Take an armful of 80s hits, add a school reunion between long lost friends, sprinkle on a pile of sugar, and you have yourself a very sweet juke-box musical. Directed and choreographed by Craig Revel Horwood no less, it comes with credentials to recommend itself, plus a lead guest star vocalist from the 80s – in this case, the glittery and brightly poppy Sonia, and is a hugely entertaining clap along feel good fest just in time for the Christmas season.
The story by Pippa Evans weaves in and out of the 1989 of ‘then’, and the 2009 of ‘now’. We see the friends with such different dreams for their lives: one to be a nurse, get married and have at least six children; the other to be a famous movie star in LA. The naïve hopefulness of the two aged 18, making that promise to always be friends no matter what; and when life delivers them reality a little further away from their dreams than either of them want to admit, they avoid turning to each other for support. This story device allows for reveal after reveal throughout the show which while predictable, they are very enjoyable.
The cast seem to be having just as much fun as the audience in this camp romp, and there are a huge amount of them. The singing voices soar gloriously with more power than was ever about in the actual 1980s, and seeing Sonia emerge as a dreamlike state in a Teen Angel-esque moment from Grease is a hoot. The choreography is tight and drilled, from cheerleading the song ‘Mickey’ to a beautiful three couple tango, two male-female and one all male; which was really complex involving lifts and splits. Even set and furniture is moved in a choreographed way which is a lovely touch, although moving the set on and off so many times for so many short scenes was a bit over used.
While Melissa Jacques vocal power and range is breathtaking, it’s Nina Wadia who shines with acting aplomb here, giving her character Gemma a very grounded and real base which elevates the whole show which could otherwise just become fluff. It is beautifully directed and choreographed by Craig Revel Horwood and a great celebration of 80s hits that wouldn’t normally be all found together as they come from so many different genres. It’s clearly been created by someone who loves the music of the time, and while it may appeal to many because of nostalgia, it is also a lovely feel-good clap-your-hands and be happy kind of show.
Theatre Royal Brighton, 2 December 2024
NOW That’s What I Call A Musical runs until 7 December 2024
Photos credit: Pamela Raith Photography
