After a long 18 months, I finally had the pleasure of returning to the beautiful Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield to watch a musical that I was familiar with but up until tonight had not had chance to see! Well, I finally put that right and wow! Am I glad I did! Tell Me on a Sunday was excellent!
For those unfamiliar with the Andrew Lloyd Webber and Don Black’s classic, Tell Me on a Sunday is a one-woman show (or song cycle) that follows the journey of an English girl newly arrived in New York.
Filled with hope and eager eyed, she sets out to seek success, friendship and, of course, love. But as she weaves her way through the maze of the city and her own insecurities, frustrations and heartaches she begins to realise that – in fact – she’s been looking for love in all the wrong places.
Jodie Prenger oozes star quality and stage presence as her effortless vocals devour Andrew Lloyd-Webbers stunning musical Score. Prenger, probably best known for playing Nancy in the West End revival of ‘Oliver!’ is brilliant from start to finish! She acts her way through Don Black’s hauntingly beautiful lyrics in an effortless fashion. Particular vocal highlights in my opinion were ‘It’s not the end of the World’, ‘Capped Teeth and Ceaser Salad’ ‘Take that look of your face’ and of course the title song ‘Tell me on a Sunday’
Francis Goodhand as Musical Director conducts his brilliant orchestra through this truly wonderful score. Andrew Lloyd-Webber has a real talent for composing beautiful melodies and phrases of music and Goodhand and his Orchestra (situated at the back of the stage) play his score fluently.
Lighting Design and Sound Design by Howard Hudson and Tom Marshall respectively, compliment and contribute in creating the ambience of the show. Praise should also go to director Paul Foster.
The night was made extra special with the Q & A session which took place in the second half. Jodie Prenger treated us to a rendition of ‘Ooom Pah Pah’ from her time as Nancy in ‘Oliver!’ and we were introduced to the wonderful Jodie Beth Meyer – What a voice she has! During the Q & A it was so evident just how naturally funny Jodie Prenger is! She is clearly loving being back on stage after what seem like a lifetime during the pandemic! I feel truly blesses to have been a part of the audience tonight!
You still have the chance to see this truly beautiful show which runs until Saturday (4th September) at Sheffield Lyceum before moving on to the Mercury Theatre in Colchester. Book Now! You will NOT regret this! https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/tell-me-on-a-sunday
Reviewer: Chris Hanlon
Reviewed: 31st August 2021
North West End UK Rating: ★★★★