Fame JR

Fame JR at NK Theatre Arts had a fantastic open set with a range of different levels on the platform to distinguish different heights and focal points for certain characters and scenes. These were well used and enhanced the overall artistic impression, creating dynamic stage pictures and allowing the audience to follow the emotional journey of the characters with clarity. The well-choreographed and placed levels in the musical number Pray I Make P.A. were so emotive that they left the audience in a complete gasp, an unforgettable moment of theatrical intensity.

We all relate the medium of dance to Fame, and wow did NK Theatre Arts bring those moves to the stage. From slick combinations and phrases, tight and well-executed pirouettes, to well-controlled high kicks, these young performers are certainly on their way to something special. Hannah Thomas, assisted by Georgia Goodwin and Amy Earth, deserve complete praise for their artistic choreographic vision. The choreography was not only technically impressive but also emotionally resonant, elevating the storytelling throughout.

Carmen Diaz, played by Olivia Barton, delivered her part with such finesse. Her portrayal of the confident, ambitious, and fame-obsessed student truly stood out. Although in the JR version the darker side of why she is no longer with us at the end is removed, her absence still deeply moved the audience. This part always moves me, no matter how many times I’ve seen it. Olivia’s powerhouse vocals in her number There She Goes were both strong and commanding. This number is no small feat it jumps from low notes to powerful belts and Olivia managed it with perfection and admiration.

Nick Piazza, played by Colby Voss, demonstrated both intensity and sensitivity in his performance. Colby’s delivery of dialogue was commanding and authentic, and his interaction with Serena Katz, played by Lilly-May Leonard, was captivating. Lilly-May’s solo Let’s Play a Love Scene was a heartfelt ballad not only beautifully sung but infused with emotion and vulnerability that took the audience on a rollercoaster of feelings. These two young performers, Colby and Lilly-May, perfectly exuded the maturity required to portray the unrequited love between their characters, highlighting the tension between personal desire and professional ambition. Job well done!

Finn Derbyshire, playing Schlomo Metzenbaum, brought a beautifully charismatic persona to the stage. Finn skilfully built the character’s arc from a reserved violinist to a purposeful rock band member with subtlety and sincerity. His understated connection with Carmen was well executed and never overplayed, adding emotional depth to the narrative. Finn is certainly one young man to watch in the future world of theatre.

Sam Hardman, who played Tyrone Jackson, is another rising star to watch for in the not-too-distant future. His energy on stage was consistent, his projection of dialogue strong, and his ability to own the stage was commendable. His interaction with Iris Kelly, played by Lily Robb, kept the audience engaged in their love-hate relationship. Lily brought a brilliant contrast to Iris’s character from the perception of being wealthy and aloof to revealing her insecurity and anxiety about her future at the school. Her performance was layered and compelling.

Of course, in the world of the famous Fame school, we have the teachers, Miss Sherman and Ms Bell each with completely different focus points within the school: academic and artistic. Megan Voss was the ever-commanding Miss Sherman, while Hannah Rixon portrayed Ms Bell, the passionate dance teacher. Both Megan and Hannah wewasuthoritative in their delivery, and their vocals in the Teachers’ Argument duet was emotionally charged and rich. What I especially loved was how they listened to each other, ensuring harmonies were spot on and the tension between their characters felt genuine.

I must say that David Jarvis’ vision for lighting this musical was nothing short of brilliant. Well-placed spotlights highlighted key characters, and scenes were lit with precision so that every performer could be seen. The use of lighting to isolate areas of the stage while blackening others drew the audience’s focus exactly where it needed to be. The intensity of brightness and the choice of colours complemented the high energy on stage, enhancing both mood and movement.

The sound design by Ben Wicks was expertly managed. Every vocal line was clear, every musical cue crisp, and the balance between live performance and backing tracks was seamless. The sound supported the emotional highs and lows of the show without ever overpowering the performers.

Direction by Hannah Thomas was again nothing short of a well-disciplined and polished product. Her direction was thoughtful, cohesive, and full of heart. She brought out the best in each performer, ensuring that every character had a purpose and every moment on stage was meaningful. The pacing, transitions, and emotional beats were handled with finesse.

The overall production and costumes were vibrant, era-appropriate, and full of personality. Each costume helped define the character and added to the authenticity of the setting. The attention to detail, from leg warmers to leotards transported the audience straight into the bustling halls of the Fame school.

Thank you once again, NK Theatre Arts, for your lovely welcome and hospitality. You certainly have some incredible talent among your young performers, and I look forward to seeing you all again soon.

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