Debbie Wileman found viral success during the pandemic whilst performing a ‘Song a Day’ as Judy Garland. She has now performed worldwide as Garland, singing the songs that we love and also the songs that we never got the chance to hear.
A whirlwind start to her career has allowed her to release a debut album called ‘I’m still here’ in which she impersonates Judy Garland throughout a range of her repertoire and a few personal favourites that she wishes Garland could have sung.
There is no doubt that Debbie Wileman possesses an incredible talent- her impersonation is staggeringly accurate and effortless. The difficulty in this performance is expert level but she holds her own. Beginning with a very famous ‘I’m Still Here’ and title of the album, we begin the show with a bang- conductor Steve Orich (who also arranged the album) flies us in supported by an incredible group of orchestra. The setlist follows Judy’s classics and we are introduced to Debbie; her making, from all the way back to sitting in the car to now, travelling all over the world, album recording and Debut West End performances. We learn little moments of trivia relating to Judy and the Ambassador Theatre, moments of connection and praises for all involved in the album.
Midway, Debbie hands over the metaphorical wig for a few moments to perform once as herself. Having always loved singing and connecting performance with her Nana, who originally introduced her to Judy- she would like us to hear one song as herself and it was very well received.
As well as hearing all our favourite Judy classics, we also hear a few songs that Debbie believed Judy would have absolutely loved including ‘Back to Black’ by Amy Winehouse, ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and ‘Yesterday’ by the Beatles. This was a refreshing mix to hear within the evening.
Finishing on one final grand performance, ‘Somewhere over the Rainbow’ of course, where we say goodbye to Debbie as she very emotionally thanks everyone who has helped her get here today. She very much represents what the talent industry needs to take more chances on, people who possess raw talent that must be seen.
My only wish is to have heard more about Judy and her life. I am very much after Judy’s time so I don’t have a lot of common knowledge and I think it’s special to hear about her life, stories that are widely known or less known but a way at least to surround us with her memory and keep the evening flowing between the performance. I felt that the in-between speeches were a little less prepared, although I do enjoy the down-to-earth aspect of this I needed more guidance and flow.
A wonderful performance if you’re looking to relive one of our most incredible singers to date. Debbie possesses a truly rare gift and it is wonderful that we get to see it.
Reviewer: Alice Rose
Reviewed: 30th June 2024
North West End UK Rating:
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