This musical is based on the famous film of the same name which starred Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore and Whoopi Goldberg. It is such a well-known story that I guess it is pointless of me to go over the storyline, so I will concentrate instead on describing this production by the cast and crew of NK Theatre Arts who have put together a highly entertaining version of this story.
Kerry Day (ably assisted by Nickie Simms) has put together a highly entertaining production which was enjoyed by a capacity audience on this opening night. The music (Dominic Stannage and Scott Mitchell) and choreography (Helena Davies in her debut as lead choreographer after many years performing on stage) all did an excellent job with the roles they had to undertake. Mention should also be given to the contribution made by David Jarvis (lighting) and Ben Wicks(sound) who made the production what it was. In addition, I would like to highlight the quality and content of the programme (unfortunately not credited) which was one of the best I have come across in all my years watching musical theatre productions. Whoever was responsible for the production of this programme deserves a special mention for the quality of their work.
The couple who the story revolves around were both excellent leads. The part of Sam Wheat was played by Matthew McGoldrick and that of Molly Jensen by Holly Murphy. Both were strong performers and singers and the interaction between the two throughout the show was really good. Some of the singing from these two was excellent, particularly in the duets they performed together. Holly did a good version of the grieving song “With You” as a solo (I sense the influence of Nickie Simms with this!) which is the outstanding number in the show.
Jocelyn Knight as the phony psychic Oda Mae Brown brought a much needed lightness of touch to the role which came across from her very first appearance in the show. The humour of her character shone out throughout the production and on many occasions reduced the audience to hoots of laughter. The role of the baddie, Carl Bruner, a work colleague of Sam who was secretly embezzling funds from their company, was very well played by Steven Cheeseman. I was particularly impressed with the quality of his singing, and I found myself disappointed that he didn’t have more of an opportunity to display these wonderful talents, having to concentrate more on his performance as the evil character.
The remainder of the cast, too numerous to mention individually here, all contributed to an overall excellent show of which all who contributed can be very proud.
The show continues until Saturday 24th May and I believe tickets are available for the remaining performances. I can highly recommend this show to all, it is a thoroughly enjoyable evening’s entertainment.
Reviewer: David S Clarke
Reviewed: 21st May 2025
North West End UK Rating: