This was the third time I’d seen Bournville Musical Theatre Company in action and like the previous two occasions, I was not disappointed. Hollywood on Broadway featured songs originally from films which had subsequently been turned into shows. And there was much to love. Having seen many of those on the set list, I already knew I’d be in for a good time. But not only ones I was familiar with. Last year, Bournville introduced me to School of Rock and I enjoyed it so much, I purchased the soundtrack and recently saw the West End production. This time, my Amazon account has seen both Heathers and Shrek added to the basket.
A fun intro with video montage of both film and stage set the scene. And use of a three-piece band produced a great sound, making one believe we had more musicians than there actually were.
Opening with three numbers from Footloose, namely the title song, Learning to be Silent and The Girl Gets Around, we were soon in full swing. And then there was an excellent performance by Rachel Fox with I Have Nothing from The Bodyguard. Highlight of Act One for me was Freak Flag from Shrek. So much energy, so much fun.
A year ago I was in Thoroughly Modern Millie and despite seeing it twice since, I never tire and enjoyed Forget About the Boy and solos from Peter Holmes (What do I Need with Love) and Sophie Wood (Gimme Gimme). Also, we had tunes from Little Mermaid including Fathoms Below (Male Chorus), Part of your World (Natalie Buzzard) and Poor Unfortunate Soul (Lily Moore). Another lovely song on the day was With You from Ghost, delivered well by Claire Brough.
Act One ended on a high with an ad for next year’s show, Legally Blonde. Featuring first, Adam and Rhian Heeley with Serious, we then had the energetic Bend and Snap. And then into Act Two with a chorus of 42nd Street.
I’ve mentioned already that I’m intrigued by Heathers and this is due to the song, Candy Store. Then to contrast the previous fast pace, we had the poignant Seventeen from Jonny Stoker and Lily Moore.
One the best bits for me in Act Two were three numbers from Witches of Eastwick, featuring much of the cast. I’ve seen Witches twice in the last couple of years and it was a pleasure to revisit.
What I enjoy most in theatre are character parts and two stand out performances showcased this. Chloe Turner with What’s Wrong with Me from Singin’ in the Rain and Karen Lane with He Vas My Boyfriend from Young Frankenstein.
The show then ended with a retro trip and medley from Saturday Night Fever, leaving the audience in no doubt, they’d been entertained. Apologies for not naming everybody, but it’s impossible to do so. However, I will pay tribute to the fact all played a great part.
Hollywood on Broadway was directed by Sadie Turner with musical direction from Chris Corcoran.
Cheers.
Antony N Britt - Author 