REVIEW: King Charles III at MK Theatre

The Queen is Dead!

Review of King Charles III at MK Theatre

Following sold-out performances at the Almeida Theatre, King Charles III has hit Milton Keynes Theatre, bringing with it the shock that the Queen is dead. Directed by Rupert Goold and penned by award-winning Dr Foster writer, Mike Bartlett, the regal play explores not only Britain’s most famous family, but how the prince perceives ruling the roost for the very first time.

The humourous side of the play was continually enjoyed by the audience, however there are clearly more serious undertones to the dramatic performance too. With William and Kate – who is particularly well-cast and looks uncannily like the Duchess herself – having to make tough decisions, the play really did give an insight into just how significant the royal family are.

One character who particularly stood out was Prince Harry, played by Richard Glaves. His charm, immaturity and likeability really shone through and he constantly had the audience enthralled in his outbursts! King Charles III himself – played by Robert Powell – faces some very important decisions and there was a chill to be felt over the audience at two particularly haunting points in the performance – but we won’t give too much away.

King Charles III at MK Theatre

With the same setting used throughout, it worked seamlessly and the lighting worked fantastically well with the backdrop.  With crowns and royalty galore, it really was an exciting performance. Having already won an Olivier Award and a Critics Circle Award for Best New Play 2015, this really is a must-see!

King Charles III is at MK Theatre until 17^th October – visit atgtickets.com to book.

REVIEW: Dirty Rotten Scoundrels at Milton Keynes Theatre

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

Based on the comedy film, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is set on the French Riviera and is all about two individuals who are trying to dazzle a millionaire heiress. Michael Praed plays the con man who makes a healthy living trying to persuade rich women to part with their cash. Written by Golden Globe and Emmy Award-Winner Jeffrey Lane, the scenes are full of hilarity which, more often than not, lead to real belly-aching laughter!

The set was absolutely brilliant and, from scene to scene, the transition was completely seamless. As for the costumes, they were superb and reflective of the period and characters’ varied personalities. There was a variety of dancing scenes expertly executed by the troupe. The cowboy dancing and the salsa dancing were a joy to watch.

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels at Milton Keynes Theatre

Michael Praed and Noel Sullivan, in particular, made a great pairing and you could tell a lot of rehearsal had gone into their performances.

Gary Wilmot and Geraldine Fitzgerald also had a great double act that endeared the audience.  The pair were, by far, the audience’s favourites.

Carly Stenson played the lead female role and has a great voice. Her career is sure to go onwards and upwards.

This was a most cheerful production with lots of laughter to be had; this isn’t a production to miss.

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is on at MK Theatre until Saturday 26^th September.

REVIEW: The Importance of Being Earnest at Milton Keynes Theatre

The Importance of Being Earnest

The main premise of the play is that we are watching a rehearsal of an amateur production of the Importance of being Earnest. This theme quickly gives way to a straight production of Oscar Wilde's most famous play.

With Sian Phillips as Lady Bracknell, this performance was utterly majestic and very funny. From the word go, the production completely lives up to Oscar Wilde’s witty, running commentary of Victorian Life and society at the time.

This new production, all about a pair of bachelors attempting to pursue two ladies, is directed by Lucy Bailey and boasts many famous faces such as Rosalind Ayres, Nigel Havers, Martin Jarvis and Christine Kavanagh. The pace and timing of the show was brilliant, accompanied by not only fantastic actors, but also a stunning Victorian set.

Having first appeared in The Importance of Being Earnest in 1982, Nigel Havers was just as brilliant and excited about the performance. He really did fit into his role as Algernon Monclief so well, and worked seamlessly alongside his famous co-stars.

There is still time to catch this play as it's on till Saturday at MK Theatre.

DEBBIE HALL

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