* Apologies for the time it has taken to produce this review, I have been fully occupied with auditions for my own production but can now breathe once more. *

My third trip to The Core Theatre in as many weeks and this time to see a musical version of one of my favourite films of its era in The Full Monty. I have also always been impressed by St Augustine’s Musical Theatre Company in the past, therefore, whatever the production, I knew I’d be treated to a top drawer offering. And I was not disappointed.

The plot. Six out of work men try to make money and regain some pride by attempting to emulate a group of male strippers who are popular in the local town. This musical is based on the 1997 hit film of the same name, with the major difference being that Sheffield UK is replaced with Buffalo, New York. And here I must admit that I felt the story lost the heart of the original template. It was a good story, don’t get me wrong, and the plot adheres closely to that of the bleak North of England, but the substitute added nothing, in my opinion.

But as I say, it was still good and St Augustine’s did it proud with a strong cast in all areas. Clandestine women in the auditorium, roaring on the stripper during the opening was a clever touch and got the audience energised from the off. In the role of Jerry, we had James Gough, and you felt the struggles he was going through in efforts to be a good father. I then enjoyed Chris Lambeth as Dave with his dry humour and irony; one of life’s labourers for whom nothing ever goes right. I also thought the chemistry and growing relationship between Malcolm (Harvey Grant) and Ethan (Alex Fraser) was handled well with sensitivity and this particularly showed during You Walk With Me where they come out, declaring love for one another. Light moments were also provided by the long-suffering Harold (Jon Laight) and ageing Noah/Horse (Patison Harrigan). For the wives, we had sterling performances from Nicola Siviter (Georgie), Sophia Gough (Pam) and Sue Burrows (Vicki). Plus, credit is also due to Tobias Warrender and Owen Horsley who played Jerry and Pam’s son, Nathan on alternating performances. I only saw one but am sure both were equally excellent.

As far as the songs go, I can’t say they were the greatest numbers in musical theatre, but Jeanette’s Showbiz Number led by Kate Buckley-Dyer sets Act Two into motion well and I enjoyed Breeze Off the River and Big-Ass Rock. The Director/Producer for The Full Monty was Veronica Walsh with Michelle King as Musical Director leading a splendid 12-Piece orchestra and Cassie Rivett in charge of wonderful choreography.

Of course, anybody who knows the original film will recall how it ends, with our heroes going all the way in naked glory. Do you see anything? Well, I couldn’t from Row K as it was all done in the best possible taste, as Kenny Everitt used to say. Strategically placed lights at just the right time did the job. Probably not a show I would see again due to what I have already mentioned, but I will return to see St. Augustine’s. A very talented amateur company with professional productions.

Cheers.

Antony N Britt

*Photos taken from social media.