Photo - Paul Wilcock, Mid-Cheshire Camera Club
Theatregoers today have a huge range of shows to choose from and, for musical theatre theatres, it’s always a treat to get a reminder of the dazzling tapestry of pop, rock, hip-hop and opera at the heart of stories that cover themes as diverse as revolution and social equality to absurdities of everyday life.
C.A.S.T productions have done just that with an eclectic and electric programme of musical theatre anthems. With the company’s inclusive ethos, we have a diverse mix of vocalists showcasing tunes from stage classics like Guys and Dolls and Gypsy, through to the modern blockbusters like Hamilton and Wicked.
Director Louise Colohan and Michael Shneck have pulled together a smart set list that gives each cast member a chance to shine, with songs that suit their individual vocal styles. The production is slickly blocked so that each number flows effortlessly to the next. A shout-out is also due to Nicholas Field’s simple yet highly effective lighting that delivery bags of atmosphere.
Tonight’s vocalists have done themselves and Louise proud, serving as a reminder of the hotbed of talent that the North-West has at its disposal. Their strength lies in being a tightly-honed ensemble, with the Les Misérables medley and a magnificent rendition of Till we Reach that Day from Ragtime being highlights.
The male ensemble makes its mark with a fun rendition of So You Want to Be a Boxer from Bugsy Malone and a superb Bui Doi from Miss Saigon, whilst the women sizzle in the Cell Block Tango from Chicago and a barnstorming delivery of You Gotta Have a Gimmick from Gypsy. The trio performance of When You’re Good to Mama from Chicago is a hoot too.
It therefore feels a little unfair to call out individual performers, and there are too many to namecheck, but praise is very much due to Sarah Francis and Kieran Picken who deliver several outstanding solo performances.
Other highlights come in solo performances of You’re Welcome from Moana, Seventeen from Heathers and Always Look on the Bright Side of Life from Spamalot. When September Ends and At the Ballet are enhanced by three fabulous dancers, Kaydee Lou, Kirsten Dunn and Jo Novoa Bradley.
The closing remix of Adele’s Rolling in the Deep mixed with Gnarls Barkley’s Crazy brings what has been a hugely enjoyable and high-quality show to its conclusion. There have been moments where perhaps a song was a touch ambitious for its singer, or where vocals disappear into the backing tracks but overall, the team have done themselves proud and bring The Grange’s audience to their feet at the curtain call.
Tonight was about bringing the cream of North-West talent to the stage in celebration of musical theatre and thanks to C.A.S.T, this really was the room where it happened.
The show was dedicated to the memory of Lois Francis, a musical theatre fan and much missed friend and family member of many of the cast. You can find out more about the fundraising campaign HERE.
Reviewer: Lou Steggals
Reviewed: 1st February 2025
North West End UK Rating:
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