Review: Tom Gates Live On Stage

This week, the brilliant world of Tom Gates has been brought to life on stage at Milton Keynes Theatre. Translated into 43 languages and with over 8 million copies sold worldwide, this series is a huge hit. Tom Gates is a series of illustrated stories for older children by graphic designer-turned-author, Liz Pichon. 

This story, written specifically for the stage, is aimed at children although is fantastic fun for the whole family. I am told (by a couple of true Tom Gates experts) that the show is funny, energetic, lively, colourful and just what they expected Tom Gates to be if he was a real-life boy. Following Tom, his friends at school and his family at home (including the scary older sister Celia) we get to see the highs and lows of being a ‘smiley face’ or a ‘sad face’ student - Tom just has to make sure he makes it on the School Trip Of A Lifetime! Just don’t doodle on the wrong wall (face palm.)

The staging was ultra-modern and unlike anything I’ve seen before which included a large digital animated screen that changed to show different scenes or bring Tom’s doodles to life. It really was super clever and you will be fascinated by the screen as well as the fantastic actors that made this show so fun. 

The genre will appeal to most children and adults alike, with lots of silliness, a bit of rebellion and plenty of live music too. We love chips, when do we want them? Now!

Catch Tom and his friends this week at Milton Keynes Theatre until Saturday 11^thMay. www.atgtickets.com

Wonderland at Milton Keynes Theatre – A whole new adventure for the Alice in us all.

A superb modern day retelling of the children’s classic Alice In Wonderland by Lewis Carroll. It’s absolutely bonkers, as you should expect from this story by now.

Hailed by critics as ‘nothing short of spine-tingling’, I must agree! The essence of the original story is there, from Alice bored of her normal real-life dreaming of the desired make-believe world to the White Rabbit and friends, this musical brings everything to life beautifully. The powerful vocals of the leading ladies enchanted the audience and carried us through the plot. The cast was outstanding and I especially enjoyed Natalie McQueen as the Mad Hatter – my what a set of lungs she has!!

The story is modernised with Alice, single mum and her daughter living in a towerblock, disillusioned, not knowing what to do or how to change. The musical takes us on an adventurous exploration of who we are, with a few hilarious transformations through the looking glass and a few topical jokes as well.

Look out for a groooovy caterpillar, flares and all and a curiouser and curiouser stage as we’re tumbling through the rabbit hole, the visuals were stunningly executed and captured the wonder of this tale perfectly.

I have finished my jam tart!

For tickets, go to www.atgtickets.com

The show is at Milton Keynes Theatre until Saturday 22^nd July

Thoroughly Modern Millie, Milton Keynes Theatre, January 26^th 2017.

“Millie” tells the story of a country girl from Kansas, who arrives penniless in New York determined to throw off her dowdy life style and fully embrace all that’s new, risqué and modern in the city.

Those who know Joanne Clifton from her marvelously creative dancing on last seasons Strictly Ballroom competition on the BBC, will be in for a surprise as to what a great all round performer and singer she is.

This is an excellent show that allows her to fully demonstrate her talents.

It has to be said that the whole cast put in a great and spirited performance, special mention to Michelle Collins as the evil Mrs Meers who does a terrific Chinese accent via Benny Hill, Graham MacDuff as Trevor Graydon who produces an exceptionally funny drunk scene and Jenny Fitzpatrick, especially her marvelous performance of “Only in New York” at the end of the first half, simply brilliant.

The music and dancing throughout are superb, properly capturing the sounds and atmosphere of the times, the musicians were fluid and exceptionally musical.

The sound quality is clear and distinct and not so loud as to be distorted, the stage set

is both interesting and versatile, easily covering the seedy hotel of Mrs Meers, the offices of Trever Graydon, the local prison and then the penthouse of Muzzy van Hossmere.

The original book by Richard Henry Morris was re-conceived as a film for Julie Andrews in 1967 to rave reviews and huge box office success.

This presentation captures the mood and exuberance of those heady times in New York and is great entertainment for all.

Thoroughly Modern Millie is running until Saturday 28^th January at Milton Keynes Theatre. To catch some last minute tickets, head over to atgtickets.com

Review: Shrek the Musical at Milton Keynes Theatre

Stomping around the Swamp with Shrek

Shrek and Fiona

Often we think of musicals deriving from books or plays, but now what was a Dreamworks Animation film has been brought to life in this fantastic, theatrical performance – and what a great performance it was!

The audience were dazzled by Shrek’s ogre-like features, stunned by Fiona’s beauty, and continually humoured by Donkey’s remarks (not to mention the farting!) The viewers also learn secrets not previously revealed in the film, such as Shrek’s backstory and Fiona’s upbringing. Having said this, it still is similar to the film, so if you were a fan of the 2001 movie, you are sure to love this too.

As one would hope from a musical, the music itself was fantastic; all the younger (and some of the older) members of the audience were very energetic when it came to dancing. It features brand new songs that tell the story of Shrek, Fiona and  Donkey. A special mention to Dean Chisnall, who plays Shrek, for bringing the character to life; what a fantastic actor! It was also Lord Farquaad played by Gerard Carey who had the audience in fits of laughter. If I say `silly legs` you will understand!
Costumes were similar to the film with great attention to detail. The staging was magical. The dragon had the children in the audience mesmerised as it was expertly manoeuvred round the stage by the crew.

It definitely isn’t a musical to be missed. Adults and children will be delighted! Tickets are still available from atgtickets.com; the last performance is Sunday 6^th September.

Also look out for the new service at MK Theatre called Ordertorium Food whereby you can order from a small menu of icecreams, drinks and snacks delivered to your seat. You will certainly feel like a VIP!

DEBBIE HALL

REVIEW: Jesus Christ Superstar at MK Theatre

Biblical musical is updated for a 21st century audience

Heaven on their minds - Jesus Christ Superstar is at MK Theatre until Saturday. 

The original production of Jesus Christ Superstar was performed to audiences in 1971, but this latest offering of the Andrew Lloyd Webber musical is far from dated, with a fantastic range of uplifting songs.

An impressive set graced the stage, inspiring an overwhelming feeling of biblical resonance. Jesus, as played by Glenn Carter, wasn't quite the inspirational and charismatic figure I had imagined. Perhaps because he knew his life was coming to an end, we saw a weary interpretation of him. Glen was certainly presenting the last few days of Jesus as a man who was accepting his fate.

The stand-in for Judas (Tim Oxbrow) took a little while to settle into his part, but eventually his outstanding voice cheered the audience. Mary Magdalene (X-Factor finalist Rachel Adedeji) was competent enough but there was a distinct lack of chemistry between Jesus and Mary despite some of the most beautiful songs in the show (I Don`t Know How To Love Him).

The best performances has to be Jesus' followers, who doubled up with many parts. They were energetic and enthusiastic, truly creating a 1970s-style rock musical. Kristofer Harding (Simon) was brilliant too, commanding a presence on the stage that engaged the audience. Other mentions must go to Tom Gilling (Herod) and Edward Handoll (Peter).

Until Saturday.

DEBBIE HALL

Spamalot actress speaks to us about performing at MK Theatre this week

"It's one of the best parts I've ever played"

The bright side of life - Spamalot is at MK Theatre until Saturday, June 20th. 

With more than 1,500 performances, Spamalot was seen by two million people and took $175 million in its first run in 2005. Receiving 14 Tony Award nominations, it has gone on to be performed in more than 20 countries across the planet.

A decade later, the Monty Python musical (based on the 1975 film The Holy Grail) is on the road again with a UK tour, just months after the Monty Python Live (Mostly) sell-out shows at the o2 arena. 

Having earnt her Spamalot stripes by playing the Lady of the Lake in the West End, actress Sarah Earnshaw has stepped back into the sparkly blue shoes, arriving at MK Theatre from June 15th-20th. 

Speaking from Sunderland, Sarah (pictured top right with Joe Pasquale and Joe Tracini) is having the time of her life.

“We’ve only got six weeks left of the tour and I’m having a really good time. You never get bored because you’re always moving on, acting for a new audience. It’s interesting and fun.

“I’ve been to Milton Keynes before when I’ve toured with other shows a couple of times, so I know the theatre well and the area too.”

The actress is well seasoned with being on stage, having previously starred in Wicked, Little Shop of Horrors, Jekyll and Hyde and The Royal Variety Performance, among others.

As the Lady of the Lake, Sarah gives King Arthur (played by Joe Pasquale) the iconic Excalibur sword, so he can carry on with his quest and become King.

She explains: “It’s one of the best parts I’ve ever played. She’s a woman in the middle of these crazy men, she has some of the best numbers from Andrew Lloyd Webber-type ballads to Broadway numbers. 

“She doesn’t take herself too seriously; all of it is taking the mick. She moans she has been off stage too long, but it’s fun for a few hours.”

Based on the well-known mythical tale, in Sarah’s mind Spamalot is a little bit like a sketch show.

“It’s two hours of comedy and fun, with lots of different musical numbers. I knew a bit Monty Python before I was involved, but I’ve discovered I’m quite a fan of what they have done, it tickles my funny bone.”

Tickets: £10.50 to £42 on (0844) 871 7652 or go to atgtickets.com.

REVIEW: Dead simple at MK Theatre

Screams, surprises and lots of blood in this whodunit

Jamie Lomas and Tina Hobley as Michael and Ashley in Dead Simple. 

There were screams and lots of blood when a nightmare scenario unfolded on-stage at MK Theatre last night. A stag do prank goes horribly wrong in the adaptation of Peter James’ Dead Simple, with the main character trapped underground in a coffin thanks to his friends.

It’s a riveting story, played out sometimes in complete darkness, making the audience feel trapped along with him. Jamie Lomas (Hollyoaks) plays Michael, the unlucky stag, while Tina Hobley (Holby City) plays his secretary and fiancé Ashley. Apart from a small trip up, they’re a fantastic team to star in this dark comedy.

Josh Brown, in his first major role, plays Davy Wheeler, a young man with learning disabilities. He was exceptional - expect to see more of him.

It’s a wild ride with red herrings and twists to keep the audience on the edge of their seats. There’s a couple of cheesy bits too, and a few laughs, but overall this whodunit was a surprise. If you like a good old-fashioned crime story with a unique detective (played by Gray O`Brien), don`t miss this production.

Until Saturday.

DEBBIE HALL