What a lovely evening at the Lowther pavilion, Lytham, my first time at the theatre and a great welcome from The Christie Musical Theatre Company, with Gypsy the Musical.
Gypsy is based on a real-life story of world-famous stripper Gypsy Rose Lee and has been made into a movie a couple of times, one of them starring Bette Midler. The story tells of Gypsy or Louise’s life growing up in the shadow of her talented younger sister June and the overbearing pushy stage mother Rose.
I am very familiar with the script, musical score and storyline having appeared in this show twice myself, but even with that in mind I was in for a few surprises this evening, this certainly was not a standard by the book performance and the team have a few surprises up their sleeve to take us away from the expected.
This show was due to be staged in 2020 but was cancelled following the Dress Rehearsal due to the COVID-19 Pandemic. I’m so pleased that this talented team have finally got to perform after all the waiting, rehearsing and hard work put into the show.
I had high expectations for the evening, being that this company have such a strong reputation and that it’s such a great musical, let me tell you the cast and production team did not disappoint.
The scene is set with a Live orchestra on stage and theatre in the round style dance floor with a stunning lighting plot.
We’re introduced to the young star baby June in the form of a beautiful Dancer Lola Shaw, a true triple threat, alongside the young version of Louise, Amelie Murphy- Henry, who has us some lovely touching acting moments. A couple of young ladies to watch for the future.
As the story progresses the two sisters age and become dainty June and Louise, another unbelievable double act played by Jodie Hamlet and Charlotte Dalton. Hamlet as June giving us humour, genius comic timing and a wealth of emotion bringing the character to life.
Dalton as Louise giving us a beautiful vocal, and such subtle facial expressions, transforming from a timid young girl into a confident superstar before our very eyes.
Derek Windward as Herbie had a great voice and played the part very well, so elegant in stance, costume, smart and suave, a few lovely moments of harmony between Rose and Herbie.
The creative team, Director – Peter Taylor, Md- Edward Rugman and Choreographer – Di Barron did a fine job. Genius direction, lovely clean choreography and flawless vocals.
For me the volume for the orchestra was too quiet in comparison to the vocals, the balance of the volume was not perfect, however it was opening night and I’m sure the few glitches and issues will be ironed out.
Emma Norman as Rose wow! truly and captures the character and the role of the pushy stage mother, a masterclass into how to emote through song. Every single line from Rose heartfelt, she had well and truly nailed the unbearable mother role.
A big shout out to both the Children and adult ensemble, some very strong cameos and a fantastic energy.
So let them entertain you this week, book you’re tickets now.
Performances run Tuesday 26th – Saturday 30th April 2022. https://lowtherpavilion.co.uk/shows/gypsy-2022/
Reviewer: Rebecca Casey
Reviewed: 26th April 2022
North West End UK Rating: ★★★★★