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Post by Stephen on Jul 20, 2023 23:23:15 GMT
Is this transferring next year or was that just a rumbling?
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Post by Stephen on Jul 19, 2023 23:32:55 GMT
It was mostly directed out front at Chich too - it didn't really care about the audience on the sides there either. I was mostly annoyed at myself for booking those seats. It did feel like the Gillian Lynne was the right sized house for the show, just maybe not the right shape! I spent more time looking at Charlie Stemp's back than anything else. I would be interested to see how my enjoyment would change in a superior seat with a better view but alas, money!
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Post by Stephen on Jul 19, 2023 22:23:31 GMT
This left me a little cold tonight. I think perhaps a combination of things let down the evening as there are some excellent toe-tapping moments from an excellent cast.
The book scenes were often boring and dated. I think it could have been cut down about 10 minutes each half - I can’t remember the last thing I saw where I didn’t feel this was the case. Overlong stretched out book scenes.
The first, which I believe echoes a previous review, is the side seats being poor for this particular show. With big production numbers you really need a front on view and (to my eye) preferably a proscenium. Often I wasn’t quite sure where to look. M70 gives an almost completely side on view and I spent most of the evening (unfortunately) wishing I was in a better seat. All of the premium and top band ticket holders seemed to be having a hoot throughout! The show is directed out front which surprised me coming from Chichester too. I always find being able to see into the wings really distracting. If I were a director it would annoy me to know that a good 200 audience members here can.
Highlights for me were the brilliant, full sounding orchestra, some clever lighting choices, a very well painted set and some fun haze effects. There is some excellent clever choreography and obviously wonderful enthusiastic dance from Charlie Stemp.
I’ll withhold voting in the poll for this as I think it lost most of its stars from the seating choice which I suppose is my fault!
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Post by Stephen on Jul 19, 2023 12:29:17 GMT
I will see this although already feeling pessimistic about pricing. Doubt there will be any stalls seats under £75. Maybe some back two rows in the £50s? I’ve actually never sat in the Royal Circle at the Palladium so this might be a good show to try it. There’s also some stalls seats at the Palladium with very little legroom, if I remember correctly.
Will likely end up booking a side aisle seat rear stalls.
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Post by Stephen on Jul 17, 2023 22:43:06 GMT
Apologies for a double post HOWEVER also to share that I was amazed this is their first musical as a company. I am most excited for what they do next. Surely it will be brilliant too!
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Post by Stephen on Jul 17, 2023 22:37:09 GMT
A joyous show. I can't add much here that hasn't already been said. Aside from the excellent material the show really showcases the wonderful cast. Special mention to Christian Andrews on tonight as Hester etc - wonderful. Some terrific comedy moments and excellent comic staging. Act 1 and Act 2 finales the theatrical highlights. Don't miss it. 5 stars.
The Fortune theatre gets very hot and the seats are not comfy.
I would rush back, except as has been covered in the forum previously - it's pricey, so I probably won't.
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Post by Stephen on Jul 10, 2023 21:23:42 GMT
If someone can shout when he will be on as I will book. It's been well over a year now and think this deserves a return visit!
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Post by Stephen on Jul 10, 2023 14:52:15 GMT
Received my book yesterday, and whilst I haven't read the whole thing yet I'm bemused by an early little snippet on Bob Gale's research: "The musical Billy Elliot left Gale feeling that, despite amazing performances, it was a too-literal retelling of the original film, something he and Zemeckis wanted to avoid." Isn't this exactly what they've done? A literal re-staging of the movie? More so than Billy Elliot! And that's not a criticism at all - in fact, I think it's generally agreed that the musical really shines most when they stick to the source material and accomplish incredible, exciting visuals despite obvious constraints on stage. But they're kidding themselves if they think it's anything more than a literal retelling... I’d argue that the musical is more self aware and has fun with itself rather than just be the movie onstage. Of course it does follow the plot of the movie, but it’s not a 1:1 equivalent of watching the movie like some musical versions of movies are. Is the book worth getting? Much *real* behind the scenes stuff re effects from Twins FX etc?
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Post by Stephen on Jul 8, 2023 23:27:27 GMT
Any merch on sale for this? A poster perhaps?
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Post by Stephen on Jul 8, 2023 23:26:39 GMT
What's the march sitch? Any posters for sale?
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Post by Stephen on Jul 7, 2023 22:26:04 GMT
Newsies at Wembley Park. The only time I've ever left a show at the interval. I know I'm in the minority for this one and I wasn't in the best place at the time either but the show really didn't tick any boxes for me. Much preferred the Disney Disney version on Broadway/Disney +!
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Post by Stephen on Jul 3, 2023 16:55:23 GMT
I think it's worth noting (and I'm playing devils advocate a little here) that sometimes star casting is a good thing!
Seems to be much better on broadway though where I've seen some wonderful actors in both plays and musicals, all being big names bringing audiences in. Off the top of my head...Glenn Close in Sunset Boulevard (not Blvd) Alan Cumming and Emma Stone in Cabaret, Hugh Jackman in the Music Man. All were some of the best performances in musicals I've seen. Jim Parson in Harvey also a standout for me across the pond.
We just don't seem to be as good at it over here often casting soap/reality tv stars in the lead roles.
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Post by Stephen on Jul 3, 2023 13:41:49 GMT
I really hope not. Not a fan.
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Post by Stephen on Jul 3, 2023 13:41:11 GMT
I thought today would be a good day to revive the thread on this exciting new production coming soon. Derren’s new book is released today and launched officially at the Magic Circle tomorrow.
Glad to see this is selling fairly well at the Criterion. It seems a fittingly intimate venue for the show.
Production shots and the cast have been released including the excellent Simon Lipkin, known for his magical ability.
It will be interesting seeing this with Derren joining his usual creative team in the directors chairs.
Being so into magic means that although shows like Groundhog Day and BTTF musical are exciting to watch for the effects, I’m rarely fooled. I get the impression that this could have the pace and layered trickery necessary to stump even the most devout Derren Fans. Here’s hoping!
According to the site…
‘The show includes an updated version of a one act play not seen on the London stage in over 100 years. WILL, THE WITCH AND THE WOLFMAN, combines comedy, illusion and song to provide a breathtaking conclusion to an extraordinary evening’
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Post by Stephen on Jul 1, 2023 0:20:44 GMT
Noticed some new big tube ads for this at Baker Street this evening. Looked snazzy. Perhaps these will draw the crowds in. There has been one on the platform at Putney station for weeks but not as glitzy as this one!
insert code here
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Post by Stephen on Jun 26, 2023 22:36:00 GMT
I'm actually a little worried now that I opted for £25 side stalls seats. From the picture the view looks as though it will be seriously restricted or at the very least a terrible angle for big production dance heavy numbers!
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Post by Stephen on Jun 25, 2023 19:38:36 GMT
I don’t know how many were in Chichester, but it’s a 16 piece orchestra here and they sounded absolutely fabulous Same size indeed! How marvelous! Wonder where they're putting 'em all. Is there a pit? Splitting them across the sides of the stage? Can we see the MD?
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Post by Stephen on Jun 24, 2023 22:32:49 GMT
‘That’s 30 minutes of my life I’ll never get back’ says one of the kids half an hour in to the ‘new comedy musical’ an understatement.
This musical assault on the senses has no nuance, no comedy and ultimately no heart.
The prosthetic/mask was confusing and creepy. It barely moved when the character spoke!
This evening the eldest child was played by what seemed to be an ensemble member in their 30s…very confusing and difficult to see past. Had to chuckle when Daniel says ‘you’ve grown up so much’ at the end. Literally.
Gone are the days when laughing at men in dresses was funny. Was it ever really? But the audience didn’t seem to think so…happily chuckling away at line after line of dud jokes.
Mr Vick is working hard but it’s more a case of quantity over quality with lots of not quite great impressions and confusing cultural references which don’t fit the setting.
Having enjoyed listening to the soundtrack with Rob McClure I was surprised that not a single song stood out as enjoyable.
The Shaftesbury Theatre staff were being very helpful and patient dealing with complaints about the heat. Incase you are planning to go during the heatwave please note that it was as warm in the theatre as outside. Incredibly hard uncomfortable seats on the end of Stalls Row M too.
What is it Mrs D says ‘oh dearies’ Being generous, 1 star poppets.
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Post by Stephen on Jun 21, 2023 22:36:11 GMT
We saw the show on Saturday. Really enjoyed it. Second half was slightly baggy, which was a shame, especially as the more important issues seemed to be a bit shoe-horned into that half (including racism in football; here just given a couple of almost monologue moments, when actually it’s begging for more time especially if the play is attracting football fans as it obviously seems to be. A real opportunity, but sort of rushed.) I could also do without laughing at the prime ministers. It irks when people find them funny and nudge nudge, when actually we should be feeling white hot rage that they’re still not locked up. But that could be just me. Those second half hurried issues aside, it’s a great night out. Something for everyone. And made me care in those penalty shoot outs. Someone shouted out at one point. Re the revolve and potential West End transfer: they’re not actually using the (infamous) drum revolve for this. Instead it seems to be a revolve placed atop the normal Olivier Stage (we were Row B and were wondering why we were craning our necks so much until my partner pointed it out). So this should make a transfer pretty easy. I remember seeing Death of a Salesman at the Lyric theatre with a similar revolve set up, so it’s definitely possible. But obviously even this added revolve can be temperamental as the poor people on Monday night found out. A limited run if transferred should make economic sense. Really recommend it though. Yes, didn't War Horse use a simple revolve when it went to the Gillian Lynne? Same thing for this were it to move there?
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Post by Stephen on Jun 21, 2023 22:14:46 GMT
A few thought’s from yesterday’s viewing. I was sat in F10 of the upper circle and was a decent seat. Nothing was missed from the stage. We had no technical issues with the moving sets. As a fan of Neil Mcdonagh’s dark comedy writing there was much to enjoy in this production. From the cast, Pemberton and Kaye have got some good on stage chemistry developing (the dark comedy landed for me when these two got going) and Tennyson as the young brother is also a good watch. Now with Lilly, I’m sorry I couldn’t buy into her performance at all. For me I found it a very monotone performance and any humour in the writing was diluted by her acting. If you are telling a story, try and bring some energy and life to it to make it interesting and fun. The laughs came from the material rather than a combination of her performance and text. Now in contrast Pemberton tells a story in Act 2 that when watching it unfold is both engaging and funny. For those interested, there is one loud bang and some very bright lights in Act 2 which from my seat certainly blinded me for a few moments. An interesting watch but came out thinking it was ok rather than being a piece of great theatre. I agree with your thoughts about Pemberton and Kaye with Kaye being the standout in this for me. However I can't say the same about the play as a whole. Overall it was very poor. Miscast. The humour didn't land which made it feel bleak and long. There were no stakes. A real miss. Pity because I enjoyed reading this play years ago. Oh, and this one comes without really any warnings that I could see about content. Be reassured, it's not one for the kids. Some of the content is so bleak and graphic in description that seeing it onstage made me squirm a bit. 2 Stars.
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Post by Stephen on Jun 18, 2023 17:34:36 GMT
A few thought’s from yesterday’s viewing. I was sat in F10 of the upper circle and was a decent seat. Nothing was missed from the stage. We had no technical issues with the moving sets. As a fan of Neil Mcdonagh’s dark comedy writing there was much to enjoy in this production. From the cast, Pemberton and Kaye have got some good on stage chemistry developing (the dark comedy landed for me when these two got going) and Tennyson as the young brother is also a good watch. Now with Lilly, I’m sorry I couldn’t buy into her performance at all. For me I found it a very monotone performance and any humour in the writing was diluted by her acting. If you are telling a story, try and bring some energy and life to it to make it interesting and fun. The laughs came from the material rather than a combination of her performance and text. Now in contrast Pemberton tells a story in Act 2 that when watching it unfold is both engaging and funny. For those interested, there is one loud bang and some very bright lights in Act 2 which from my seat certainly blinded me for a few moments. An interesting watch but came out thinking it was ok rather than being a piece of great theatre. May I ask - big spoiler in the question... {Spoiler - click to view} Is the loud bang just the gunshot towards the end?
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Post by Stephen on Jun 13, 2023 9:39:30 GMT
Also! Did anyone notice the new orchestration in ‘If i Had my Time Again’ it confused me as I couldn’t see real reason to change it and found it a little jarring.
The only thought I’ve had since is that it’s a click track playing to keep things more in sync. Just found it strange as the rest of the score sounded very live (which it was)
Bizarre?
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Post by Stephen on Jun 12, 2023 22:30:47 GMT
Anyone know how much programmes are? Seeing the show on Saturday! They are £4. Went along tonight with my friend who hadn't seen the show before. She loved it. I don't have much new stuff to add except some things in spoilers below. {Spoiler - click to view} I didn't miss the revolves except a couple of clunky set movements. Namely at the very end, the bench is pushed right on by someone loosely in costume with a notepad hanging out of his back pocket. Took me right out of the moment.
I thought the moment of slow mo during the funfair scene was even more special that I remember from Broadway. It didn't miss the revolves in my opinion.
I loved that the waiter from the diner was dancing with a man at the gala. Thought it a sweet moment.
The characters dancing in the falling snow at the end was very special too. Made my friend cry!
I thought it was as special and fantastic as the first time around. Teller, of Penn & Teller, was sitting behind us. As a big magic fan and fan of his work I wanted to ask what he thought of the illusions!
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Post by Stephen on Jun 7, 2023 12:12:58 GMT
Surprised not to hear anything about the gig here since Sunday. For me, having never seen Tim live, it was incredible. Played so many brilliant songs including a few very old ones. Just shows how talented he is sitting alone and playing. There were several wonderful piano solo moments and he was in EXCELLENT voice. Was humbling to see him a little nervous at the start and how he settled in. So naturally friendly and funny. Just love the guy and the perfect curtain raiser before seeing Groundhog Day on Monday.
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Post by Stephen on May 22, 2023 11:27:05 GMT
Got to wait a week, g'dammit, having booked Lehman Trilogy final performance for last night ... Tim Minchin is doing a one night show in London on 4 June (Sunday evening), tickets on sale tomorrow. Info via facebook, don't know what theatre or prices (or how high the stage is, etc).... Not his usual comedy show, he says, some Matilda and anything else that takes his fancy. Managed to get in fast and snap a front stalls seat for his gig. The ticket availability went straight in to the red and now a queue in place. Fear not…Tim has said he will play more dates if this one sells out. Which it will as soon as the website gets through the queue!
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Post by Stephen on Apr 26, 2023 21:22:53 GMT
I can live with song synth strings or more likely strings on a track but I'd definitely miss that brassy Gershwin sound. Hopefully that's live at least!
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Post by Stephen on Apr 26, 2023 9:06:37 GMT
My friend and I are excited by the £25 seats in the stalls. Having sat here before I feel they offer fairly good value!
Question for those in the know and have seen this before. Was it played with a big orchestra in Chichester? To my knowledge (I could be way off) but the Gillian Lynne doesn’t seem to have much ‘space’ for this. The ‘band’ for School of Rock and Cinderella were up in the little boxes beside the stage. I imagine the orchestra for Cats back in the day was a bit bigger. Where will they go? Is it likely to be reduced? Is there room below the stage and the crazy revolve!? Hoping it will sound great!
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Post by Stephen on Apr 25, 2023 21:35:42 GMT
This was a lovely way to spend a Monday evening with a friend. The sweet moments are suitably heartwarming. 'My dad' and 'grow' in particular. We got last minute dynamically priced seats directly from the DMT website. Stalls row T £15 each which were then upgraded at the theatre to row M. At this view and for cheaper than most cinema tickets now it felt excellent value. It won't be nominated for many awards but it's exactly the kind of escapism we need just now! I will be listening to the whole recording when it's released at the weekend. Hope there's a tour to come and wish it well! {Spoiler - click to view} I loved the band being projected onto the tent at the end for the playout. Thought this was a lovely touch and should be done more often on occasions, like in the Noël Coward, where the band don't sit in the pit!
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Post by Stephen on Apr 18, 2023 9:40:44 GMT
The Old Vic website has been down for days now on my end. First it was a broken queue system and now doesn't seem to be loading up at all. Ticket sales must be taking a hit...
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Post by Stephen on Apr 2, 2023 17:35:02 GMT
Jealous of your YouTube coverage. So far have really been enjoying it on Magic FM though. Hearing that Olivier theme song played never gets old. An exciting evening ahead!
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