The Great British Bake Off

Turning a television baking competition into a musical might seem unexpected, but Jake Brunger and Pippa Cleary have done exactly that. The production caters to fans of the TV series, closely mirroring its format and even recreating memorable moments such as the all-important ‘handshake’ and melted ice cream ending up in the bin.

The stage is open, with neon lights suggesting a ridge tent. One of things I loved about this was how deliciously daft it is in places and the props team deserves praise for accurately recreating the Bake-Off tent, complete with vibrant workstations and plenty of baking tools, all enhanced by good sound and lighting. The TV/stage crew, who moved benches and props on and off throughout the show, also deserve recognition, (Rob Darling, Julia Champion, Mark Culver and Olivia Franks), they sometimes joined in with the performance and singing. Costumes were modern day but I loved Pam’s colourful outfits with colour coordinating glasses. The band, led by MD Hatty Philips, was discreetly tucked away at the back of the stage, perfect to allow both soloists and ensemble to shine.

The production truly feels like an ensemble work, featuring Jim and Kim as our hosts, portrayed excellently by Wendy Rabbetts and Duncan Virgoe, with judges Phil Hollinghurst (Matt Hall) and Pam Lee (Lisa Everett) working well together–guess who they were meant to represent! At the show’s very heart are eight contestants, each bringing a unique background, with a personal story or quirk - Gemma (Georgia Lucy Adair); Ben (Ian Blackmore); Izzy (Hannah Etheridge); Francesca (Georgie Drury); Babs (Ami Culver); Hassan (Harry Heaslewood); Russell (Liam Clarke) and Dezza (George Fever). They were all the stereotypes that you might get in the TV show each year, all the characters were portrayed really well. Singing and dancing could not be faulted. They even included a daughter of one of the contestants (a shared role by Kara Sysiak and Martha Collins). Since the programme didn't specify, I believe I saw Kara perform, she was outstanding, as I'm sure Martha was too. 

All credit must go to director and choreographer Adele Ebbage, who has, once again, done a tremendous job with such a talented cast. There is humour, silliness, a hint of romance but also sadness with some of the contestants’ stories. Who was the winner? You’ll have to watch the next series to find out!  

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