Darren Day (Sam Phillips) provides an important centre to the story. As the man bringing these musicians together, his character helps connect the different personalities and gives the production its sense of purpose, gliding us effortlessly through the story Day brings authority and presence to the role, while helping the audience understand the significance of the moments unfolding in the studio. Day is born to play this part and a real credit to the company. Jenay Naima (Dyanne) adds another perspective to the story bringing warmth and individuality to the production and role; she is the last piece of the puzzle adding her incredible voice to the mix making the harmonies pop! She helps give the show a sense of balance and adds another layer to the evening. As soon as she enters Naima makes her presence known, which isn’t that easy with all the bravado and competition amongst the larger than life personalities. Geraint Downing (Brother Jay) and Jacob Evans (Fluke) deserve a special mention, both an important part of the ensemble, contributing to the atmosphere and helping create the feeling of a working recording studio. Their performances set the scene and add to the atmosphere, illustrating a studio full of people and personalities, rather than simply a stage set for the four musicians.

None of the musical brilliance and arrangements could have been achieved without the guidance of Musical Supervisor Lee Freeman, What I love is the way the cast make the music feel connected to the characters. The songs aren’t just there to be performed; they help reveal the personalities, rivalries and relationships at the heart of the story. The chemistry between the four musicians is particularly engaging and is fascinating to see how differently each character approach the same extraordinary moments. Libby Watson’s set and costume design is just perfect, the set is as close to the original studio as it ever could be and the costumes are the finishing touch and icing on the cake. Arts Theatre, Marble Arch, is a lovely setting for the production. The atmosphere is intimate enough to appreciate the performances, while still allowing the music to create that sense of excitement and occasion.