This sumptuous production is the very definition of a Musical Theatre romantic comedy with four of the most gorgeous leading ladies you see on the West End stage each, dominating the stage in their own way and having the wonderful four leading men falling over themselves to impress them and us at every appearance. It is pure gold stage magic and a must-see outing as we return to Live Theatre.
It is a Musical Treat with the fabulous score and witty lyrics by Cole Porter setting the heart racing from the tremendous overture with Stephen Riley directing the sixteen-piece band in a Captain’s Cap to the glorious uplifting finale with the whole cast celebrating with us on stage. In between we are treated to pitch-perfect renditions of so many classic Porter tunes from “I get a kick out of you”, “You’re the top”, “Friendship”, “All through the night” and “it’s de-lovely”. But it is the two showstoppers led by Reno Sweeney, the American good time showgirl, that really lifts the show into the heights of musical ecstasy with the stunning choreography of “Anything Goes” that closes Act 1 and the sassy & sexy “Blow Gabriel Blow” at the start of Act 2.
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It is a Romantic Treat: Billy loves Hope who is engaged to Lord Evelyn at the request of her mother Evangeline while Erma loves every man. Reno flirts with Billy then with Moonface while Elisha can’t see anything even when it's right in front of his eyes. But each encounter brings a smile to our face of joy. Carly Mercedes Dyer is magnificent as the man-eating Erma energetically chasing the crew around the ship. Nicole-Lily Baisden is suitably chaste and innocent as the two men seek her hand. Felicity Kendal is the timeless beauty of every man’s dream as the scheming mother.
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Yet it is her leading the cast in the showstopping routines of “Anything Goes” and “Blow Gabriel Blow” which she delivers with breathless ease and precision that will live in the memory. Fabulous tap, high energy movement and slick presentation are all delivered with the appearance of effortless delight and a checky comic timing. She is a true star who we can only hope we see more of in the West End.
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Review by Nick Wayne
Rating: ★★★★★
Seat: Circle, Row A | Price of Ticket: £65