Fame is always a safe bet when trying to choose a good musical, and this abridged version did not disappoint.
Many audience members were probably not been even born when Fame the movie, television series, and stage show hit the headlines in the Eighties. However, this generation has been brought up on pop Idol and reality competitions about becoming a star, and Fame tells the story of a group of students making their quest for stardom - from the tentative auditions, through to the traumas, relationships, and endeavour that it takes to make it to the top.
This cast works really hard to reproduce the amazingly energetic dance routines. None more so than the lead part of Carmen Diaz who goes from a talented singer, lyric writer and dancer to getting into drugs and dying of an overdose.
All the principals shine with special mention to Miss Sherman who plays the hard taskmaster. Serena & Nick are a good pairing as the acting duo while Tyrone who has reading problems is played by an excellent dancer .Schlomo looked every inch the talented ‘geek’ and Mabel as the girl who likes her food also catches the eye.
The dancing, singing and acting all passed muster but the director needs to look at the weakness of the gestures when solos are being delivered. This is a slick production with a great supporting band-the show has some references that might unsuitable for children but teenagers are unlikely to be shocked.
Show times
Til 30 August, 5.30pm
Ticket Prices
£6.50-£10.50
Clare Maynard- Carmen Diaz, Nia Coleman - Serena Katz Leah Haysom -Oates - Iris Kelly
Steph Ramplin - Mabel Washington Nathan Laryea - Tyrone Jackson James Thacker - Nick Piazza
Tom Rogers - Joe 'Jose' Vegas
Amy Scott - Miss Sherman