All Shook Up

All Shook Up (Youth Edition) has been adapted from the original full length Broadway version and has been rewritten and condensed into this 60 minute musical showcase. There were plenty of crowd pleasing musical numbers inspired by and featuring the songs of Elvis Presley and it was great to see how they seamlessly fit into the rather weak storyline. The show is set in 1955 when a guitar-playing young man arrives in a rather square town to change the lives of everyone he meets with his hip-swivelling, lip-curling and blue suede shoes.

Leading man Chad (played by Euan Mellings) did a great job in the pivotal role, showing off his talent in the many dance numbers and keeping dialogue slick, which helped to maintain the pace of the show. Euan had great charisma and had the many screaming young audience members swooning over every hip swivel, lip curl and song.

Natalie (Chads love interest and motor mechanic) played in this performance by Daisy Page, gave a polished performance, equally at home on stage when playing either a girl or boy. Her vocal ability was a particular highlight of the evening along with acting ability.

Euan Hughes Williams played Dennis, the nervous and love-struck long-time friend of Natalie who gave another great and confident performance. Dean Hyde was played by Max Wellington and Lorraine was played by Meg Board another great pairing and great fun to watch.

Mayor Matilda Hyde, the overbearing mother of Dean, was superbly characterised by Grace Murray and I enjoyed her comic timing and delivery of her dialogue. The Devil in Disguise gave Grace an opportunity to shock and let her hair down which gave he audience particularly enjoyment.

Although the principals drove this production the work of the chorus is not to be overlooked.  The energy and dance performances in Jail House Rock, Devil in Disguise, All Shook up and Burning Love, to name just a few, all added to the enjoyment of the evening.

The individual and ensemble performances and indeed the whole performance were clearly the result of a significant amount of work from the production team.

The scenes were kept moderately simple and scene changes were slick. Costumes were well stylised to the 1950’s including the many pairs of blue suede shoes.

The quality of lighting and sound supported provided a great accompaniment to the overall effect of the show.

This was a joyous show and after just 60 minutes left the audience just wanting more. Well done to everyone involved.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.