The Wedding Singer

To coin a phrase from one of the songs in Act 1, this show was “AWESOME”!

‘The Wedding Singer’ is an adaptation of the 1998 film of the same name recalling the fashion and music of the 1980’s.  The story follows the life of wedding singer Robbie Hart after he has been jilted at the altar and then falls in love with Julia, who is about to be married to Glen!  This is a show that I have not seen before, nor have I seen the film. 

Brassneck Theatre’s production (superbly directed by Royston Bayfield) oozed with enthusiasm, energy and professionalism from each and every person from start to finish. Ben Tomlinson gave an outstanding performance as Robbie Hart. His singing, acting and musical talent were superb. His many songs were all brilliantly delivered.

The two girls in Robbie’s life Linda, his ex, played by Emily Taylor and Julia, his new love, played by Lisa Simpson, were excellent.  Both are very talented actresses and have stunning singing voices.  I particularly loved “Come Out of the Dumpster” sung by Julia (Lisa).

Robbie’s bandmates Tom Kyle as Sammy and Adam Folkard as George (a kind of Boy George wannabe) gave strong characterisations.  Both are extremely accomplished actors, singers and musicians.  Adam was brilliant as George, his outfits were superb and he was so deliciously “camp”! Christine Castle was suitably outrageous as Robbie’s Grandma Rosie.  What a rapper – as I’ve never seen her before!

There were brilliant supporting performances from Rachel Sowerby as Holly, and Chris Slater as the arrogant, swanky Glen.  Again, both are accomplished actors with fabulous singing voices.

The enthusiasm and energy from everyone on stage was infectious from start to finish.  The set was superb and the scene changes flowed effortlessly.  Add into the mix excellent dance routines (strikingly choreographed by Donna Woodman), brilliant costumes and wigs, many 80’s wedding gowns, numerous ‘stylised’ props, superb lighting and sound and a fantastic band (musically directed by Cathy Sweet), it really was an incredible show. 

Congratulations to everyone involved for such a brilliant evening’s entertainment.
 

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