Here & Now
Here and Now is a joyous celebration of all things Steps, set in a seaside town bargain supermarket. Fans of the iconic pop group are in for a treat, with plenty of cheeky references to their hits and a setlist packed with their most-loved songs. The show captures the camp, fun, and heart that Steps are known for, offering something for die-hard fans and newcomers alike.
The cast delivers outstanding performances, bringing humour, emotion, and energy to the stage. Rebecca Lock, as Caz, gives a standout performance with her heart-wrenching rendition of Heartbeat, combining raw emotion with stunning vocals. Sharlene Hector (Vel) and Helen Colby (Tracey) bring the house down with one of the funniest duets of the show—a tongue-in-cheek nod to jukebox musicals. Edward Baker-Duly, as Max, plays the antagonist with gusto, earning well-deserved boos from the audience, who eagerly cheered on the budding relationships developing elsewhere in the story.
River Medway, as Jem, dazzles in their portrayal of the drag persona Amanda Smooch. Medway strikes a perfect balance between the comedic and heartfelt sides of the character, delivering a memorable performance, especially in a glittering rhinestone catsuit. A hilarious washing machine moment further highlights their charm and stage presence.
Rachel Kavanaugh (Director) and Matt Cole (Choreographer) prove themselves a dream team for this production. While the show is big, bold, and unapologetically over-the-top, it’s the subtle touches that truly make it shine. Moments like the playful reference to making relationships "Facebook official" and clever Easter eggs in the choreography of Better the Devil You Know add layers of charm and wit.
Tom Rogers (Set Designer) and Howard Hudson (Lighting Designer) have created a vibrant world for the show, centred on a pink-and-blue colour palette that perfectly complements the high-energy, camp tone of the production. The supermarket setting, complete with clearly marked aisles 5, 6, 7, (and) 8, sets the scene perfectly, while inflatables, trolleys, and even a pineapple in Summer of Love add to the fun.
Gabriella Slade (Costume Designer) ties the production together with bold, colourful costumes, from stripy shirts and tabards to the dazzling rhinestone catsuit worn by Medway. The cohesive visual style enhances the show’s playful, vibrant atmosphere.
The first act ends with a pivotal turning point in the story, capped by an impressive medley of songs seamlessly woven together through choreography and music. As a treat, the audience is treated to a second medley at the end, giving the chance to sing and dance along.
The announcement that the show will be going on tour in September next year, with tickets already on sale, is the perfect cherry on top of this high-energy, joyful production. Here & Now is a must-see for fans of Steps and lovers of feel-good theatre alike.
Here & Now was reviewed on the 19th of November 2024 at The Alexandra Birmingham, where it will run until the 30th of November before heading on a tour of the UK in 2025! For more information and tickets click here: https://thestepsmusical.com/
Review written by Valentine Gale Sides
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Photography: Pamela Raith
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