All Shook Up

My grateful thanks to Glass Ceiling Theatre Company for the invitation to see their latest production, “All Shook Up”  at the Dolman Theatre Newport. I was very much looking forward to seeing this production of a jukebox musical, inspired by the hits of the legendary Elvis Presley. This was a first-time experience for me, in relation to this new musical, but along with a very packed theatre audience I can categorically say that we were all hooked from the very dynamic opening number. 

The energy of this production exploded onto the stage and never left for a single moment. On completing any review, giving credit to the skills and performance of the principles, who have, after all, been chosen because they can portray to the audience the very essence of the characters they play, should be an easy task. In the case of this principal cast, I have failed to find any flaw in their performances. Their individual performance and characterisation never faltered, but the strength of this production was without a doubt the way the principles supported and brought out the best in each other. The humour, emotion, storytelling and musical ability of each principle gave the show life that was believable. My congratulations and respect for your outstanding individual performances. 

Savannah Mountain [Natalie Haller], Dan Davis [Chad], Jordan Leigh [ Jim Haller], Fiona Sherief-Davies [Sylvia ], Luc Champs [Dennis], Jess Doolan [Miss Sandra ], Zoe Southcott [ Mayor Matilda Hyde ], Evan Davies [ Dean Hyde], Darcy Williams [ Lorraine], Dan Butler [ Sheriff Earl ] 

My congratulations to an outstanding chorus. You all brought the stage to life and made a huge difference to the production. The choreography in this show was West End standard and must be applauded. My congratulations to your innovative Choreographer Emily John and  Director Andre- Paul Spring. The musical direction and the obvious effect it had on this show must be emphasised and applauded. The Choral harmony was superb throughout the show and each individual number a joy to hear. My congratulations to musical director Vicci Bryant for an exceptional sound. 

There were so many things that made this show the success that it was. The close harmony and controlled musical numbers, the excellent characterisation and storytelling, the movement and choreography, the silent and controlled scene changes, but most of all, the obvious joy of the performers. There are few shows that leave you wanting to see the next scene, to hear the next song; This was one of those shows.  

My congratulations and respect to you all.   “BRAVO”

 

The views in this report are solely of the author.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.