For those who know me, know I am not the biggest fan of jukebox musicals, so would a trip to see the very same genre tonight in Congleton change my opinion? The short answer is no, however tonight was one of the best productions I have seen of the genre with powerhouse performances coming from the stage in rapid succession.
I must start by mentioning the visuals created by Simon Matthews, who also directs the show. 8 video walls places across the stage left you in no doubt as to where the on-stage action was taking place. From an American street complete with moving bus to a disused fairground nothing on show tonight would have looked out of place on a West End Stage. Cleverly designed lighting from Nick Walker complemented the screens however at times a little more face light could have been used.
So, what is the story of the show? Basically, it centres around love and the complications that can bring when one person’s love for another is not reciprocated. The story is utter madness in the best possible way with the hits of Elvis shoehorned into the proceedings at every given opportunity as well as lyrics cleverly incorporated into the script which the older members of the audience picked up on very quickly.
Leading the cast were Harry Jones and Grace Dougall playing guitar-playing roustabout Chad and mechanic Natalie respectively. Both owned their roles and gave award winning performances. In a show packed with will they, won’t they moments, the simplest match up was between Lorraine (Becky Brady) and Dean (Kieran Picken) whose relationship blossomed at first sight. Their on-stage chemistry was electric and was matched by their vocal prowess.
Vocal performance of the night came from Louise Colohan as museum owner Sandra, outstanding, and Joe Moore shone as the hapless Dennis, excelling with pinpoint comedic timing. Matching Moore for comedic excellence was Jayne Holford playing dictatorial Mayor Matilda.
Other notable performance came from Sarah Francis, Michael Shneck, Richard Wain, Sam Clements and Lauren Frost.
An ensemble of 14 provided energetic support to the main cast executing the effective choreography from Helen Lilley. The music of Elvis was brought to life by a band of 5 high above the stage directed by Richard Tadman and sounded exceptional.
As with any amateur production, I would love to mention everyone on and off stage that brought this show to life but sadly room does not allow. Suffice to say it was clear each and everyone involved with this show was having an absolute ball in delivering it to an appreciative audience.
In conclusion, this was a visual masterpiece punctuated by some powerhouse performances that will certainly be recognised come awards season. The cast and crew of Trinity Amateur Operatic Society shone this evening, and I am certain Elvis himself will be watching down this week with a smile on his face.
All Shook Up continues until Saturday at the Daneside Theatre, http://trinityaos.co.uk/
Reviewer: Paul Bateman
Reviewed: 25th April 2023
North West End UK Rating: ★★★★