Hairspray (The Young Ones)
Dropping back into the 1960s with The Young Ones (nothing to do with Cliff Richard for those who like me remember that far back, rather some of the best of the Black Country youth theatrical talent) for one of those 'feelgood' musicals with a real message to deliver.
We're not only talking the 'nicest kids in town' here but, also some of the most accomplished on a stage, Owen Bradley provides a virtuoso performance as mother Edna Turnblad, it's a tough call for a guy to play a woman at any level and he makes it look like a 'walk in the park'. Maddy Rock mixes high levels of all three performing skills (sing, dance and act) to deliver an energetic, likeable and thoroughly entertaining Tracy Turnblad and creates a perfect blend with love interest Link Larkin played with authority and sophistication by Alex Cook.
Whilst there are an assortment of melodic voices in this cast, there is something especially appealing about that emanating from Izzy Westley-Smith as Penny Pingleton and she forms part of another captivating on stage relationship alongside Charlie Hale's uplifting portrayal of Seaweed J. Stubbs. This is a production of many partnerships and mother and daughter, Velma and Amber Von Tussle are played with feisty bravado by Madison Griffiths and Shannon Lee respectively, both actresses commanding respect from the audience for some appreciable character acting skills.
Some other notable performances from Sam Simpson as a supportive and gently comic Wilbur Turnblad, Isabella Ferrara as a lively Little Inez and Chanelle Garratt as Motormouth Maybelle serving-up a powerful and soulful rendition of my favourite number 'I Know Where I've Been'. There is also a strong supporting ensemble cast who should not be forgotten or underestimated when it comes to their input into making this an entertaining spectacle.
Director - Janet Kirkham, Musical Director - Nick Jeavons and Choreographer - (Ex Young One) Sheryl Pearson have moulded something quite special here, they've set the bar high for the 2019 Production.
Strange to think that 1962 when Hairspray is set, is in excess of fifty years gone and for all of the cast could be classed as ancient history, I would be surprised if many parents haven't been asked to explain the cultural significance of Peyton Place, Jackie Gleason and why we can all learn a lesson from the relationship mistakes of Miss Debbie Reynolds.
It only remains for me to say that if you're not humming the tunes and practicing your Madison as you leave the theatre, you obviously went to the wrong place and missed an outstanding piece of musical theatre. If you haven't got a ticket then you need to get one while there is still any to get as they'll be well sought after and you wouldn't want to be the one who missed this production so either call Chris on 01384 895266 or email Kaz on kazziebubbles@aol.com for tickets.
The Young Ones - Facebook Page
We're not only talking the 'nicest kids in town' here but, also some of the most accomplished on a stage, Owen Bradley provides a virtuoso performance as mother Edna Turnblad, it's a tough call for a guy to play a woman at any level and he makes it look like a 'walk in the park'. Maddy Rock mixes high levels of all three performing skills (sing, dance and act) to deliver an energetic, likeable and thoroughly entertaining Tracy Turnblad and creates a perfect blend with love interest Link Larkin played with authority and sophistication by Alex Cook.
Whilst there are an assortment of melodic voices in this cast, there is something especially appealing about that emanating from Izzy Westley-Smith as Penny Pingleton and she forms part of another captivating on stage relationship alongside Charlie Hale's uplifting portrayal of Seaweed J. Stubbs. This is a production of many partnerships and mother and daughter, Velma and Amber Von Tussle are played with feisty bravado by Madison Griffiths and Shannon Lee respectively, both actresses commanding respect from the audience for some appreciable character acting skills.
Some other notable performances from Sam Simpson as a supportive and gently comic Wilbur Turnblad, Isabella Ferrara as a lively Little Inez and Chanelle Garratt as Motormouth Maybelle serving-up a powerful and soulful rendition of my favourite number 'I Know Where I've Been'. There is also a strong supporting ensemble cast who should not be forgotten or underestimated when it comes to their input into making this an entertaining spectacle.
Director - Janet Kirkham, Musical Director - Nick Jeavons and Choreographer - (Ex Young One) Sheryl Pearson have moulded something quite special here, they've set the bar high for the 2019 Production.
Strange to think that 1962 when Hairspray is set, is in excess of fifty years gone and for all of the cast could be classed as ancient history, I would be surprised if many parents haven't been asked to explain the cultural significance of Peyton Place, Jackie Gleason and why we can all learn a lesson from the relationship mistakes of Miss Debbie Reynolds.
It only remains for me to say that if you're not humming the tunes and practicing your Madison as you leave the theatre, you obviously went to the wrong place and missed an outstanding piece of musical theatre. If you haven't got a ticket then you need to get one while there is still any to get as they'll be well sought after and you wouldn't want to be the one who missed this production so either call Chris on 01384 895266 or email Kaz on kazziebubbles@aol.com for tickets.
The Young Ones - Facebook Page
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