There are a few four-letter words that we truly know well and have experienced, to name few they are love, hate and … Cher. With an impressive and illustrious career spanning decades. The Cher Show brings to life that career in glamorous and dazzling fashion.
The story is told through three versions of Cher, Babe (Millie O’Connell), Lady (Danielle Steers) and Star (Debbie Kurup). The trio each tells various parts spanning from the 50s through to the 90s.
Immediately, we have to mention the glorious set design by Tom Rogers. The backstage stage setting draped from top to bottom with rows of the iconic Cher wigs on display on mannequin heads for all to gaze upon and admire. Another clever design is the props used within the show to show the progressive timeline whilst also being integrated into the story.
The cast itself are all superb, it’s a very ensemble-heavy show at times but they only help to enhance the show, increasing the energy and presence in every number they’re in thanks to tremendous choreography from Oti Mabuse. The trio playing the various versions of Cher were phenomenal. They captured mannerisms and quirkiness of Cher perfectly. It would be unfair to highlight one in particular when O’Connol, Steers and Kurup all stole the show. A fantastic stage presence and stunning vocals showcased their talents.
If we have to be picky you could say that despite everything the show has to offer, the story material lets it down. It ultimately feels like a montage of the men in Cher’s life and the issues with them, a somewhat carousel of male drama. It wasn’t as gripping a storyline that other musicals based on stars possess. That said, taking nothing away from a well-polished production, celebrating the life of a musical icon, topped off with expert direction from Arlene Phillips. It’s a show that feels good and uplifting, so good in fact if you could turn back time… you’d see it again!
Review by George Butler
Rating: ★★★★
Seat: Stalls F13 | Price of Ticket: £57.50
