine Welsh’s original novel, and the first Danny Boyle film. So, there is no better time to catch Trainspotting live on stage.

But, regulars to the Lowry, be prepared! From the minute, you enter the Quays theatre, you will notice some major changes. You are handed ear plugs and a wrist band on arrival, and you are led by some jubilant clubbers into the venue, which resembles a bed sit meets a drug fuelled night club. Livin Joy’s exuberant track “Dreamer” blares out of the speakers, and you are taken back to a time when the drugs worked for many. It’s apt that the company are called In Your Face Theatre, as there is not much let up for the actors, who work like dogs throughout. But, the effect of the immersive nature of this production is mixed. During some scenes, such as the infamous toilet scene, this totally works, as you get to experience the degradation, as well as see it. And humour is used to good effect throughout.

The audience do get used to the constant references to them, as if they are characters, and it gives the illusion that the cast is far bigger than it is. But when Begbie (the brilliant Chris Dennis) struts across the intimate space and shakes his drink at the audience, you do not gain anything narratively speaking and it feels like an effect – which exists purely because it can.

In terms of performances, there is no weak link whatsoever. But for me, Greg Esplin’s Tommy is so likeable, his pre- destined demise is heartbreakingly real, as this actor captures his despair perfectly.

Gavin Ross plays Renton as a hybrid between the skinny jeans wearing skinhead and his (movie) pal, Spud. And he does so admirably. And, hats off to Erin Marshall, who portrays grief with every inch of her body and you feel her pain.

The play moves at light speed, so unlike the film – you never engage with the characters as much as you would like. But, comparisons with the movie aside, this is theatre which crosses boundaries, a play to be experienced, and it offers you a unique, thought provoking and entertaining night out. And the cast sure have a lust for life.

Go, before the run finishes at the weekend. Book via https://www.quaytickets.com/Online/default.asp?doWork::WScontent::loadArticle=Load&BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::article_id=E6087A7F-5A62-46DD-A51C-DA6A2B8ED49F&SessionSecurity::referrer=CanalSt Or catch it on tour: http://www.trainspottinglive.com/

Four Stars Glenn Meads for Canal St Online

[canal-st-music-scene]

Alyssa Edwards at Frog and Bucket

We are being spoilt with amazing drag talent coming to perform in Manchester. Tuesday night was no different with the amazing Alyssa Edwards coming to perform at the Frog and Bucket as part of her Night of a Million Laughs presented by Klub Kids. As you already know Alyssa was a firm favourite of both Season 5 and All Stars Season 2 of Rupaul’s Drag Race and it’s that charming personality that shines through.

Frog and Bucket really put on a great set with brilliant warm up performances from Lill Queen and Joe Sutherland. As point of reference is a brilliant stand-up comedy performer in his own right and someone to watch in future. He was hilarious and a great way to get ready for the main event. 

Alyssa is a true professional and despite having her luggage lost at Dublin she was able to get to perform with a little help from Roxxxy Andrews who not only lent her clothes but also came down to present Alyssa tonight. There was a brilliant Q&A session with the audience clearly not always sticking to script themselves and asking some hilarious questions about Alyssa’s bedroom activities which were met with equally funny responses.

It was also announced by the host that Klub Kids were bringing Latrice Royale back to Manchester for a date as yet undecided in August so please stay tuned for updates on that. A big thanks to Frog and Bucket and Klub Kids for hosting such a great event and a special thanks to Alyssa for a brilliant night.  

By Daniel Smith for Canal St Online.

http://www.klubkids.co.uk/

http://www.frogandbucket.com/manchester/

[canal-st-music-scene]

Persuasion at Royal Exchange

If your vision of Jane Austen is femininity and flounce be prepared. Without a skirt lifter in sight, this contemporary take on the classic novel offers the expected quality of the Royal Exchange with an unexpected twist on the classic novel.

From the opening moments it is clear this is not what most people will expect. Who would have thought Austen could write for the 21st century? Who would have thought Jane’s work could generate such hilarity? There are moments in the first half where you may question whether the frivolity dominates the tale, and, yes, there is that danger. However, the quality of Jeff James’ direction ensures this does not become farcical, with the more reflective second half balancing the earlier lightness. The original story is adhered to: girl meets boy; girl spurns boy on the advice of elders; girls regrets the cowardice of that decision; they meet again 8 years later… Lara Rossi (Anna) is superb. Rarely off the stage, she leads and dictates the action through a series of ‘tig- you’re out’ slices of time that become increasingly harder to achieve. Helen Cripps and Dorian Simpson are hilarious in their Jeremy Kyle-esque portrayal of Anna’s sister Mary and husband Charles. The challenging staging offers more than it initially reveals, as do the cast with their onstage changes and beachwear moments. If you spent your formative years indulging in Jane Austen, whilst socialising at the Hacienda / Sankeys, this is your ideal night. If not, you'll love Jeff James and James Yeatman’s adaptation anyway. 

By Garry Thomas-Lowde for Canal St Online Rating 4/5 Royal Exchange Theatre: May 25th – June 24th 2017 Details here https://www.royalexchange.co.uk/whats-on-and-tickets

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Not Dead Enough

Peter James’ third novel in the award-winning Detective Superintendent Roy Grace crime series is currently touring the UK in a new stage adaptation. The curtain opens on a darkened stage with a single spotlight focussed on a seated woman. Next minute she’s dead. We discover this is Brian Bishop’s wife and evidence soon mounts to point the finger of guilt at him. However he was sixty miles away in London…or was he? Ian Talbot’s direction is pacey, ensuring smooth transitions between scenes within the 3-way split set. However this production suffers from acting more wooden and shaky than an Acorn Antiques set, and probably gained more laughs, though not necessarily for the right reasons. Whilst Laura Whitmore (Cleo Morey) comes out fairly well, the same cannot be said for the rest of the cast, in particular her co-stars Bill Ward (DS Roy Grace) and Stephen Billington (Brian Bishop).The stilted dialogue, lack of emotion and shallowness of character is surprising from these experienced actors. Despite the limitations of the performances, the story is clever and keeps you guessing. Without giving anything away, the end of the first half guarantees you will want to return for Act II. Not Dead Enough is a very apt title… Rating 2/5 Opera House: May 22nd-27th 2017 Click for more here http://www.atgtickets.com/shows/not-dead-enough/opera-house-manchester/

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Kate Rusby-Life in a paperboat tour-Stockport Plaza- May 12th 2017

Kate Rusby is one of those artistes that I have wanted to see for many ayear but never got round to going. However thanks to Canal Street I got the chance to see her the other evening and I am so glad I did. She appeared at the Stockport Plaza as part of her Life in a paperboat tout, that being the name of her latest album. I must say that the Plaza is an amazing place, like stepping back to the middle of the last century. If you have never had the pleasure I would recommend that you give them a visit.

Kate is from Barnsley as is evident from her accent but as soon as she starts singing all that changes. Her voice is a beautiful folk pleasure. Between songs she regaled us with anecdotes and remembrances from the 25 years she has spent recording and touring. We were given songs from the full history of her recording career including “Who will sing me lullabies” about a very close friend who got very ill and unfortunately passed away, very sad and yet happy at the same time. The best received song of the night was “Big Brave Bill” about a superhero from Barnsley who goes out performing heroic things and then goes home to drink Yorkshire tea.

The band were excellent, This included her husband Damien O’Kane who is an accomplished guitarist and could even make the banjo sound good. At one point Kate left the stage to allow the band to perform some tunes. The difference with this is that they were original tunes written by the band and very entertaining. If you get a chance to see Kate on this tour I would heartily recommend it if you like a night of humour and good music.

By Peter Sheridan for Canal St Online

For more about Kate including remaining tour dates visit 

http://www.katerusby.com

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The Wedding Singer at the Opera House

Nine years ago, the Broadway transfer of The Wedding Singer arrived, destined for the West End. It starred Jonathan Wilkes and Natalie Casey. And, although it was a sweet natured show, it lacked that certain something, to take it to London.It’s back now, and it is now a funny, fast paced, delightful show, thanks to a spirited cast, and a great ensemble. From the moment, you sit down, you are reminded that you have gone back to the 1980’s and who doesn’t love this decade. 

Oversized mobile phones, piano ties, and Spandau Ballet all feature in this gag fest.Based on the Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore rom com, the musical version has the best moments from the film, with some of the supporting characters roles, expanded to suit the musical format.Tara Verloop is a star in waiting, as Holly. In a traditional romantic comedy, she would be the wise cracking best friend. But, here she steals the show right from under the lead actresses’ nose. Uber-talented and setting the stage alight, whenever she steps onto it, she has powerhouse vocals and genuine presence and comic timing to burn.Jon Robyns’ Robbie is delightful. 

This West End pro has the likes of Avenue Q, Spamalot and Memphis under his belt, and here he grabs the lead role with both hands and has the audience eating out of his hands. Cassie Compton has great vocal ability, but her accent wavers and she does not truly convince. She is heartfelt, when singing, and then flat when she is acting, something is missing.Ray Quinn has a blast as Glen Gulia, as does Ruth Madoc as Grandma Rosie, rapping and causing chaos, whenever her character is on stage. Samuel Holmes’ George is also excellent, and a real scene stealer.

When I first saw, this show many years ago, it lacked oomph. On this tour directed with panache by Nick Winston, a completely different production has emerged. It is laugh a minute, has brilliant performances, and is a genuinely great night out. I do!The Wedding Singer is at the Manchester Opera House until 20 May.

By Glenn Meads for Canal St Online.

Check details and book via here..

http://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-wedding-singer/opera-house-manchester/

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La Strada at The Lowry

Last month the Lowry gave us Sally Cookson’s astonishing production of Jane Eyre. This month we are treated to another stunning piece of theatre directed by Cookson – the first UK stage adaptation of Federico Fellini’s iconic 1957 film: La Strada. La Strada tells the tragic and tender tale of wide-eyed Gelsomina (Audrey Brisson) who is sold by her impoverished mother to the brutish strongman Zampano (Stuart Goodwin), a travelling sideshow performer. Their journey through the Italian countryside leads them to a ragtag touring circus where they meet Il Matto (Bart Soroczynski) the free-spirited tightrope walker, who tries to rekindle Gelsomina's broken spirit.

60 years after winning the Best Foreign Language Film Academy award, this new adaptation has been devised by the cast through improvisation; their creativity captured by Cookson and writer in the room, Mike Akers. The slickness of this seamless production is evidence of this collaborative work; powerful moments of imaginative storytelling as we travel ‘the road’ with our three main characters.

Brisson is perfectly innocent as Gelsomina; Goodwin is strong, harsh and menacing as Zampano; and Soroczynsk displays impressive circus skills in his tender portrayal of Il Matto; all supported by a multi-talented cast of actor-musicians who bring the story to life through live music and original songs. This is an ensemble piece not just of actor and musician, but set, lighting and sound, each complementing the other to provide a unique experience. This a beautiful piece of theatre in a perfectly intimate venue. An emotional journey that will be remembered for months to come. Rating 5/5 Quays Theatre, The Lowry: May 15th-20th 2017

By Garry Thomas-Lowde for Canal St Online

Book tix here   

https://www.quaytickets.com/Online/default.asp?doWork::WScontent::loadArticle=Load&BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::article_id=21F9CD97-2E8C-4F34-A21F-63A622517D29&SessionSecurity::referrer=CanalSt

[canal-st-music-scene]

The Toad Knew at The Lowry

One of Europe’s most inventive artists - James Thierrée - visits The Lowry with the only two performances outside London of his latest production The Toad Knew. With a family history including Eugene O’Neill and Chaplin, it is no surprise that Thierrée is acknowledged as one of the world’s greatest and most creative performers and directors. The Toad Knew features six characters who emerge into a strange netherworld of steaming water, animalistic machines and sinister objects. The stage is dominated by a huge wire-driven, hovering lantern consisting of multiple sections that continually move and reshape throughout the journey – reminiscent of a creature straight out of Dr Who. The characters embark on a journey of discovery. I did recognise a tableau of earth, fire, water and air but quite what that journey was seemed unclear. However, the dramaturgy felt irrelevant – this is about the astonishing visual experience. Beautifully grotesque. Unnervingly stunning. Tragically comedic. Amusingly dark. Dreamlike. Nightmarish. Harmoniously discordant. Whilst the audience at the end may have been slightly smaller than the one at the beginning, for those who experienced every second, this was 90 minutes of pure imaginative delight! The 10 minute curtain call was richly deserved, particularly for the 3 backstage wire operators – a choreographic triumph. Good luck in the Molière Awards on May 29th.

Rating 4/5 By Garry Thomas-Lowde for Canal St Online Lyric Theatre, The Lowry: May 10th-11th 2017

Click here for more info 

https://www.thelowry.com/news/unmissable-masterpiece-the-toad-knew-visits-the-lowry-for-its-only-performance-outside-london

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MK Ultra at Home

“I can’t be immune to dance because I love Strictly but I don’t really know what’s going on”, so spoke my friend in the interval of MK Ultra by the Rosie Kay Dance Company and it echoed my thoughts. I’m not an expert in contemporary dance so am probably not really qualified to review it but from an extremely lay person’s point of view, all the parts were there but I didn’t feel that they gelled together all that well. In what was a master stroke for Kay, she timed the production MK Ultra, an examination of the conspiracy theories of the illuminati, perfectly with these crazy modern times of alternative facts and post truths.  The opening graphics proclaim “This is fake theatre”, setting the scene defiantly. MK Ultra refers to a mind control technique, allegedly adopted by the CIA in the 1950s and 60s. The conspiracy theory that this production focuses on is one that the CIA aligned with Disney to create controllable public figures to spread their messages to society. This was portrayed through videos by Adam Curtis, a filmmaker who’s HyperNormalisation and Bitter Lake you may have seen through iPlayer. Backed with a dance soundtrack created by Annie Mahtani including potential illuminati subjects such as Britney, seven dancers interpreted the struggle faced by those who lie victim of the illuminati as they look to create a new world order. The cast of this production are very good with the stand out star being Shelley Eva Haden who is wonderful to watch. What I found interesting was that the choreography for the whole production was incredibly tight however each performer clearly stamped their own identity onto the dance, making each one slightly different, treading just the right side though to ensure a cohesive experience for the audience. This gave off a reality TV competition of sort, each candidate battling for supremacy, working carefully within a structure but trying to stand out, which one character finally does and the throne in the corner becomes used. The only real issue I had as an audience member was tying these all together and understanding the story. I probably should have done some reading up before I attended and I would have had a much better experience as having read up since, it has made things seem much more clearer. This didn’t detract from enjoying a night at HOME for another groundbreaking performance that the venue is becoming well known for.  Whether you subscribe to the conspiracy theory or not, it is an important and compelling production that leaves you questioning whether we are all just being controlled after all. 3 stars

Chris Park for Canal St Online

More here http://mkultra.dance/

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Shalamar at Manchester Academy

One of the best gigs this year for me. A fan since my teens when they were a regular fave played at 18th birthday parties Shalamar still retain their energy and delivered a great performance. Found myself Ringwalding with the best to the faster hits like Dead Giveaway & Disappearing Act and crowd-stepping to There it is & Take Me to the Bank.

Really nice crowd with a wide age range and the staff at the Academy were friendly and accommodating. Jody Watley wasn’t conspicuous by her absence as a bouncy Carolyn Griffey brought her own vim and vigour to the act which along with Howard and Jeffrey’s flair and a skilled support band made a superb concert all round. 

A long finish encore with Night to Remember left us happy and wanting MORE.

By Neil Walbran  for Canal St Online.

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Ghost at The Lowry

The musical adaptation of the hit film Ghost premiered in Manchester six years ago, before heading for the West End and Broadway. So, there is a great deal of good will from audiences here because it feels like our show. And, there is the fact the film starring Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore and Whoopi Goldberg has many iconic scenes.

When the show first arrives here, it featured some amazing effects by Paul Kieve. This time around, the smoke and mirrors are missing and with this omission, some of the magic is gone.

That’s not to say, there is nothing to see here, as Kelly Hampson is excellent as grief stricken Molly, and Ethan Bradshaw holds his own as Sam who is caught in between two worlds, trying to find his killer. There is a scene stealer here also, who stops the show from becoming maudlin; Jacqui Dubois. Her Oda Mae, the dodgy psychic who begins to hear the dead, is a powerhouse, in terms of comic timing and vocally. Every time she is on stage, this show comes to life.

Sam Ferriday is suitably enough panto villain to give you the binary opposition that shows like this need, as Sam’s ‘best friend’, Carl.

Bruce Joel Rubin, Dave Stewart and Glen Ballard’s songs keep the show bouncing along, and highlight the melancholy and empty feelings of grief and loss very well.

For anyone who has seen the show in its original form, or during the first tour, there is a nagging feeling here that things have been scaled down way too much and it feels a bit cheap. From the size of the ensemble, lack of special effects through to Mark Bailey’s wobbly set design.

There are some magical moments created by the illusionist Richard Pinner, but not enough to satisfy those who pay full whack and expect more bang for their buck.

The cast give it their all and work incredibly hard to engage the audience, and in most cases, they succeed. The narrative sticks faithfully to the movie, so fans get what they came for. It’s just a shame, that they may also feel that they need a bit more spent on the show to truly believe.

Glenn Meads for Canal St Online

Ghost, the Musical is at the Lowry until 29 April.

Book here.

https://www.quaytickets.com/Online/default.asp?doWork::WScontent::loadArticle=Load&BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::article_id=BBFE8192-12BB-4906-B652-AFEA2E521E5A&SessionSecurity::referrer=CanalSt

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Twelfth Night – “Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and others have greatness thrust upon them.”

Jo Davies makes her Royal Exchange debut by bringing Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night to the theatre. In this production Faith Omole (Viola), Kevin Harvey (Orsino) and Mina Anwar (Maria) return and Anthony Calf takes on the role of Malvolio. 

No stranger to the LGBT scene in Manchester, award-winning transgender artist and activist Kate O’Donnell makes her Royal Exchange debut in the role of Feste, the wise observer in this foolish, lovesick kingdom and she does an excellent job. Washed up on the shores of Illyria after a ship-wreck, Viola hides her true identity by disguising herself as a man. Finding a job and love at the court of Duke Orsino, Viola becomes muddled in mistaken identities when her disguise begins to cause more problems than it solves. Omole takes charge of the stage throughout with a faultless performance as she dominates the stage in her quest for love. Sebastian (Daniel Francis-Swaby) comes into his own in the second half as the story unravels and reaches its conclusion. With some of Shakespeare’s most popular characters caught up in this outrageous tale of misadventure, the comic activity of Simon Armstrong (Sir Toby Belch) and Harry Attwell (Sir Andrew Aguecheek) is superb and you arrive at a point where you just don’t want it to stop. When mixed with Mina Anwar’s (Maria) performance and Kate O’Donnell, you know that what you are witnessing is some of the best comic display theatre has to produce. Famously Orsino says “if music be the food of love, play on”, and indeed live music plays a major part in this production and is used to extraordinary effect. From the opening chant sung by the critically acclaimed folk musician Kate Young to the unusual technique and sounds from lap-tap guitarist Joe Gravil the play revolves around the presence of the music and adds to the complexity of this comedy. Kate O’Donnell brings this production to end with a reflective and tranquil ending and you would indeed be a “fool” to miss this stunning production.

By Dean Thomas-Lowde for Canal St Online.

5 stars

More info and to book here..

https://www.royalexchange.co.uk/whats-on-and-tickets/twelfth-night

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2017 marks the 170th anniversary of the first publication of Jane Eyre and The Lowry is the first stop for this National Theatre / Bristol Old Vic co-production anniversary tour.

Charlotte Brontë’s classic story is re-imagined for the 21st century putting it on a level with the best of contemporary British drama. The stripped back staging, echoing the starkness of northern moors, lays bare the life of Jane Eyre. One minute we’re laughing at a young child’s view on the world; the next being punched in the stomach by the heart-wrenching emotion of the story; this powerful ensemble piece keeps the audience gripped from start to nail-biting finale. Superbly directed by Sally Cookson, this is an energetic, fast-paced production skilfully acted and hauntingly accompanied by the on-stage band. Melanie Marshall’s incredible voice makes the hair on your neck stand up every time she sings. Manchester’s Nadia Clifford plays Jane from birth to adulthood, perfectly capturing the innocence of youth and the feistiness of a resolute, free-thinking woman – this is Jane with balls! Tim Delap provides equal force as the stubborn Yorkshireman with a secret. This astonishing production truly deserved its standing ovation and is one not to be missed! Rating 5/5

By Garry Thomas-Lowde for Canal St Online.

Lyric Theatre, The Lowry: April 8th-15th 2017 

Book here https://www.quaytickets.com/Online/default.asp?doWork::WScontent::loadArticle=Load&BOparam::WScontent::loadArticle::article_id=3E6CD4BA-97EC-4689-81A8-E44A6DDE2EEE&SessionSecurity::referrer=CanalSt

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The Commitments at Palace Theatre

After a fantastically successful two-year run on the West End, The Commitments has arrived in Manchester and is playing in the Palace Theatre on Oxford Road until the 8th April.  We went along last night to see the show for ourselves and escape the essays for a night. 

Based on the BAFTA-award winning film and book by Roddy Doyle, the show follows a rock and roll – or rock and soul – rise and fall trajectory.  Following a misfit group of Irish friends who form a soul group, the musical is a lot of fun throughout.  Filled with classic soul songs – Mustang Sally, Heard it Through the Grapevine and Proud Mary to name a few - the show appealed and the audience sang along to the hits.

The set changes were great, and the cast made good use of the moments to inject some comedy into the performance- in particular, Brian Gilligan’s slick Deco in his grotty Superman underpants.  Gilligan was originally picked to play Billy – an Animal inspired-hairy-limbs-akimbo-drummer – but was overheard singing in the stairwell at The Palace and hired to take the role of lead singer in The Commitments instead.  Andrew Linnie’s Jimmy held the show- and the band- together, and does a grand job throughout.

In places the plot was a bit thin and the characters somewhat stereotyped*, but the cast are vocally exceptional, the laughs came thick and fast, and the songs pull the show together and kept us well entertained.

*Kate’s Irish parents are still distressed at the painfully excessive use of jaysus and TV legend Kevin Kennedy’s “Dublin” twang.

3.5 stars

Check out more info and to book tix here..

http://www.atgtickets.com/shows/the-commitments/palace-theatre-manchester/

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Macy Gray live in Manchester

A packed out older audience graced the floor for Macy, a stage that allegedly hosted Princes last live performance, so she was in very good company..

Lampshades cover the stage to welcome a 28 minutes late Macy.But the crowd welcomed her warmly.

Gray opened the show boldly in her silver sparkly outfit, looking a little 'giddy' maybe on her first 3 songs?

Some highlights included her cover of Radioheads notorious 'Creep' track and Sexual Revolution, always a firm fav of her most loyal fans.

3 Costume changes later and an interim talk to the crowd about Freedom inspired the onlookers, with her most famous track "I Try" hyping the crowd to close.

Very Jazzy and Soulful, at times her voice sounding like warm honey with able support from her 4 musicians (Drums, Keyboard, Sax and Bass).

Overall this was a little disappointing that she started so late, but it was a great performance from the Legendary and at times boisterous , madam Macy Gray.

3.5 stars

By Kirsty Devlin for Canal St Online Contact @Kirstydevlin1

For more about up coming gigs at The Academy 

http://www.manchesteracademy.net/

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YANK! Hope Mill Theatre

After the success of 'Parade' & 'Hair', expectations are high for this latest Hope Mill Theatre / Aria Entertainment production and I'm pleased to report that  it doesn't disappoint.

'Yank!' by Joseph & David Zellnick is a gorgeous show that you'll want to clutch to your chest and never let go of. Set at the tail end of World War Two, the story revolves around two men who fall in love whilst enlisted in the US Army.

 Imagine a glorious Rodgers & Hammerstein movie musical but with Gene Kelly and Howard Keel playing the star crossed lovers and you'll be on the right lines. As Stu and Mitch try to navigate their feelings in the most macho of surroundings, the war, fellow soldiers and society in general conspire to keep them apart. This was a period when the armed forces often treated gay people with as much contempt as 'the enemy'.

Over the course of the piece Stu, the young innocent, becomes perhaps the bravest of them all. Scott Hunter's performance is so engaging, wide eyed and compelling you're rooting for him from the moment he makes his surprise entrance. Barnaby Hughes plays the flirtatious chiselled jaw hero to great effect and in the multi-talented all singing all dancing cast, special mention must go to Sarah-Louise Young who plays every female character is the show! There are also some great comic moments in the mix as well as the inevitable darker elements reflecting the horrors of war but overall this is a romantic, nicely sentimental homage to the forties.

Chris Cuming's choreography is impressive and adventurous considering the limited space and the era is authentically brought to life by the score, beautifully sung by the cast and played by an impressive seven piece band who make a sound that belies their modest number.

5 stars

By Drew Tosh for Canal St Online..

Runs until April 8

More details here http://hopemilltheatre.co.uk/events/yank-the-musical/

Box Office 0161 275 9141