We Will Rock You

I was delighted to be invited back to see Eclipse’s production once again and my first time seeing We Will Rock You in any capacity. 

Queen’s music has become synonymous with musical theatre audiences through We Will Rock You. Packed with iconic anthems and Ben Elton’s tongue-in-cheek script, it is a demanding show that requires a cast with strong vocal ability, stamina and an abundance of energy. Eclipse Productions certainly rose to that challenge, delivering a vibrant and entertaining production that was clearly enjoyed by the enthusiastic audience.

Director Melissa Davies ensured the production maintained a good pace throughout, making effective use of the performance space with confident staging and seamless scene changes. Rebecca Roach’s choreography was another highlight, complementing the music perfectly with energetic, well-executed routines that were performed with precision and commitment by the company. The ensemble worked exceptionally hard throughout, creating a believable community and maintaining high energy levels from the opening number to the finale.

Musically, Andrew Harris deserves considerable praise. Queen’s catalogue is notoriously challenging, but both principals and ensemble delivered the score with confidence, supported by an outstanding live band. The balance between orchestra and cast was excellent, allowing the music to retain its full rock sound whilst ensuring lyrics and dialogue remained clear.

Ian Roach led the company well as Galileo, delivering an engaging performance with assured vocals and plenty of charisma. Rebecca Roach gave an accomplished portrayal of Scaramouche, capturing both the character’s wit and vulnerability whilst forming a believable partnership with Galileo.

Justine Davies was outstanding as Killer Queen, commanding every scene in which she appeared. With exceptional vocals, commanding stage presence and an authoritative interpretation of the role, she proved to be one of the production’s strongest assets.

Simon Cromwell brought warmth, humour and excellent comic timing to Buddy, creating an audience favourite, while Michael Aubin delivered an assured and likeable Brit. Melissa Davies gave a thoughtful and sincere performance as Oz, whilst Matthew Tucker provided a suitably intimidating Kashoggi, maintaining the authority required of the role.

The technical aspects of the production complemented the performance well, with effective lighting and staging helping to establish the futuristic world of Planet Mall. One observation would be the frequent use of audience blinders. Whilst entirely appropriate within a rock musical and certainly adding to the concert atmosphere, their repeated use occasionally became a little overpowering and, at times, distracted from the action taking place on stage. 

Overall, this was an ambitious production that showcased the considerable talent within Eclipse Productions. Strong principal performances, an excellent live band, dynamic choreography and a committed ensemble combined to produce an enjoyable evening of musical theatre. Congratulations to Melissa, Andrew, Rebecca, the production team, cast, orchestra and everyone involved in bringing this energetic production to the stage.

 

The views in this report are solely of the author.

 

 

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