REVIEW: Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker! at Newcastle Theatre Royal

 Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker!

Newcastle Theatre Royal

Until Saturday 9th April 2022

First staged in 1992, Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker! returns to UK theatres in celebration of its 30th anniversary. The production, last performed 10 years ago, has had a slight update in choreography and costuming however the key elements of the story and staging remain.  

Matthew Bourne has been reinterpreting and modernising classic tales with his company New Adventures since 2001, churning out success after success with Swan Lake, Romeo & Juliet, and Cinderella, just to name a few. 

Attending the midweek matinee performance, it is clear to see how much of an impact choreographer Matthew Bourne has had in the industry, solely down to the sheer number of school groups appearing to be in attendance. 

The music, a familiar score for many I’m sure. Tchaikovsky’s work is transformed by contemporary choreography, a modern take combining ballet and contemporary as well as social dances. One thing that I must admit was quite disappointing was the lack of live music. Don’t get me wrong, the sound system did the job perfectly, and it didn’t detract from the performance. However, I can’t say I got that ‘goosebumps’ feeling that comes when the orchestra and choreography combine. 

A dull, grey orphanage is the setting for the majority of the first act. A far cry from the traditional setting of a warm, welcoming stately home at Christmas time, Dr Dross’ orphanage is cold and disconnected. Bourne’s choice to make this change seems logical, this is certainly a place that requires escape.

At the stroke of midnight, Clara’s doll springs alive in a striking moment (no spoilers, but prepare yourself for a shock!) and the audience is transported to the delectable ‘Sweetieland’.  

I really enjoyed Bourne’s use of dual roles to cement the fantasy. Dancers took on the role of two distinctly different characters in each act, or if you’d prefer, in each world. Overall, the theatricality of the dancers caused you to be drawn in and fully immersed in the story. 

An intriguing (and rather effective) choreographic choice was the overhaul of the national dances which, in recent years, have been seen to represent racist stereotypes of the countries in question. Princess Sugar, Liquorice Allsorts, Knickerbocker Glory and the motorbike gang of Gobstoppers all had their moment to shine, each showing off and dancing in a different style, the pieces featuring vogueing, acrobatics, latin inspired partnerwork and contemporary floorwork. A change to tradition that I, for one, found was very well met and one that has added to the piece as a whole. 

The performance was undoubtedly ‘Matthew Bourne’, as anyone who has seen one of his productions would agree. A theatrical, eclectic mix of choreographic styles brought to life by an ensemble of energetic, highly talented dancers. A fabulous performance and a refreshing take on an old favourite, suitable for all the family! 

Review: Sarah Office

Photos: Johan Persson

Tickets:

Matthew Bourne’s Nutcracker! plays at Newcastle Theatre Royal from Tue 5 – Sat 9 Apr 2022. Tickets are priced from £20.00 and can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.

REVIEW: Head Girl at Gateshead Central Bar

Head Girl

Written by Caitlin Fairlamb, Rowan Miller and Rosie Bowden.

Gateshead Central Bar Thursday 7 - Saturday 9 April 2021

Whitley Bay Laurels Friday 22 - Saturday 23 July 2022

Durham Fringe : Cafedral 26-31 July 2022

EdFringe : theSpace at North Bridge 5-13 August 2022

EdFringe: theSpace on the Mile 15-20 August 2022

A new all-female theatre group present their first self-written show above a Gateshead pub this week. The result is fringe theatre at its best.

The three members of the Girl Next Door Theatre Company met on the Theatre Royal's Project A training programme. The energy, and indeed the humour, of this production is infectious - it is clear that Project A has served them well. 

Caitlin Fairlamb appears as the 17 year old sixth former Becca. A young lady who plans to run for Head Girl at school as she wants to make positive changes. Her programme runs from staggering the lunch times - so that the sixth form get to eat first without interference from the younger kids and to introduce extra-curricular activities so they have something to add to their university applications. The show opens with Becca energetically rehearsing her hustings speech. The body language of her older sister Sophie shows that she is less than impressed but she still offers advice.

A quick costume change later and actor Rowan Miller has transformed from sister Sophie into best mate Lily. Becca and Lily are close friends with their own phrases and actions that only they understand. As they discuss the Head Girl rivals it is clear that the have been close for a very long time. Just like the opening scene, their discussion brings about spontaneous laughter from audience. As a comedy this piece works well with the couple behind us declaring the show "hilarious" at the end.

Rowan Miller then performs another costume change and appears as Miss Eden - an English teacher who has encouraged Becca but she has some personal news for her. 

Director Rosie Bowden has developed a well paced show, despite a number of scenes which can often have the effect to make some shows drag out. It is perfect for Fringe as it runs under the hour mark. The show doesn't make heavy weather of the issues which, with another script, could have been the case. The result is a fun show that reminds one of their school years when, as teenagers, we wanted to change the world as we knew all of the answers. By not jumping down triggering rabbit holes, the show stays fun and entertaining. This is not about making potentially political points but about enjoying our collective childhood.

The actors deliver performances that result in likeable and relatable characters. Both work hard and, for a preview performance, cover any mistakes (if there were any) well.

Head Girl is an enjoyable show and I look forward to seeing future work from this group.  The Gateshead show was "pay what you feel" and they have a credit card machine which made it easy for us to make a donation as we left.

Review: Stephen Oliver

On The Web:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/girlnextdoortc/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/girlnextdoortc

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/girlnextdoortc

 

Tickets:

Whitley Bay Laurels tickets available from https://www.laurelswhitley.co.uk/theatre 

Durham Fringe tickets available from https://durhamfringe.co.uk/events/head-girl/

Edinburgh Fringe tickets are available from : https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/head-girl-1 and  https://tickets.edfringe.com/whats-on/head-girl 

News: Two Stunning New Shows Announced at Newcastle Theatre Royal

 

Two Stunning New Shows Announced

at Newcastle Theatre Royal

Audiences are in for a superb treat with a multi award-winning musical and a best-selling New Adventures favourite coming to Newcastle Theatre Royal in 2023.

The Tony Award-winning Titanic The Musical will sail into Newcastle Monday 27 March – Saturday 1 April 2023.

In the final hours of 14th April 1912, the RMS Titanic, on her maiden voyage from Southampton to New York, collided with an iceberg and 'the unsinkable ship' slowly sank. It was one of the most tragic disasters of the 20th Century. 1517 men, women and children lost their lives.

Based on real people aboard the most legendary ship in the world, Titanic The Musical is a stunning and stirring production focusing on the hopes, dreams and aspirations of her passengers who each boarded with stories and personal ambitions of their own. All innocently unaware of the fate awaiting them, the Third Class immigrants’ dream of a better life in America, the Second Class imagine they too can join the lifestyles of the rich and famous, whilst the millionaire Barons of the First Class anticipate legacies lasting forever. 

The original Broadway production of Titanic The Musical won five Tony Awards including Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book. This new production celebrates the 10th anniversary of its London premiere where it won sweeping critical acclaim across the board.

After playing to packed out houses in 2013 and 2016, Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty will reawaken for a much-anticipated return Tuesday 18 – Saturday 29 April 2023.

When it made its premiere at Sadlers Wells in 2012, it became the fastest selling production in the company’s history. Now established as a firm favourite in the New Adventures repertoire, the award-winning Sleeping Beauty has enchanted international audiences throughout the UK and across the globe.

Enter a wondrous world of magical fairies and vampires, where the timeless tale of good vs evil is turned upside-down, creating a supernatural love story that even the passage of time itself cannot hinder. Will Princess Aurora ever find her true love again?

With an unforgettable score by Tchaikovsky, sumptuous sets and costumes, evocative lighting and masterly storytelling, the beloved fairy tale is brought to life by the uniquely talented New Adventures company. Get ready to be transported in time from the halcyon days of the late Edwardian era through to the modern day in this dazzling gothic romance.

Tickets:

Tickets are currently on sale to Friends of the Theatre Royal and will go on general sale at 10am on Thu 7 Apr 2022; tickets are priced from £15.00 for Titanic The Musical and £20.00 for Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty and can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.

Preview: Head Girl at The Central Bar, Gateshead

 

A brand new all-female theatre company launch their debut shows.

 Head Girl

Gateshead Central Bar

Thursday 7 - Saturday 9 April 2021

A play about falling in and out of love with yourself. A coming of age story, that navigates the 21st-century girl boss mentality, whilst still practising self-care seven days a week.  Girl Next Door are presenting Head Girl at The Central Bar, Gateshead on Thursday 7th, Friday 8th, Saturday 9th April.

Our play is about Becca. She is running in the campaign for Head Girl at school and running herself into the ground, all with a smile on her face. But who is she doing all this work for? 

The new work is full of heart and ambition and comes from a new company with an exciting fresh perspective.

Packed with plenty of cheek and fun, there is something in Head Girl for everyone to enjoy.

These shows are the first full length performances for the company, having featured in Elevator Festival’s Scratch Night,  and they can’t wait to share their show with you.

Head Girl director, Rosie Bowden says 'We are so excited to bring this play to life. It feels like a part of us is in this show and it will be a beautiful bittersweet piece for audiences to enjoy together. The venue have been supportive and we want to nurture a strong cultural identity for Gateshead and be a part of that culture growing.’

Girl Next Door is made up of three theatre makers: Caitlin Fairlamb, Rowan Miller and Rosie Bowden, who met on the Project A Actor Training Course at Newcastle Theatre Royal. They are excited to be making work that amplifies women’s voices and being involved in all elements of the production process.

The Central Bar is a bar and performance venue that presents a range of music, comedy and more recently, Theatre. The venue boasts new lagers and ales on draft each week and affordable entertainment. It is in a beautiful spot on Half Moon Lane, 30 seconds walk from the Tyne Bridge

On The Web:

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/girlnextdoortc/

Twitter - https://twitter.com/girlnextdoortc

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/girlnextdoortc

 

Tickets:

The performances are ‘pay what you feel’ so that they can be accessible to everyone, regardless of financial and personal circumstances.

Note: The venue is not wheelchair accessible.

There will be a relaxed performance on Saturday 9th April at 4pm which will be captioned.

Head Girl @  The Central Bar, Gateshead

Thursday 7th - Saturday 9th April 2021

From 4 pm until 5pm (9th April) or 8pm until 9pm (7th, 8th & 9th April)

Price - Pay What You Feel

Tickets: ​​https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/head-girl-tickets-257998930747

The Central Bar, Gateshead

Preview: Remembering the Oscars at Newcastle Theatre Royal

 

Hollywood Glamour set to shine at Newcastle Theatre Royal

Remembering the Oscars

Newcastle Theatre Royal

Sunday 10 April 2022

If you missed the Oscars earlier this week, don’t worry the Theatre Royal has the next best thing coming this week!

Following on from their sell-out tour with their highly entertaining and innovative Remembering The Movies, Aljaž and Janette will be returning with their brand new show Remembering The Oscars playing on Sunday 10 April 2022.

Oozing with Hollywood glamour, Strictly's favourite couple celebrate the Oscar-winning songs and give them the red carpet treatment in this exhilarating new dance spectacular.

Whether you are Wishing On A Star; Swinging On A Star or merely dancing in the City of Stars, this incredible production will take you from Disney family favourites, through to the Golden Ages of Hollywood and Bollywood.

With a cast of amazing dancers and musicians and stunning stage designs, costumes and huge LED screen, this dazzling spectacular will be a night to remember and features hit songs from Lady Gaga, Adele, Prince, Queen, Eminem, Celine Dion and Barbara Streisand, as well as classics from legendary songwriters such as Burt Bacharach, John Barry, Rodgers & Hammerstein, Irving Berlin and many more.

 

Tickets:

Remembering the Oscars plays at Newcastle Theatre Royal on Sunday 10 April 2022 with a matinee performance at 2.30pm and an evening performance at 7.30pm. Tickets are priced from £28.50 and can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.

Preview: Beautiful at Newcastle Theatre Royal

 

HIT MUSICAL RETURNS TO NEWCASTLE THEATRE ROYAL

Beautiful – The Carole King Musical

Newcastle Theatre Royal

Tuesday 19 – Saturday 23 April 2022

Beautiful – The Carole King Musical, the Olivier award-winning West End and Broadway show is returning to Newcastle for a much-anticipated one week run.

A firm favourite with Newcastle Theatre Royal audiences, the smash-hit musical played to packed out audiences during its previous run in 2017.

The chart-topping music legend was an ordinary girl with an extraordinary talent. Beautiful tells the inspiring true story of King’s remarkable rise to stardom, from being part of a hit song-writing team with her husband Gerry Goffin, to her relationship with fellow writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, to becoming one of the most successful solo acts in popular music history.

She wrote countless classics such as (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, Take Good Care of My Baby, You’ve Got a Friend, So Far Away, It Might as Well Rain Until September, Up on the Roof and The Locomotion.

The role of Carole King will be played by Molly-Grace Cutler who will star alongside Tom Milner as her husband Gerry Goffin, Seren Sandham-Davies as Cynthia Weil and Jos Slovick at Barry Mann.

Tickets:

Tickets are priced from £15.00 and can be purchased at www.theatreroyal.co.uk or from the Theatre Royal Box Office on 0191 232 7010.

 

Preview: Bedknobs and Broomsticks at Sunderland Empire

 

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

Cast Announced For

World Premiere Stage Production

Of Disney’s Classic Movie

 

Dianne Pilkington to lead the company as Miss Eglantine Price,

the role immortalised on film by Angela Lansbury

 

Charles Brunton to play Emelius Browne

 

New musical directed by award-winning theatre-makers

Candice Edmunds and Jamie Harrison

Disney’s Bedknobs and Broomsticks

Sunderland Empire

Tuesday 19 April 2022 - Sunday 24 April 2022

Tickets: https://tinyurl.com/SundBEDKNOBS*

Michael Harrison is thrilled to announce the cast for Disney’s Bedknobs and Broomsticks, which will make its world premiere as an exciting new stage musical this Summer on a major UK & Ireland Tour.  Performances begin at Sunderland Empire on Tuesday 19 April 2022 running until Sunday 24 April 2022.

Dianne Pilkington will star as Miss Eglantine Price, the mysterious lady that the three orphaned Rawlins children are evacuated from wartime London to live with. Dianne’s West End credits include Les Miserables, Wicked, Mamma Mia and Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein.

Charles Brunton will play Emelius Browne. Charles starred in the iconic role of Miss Trunchbull in Matilda both in the West End and on Broadway. Other credits include Love Never Dies, Chess and Scrooge.

The rest of the company includes Mark Anderson, Jessica Aubrey, Georgie Buckland, Kayla Carter, Jonathan Cobb, Jacqui Dubois, Matthew Elliot-Campbell, Sam Lupton, Rob Madge, Vinnie Monachello, Nathaniel Morrison, Conor O’Hara, Sadie-Jean Shirley, Robin Simoes Da Silva, Emma Thornett and Susannah Van Den Berg.

The Rawlins children will be played by Dexter Barry, Izabella Bucknell, Haydn Court, Poppy Houghton, Evie Lightman and Aidan Oti.

Enter a world of magic and fantasy with Disney’s classic movie Bedknobs and Broomsticks. With the original songs by the legendary Sherman Brothers (Mary Poppins, The Jungle Book, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang), including Portobello Road, The Age Of Not Believing, The Beautiful Briny and new music and lyrics by Neil Bartram and book by Brian Hill, Bedknobs and Broomsticks will be brought to life by award-winning theatre-makers Candice Edmunds and Jamie Harrison.

When the three orphaned Rawlins children are reluctantly evacuated from wartime London to live with the mysterious Eglantine Price, they have no idea what adventures lie ahead. Upon discovering Eglantine to be a trainee witch, they join forces to search for a secret spell that will defeat the enemy once and for all. Armed with an enchanted bedknob, a bewitched broomstick and a magical flying bed, they encounter surprising new friendships on their journey from Portobello Road to the depths of the beautiful briny sea.

This magical musical starts its UK Tour this year… it’s time to start believing!

Bedknobs and Broomsticks is produced by Michael Harrison by special arrangement with Disney Theatrical Productions.

Tickets:

Bedknobs and Broomsticks will play at Sunderland Empire from Tuesday 19 April 2022 running up until Sunday 24 April 2022. Tickets priced from just £13* are available from the Ticket Centre on 0844 871 7615* or online at https://tinyurl.com/SundBEDKNOBS*

 

*A £3.65 transaction fee applies to telephone and online bookings. Calls cost up to 7p per minute plus your standard network charge.