"Shakespeare Was Good, But Charles Was Better!" - Dicken's Abridged, Arts Theatre, London. 14.12.13

After hearing the news of Jon Robyns ending his run as Sir Galahad in Spamalot, I will be honest and was quite upset, but before he left he announced that he and Kit Orton (Sir Lancelot) would be part of the Cast of Comedy Dickens Abridged, well I was sold, and after my friend has received a tweet from Jon himself, saying you will have to come and see me in Dicken's,...10 mins after she had bought the Tickets and on a busy Saturday 14th December in London, it was off to be entertained!

 

Tonight's show was performed at The Arts Theatre, which is near by to Leicester Square, I had past it many times in my many journeys to London, so I was kind of intrigued to see what it was like. It was small but then where it was based it didn't feel like a big theatre, but then I've been surprised before. We were based in the stalls, and of course Row A seats 8 and 9 coming up at the price of 39.50, and our view was pretty good to say the least!

The set was quite simplistic with 4 huge books placed on the sides of the stage, and small books stacked up here and there, on stage left there was a piano also, throughout these books were used as sets, and props for instance David Copperfield was opened up to reveal Charles' Bed, Oliver Twist was the grand entrance for one scene, and A Tale of Two Cities...brought a sad end to one scene.  The small books stacked up were compartments for props, wardrobe, and other surprises, kind of like Mary Poppins you didn't know what they were going to produce next! the simplistic set allowed the audience to focus a lot of the cast, and i'm glad they did keep it simple!

Being called Dicken's Abridged and with the poster having Charles Dickens placed right in the centre, its pretty easy to tell that this musical play is in fact based around Charles Dickens life and the novels he wrote, with a twist however...for within this 90 min performance along with the life story of Charles himself, was I believe 8 classic stories that Charles had written. How this was told was through many new and creative songs, which the actors sung, and played there own instruments to play the music, (I think the best thing about this show was because of this, and the performers didn't even have microphones! there was something that was just traditional with that to me). I could tell I was going to be viewing something totally different and from the first number The Ballad of Charles Dickens which stated from the very beginning Shakespeare was good, but Charles was Better! It confirmed my theory, what is also funny about particular line is, the director of the show is a creator of The Reduced Shakespeare Company if you see what I mean? The show flowed throughout, and sometimes you didn't know who was going and who was coming on, but when they did appear they would be someone very different! How they did it that fast! Totally Mystery! Now in between the telling of Charles Dicken's life they performed the stories, the Stories such as Oliver Twist, David Copperfield, Nicholas Nickleby, and Christmas Carol were performed with a few scenes for each, and stories like Bleak House, Little Dorrit, and The Old Curiosity Shop were a simple yet comical performance of Balladeer (Gerrad Carey), he simply walked along the stage stood by the isle played his guitar and in a 30 -60 sec song he produced the synopsis of those very tales, and then walked off, leaving the audience laughing.  The best thing about this show was that throughout you could tell that the small cast were really enjoying themselves, I was rather jealous! But they them two brought the audience in, and made you thoroughly enjoy your evening. 

I was also quite cheeky at the end of Act 1, as Charles Dickens shows a newspaper and then flings it into the air, which that night had landed hanging off the stage, when they walked off and it just layed there I couldn't help but think I WANT IT...so I slipped it off the stage, and had a gander and what it said, then a quick photo, however during this photo the stage hand came out and looked on the ground...you guessed it, I bowed my head in embarrassment and passed it back to her...I really didn't take it honest...then pose for a photo...but having shared it on Twitter and their Facebook page it got quite a bit of publicity! including retweets, and comments and a share from the Director himself! So I guess I could say TOTALLY WORTH IT!


Now as I have before the cast was very small, and Dickens was performed by 5 Actors:

 

Gerrard Carey - Oliver Twist, Tiny Tim, and Others

Matthew Hendrickson - Mr. Warren, Mr. Micawber, and Others

Damian Humbly - Charles Dickens and Others

Kit Orton - The Artful Dodger, David Copperfield, and Others

Jon Robyns-Fagin, Scrooge, and Others

 

Sadly tonight Kit Orton was unwell, and at the beginning of the performance Adam Long, walked to centre stage to tell the news of Kit not performing that night, and in his place would be himself instead, the audience clapped and cheered, which led Adam saying "ha, lets see if you will still be doing that after!" Now Adam Long was the writer and director of this show, and a founding member of the Reduced Shakespeare company, in the beginning of the program he explains the idea's that created the show, from his memories of Christmas where his friends that he grew up with "Hippies, Punks, bikers, and computer programmers would hire the Cow Palace exhibition hall in San Francisco and transform it into the streets of Dickensians London" people would then buy tickets and would dress as their favourite Dickens Character and walk down these created streets, "there would be Dickensian Crafts for Sale, Dickensian Food and drink, Dickensian music and dancing" it is a tradition that continues to this day. Then through his memories of these events and singing Knocking on heavens door with these fellow friend blended in to then create Dicken's Abridged, "Its a mash-up of California, and Dickens: The Grateful Dead, meets The Ghost of Christmas Past...with a touch of Mars Brothers thrown in for good measure. (which now explains why throughout the cast speak in an American accent, yes ok I was a tad slow!)"  Although it was disappointing that Kit was unwell, but watching Adam perform I will say was a treat, and also you could tell the cast were enjoying it too, they even made the cheeky comments about his performance, like when he had a very long and tricky line to make Gerrad quickly came out with "you got there in the end!" You could tell that Adam was very happy with his work, and he should be!

 

 

Now being that all the members of the cast perform the many characters of the Charles Dickens novels, including the female roles! Damien was a great Charles Dickens, with great presence when he performed the role, and my word did he really love the bludgering scene of Nancy from Oliver Twist!

Gerrard Carrey was very funny, and a great comedy performer, he always had a very innocent face, and his Catherine Dickens Outburst was Classic! As well as Agnes from David Copperfield! But what I laughed out the best was his Tiny Tim, where his crutch became an electric guitar, you just didn't see it coming! Matthew Hendrickson, Mr Warren's Song was very emotional, performed in a way of a heartbreak break up song in a musical yet this time was just Charles Dickens leaving the Factory for a better life, was a very good start to the show, and then appearing later beside Charles while he lay sick in bed! Jon Robyn's, most of his character's that  he played would either have his guitar on his back, or was sitting at the piano for most of them, and you could tell that he was enjoying every bit of it! When he played Ellen Charles second wife, the Galahad hair flick made an appearance, though not sure if it was as good! and Ellen's dance moves were very good if I do say so myself.  His other roles were also very good, and he defiantly left us in a Christmas mood with him leading the story of Christmas Carol with the role of Scrooge, and the swift change from Top hat with a wig, to Night cap with a Wig! No one suspected a thing!

 

I did not get a chance to get a photo with everyone, but my programme is well and truly autographed! I was lucky did get one with Gerrard Carrey, and of course my favourite Jon Robyns, who was kind enough to have a chat with us after the show! We even had a quick chat with Adam Long too, and he laughed when I replied it was NOT me that took the newspaper to which he replied "oh that was you!"...oh no they were on to me! but it was all in good humour.



This show at the Arts Centre is only running to the 4th January 2014, and I really want to go again, I feel it is one of the those shows again that every time you go, you will come out seeing something a little bit different then you did the one before, which is why I want to go again...but if you get the chance the GO! but if you didn't you missed out...REALLY missed out!

"I Dreamed a Dream in Time Gone By..." - Les Miserables, Queens Theatre, London 2.12.13

So finally after much waiting and patience, my 24th birthday came around, and within my Birthday card from my Mum and Dad, was money, to go towards purchasing tickets for Les Miserables in London, that night I searched the Web, and luckily my friend had the money, cause I found Row C seats 8 and 9 for the 2nd December, they were two good to let by, and I received my confirmed e-mail minutes later! I was Finally going to see Les Miserables and I couldn't have been happier, and it was all I could have asked for, and more!

After a brilliant day in London, feeling festive after going to the Winter Wonderland, and enjoying the fair at leicester square! We walked past M&M world, and down the road that led to the Queens Theatre, a quick search of the Stage door and then we waited for them to open the doors to front of house. This was my first time of course at the Queens Theatre, and I will admit I was surprised at how small it was, and our seats as I said before Row C seats 8 and 9 costing £72.15 (I was thankful for my parents to give me the money towards these seats, Les Miserables is constantly on high demand having full houses for most of their performances, so it is highly unlikely that you would find good cheap seats unless you queue for day tickets at the theatre, or await if there has been any cancellations), the view was not one to be complained about and we were able to see everything that was happening, and no restrictive views! We were that eager to get into our seats, and were the first ones in, and at first the famous logo wasn't on the curtain, but when it appeared the butterflies in my stomach were on high speed!

When the lights dimmed it was show time, and the orchestra was playing, a smile spread across my face, and it didn't leave it till the standing ovation (though moments of tears did come across in some scenes, tissues are advised for this show!)

The scenery for Les Mis, is very simplistic, with the odd props of furniture such as table and chairs, but it is the revolving stage that creates the swift change of scenes, as Les Mis is forever flowing with its beautifully sung music. The only huge bit of staging which is hidden on the sides until it is brought forward in the scenes in Paris, where the wall has been built during the revolution, this wall creates the streets of Paris, and the main setting for the revolution, and when it changes, you forget what it was before. It was just so smooth, and with there being less scenery, it enabled the audience to focus on the characters and the story that was being sung!

The Story of Les Miserable, is created by many stories told though the amazing characters, the main focus is prisoner 24601, who was freed from his 19 years on the chain gang, Javert the head policemen informs him that he will always be a prisoner, which proves true for while he is trying to find a life for himself again, he finds himself one of an outcast, when a Bishop brings him a kind heart, he decides to start his life anew "Who am I? I'm Jean Valjean!" 19 years past since Valjean broke parole, changing his name he becomes quite successful, and mayor, one on the workers of his factory Fantine, who is working to pay for medicines for her daughter, gets wrongly dismissed and is driven to selling her locket, hair, and becomes a whore selling herself to men, but when she gets into a fight with a prospective customer, and is about to be taken prisoner by Javert, Valjean demands that she be taken to hospital.
Valjean, carrying on his kind hearted spree, then rescues a man who was pinned beneath a cart, reminding Javert of the abnormal strength of 24601, who informs the real Valjean that a man has been recaptured in his name, this shakes Valjean who unable to see an innocent man go to prison, confesses that he is the prisoner.  Jean Valjean goes to the hospital where Fantine is on her deathbed, he promises her that he will find and look after her daughter Cosette, when Fantine passes, Javert arrives to arrest Jean Valjean, who pleads that he be allowed to follow his promise to Fantine, Javert does not agree, and they fight, Valjean escapes.
Cosette has been lodged with the Thenardiers, who have been treating her badly, while they indulge their own daughter Eponine with toys and dresses, Jean Valjean arrives and pays the Thenardiers to allow him to take Cosette away, and raise her as his daughter.
9 years pass, and in the city of Paris unrested as the likely demise of the popoular leader General Lamarque, the only man who is left in the government who shows any feeling for the poor. Thenardier have now become living on the streets, and set on Jean Valjean and Cosette, who are rescued by Javert, who luckily does not recognise he is who he is searching for.
Eponine who with her family now living on the street, but is friends, and secretly in love with student Marius, she reluctantly agrees to assist him in finding Cosette to whom he saw in the streets and has fallen in love with her at first site.
With the loss of Gernal Lamarque, a group of politically-minded students go out into the streets, to find support for the revolution.
Elsewhere Cosette is forever thinking of Marius, whom she has fallen in love with as well. Eponine finds Cosette and brings Marius to her.  While she is there she prevents an attempt by her fathers gang to rob Valjean's house. Which led Valjean to believe it is Javert after him, and tells Cosette that they must flee the country to be safe, "ONE DAY MORE"
The students build the barricade. Noticing that Eponine had joined the insurrection, Marius sends her away with a letter to Cosette, which gets intercepted by her ValJean.  Eponine goes and decided to rejoin her love at the barricade.
With the barricade built, and the revolutionaries defy an army warning to give up or die, Javert is exposed as the police spy. Then on returning to the barricade, Eponine is shot and is killed in the arms of Marius, who finds the true feelings in the song of "A Little Spot of Rain"
Valjean joins the barricade in search of Marius. He is given the chance to kill Javert but instead lets him go. The students settle, and in the quiet of the night, Valjean prays to god to save Marius, "Bring him home."  The next day the rebels are all killed.
Valjean however escapes into the sewers with an unconscious Marius, while trudging through them they come across Thenardier, who is robbing the corpses of the dead, and then after Valjean comes across Javert, and pleads once more for time to take Marius to hospital. Javert lets him go, and unbending the principles of justice now shattered by Valjean's mercy, he kills himself.
Marius now recovering unaware of whom rescued him from the barricade, is left to mourn for the loss of his friends though the song "Empty Chairs, and Empty Tables."  with the care from Cosette he recovers well, and Valjean confesses the truth of his past to Marius, and insist that he must leave.
During the wedding of Cosette and Marius, the Thenardiers try to blackmail Marius, saying that Cosette's father murdered, and with proof of a ring which he stole from Marius in the sewers leads Marius to realise that it was Valjean who rescued him that night .  He takes Cosette to go to Valjean, where she learns for the first time her own history, before Valjean passes and join Fantine, and Eponine in heaven.

This very story is told throughout through song, and it is beautifully done, and I was blown away!

Who is it that sings this production, but an amazing talented cast, and this night was played by:

Jean Valjean - Chris Holland (understudy)

Javert - Tam Mutu

Fantine - Na-Young Jeon

Thernadier- Cameron Blakly

Madame Thernadier - Wendy Ferguson

Eponine- Carrie Hope Fletcher

Cosette-Jade Davies (understudy)

Enjolras - Niall Sheehy (understudy)

Marius - Rob Houchen

Jean Valjean played by understudy Chris Holland, was great, his voice and portrayal of Valjean was heart warming, and you could tell that he was loving what he was doing, I was anxious to hear his Bring Him Home  for having listened to Hugh Jackman sing, and in my opinion ruin the song, i was so happy to have it replaced by Chris, his voice was warming and emotional, LOVED IT! Being an understudy when he left at the stage door he did swiftly walk away, but I just couldn't let my first Jean Valjean walk away and not say hello and thank you. Lucky we caught him and got a photo and signature, he was quite surprised to see us, but thankful also, and responded to my tweet :)

 

We were lucky that we had Tam Mutu play Javert having been on holiday the week before, and he is so amazingly strong within his role, that when you see him in person you wouldn't believe he was Javert.  He completely took on the role, and his final song was jaw dropping good, and the way they perform his killing of himself is so original (you will have to see it, to understand) He was lovely to chat with and also replied to my tweet :)

Na-Young Jeaon who played Fantine, had me in tears in her finale scene, she was lovely and her voice was beautiful.

 

Carrie Hope Fletcher played Eponie and the moment she hit the stage, I kept staring at her, and I felt I defiantly know her from somewhere but where I couldn't tell? I looked at the program and she is a YouTuber, band I may have seen her on the interwebs, but only recently did I find out that she is actually sister to Mcfly's Tom Fletcher! so I guess she is the closest im ever going to get to a Mcfly! anyway her performance was great and I LOVED her Eponine, you could again tell that she really loved what she was doing her final song again had me in tears, I didn't want to see her go! She was lovely to meet as well :)

 

The Two top Students Marius and Enjolras performed by Rob Houchen, and Niall Sheehy the 1st cover understudy.  Im so Jealous of Rob as Les Miserable has marked his first west end Debut and what a show to do it for! You could really tell why, he was a natural, and you fell in love with him, my friend who doesn't usually cry at shows actually broke her during his song Empty Chairs at Empty Tables and it was so moving! Niall Sheehy, I had seen often on twitter by Oliver Tompsett, he was understudy for Fiyero, and also auditioned for Jesus for the Jesus Superstar Arena tour, so it was great to finally see him on stage, and he did not disappoint, he was lovely to talk to not only because of his Irish accent! How he kept his eyes open during the end of the Revolution scene was brilliant!

 

Last but not least, the Comedy Duo of the Thernadier's, from the moment of Master of the House, or any moment they were on the stage, they lightened up the atmosphere, and had the audience giggling. The ending scene especially was excellent, with the cheeky stealing of the silverware and getting caught, there faces were priceless, and both lovely people to meet!  

So after years of waiting, the night came to an unwanted end, and I finally saw the one musical that I was set on seeing this year, and now I have seen it...yes you guessed it I want to go again and again, and again! However I would like to view it in the circle next time preferably in the front of it, to see the set from high above and see how it differs the experience, I know it means saving the pennies, but I know it will be totally WORTH IT! Les Miserable you were not a disappoint me and I shall be back!

"They Live in You! They Live in ME!" - Disney's The Lion King, Lyceum Theatre, London 18.10.13

 In September I was given the invitation to go to the theatre, by my old job and take a good friend to the West end for the first time! After much thought, and a good way to introduce her to London Theatre, we chose to take her to Disney's The Lion King, and the Lyceum Theatre on the 18th October for the evening performance.

The Lyceum Theatre from the very beginning is a stuning theatre, with the beautiful tall pillars and the many signs of Mufasa's face, and inside is just as beautiful.

This was my third time seeing this show, the first was during the time I lived in America, and saw it on Broadway, however I have seen the show here before at the Lyceum, which was a couple of years before this showing, I was seated up in the upper circle quite centre, and the view up there was great to see everything yet sometimes it was quite limited, and the common £1 binoculars were bought to see some of the performers. Tonight's showing however I was based in the stalls Row R seat 13, which was located to the right of the stage in the Aisle with another aisle in front. Our view of the stage was great and the bonus of being in the aisle made the experience so enjoyable! I was so lucky to have paid only £32.50 for my seat, bust usually this seat would cost in the £60, its a top selling show and not often on offer except the ones that you would purchase if you were paying for a meal and top price tickets, and normally £32.50 tickets are those up in the Upper Circle which are perfectly fine.


As I said being in the Aisle is a great spot especially in the stalls, as from the beginning of the Lion King you are a brought into the African plains during the "Circle of Life" as the song is sung, the animals parade down the aisle, we were placed in the aisle of the Rhinosauraus, (in the other was the Elephant) and the birds, and had the Springbok, walk in front of us. You couldn't help but smile, and be amazed at how the animal puppetry just brought them to life, and sometimes couldn't tell the difference! The aisle was also used many times to 'Break' the fourth wall, during the song "Be Prepared" I completely forgot it was used until the Hyena's came snapping at us, and we also had young Simba run past, after escaping the stampede.

So if you want the full effect I recommend going to see the show in the Stalls, to see the Animals, or the first rows of the Circle I have heard are also a great view.

The Lion King, is one of Disney's top grossing films, which was loved by many and still to this day my favourite Disney Film.  It was one of the first animated films to get an Oscar! The story is the tale of a New born king to be, Son of Mufasa and Sarabi, the King and Queen of the Pridelands, Simba. However the jealousy of the Kings Brother Scar, turns to revenge and murder, as he murders his brother and blames Simba, who runs away from the Pridelands. Scar believing that his hyena sidekicks, Shenzi, Banzai, and Ed, killed Simba, places himself as King of the Pridelands, however Simba escapes and takes himself to jungle where he meets the two comic characters of Timon and Pumbaa, a meerkat, and a warthog, who had turned there back on the World, and live there life the 'Hakunna Matata" way "it means No worries." While Simba carries on the Hakunna Matata way back in the Pridelands all is not well with the Hyenas eating everything and driving the animals out, the Lions are left to starve and it is Nala, a childhood friend of Simba to go and find help. She finds Simba who helps him see that he is the Future king, with a little help from Rafiki (the amazing baboon) and the spirit of this father Mufasa, he returns and takes what is his from his Lying Uncle, and becomes the true King of Priderock!
Now does this story kind of, sort of sound familiar? Well after a big debate with my old English teacher, but it has been proven and is true that The Lion King is based on Shakespeare's play Hamlet, you know brother of king, murders him to get the thrown, and then the son is to go and get revenge on his uncle to get the thrown back...minus obviously Scar marrying Sarabi, and everyone dying at the end, yes it is pretty much the Story!

Now the story may have been influenced by a famous play, but having studied this production for my university dissertation 2 years ago, I was aware from the very beginning that Julie Taymor, the Director, and creator of all the puppets, and visuals wanted the Lion King to present not the story itself but HOW the story was told, and if I do say so myself she truly pulled it off. Having loved the animated film, while watching this production, you don't just wow at the story, as I myself no off by heart the script! (my sister and I used to recite it at the back of the car on many family outings) but I was blown away by the sets, and the puppets, and how the were shown, you truly cannot take your eyes off the stage, and because of that the experience of this show is amazing! The great thing about it, is it is the costumes that create the scenes, with the simplistic staging behind of maybe the sun rising, or a small change in the lighting, drawing yourselves into the many animals, and foliage that the actors portray, it truly is beautiful, and so thought out.

Now onto the Actors, I myself was not aware of anyone who was performing in this production, the cast was as follows.

 

Rafiki - Nteliseng Nikela

Mufasa-Shaun Escoffery

Sarabi - Gemma Knight Jones

Zazu - Mark McGee (2nd understudy)

Scar - Andy Mace (Understudy)

Shenzi - Sarah Amankwah

Banzai - Taofique Folarin

Ed - Hugo Barista (Understudy)

Timon - Jaime Golding (Understudy)

Pumba - Keith Brookman

Simba - Jonathan Andrew Hume

Nala - Melina M'Poy

 

We did have many understudies this night, but it didn't matter, because as long as they created the character is was a success. Ntelising was brilliant as the amazing comic Rafiki, making the audience laugh, even though at some points they were not aware of what she was saying. Shaun's Mufasa was strong and powerful, and suited his role well! with the deep voice that only Mufasa can have! Zazu was portrayed by the second understudy who usually portrays the comic character of Ed, but tonight Mark was on top form as Zazu, as although Rowan Atkinson is the voice in the animated film, its great to see different portrayals of this character, and I love how they break Character at the end of "I just can't wait to be King" where he asks "Where is my bird?" Andy Mace played the role of Scar, and I'm sorry I really didn't enjoy him as the villain, I don't think he put his all in, and with the amazing lines that scar produces in the show and found him quite stiff in parts that he could really have stolen the show with, he didn't do Scar Justice, I preferred the lead actor of the role George Asprey when I first saw the show in London.

The trio of Hyena's were good, and I am always surprised that they cut down a lot of there roles, having shortened "Chow Down!" and the "Madness of Scar" songs in the London production I feel that the Hyena's don't get the great comic moments that they did on the one on Broadway, and sadly they are the two favourite songs. Timon played by Jaime Golding was brilliant! He took Timon in his stride and had get comic timings with the help of Sidekick Keith with Pumba, especially loved the change of rather than Hawaiian dancers at the end, with the introduction to the Irish dancing, complete with Timon in a Irish dress! Genius.

Simba and Nala played by Jonathon, and Melina were a great couple, though I felt that sometimes during the songs they weren't as strong as though I have seen in the past, for Simba "Endless Night" and "He Lives in You (reprise)" those songs are just beautiful, and although his voice was great, I still feel that it could have been stronger, and at the end of "He Lives in You" The finally is where Simba steals the song, but again I didn't feel the same this time.

All in all, Lion King is a performance that I will never get old of, because its just so visually spectacular that it just makes you want to see it more and more, its a childhood memory, and love. It is defiantly one to take your family to, or just go and see to smile, and get lost.  I will be going to see this show again someday, there is no doubt about that!



"We eat Jam, and Ham, and SPAM!" - Spamalot, Playhouse Theatre, London 8.10.13

So having just seen Rock of Ages for the third time, I guess it was time to go and see Spamalot for the third time also! Not only because it was a special of 2 for 1 tickets on a Tuesday, but because The Warrick Davis was playing for only a limited time only Patsy! Then after I bought the tickets I found out that it would also be part of the last weeks of Jon Robyn's run as Sir Galahad! I was so thankful that he was playing that night, and I got a cuddle later on!

So again im not going to go through the whole story line of the show and the venue that can be found on my first review Here, however with the deal being 2 for one myself and my mate Jessica had central stall tickets for G14 and 15, they had a great view, however those that sit in front could get in the way and I was finding myself moving from side to side to get a look in, in parts of the show! but for 29.75 each I wasn't complaining (I think the deal is going on still now! So go buy!)

The cast tonight was brilliant no understudies whatsoever!

King Arthur - Les Dennis

Lady of the Lake- Bonnie Langford

Patsy - Warrick Davis

Sir Bedevere - Robin Armstrong

Sir Robin - Rob Delaney

 Prince Herbert - Adam Ellis

Sir Lancelot - Kit Orton

Sir Galahad - Jon Robyns

I suppose the first person I should talk about who was new to the cast is THE Warrick Davis, Oh my god!! he was made for the role! he was brilliant!! he had the timing, the moves and amazingly the voice! (sings always look on the bright side of life!) just everything you could want for Patsy, and what was brilliant is they just laughed with him with his height, the bit with the shrubbery, where he was struggling to lift it, and in the end, he just dropped it pulled a handle out of it and then just rolled it off like a carry on suitcase! LOVED IT! He looked like he was enjoying himself so much up there, and loving working with the cast, he even made fun of Les when he had to sing his we are know longer the knights who say Ni! "Even I have to admit sir...that was embarrassing!" Having known Warrick as a massive film star mainly Star Wars, and for me Harry Potter, it was such a blast to get to meet him at the end at the stage door and get a photo. Now I have met two professors in the wizard world! Professor Umbridge, and now Professor Flitwick!!

Warrick Davis

 

Then there was the new cast Bonnie Langford, a west end star, and returning to play the Lady of the Lake, she was as she is a WEST END STAR, she really knows how to bring a character to life, and not just through her voice but her facial expressions! Her What ever happened to my Part was such a highlight, as she took centre stage! Les Dennis, totally forgot how good his voice was, having forgotten that I have seen him before perform in Legally Blonde the musical at the Mayflower Theatre! He was a great enjoyment as King, and although his Knights who say Ni was 'Embarrassing' its great to see him also getting in with the cast and just laughing with themselves and the audience.

Les Dennis

Bonnie Langford

Adam Ellis

I will admit that I missed Graham McDuff at the performance, as I will always loved his Lancelot, but Kit Orton was very funny also, and not to shappy in his little Lancelot pants (you will have to see the show for that) but the other group, Robin, and Rob, and Adam all the great character they were the 2nd time around, and even got a quick photo with Adam at the stage door, but like I said I am so pleased that every time I have been to see the show Jon Robyn's has played Galahad! He is a lovely guy, and a terrific actor, and im not sure if this is bad or good, but to me its amazing! Because of the fact that he actually remembers me and is happy to give me two cuddles to get a nice photo!

Jon Robyns!

Warrick, Kit, Bonnie, Les, and Jon have all now ended there run with Spamalot, at the moment Carley Stenson from Hollyoaks is playing the Lady of the Lake, and the others i'm not too sure, however Dick and Dom are now announced to be playing King Arthur, and Patsy during the Christmas term.

 

But one thing is for sure, I am off to London on the 14th of December to go and see Jon Robyns, and Kit Orton in Dicken's Abridged, so hopefully another photo and cuddle is on the cards!

Although I myself am not sure if I will go and see the show again, because the memories I have I'm not sure I want to replace, but all the same Spamalot is such a great show! So go and get tickets and be prepared to laugh out loud!

Im Wanted...Dead or Alive! - Rock of Ages, The Garrick Theatre, London 30/8/13

So it was a given, after months of not seeing the show, and a Theatre Offer and seats that could not be refused, I was off to the loudest Theatre in London! Garrick Theatre, to see for the 3rd time Rock of Ages. When I bought these tickets a few days later they announced that it was closing on November 2nd, I was so thankful that I got the chance to see this amazing show, 3 times, with the amazing cast that it had, it will be truly missed on the West End, but already Twitter is announcing a Tour...and I'm hoping that means a trip down to Southampton Mayflower at some point next year....maybe?

To finish off the lovely Bank Holiday weekend in the month of August, myself and 2 good friends took ourselves to London, we walked about Covent Garden, and then I took them to their first trip to Harrods (As I couldn't believe that they had both not have gone there, and 1 friend even worked there!!). We then enjoyed the 50% off food at the Slug and Lettuce and chilled out at Trafalgar Square, we walked up to the Garrick Theatre to prepare to be Rocked!

This time I remembered from last time to get seats that weren't under the circle, and we managed to get seats B 7,8,9 and that meant we were dead centre of the row and a perfect view from the stage! And it just felt good because they only cost us £35.50!!

 

Now I have already explained the venue and what the storyline of this Musical is, in my first blog here, So I wont go into detail again, this blog is based on the performers and this time round I had some new faces and some old :)

 

So Tonights cast was as follows!

 

 



Lonny - Nathan Amzi (understudy)

Drew - Ian McIntosh (Understudy)

Sherrie - Natalie Andreou

Dennis Dupree - Daniel Fletcher

Stacie Jaxx - Tim Howar

Hertz - Rohan Tickell

Franz - Sandy Moffat

Regina - Jodie Jacobs

Joey Primo - Dylan Turner

Justice - Racheal McFarlane

 

 

First off I shall do the firsts, now before the show I was aware that Ian McIntosh would be playing Drew that night, having followed him on twitter and that he had placed his dates on a tweet, so I was quite excited! Then during the day, I knew that Simon had been signed off from work due to a trapped muscle and he also confirmed in a tweet that he wasn't on, so I knew Nathan being the first cover would be most likely playing Lonny!

 

Boy did Nathan really bring the house down! Normally playing the role of the Mayor and Agent of Drew, seeing Nathan shine as Lonny was a great experience, with some liking towards Simon in the role, such as the scarf, he also brought his own characteristics in the performance, from the very beginning, such as the entrance when he slid down the stairs and slammed right into the wall! He had the audience in fits of laughter! Not going to lie also he totally made my night, being so close to the stage, it is clear that the actors can see the audience, and throughout you get small glances from them, but Nathan just topped it all off, cause it was Myself that night that got the invitation to the Dressing room at the interval (didn't mean you get to go, but he Lonny points at you and says "you my Dressing room, 2 Minutes Now!") I was just smiling after that, and apparently you could tell!! Even though I love Simon to bits, it was really nice to see Nathan perform as Lonny, he is a very sweet guy, and it ended with me getting a cuddle, and a follow on Twitter (NO Complaints There!)

 

 

Then there was Ian, With Tim Driesen having left for Amsterdam to go and perform as Freddie in Jersey Boys, Ian because the first cover of Drew, and I was so happy because he was AMAZING! He had all the quirks that Drew needed, the shyness, the dopiness, and yet the sexy, sweet guy! I was so excited to also hear his voice belt out all the songs, especially loved Oh Sherrie (That song always will be my favourite!) His Voice was amazing and perfect for Drew, and when listening to him it kind of reminded me of when Oliver is in the role! Loved him and he is such a sweet guy also, Catch him now in The Commitments, at the Palace Theatre playing the role of Deco on Sunday evening performances. (That is one of the list, and wouldn't mind a theatre trip on a Sunday!)  

 

Having seen the show 3 times now it was about time I was honoured with the presence of the lead girl Natalie Andreou who plays Sherrie, and get to see how she performs the role! I wasn't displeased, I was worried at first cause I did have trouble hearing her at the beginning (especially the bit about the where she keeps her money and valuables) but then as it went on it was clearer. She was just great, and i'm so Jealous of her body! But she had the moves, and the voice to be a terrific Sherrie! Im so thankful I got to finally see her before the show ended, and meet her also! :) She was quite surprised it was my first time seeing her! Sadly though she ran away before I could get a photo but I do have that one from West End Eurovision! (she is the one of the far right)

 

Those were the 3 performers that I had yet to see and I wasn't upset! it just made my last experience seeing the show totally an amazing one! How many times can  girl get invited to a dressing room!

 

As for the rest of the cast, Sandy so pleased that he has played my Franz all the times I've been to the show, it just makes his Franz just the one to remember and Love, and the same goes with Daniel as Dennis, although my first time was Justin Lee Collins, to me he will always be Dennis and he was made for the role, (Though sadly due to his new show Miracle on 34th Street, the EPIC beard is no more! sad times). It was also my second time seeing Tim Howar, as Staciee, and ill admit the first time I wasn't so sure, but the second time around he grew on me, and I enjoyed him more the 2nd time round.

Sandy Moffat, and Dylan Turner Sandwich!

Daniel Fletcher

Tim Howar

 

Then there is Jodie, and Racheal and Rohan in the roles of Regina, Justice and Hertz, two times seeing Jodie, and Hertz, and Justice I had the pleasure of 3 times :) they were just as good, as the first time around! And a photo with them all is just the icing on the cake!  

Jodie Jacobs

Rachel McFarlane

Rohan Tickell

 

This show will be truly missed in London by the many supporters and Fans it brought. I myself feel lucky to have had the chance to have seen it three times! Like I said though the Venues are starting to be named for the Tour, and if it does make an appearance in Southampton I shall be first to see what it is like there... and will be interesting to see what the cast is going to be too!

 









Go, Go, Go JOSEPH! - Jospeh and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - The King's Theatre, Portsmouth. 8.07.13

So my parents were away for 2 weeks and just searching through Travelzoo I come across a deal I could not past off! For travelzoo were offering better than half price tickets for Joseph and his Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, playing at the Kings theatre!

So on Thursday 8th August, myself and a friend took ourselves down to Portsmouth South sea to the Edwardian style, The Kings Theatre. This was both mine and my friends first time to this theatre, and I wasn't sure what to expect, the area for the theatre is not really one you would imagine, but either way inside was clean and very Edwardian, with the amazing Travelzoo we were seated in row B seats 30 and 31 in the grand circle, selling at the price of £13.50 originally £32.50, which was very good view, as you can see from below.

The interesting thing about this circle was it only consisted of 5 rows, below were the stalls, and above the upper circle which I believe had more than 5 rows. So in my opinion anywhere you sat in the circle you were at perfect height and good view for all to see. I am currently unaware of what views are like from the upper circle and stalls, as this is the first time a production has attracted me to come to this particular Theatre, but who knows what new will come to the stage here.

 

As you are aware from my first ever entry to this blog, Joseph was my first ever theatre production I have seen on stage, and yes I saw the one with the great Jason Donavon...now I myself just remember little snippets from my first show, having been only 4, but then it was a newish musical, now it seems to be Joseph is one for the kids to see.

 

Joseph, is based on the bible story telling the tale of Joseph and his eleven jealous brothers, as Joseph was the favourite son of father Jacob. However Joseph does not help within his group of brothers as Joseph tells his brothers all about his dreams, and how they always seem to involve around the idea that his brothers in the future will one day bow down to him, it is easy to see why they lose their patience after Jacob buys him a multi-coloured coat, it just puts the icing on the cake for the brothers.  They go off and plan the ending of Joseph and his dreams, they plan to throw him in a pit, to which they did, but it wasn't enough, not until a hairy crew comes riding by, and the brothers "in a flash" change their plans, for "we need cash, lets sell him if we can"

 

So Joseph goes on to Egypt to be sold to be a slave, and he does get bough by Potiphar, one of Egypts Millionaires "Having made a fortune buying shares in Pyramids" Though a cruel world, Joseph found he likes is master, and worked hard, which led Potiphar to see that he was cut above the average and made him leader of the house hold.  However Joseph wasn't just the eye of his master but the eye of his masters unfaithful wife, who fancies Joseph, and lure him to his chambers, much against Josephs will, she continues, to the point that Potiphar finds her straddling Joseph and orders his guards to send him locked in jail.

 

Here Joseph resides in his cell, worried just certain of his future "Give me a number instead of my name, forget all about me and let me decay, I do not matter, im only one person, destroy me completely and throw me away!" Although it seems that his luck is out, though the dreams he spoke of to his brothers start to show their true meaning, when Joseph finds himself no longer alone in Jail and accompanied by two of the Pharaohs servants, the butler, and baker, in the cells they tell joseph of their dreams which they do not understand, and afraid that they will never see the light of sun again.  They each take turn in speaking their dream and Joseph gives it a go and interprets them.  The Butler luckily gets told that he will be freed, however the baker sadly has his execution set.

 

Being the Butler gets set free, when the Pharaoh suffers dreams that bring him worry and sleepless nights, the Butler informs him of Joseph who gets brought to the Pharaoh and gives him piece of mind to tell him what his crazy dream means, and how he can change what future holds for Egypt, and in doing this gets Hires as Pharaohs number two! We see here that Joseph has gone as far as he can go, but as for Josephs brothers...

 

A famine has spread its days around the canaan and the brothers and Jacob are finding it hard to live, they even start to miss Joseph's dreams, they decided to go to Egypt, in hope that they will help them and give them food, little did they know it would be a reunion, but first although the brothers do not recognise him while they bow before him (see his dream is true) Joseph decides to teach his brothers a lesson one more time, and plants a cup in one of the bags of food he provides for his brothers. His brothers grovel and fight for the youngest brother Benjamin, proving that he is innocent, and proving to Joseph they are not honest men, and reveals himself to his brothers. The brothers bring Jacob to Egypt and so ends a happy ever after.

 

This Show is really a true musical, as this story above is told throughout in song, there is no spoken words in his show, only lyrics and singing. (very Andrew Lloyd Webber). Now when I saw this show it was done with care and passion, and now I feel that the only audience they wish to attract is children and familys, as much as I love this musical this was not a favourite production, yes it was good entertainment, but I feel now that they really have turned it into a big joke in some parts, making it childish and immature (such as the sign with the question mark, and then the AH over Josephs head) I just felt a little bit heart broken sometimes. but nevertheless I highly recommend this show now for families with young children, and I myself would most likely wont be seeing this show again until I have children.  Now I see why it was my first, and maybe it was that silly when I was little, how can I know.

 

The setting was basic, have two sets of steps where the children's choir sat throughout, but enough space for the performers to climb, with a small performance space on the ground and a little one at the top, the backgrounds would change to set the place, for example the canaan days, and then when they go to Egypt there is Pyramids in the background. the thing with this setting being basic it really gave you the opportunity to watch the performers and focus on their dancing, I do thing that the probably could have been more thought out, as the funniest thing ever was when the sheep made an appearance and were inflated only half made it fully up, leaving some leaning or face down on the ground!

 

Now the cast for the production was a bit of a surprise, having booked the Tickets, the show revealed that it would be the Ian Watkins, known better as H from music pop band Steps.  Though earlier this was not the case, and instead Ian's understudy would be playing Joseph during its run at the Kings Theatre, and I think this was rather cheeky of the promoters and myself and my friend were looking forward to seeing H perform and I feel that they should have informed us when booking the tickets. However nothing could be done so that nights cast was as follows:

 

Joseph - Rob Wilshaw

Narrator - Jennifer Potts

Jacob/Potiphar - Henry Metcalfe

Pharaoh/Reuben- Luke Jasztal

Benjamin- Benjamin Pomeroy

Butler/Levi - Andrew Bateup

Baker/Judah - Richeard J Hunt

Gad - Michael Ward

Asher-Simon Ouldred

Zebulun - Scott Matson

Simeon - Benjamin Beechey

Issacher - Ross Lee Fowkes

Dan - Sackie Osakonor

Napthali - Callum Fitzgerald

Handmaidens - Jennie Abbotts

Danielle Acors

Meg Astin.

 

Now just like Cats this is a touring company, and many of the performers I have not seen or met before, however if H had been in it, it may have been different.

 

Rob Wilshaw as Joseph was very good, he kept the character strong and had a very good voice, and having the lead role that is all singing its a pretty good voice that he had a strong voice.  His body also was not a disappointment either, and having to play Joseph you have to have a nice body, as you do spend most of the show performing in a loin cloth kind of!

Jennifer Potts, from her biography in the programme is mostly seen in pantomimes, you can tell what I attracted her and why she was cast in this role, the narrator is always on stage, and sings throughout the whole performance, Jennifer though I fell that her pantomime background made her the sweet friendly narrator who tells the story to the chorus (primary school choir) however I feel that her voice wasn't a strong one, and she could of done so much better! This role one of my dream roles, and would love to maybe one day, even if it is just once to play her one day, as I have known all the lyrics to here song since I was 10 it would be a dream come true!

 

Those were the two main characters throughout the show, the brothers double up into different portrayals of characters whether it be the brothers, or the pharaoh's guards, or the handmaidens being the wives, and dancers they were all a great professional bunch and the thing with this show is you have to be able to dance, and sing! (very much like Cats, and again very Andrew Lloyd Webber) I enjoyed watching a different brother each song, just to see how they would perform or portray there character to show a different side to Jacob's son, for instance Benjamin played by Benjamin Pomeroy, you could see that his character though wanting to be accepted by the other brothers, still cared for Joseph as you would see him giving Joseph a hug, or supporting him after the others would make fun.  They each had their own approach and it was fun to see what they had created!

 

If it wasn't for the Travelzoo deal I may not have seen this show, and I am happy that I got to relive my past, and childhood. Though now I feel that this is going to be a first show I am going to take my children if it is still running that is. But being one of the eldest productions I do recommend that you will need to see this show, and I know its popular for school productions, and I hope one day I get the chance to perform in it maybe one day.

 

 



 

"No Good Deed...Goes Unpunnished!!"- Wicked- Apollo Victoria Theatre, London. 4.7.13

 

So I had only a few days before I started my new job, and an amazing friends birthday was coming up.  So what a better way to celebrate, and to treat my friend then to go to London and see the one and only Wicked!
On Thursday 4th July, myself and the birthday girl took to London and arrived at Victoria Station, and what is just outside Victoria...But the Apollo Victoria Theatre, and at nights it gleams Green for its home show Wicked! Having seen Wicked in 2009, I just had to see it 4 years later to see if was still at good as it was... and it succeeded.

Apollo Victoria Theatre, is one of the big wide ones in London.  2009 I was sat in the stalls on the right hand side however this was quite a restricted view as I didn't get to see the Lion scene as there were students blocking our view, so this time I went higher in the Circle, row P seats 12 and 13 costing me £35 which is one of the cheapest fees of the tickets, and its very rare to find Wicked on a theatre offer, as most nights its sold out! and still a high demanding show to go and see! Our view was high up but you could see everything and the dragon puppet up above was amazing to watch.

Now onto the show. Wicked is based on the novel by Gregory Maguire, with music and lyrics by the amazing Stephen Schwartz. It tells the untold story of the Witches of OZ, Glinda the Good, and the Wicked Witch of the West, or better known in this musical Elphaba. The story follows the two and their journey from school to the real world, and how the enemies become friends, and how Elphaba became the Wicked Witch of the West. I'm pretty sure Wicked is a musical that everyone knows  about, even if it just from the songs "Defying Gravity" and "Popular" and the fact the Idina Menzel was the original Elphaba someway or another you would know about this musical, and if you don't where have you been??? :-P but really it really is a story of what happened before Dorothy dropped in!

From up above the scenery looked amazing, based a lot around a clock with the mechanics of the inside always on show, and how the change in scenery is helped along with a turning wheels of a clock, and shows that throughout the show the dials of time are always going. But with such a wide space they throughout fill the space! with dancers and the actors, and the Dragon puppet that overlooks it all it always exciting to watch! Below is my view from my seat, as it was taken by my iphone so it may look further but the view was brilliant!

When I bought the tickets I double checked the website and had a looked at who was playing in the current cast, and from that I found out that it was Louise Dearman's night off so I was aware that the Understudy would be performing, and for once I didn't mind, I would have minded if Fiyero's understudy was playing and luckily he wasn't! So the nights cast list was:

 

Glinda - Gina Beck

Elphaba - Hatley Gallivan. (understudy)

Nessarose-Katie Rowley Jones.

Boq-Sam Lupton

Madame Morrible-Harriet Thorpe

Fiyero-Ben Freeman

The Wizard of Oz- Christopher Howell (understudy)

 

So I am going to discuss the has as the order they came out in the stage door, as yes I waited for them all, as its  quite close to the exit and opposite the station its quite easy to wait and meet them!

 

So First out the door that night was Christopher Howell, who normally plays Dr. Dillamond usually in the show was tonight however playing The Wizard of Oz. He was a younger than the usual age for the Wizard, but either way he was very good and I enjoyed him being the cunning and wise Oz, yet inside he showed just how cowardly he really is!

 

Next out was Sam Lupton, who is playing Boq in his west end debut! I have seen Sam before as he was Princeton and Rod in the Avenue Q tour, and he was very good in that so, and because of this I was really interested to see how he would perform with out the puppet in hand but as himself, and Boq himself is quite a comic yet sympathetic part because he loves Glinda who does not return the feelings back, so during the school years he follows her round like a little puppy (which is where we see alot of the comic moments from Boq) but then when we go on we sympathise with him as he becomes trap in a love that he does not wish to have with Nessarose (you will have to see the show to understand). Sam Lupton was a very good actor to be Boq with his acting and his characteristics, and at times your could see a little Princeton show during his performance, especially the moment when Glinda touches him! 

 

Then Close behind was Katie Jones, who I had returned to reprise her role as Nessarose, who I had actually seen when I saw the show the first time around, and she was just like she was the first time around, and this time I was so happy to get to meet her. 

Then another Reprisal in Wicked with Harriet Thorpe playing Madame Morrible once again and again she was the Madame Morrible I had seen the first time around! I loved her playing Madame as she really has the character inside to play the sweet and innocent Morrible, but really she is the sly, conceiving lady who at first you feel is there to help but really has a terrible plan and a evil on. Harriet really does show the difference in character, and with it comes great comic timing. 

 

Then after the removal of the green make up Hayley Gallivan came out, along with Gina Beck, Hayley I can see why she is the standby or Elphaba she blew me away, at first I was quite anxious when she started to sing, but once she hit the powerful notes she was breathtaking, and her acting was so Elphaba! Even my friend gasped and Wowed when she belted out the final vocals for 'Defying Gravity' loved her!

Then with Gina Beck she gives me hope! as she is brunette and brown eyed and yet she plays the strong willed, sweet and innocent Glinda, and gives me hope that I can hopefully maybe one day in another dimension I can perform Glinda! Gina did a great job, the only criticism I could make was for to maybe slow down a few of her lines, and some comic moments in the show was lost in some of her songs, although if you had watched it for the first time it would be something that you wouldn't have noticed or worried about. But other wise she was lovely to watch and great and being the preppy Glinda that everyone loves and enjoys, and even afterwards I found out that we attended the same school in Alresford, Perins community school, just wish I could have mentioned that when I was talking to her but I wasn't aware. (photo below Hayley middle, Gina Right)

And closely last behind was Ben Freeman, known for is role in Emmedale he now hits the stage in the dancing and singing role of Fiyero. Now the last time I saw this show Oliver Tompsett was playing Fiyero...and we all know how much I love him! and yes he was an amazing Fiyero. So does Ben Freeman come to his standards...I would like to say yes but i'm finding it hard, yes Ben had his own take on Fiyero, who knows he's good looking and one fore the ladies and cocky but at the end we see him as sweet and handsome and that he learns that love is what's in the inside even though Elphaba is beautiful also. once again Oliver Tompsett is trained to perform on stage it is the only thing he has done, and has had limited time on telly, Ben is mostly used to the TV so you can tell the difference in acting from film to theatrical and it does show in his performance in my opinion sometimes when tv starts portray and acting role they feel that they need to perform stronger and sometimes that can come over as over the top or a little to much. Although I was pleasantly surprised to find that he had a very nice and warm voice whilst singing his solos in Dancing Through Life, and As Long as Your Mine, which was nice to see as if you haven't got the voice for Fiyero then your not Fiyero!

 

And so ended the cast meet and greet at the stage door and I returned back to Waterloo (which was an eventful travel ending in a very poorly toe from a very painful escalator, I knew there was a reason I like to walk around London and avoid taking the underground) with a smile on my face after an another amazing night in the theatre, and seeing Wicked again... and yes I would defiantly see it again! But maybe this time I would try and see if I can get centre stalls or in the front circle seats...though I am aware that these are quite expensive seats.