I Should Be So Lucky
There are a couple of things that instantly drew me to this new musical, firstly the music of Stock Aitken Waterman transformed my life growing up in the 80’s/90’s, so any show that features these absolute pop classics gets my vote already. The second reason I knew I had to see this show was the fact its written by Debbie Isitt, perhaps most famously known for the series of fantastic Nativity films and stage musical. A recipe for success in my eyes!
I was lucky enough to see the show as it kicked off the tour in Manchester last November, so it was a delight to be seeing it again, but this time in my hometown, where local lad Pete Waterman hails from (more or less!). It was evident how much love there was for the hit maker himself with plenty of audience members queuing up for a selfie, me included! There is something special about championing someone from your own neck of the woods and the atmosphere felt quite something with Pete in the building.
Now, let’s get down to the show itself. My previous quote of “A true crowd pleaser……nostalgia, joy and silliness” still stands, however I’ve added to that with “A bloody good night out”, and that’s exactly what it is. Everyone came out of the theatre singing, saying how fantastic the show was and quite clearly uplifted. Yes, the story may be particularly cheesy in parts, but sometimes that’s what we crave as audience members and the cast certainly know how to make you feel good by the time the curtain call arrives. It’s at this point everyone is encouraged to get up and party!
The story follows Ella (Lucie-May Sumner) as she is jilted at the altar by Nathan (Billy Roberts) due to a family misunderstanding. However, instead of wallowing, her group of friends and family decide they should jet off to Turkey for the honeymoon instead and there ensues a story of love on many levels. One of the messages throughout the show is that of love, and the fact that there are so many different types in this crazy world of ours, so all should be embraced and accepted.
The show starts with the title track ‘I Should Be So Lucky’ and throughout Lucie-May Sumner’s vocals are outstanding. She shines in every number she performs, especially ‘Venus’ which is a real crowd pleaser. Coupled with Billy Roberts’ impressive vocals, they really are a match made in heaven. There are so many wonderful characters in this show, but top of my list has to be Spencer (Jamie Chapman) who provides camp on a whole new level. As hotel manager at the honeymoon destination, his main goal is to provide happiness to all who visit, and he certainly manages that in bucket fulls, as the audience instantly falls in love with him. Jamie is a joy to watch and leaves you smiling from ear to ear.
Ella’s Mum Shelley (Melissa Jacques) and Nan Ivy (Jemma Churchill) provide many wonderful moments throughout the show and Melissa impresses vocally with ‘Tell Tale Signs’ showing off her powerhouse vocals. Talking about powerhouse vocals, a rendition of the Sonia classic ‘You’ll Never Stop Me From Loving You’ is stripped right back to show off the incredible talent of Kayla Carter as Bonnie, who just gets better and better. There is plenty of comedy courtesy of Giovanni Spano as Ash who is clearly very much at home on stage, together with the dream team of Scott Paige as Michael and Ralph Bogard as Hassan, rib tickling on many levels! Matthew Croke as holiday tour rep Nadeem added that drop of holiday romance and again provided some fantastic vocals. Jessica Daley as Britney and Dominic Andersen as Revel Harrington III also shone during ‘Love in The First Degree’ and proved that the whole cast really are something special.
The entire ensemble works tirelessly to ensure we have a great night at the theatre, none more so than Elliot Broadfoot who is like the Duracell bunny, and really does give his everything on that stage night after night.
The staging by Tom Rogers features heart proscenium’s adorning the stage full of sparkle and really radiates the message of love throughout. The clever use of video screens (Andrzej Goulding) transports us to the sun-soaked beach in Turkey, as well as sailing out on the open seas. Choreography by Jason Gilkison is high energy and slick with the sound by Ben Harrison filling the auditorium to the rafters.
Of course, let’s not forget Kylie herself who acts as Ella’s mentor and hype girl. Appearing through a big mirror throughout the show, this is a wonderful addition for any fan of the antipodean pop icon.
For a fun night out where you will feel uplifted and energised, please visit the fantastic cast and crew of I Should Be So Lucky, and I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.
This show was reviewed on the 2nd April 2024 at The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham where it runs until the 6th April 2024. Tickets available here: I Should Be So Lucky Tickets | The Alexandra, Birmingham in Birmingham | ATG Tickets
Review written by Emma Rowley
AD/Gifted
Photo credit: Marc Brenner
You can watch our interview with writer Debbie Isitt here: https://youtu.be/qsYkc7FIHGI?si=b33U2zkezBowxojx
You can also watch our interview with Elliot Broadfoot here: https://youtu.be/xXt-Iu7d23w?si=33y2jOFSpz-rJlv0
Check out other reviews from Curtain Call Reviews and get in touch to have our reviewers head to your show.
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