"Rent" by Jonathan Larson.

Spotlight Theatre.

Squire Performing Arts Centre.

Set in the East Village of New York City, Rent is about falling in love, finding your voice and living for today. Winner of the Tony Award for Best Musical and the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, “Rent” has become a pop cultural phenomenon. with songs that rock and a story that audiences of all ages can connect with.

Based loosely on Puccini's “La Boheme”, Jonathan Larson's Rent follows a year in the life of a group of impoverished young artists and musicians struggling to survive and create in New York's Lower East Side, under the shadow of HIV/AIDS.

The physical and emotional complications of the disease pervade the lives of Roger, Mimi, Tom and Angel. Maureen deals with her chronic infidelity through performance art; her partner, Joanne, wonders if their relationship is worth the trouble.

Benny has sold out his Bohemian ideals in exchange for financial gains, forgetting the bond with his former friends. Mark, an aspiring filmmaker, feels like an outsider to life in general. The way these young bohemians negotiate their dreams, loves and conflicts provides the narrative thread to this musical.

I've seen "Rent" several times before, and as I say quite a lot, a Director can add or take away, or change some of the storyline, which makes watching any show a treat for someone like myself who has seen other productions; this is no different with changes to a couple of the main characters, which I am sure will become apparent later in this review.

The vocals from every single performer are incredibly good. The various ranges of vocals are also excellent, both solo as well as in duets and big ensemble pieces. I do have my favourites but that takes nothing at all away from the power and vocal style from anyone else.

Roger is played by Vivialyn Joynson. The relationship with flat mate, Mark as well as the romance with Mimi were totally believable. Just the sort of person you could take to the pub for a pint. I think the last time I saw Vivialyn was in "The Wedding Singer", where I commented on what a strong rock voice she has. That rock voice is to the fore in this show, a soaring voice that will send shivers down your spine.

Mark is played by David Page. who comes across in his character as someone you can relate to while still being that struggling artist. A magical duet with Joanne in the wonderful "Tango Maureen", and brilliant choreography for this one as well. David's vocal ability is such that whoever he sings with becomes the perfect recipe for a smooth sound.

Tom is played by Patrick McChrystal. What can I say about this man's voice. Every one of that cast can sing. This man can REALLY sing. Absolutely dripping with raw emotion as he sang the reprise of "I'll Cover You". The hairs on the back of my neck stood to attention. Patrick has a large vocal range, which he showcased in this role.

Angel is played by Lu Anthony. I remember seeing Lu play this role previously in Stapleford where she high kicked her way into every audience members' hearts, and in BIG heels at that. She is fun, exciting, their dance moves are incredible, including one in particular that brought a tear to a lot of men's eyes, but Angel will break your heart in their final scenes. Talking of which, the lead up to that scene was very different from what I have seen before.

Mimi is played by Erin Hanby. Mimi is an overtly sexual being, and Erin brought that trait out right from the off with her double entendre laden song "Light My Candle". It wasn't just that candle flame that was hot on stage!

Maureen is played by Eliza Hill. For anyone who has not seen "Rent" previously, there's a scene where Maureen, an artist, performs her show which features plenty of Mooing from an imaginary cow included in the feature song "Over The Moon". This part comic song allows Eliza to showcase the range that she has in her vocal arsenal.

Joanne is played by Laura McChrystal. Loved Maureen and Joanne's duet of "Take Me As I Am", in fact it's one of my highlights in this production because Laura's and Eliza's vocals were out of this world powerful and passionate, oozing raw sex appeal, especially when their eyes met throughout the duet.

Jenny, or to give her full name, Jennifer Coffin III, the hard-nosed owner demanding rent for the property and cutting their electricity, is played by Laura Thurman; it's been an absolute age since I've seen Laura on stage. Every time that I have seen the show in the past, the character has always been Benny, so it made a real difference to see a switch in the gender, in fact the hard-nosed attitude at the start was even more intense and spiteful towards Jenny's former flatmates. It may be one of those roles in the borderline "baddie" category but I love the way this character evolves, and gives Laura a chance to show a different side to her acting skills.

A big ensemble section who invade the stage at times from all entrances, keeping the audience on their toes and providing more meat to this already tasty stew. They consist of Hermione Cumbers, Theo Carey, Madelyne Pritchard, Katie Boswell, Sophie Benner, Scarlett Coleman-Smith, Sophie West, Sophia Goncearenko, Helena Cave, Emily Holder, Preston Nash, Hemi Lewis, Jess Sims, Brogan Haynes, Beth Duffy, Hilary Booth, Daisy Donoghue, Bethany Boswell, Daniel Ivan and Lucy Carey.

Many of the above also gave cameo roles, but there are a few of the ensemble that I'd like to mention, without prejudice to the rest of the ensemble.

I've been lucky to review Preston Nash many times over the last four years or so. This is his last show for Spotlight before he goes down to London. In those years I've had the pleasure of seeing his talent grow, as well as his self confidence and stage presence.

I also wish to mention Brogan, who I first saw and reviewed back in 2019 in "The Sound Of Music". This young man is an absolute all rounder, a very capable vocalist, a natural actor and also a wonderful dancer. He looks so at home with any dance style, but what impressed me this evening was his contemporary and his ballet, He has lovely turned out hands and manages to make ballet look light and easy, which I know is a difficult look for a lot of male ballet dancers.

Daniel Ivan is such a convincing drug dealer; his whole look morphed into a sleazy, shady dealer with ease, his ability to create a dangerous look just by his facial features was quite frightening.

Hemi Lewis is another dancer who you are completely drawn to with her perfect balletic stature.

I think that I have seen and reviewed everyone in this cast over the years, and this show is like watching a collaborative greatest hits of my favourite young actors; the equivalent of a K-Tel collection of chart hits, a "Now That's What I Call A Perfect Cast" for the local musical theatre collection.

The soundtrack is one of my favourites, including the gorgeous and harmonious “Seasons Of Love” as well as “I Should Tell You”, “One Song Glory”, “Cover You”, “Without You”, “Maureen’s Tango”, "Santa Fe" and “Take Me Or Leave Me” being highlights, along with the rousing title song, “Rent”.

Vicky Moroziuk is the Musical Director who gives us some spine tingling moments in the show. Patrick's gorgeous and emotional "I'll Cover You" comes to mind, especially with the choral section part of the way through, as well as Vivialyn's "One Song Glory". "Seasons Of Love" is perfectly arranged and the high notes were all hit with ease. The harmonies sound angelic and have a lovely separation between the various parts. The individual ranges have been really well worked out and fit together like a tasty layer cake.

One thing I did notice in this production though is the gorgeous music behind this score which, without the vocals sound as if they were written by a classical composer, at times the music being quite fragile, strengthened by the lyrics.

The Youth Band members are Isabella Raisin-Moss (Bass), Noah Gamba and Josh Harrison-Bett (Drums), Austin Owen (Lead Guitar), Oscar Lambert-Smith (Rhythm Guitar) and Vicky Moroziuk (Keys). A powerful sound befitting of such a wonderful rock score.

Directed by Liam Petruccio-Hall. Liam has managed to bring out every bit of comedy and emotion from this wonderful musical and his super talented cast.

Choreographed by Bethany Wear. Two scenes in particular really stand out for me; the first being Maureen's performance scene in "Over the Moon" and the other being the full ensemble piece in the long "Santa Fe" scene which has some marvellous choreography. Angel's exciting and athletic choreography, especially in those heels, is breath taking.

The set design looks stunning and hits you as soon as you walk into the auditorium. Created to house the band into the set design with two sets of steps leading to second level. Set design is by Liam Petruccio-Hall and supplied by Oliver Read.

With the stage design being static, there's a fair bit of stage management required with props etc. Stage managed by Nigel Newton, and what Nigel doesn't know about this area of theatre is not worth knowing. Stage Crew consist of Dom Holder and Roman Moroziuk keeping everything running smoothly.

Props, and there are many of them, are sourced by Amanda Hall.

Costumes co-ordinated by Sophie Petruccio-Hall, they create the whole feel of Bohemia, but the piece de resistance being Angel's very eye-catching costumes.

Lighting Designer is Oliver Read. As with the cast, if you use the best, you get the best results, ergo Oliver Read and lighting.

Sound Designer is Rob Ketteridge. At first, I thought that the sound of the band was just a tad overpowering for the vocalists, but then, like Roger's guitar, you soon tune your ears to the overall sound and then realise that it's a tweaking of your ears is what is needed. Bronwen Webster is on Sound 2.

For Rent newbies and Rent-Heads alike, this is one show to see, not least for the incredibly talented cast and the gorgeous score. And if that's not reason enough, check if the 2-4-1 deal on all tickets for Friday evening is still available for you.

"Rent" is at Squire Performing Arts Centre until Saturday 29 August.

 "The Mantrap" by Robert Thomas, translated by Sean Aita.

Tabs Productions

Nottingham theatre Royal.

And just as soon as it arrived, it's reached the final part of this year's Colin McIntyre's Classic Thriller Season, with the thrilling "The Mantrap".

This play is the premiere production of the original play -"Piège pour un homme seul" or "A Trap For A Lonely Man" written by Robert Thomas, sixty six years ago. It was supposed to have been made into a film by Alfred Hitchcock but Hitchcock died before he had the chance to make it. Sean Aita has updated and relocated the basic story to a remote holiday set in Cornwall, but where there is still decent mobile phone reception and has renamed it "The Mantrap".

After an argument at their remote Cornish holiday cottage, Daniel Edwards’ wife, Lizzie, has gone missing. But when she apparently returns, he’s convinced he’s never seen the woman before in his life. Is he suffering from amnesia or is she a fraudster?

Pavan Maru is The Man, aka Daniel Edwards. We first see Edwards in a dark living room, illuminated only by the light of his mobile phone. He's all on edge, worried about his missing wife, who we later discover may be pregnant. As you can imagine, away from everyone they know, his wife missing in a place that is far away from the next neighbour, where neither of them knows anyone, or the area, he is out of his mind with worry, so he calls the local police to report her missing, sending a photo of his wife by email, but after ten days, the Inspector and the local Cornish constabulary are no further finding her as they were after Edwards' initial call.

The Inspector, with a lovely rich Cornish accent, is played by John Goodrum. Throughout the play he feels that Mrs Edwards may have been kidnapped, or even murdered, but why? Suddenly, with the supposed reappearance of Mrs Edwards, he is slowly coming around to the idea that maybe what Elizabeth Edwards is saying, that Daniel is losing his marbles, and with overwhelming evidence that she is who she says she is, the Inspector starts to shift his suspicions.

The Woman, Lizzie, is played by Sarah Wynne Kordas, making this season three out of three plays Sarah has appeared in. Lizzie has been missing for ten days and despite the police's best efforts, remain unfound. Is she missing, or does she not want to be found at this stage? What we do discover though is that she is due to inherit a large amount of money from an elderly Uncle who lives in Paris. Is this inheritance an explanation for her disappearance, or is there something more sinister about Lizzie being missing?

Susan Earnshaw plays the role of Reverand Susan Green and when the Reverand poles up with Lizzie, it seems that the mystery has been solved, as Lizzie had been staying with Rev Green, but this reappearance only adds to the confusion, because Daniel seems to know not this woman who says that she is his wife, despite the evidence stating otherwise. He starts to suspect that maybe the Reverand may not even be who she says she is. Is this paranoia, or is he really as mentally unstable as Mrs Edwards says that he is?

The Visitor, who turns up unannounced, is played by Juliette Strobel, and claims to have met Lizzie in London, and says that she can confirm or deny whether Lizzie is, or isn't who she says that she is. Nat, the hippie, wacky baccy smoking visitor has, literally crashed the party with Ludwig, her van, and that's when the twists really start and Lizzie's real identity starts to be under suspicion, so something, or someone has to go.....

As usual, before the truth is revealed and the plot explained, there are many more twists to come in this finale to what has been another brilliant and thrilling season for Tabs.

Directed by Karen Henson, the mistress of the twisty, turny reveals, keep everyone guessing right to the very ending. With this play being a completely new one, there's absolutely no way that you could work out the ending, and even though I managed to, at some stages, to work out little bits and bobs, I still didn't guess right fully. The pace is excellent, as it always is with Karen in the Director's chair, and that sense of danger and mystery really did keep you, white knuckle on the edge of your seat.

The set is designed by Conal Walsh, who also is the Lighting Designer, creating a thunderous storm of tension and jumpiness. The set, as it always is, is perfection, and looked the ideal place for a quiet Cornish getaway home, the hue being a lovely maritime turquoise, blending spectacularly with the dark blue of the night sky, split only by the dramatic lightning flashes and rolling thunderclaps.

Duncan Hands is the Production Manager.

Deputy Stage Manager is Fran Gardiner.

It goes without saying that the whole cast are fantastic, especially having that ability to evoke such uneasy feelings about these characters and the storyline of their chosen plays throughout the season.

"The Mantrap" is at the Nottingham Theatre Royal until Saturday 29 August. What a way to close the season with something new, but now we have to wait a whole year for the next edition of my favourite murder/mystery thriller performers.

 "Horrorshow" by Chronic Insanity.

1 Fisher Gate Point, Nottingham.

First off, let me say that I hadn't been aware of this venue before, but what a brilliant bijou little place this is. It has a comfy seating area looking out onto the traffic flow, a small bar selling a selection of mouth watering drinks and snacks, and up the stairs there's a performance space that has seen several bands play and for Friday night is home to Chronic Insanity's "Horrorshow"

This is the show that is due to head up to Edinburgh for The Fringe as from 25 August until 31 August at the Summerhall, Anatomy Lecture Theatre (Venue 26).

Written by Doug Deans, what I really liked about this piece, which is just a little over an hour long, is that the story starts at the same place as the story also ends, bringing a complete circle. 

Dan's got a rucksack full of weed that he has stolen from his mother's current boyfriend, and he has a plan that'll definitely work, and also get him out of the family home. There's also something that he has been hiding from his best friend, Ollie. Living on the Isle of Wight, neither have been to the iconic festival that is held on the island and Dan, along with his rucksack, has plans to get them into the festival, and make a bit of money as well. Dan is played by Doug Deans and plays guitars and on vocals.

Ollie's got his A-level reading list and serious reservations, aiming for University and a job in London. They've been mates their whole lives, but they're also becoming strangers, as their lifestyles head off in different directions. Joe Matty, who by the way looks like a young Ralf Little, plays Ollie and also is on keyboards and vocals.

Joe Strickland provides the voices of every other character in the story and is on drums.

Set against the 00s music festival that swallows their town every summer, "Horrorshow" tears into class, nostalgia and masculinity. The musical backing is all by Joe, Joseph and Doug, playing original songs by Anya Pearson of Dream Nails. The songs written for this piece of theatre are incredibly catchy with echoes of The Housemartins, Brit Pop bands and even Chas'n' Dave in a little ditty which revolves around the quantity of beverages at the Festival Bar.

I have my fingers crossed that, maybe sometime in the future, these songs performed in the show will turn up on some streaming site, because they are just too good not to have a lasting record of.

Musical Direction, music and lyrics are by Anya Pearson.

This is such a clever show because it's like listening to a visual audio podcast play, and what I mean by that is that, if you closed your eyes (but why would you) the story is so well delivered that you can picture everything that happens in your mind. This trio provide all the narrative to allow you see, hear and even smell the journey that Dan and Ollie go on.

Directed by Joe Strickland, this is the perfect vehicle for The Fringe, and it's possibly one of the best pre Fringe shows that I have seen. Some short theatre pieces I've seen has left me wanting more; this one didn't because it delivers a story that has a start, middle and end, completing the story that the show has been written to deliver. It's the perfect length with a wonderful storyline that bubbles along at just the right pace. The characters are completely believable, as is the storyline, and with the soundtrack being completely original, this gives yet another big bonus in the show.

There's one more chance to catch this show which is tomorrow, 22 August at Bolton Gate Arts, Stoke at 6.30.

I guarantee that this show is going to be a big success at the Edinburgh Fringe.

 "The Nightmare Room" by Tabs Productions.

Colin McIntyre's Classic Thriller Season 2026.

Nottingham Theatre Royal.

The second of the three plays in this year's Classic thriller season is a play written by John Goodrum, adapted from the 1921 story of the same name by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. The original story concerned two men, this version switches the genders in this love triangle and updates the story. Tabs last performed this play at the  Nottingham Theatre Royal back in 2018.

When Helen regains consciousness, she finds herself bound and blindfolded in a locked room. Her captor, best friend Catherine, challenges her to a deadly game of Russian roulette to decide which of them will win the handsome film star they both desire. But the game – like the room – is far from what it seems... are they alone in the room... or is there someone watching?

Helen, the mistress and long time best friend of Catherine, is played by Corinne Begluk. Corinne has performed with Tabs in the past, in a time before I discovered what a brilliant theatre company Tabs were, well over a dozen years ago, so this is my first time seeing Corinne.

Sarah Wynne-Kordas plays Catherine, the disgruntled wife. There are echoes of Kathy Bates in the unhinged way that Catherine's mind seems to work, with explosions of anger and jealous rage.

There are flashbacks which give you an idea as to how these two women have ended up in this white room. In contrast with the harshness of the white room, the flashbacks present a warmer glow in ivory, along with a stencilled wall pattern and giant window that you can imagine allowing sunlight to flood in, giving a more pleasant and less claustrophobic feel to the story and atmosphere. These two lighting choices are split by complete darkness in the blackouts.

The timing between the past and present scenes, by Corinne and Sarah, are split second, thanks to the lighting design and operation, as they move back and forth through time, to and from friendlier days. 

These two talented actors keep you right on the edge of your seat, and for just two actors to be able to keep everyone so enthralled is not only an acknowledgement to the wonderful adaptation of the play, the direction and the original story, but to the incredible acting skills of Sarah and Corinne.

Combine the lighting with the sound effects for this chiller thriller, and you'll see just why the sound is so important when you see it, and I can promise that you're in for a white knuckle ride!

After several twists, including one big one to close the first act, you may think you've got it sussed and everything has been revealed, but if that's the case, wait until the second act which has a few more twists in store.....

Directed by Karen Henson, this is an excellent example of how to keep an audience guessing where the story is going, and keeping them on the edge of their seat. The positioning of the bottle of poison on stage reminds us of the ever present danger, but which of them is in danger, and who is the dangerous one? Karen's direction and John's adaptation keep you guessing right to the very end!

The set design, by John Goodrum and Conal Walsh (from an original design by Keith Tuttle). The set is clinical white, almost asylum like in it's look, and it certainly grabs your attention as soon as you clap eyes on it. There is one table, two chairs, a water decanter, two glasses and a bottle of poison. 

Loved the costumes, especially Catherine's power dressing white suit. Helen's black outfit cleverly shows that they are on opposing sides.

Production Manager is Duncan Hands.

Deputy Stage manager is Conal Walsh, assisted by Juliette Strobel.

This is a complete contrast from last week's comical thriller, and again, very different to the final play in the season next week, which is "The Mantrap".

"The Nightmare Room" is at the Nottingham Theatre Royal until Saturday 22 August, but don't have sleepless nights about getting tickets for this brilliant production.... get your tickets NOW!

 "A Summer Soiree - Musicals Through The Years" by 4th Wall Theatrics

Bonington Theatre, Arnold.

4^th Wall Theatrics are a fairly new group but made up of many well known faces from the Nottinghamshire area.... as you'll soon see. This is the second showcase by the group that I have had the pleasure of being entertained by.

The Summer showcase consists of thirty-four pieces of musical theatre loveliness and variety working its' musical journey from Biblical times with the opening song from "Joseph and The Amazing technicolour Dreamcoat", through the years, right up to "Dear Evan Hansen", all in a magical musical time warp (yes, that's also included in the fun finale). the pieces are performed by performers from toddler age (who are mega cute) right the way up to the most senior member of the group.

So, let me tell you who was responsible for showcasing the entertainment on Saturday night.

The cast consists of Barry Hobbs, Hannah Enderby, Sophie Benner, Amy Rogers-Gee, Pippa Ward, Emme Gunn, Isobel Munden, Paul Mapplethorpe, Kev Jones, Bertie Black, Barbara Benner, Saurav Modak, Lindsey Jaycock, Tallulah Enderby, Maisie Winfield, Alison Watkins, Roy Smith and Christine Boothe. Some of the aforementioned names I have not seen on, or offstage for a good few years.

Every song chosen for this showcase was completely diverse and spot on for entertainment value, covering all reaches of musical theatre and all ages.

I'll be here until tomorrow night if I mention all of the pieces, so here are just a few that I particularly loved, for various reasons.

It was so good seeing Barry open the show with "Any Dream Will Do", a piece that I've seen Barry sing on stage a few years ago, This song perfectly suits his voice and laid back style, especially with a chorus of ensemble members.

"Six The Musical" was featured with six stunning queens, Hannah, Sophie, Amy, Pippa, Emme and Isobel in a history lesson concerning the "Ex Wives". Not even a sound failure with the backing track put them off and I noted the lovely comic touch with the introduction to this piece, the second time around. 

Now, I have been banging on about a musical called "Something Rotten" for about a decade and it's only this year that it traversed from America over to the UK. The soundtrack is brilliant and one of my favourite tracks from the score, "Hard To Be The Bard" was performed by Paul Mapplethorpe. Paul is a brilliant entertainer and never just sings the songs, he performs them every time; even if he is just providing back up vocals, he is performing. I caught him after the show to say how much I enjoyed the show and to ask about a particularly shiny jacket and trousers he wore in one particular number, "Tonight Belongs To You" from the musical "The Prom". I am now on the lookout for a similar suit in my size!

Pippa Ward has a beautiful voice and gave us a gorgeous rendition of "As Long As He Needs Me" from "Oliver".

And then came the "aaah" factor with the two youngest members of this showcase, Tallulah Enderby and Maisie Winfield as they sang "Food Glorious Food", also from "Oliver".

"Les Miserables" has always been one of my favourite musicals, and the song that brings light relief in the show is "Master Of The House", performed with great humour by Bertie Black and Alison Watkins. This is a real character filled song and Bertie and Alison replicated this character and humour brilliantly.

One song that I didn't know was one called "Astonishing" from the musical "Little Women". Sung by Emme Gunn, it's a song that I'll be looking for the next time I'm scouting for songs for my Wednesday night musicals show on the radio.

The bangers just keep on coming and another lady with an incredible voice is Lindsey Jaycock who gave us a pitch perfect version of "Think Of Me" from "Phantom Of The Opera". You can see where Jonathan gets his musical talents from.

Next up, yet another gorgeous voice, provided by Sophie Benner, singing "Journey To The Past" from "Anastacia". I have been lucky enough to have seen Sophie's journey in theatre from quite a few years back. The woman you see on stage is the culmination of lots of hard work in local theatre, and her voice has never sounded so pure.

The dreamy "Hushabye Mountain" was performed by Kev Jones and Hannah Enderby, followed by a classy rendition of "I Could Have Danced All Night" by Isobel and Lindsey.

Paul was back with another wonderful piece from "Chicago" in "Mr Cellophane", along with the ensemble.

I have a bit of a soft spot for sea shanties and Kev, Amy, Hannah, Pippa, Barbara, Saurav, Bertie and Paul gave us "Sail On Boys" from "Operation Mincemeat".

And that's just the edited highlights from the first act!

Act Two started back in the late 1950's with a monochrome inspired version of "Jailhouse Rock" involving Kev, Bertie and Saurav along with the Company.

Emme and Paul gave us a sublime version of "Suddenly Seymour" from "Little Shop Of Horrors", all bathed in green light.

It was then back to the 1970's glam with "Hold Me Close", a song featured in the jukebox musical "All The Fun Of the Fair", sung by Roy Smith and his backing vocalists Lindsey, Barbara, Pippa and Isobel.

Bertie really got into performance mode with his rendition of "Science Fiction, Double Feature" from "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" backed by Emme and Paul dressed in white doctor's jackets!

A raunchy version of "Candy Store" from "Heathers" was next by Emme, Amy and Sophie.

Christine then got her time in the spotlight with a piece called "What Age Expects" from the musical version of "Calendar Girls". So pleased to have been able to catch up with Christine before, as well as after the show.

One of the big hits in theatre over the last few years is "Come From Away", and the song "Welcome To The Rock" was performed by the company.

Hannah returned to the stage for a solo of "There's A Fine, Fine Line" from "Avenue Q". By the end you could have heard a pin drop. That's not the only time that happened because Alison returned singing one of my favourite power ballads from a musical. "He's My Boy" from "Everybody's Talking About Jamie". I love that song and Alison's rendition sent the shivers up my spine; so packed with emotion.

"Apex Predator" is a song from the musical "Mean Girls" and performed this evening by Emme and Isobel. Three quarters through the song, the backing track disappeared, but Emme and Isobel finished the song acapella style, which was really appreciated by the audience.

The full company then performed "Waving Through A Window" from "Dear Evan Hansen".

Finishing off with "The Timewarp" was the perfect way to end this party.

I said that I'd only mention some of my favourites and have practically mentioned everything. The pieces I missed out on were just as entertaining, so even if I haven't mentioned them all, as I stated earlier there wasn't one piece that I would have considered leaving out; I just had an absolute blast and I hope that my highlights have included at least one by all the performers individually.

The evening was not short of technical issues, but I have always said that it's the way you recover from them that is more important, and while the sound system, on a couple of occasions failed, the professionalism of the performers did not, and the problems were swiftly sorted out.

So, let's get to the people responsible for everything else off stage....

Company Directors are Amy Rogers-Gee and Marie Rogers.

Musical Directors are Amy Rogers-Gee and Emme Gunn.

The show was choreographed by Amy Rogers-Gee and Pippa Ward.

Produced by Amy Rogers-Gee, Emme Gunn and Michael Coles.

The brilliant costumes, and there were different costumes for each piece, were by Amy Rogers-Gee, Emme Gunn, Pippa Ward and Alison Watkins.

And now a few areas that Amy wasn't involved directly in.

Lighting Designer is Nick Elliott.

Sound design is by Bob Betts.

Stage managed by Matt Allcock with Stage Crew Chris Gillibrand and Eli Gayton.

In all seriousness though, I know Amy's work ethic, especially when it comes to the theatre, and I know just how much work Amy puts into things like this, and what a fantastic night it was.

Congratulations to everybody involved, I had an absolute ball.

Thank you Amy for inviting me along and thanks to all on stage for an evening of fabulous musical theatre talent.

 " Blind Eye Kids Summer School Showcase"

The Bonington Theatre, Arnold.

This show is the culmination of two weeks hard graft from these youngsters, as well as the tutors, of course.

The show started off with a bold statement song which introduced us to all of the students, "The Greatest Show". We were treated to some great little pieces from some appropriately matched musicals, "Matilda", "Shrek", "Hairspray", "Oliver", "Toy Story", "High School Musical" and a couple of more grown up pieces from "Six", "Mary Poppins" and "Dear Evan Hansen" among the pieces performed. Mix these in with a couple of drama pieces and an amazing finale, which included all the kids in "Defying Gravity" from "Wicked". Fifteen pieces which made the time fly.

The students, Alexandra Wright, Caitlin Rodgers, Emily Ratcliffe, Lacey Bramley, Lexie Rodgers, Lily O' Toole, Lucie-Mae Wright, Roman Nicol, Ted Hudson and Noah Hudson, all looked like they were having a great time entertaining us, and boy, did they have some energy on this warm Summer evening!

There wasn't one section that I didn't enjoy watching, but here's a few of my highlights of the evening....

Loved the opening number, and there were some brilliant costumes, and of course the title of the opening piece "The Greatest Show" did live up to its' promise.

The next full cast piece was "You Can't Stop The Beat" which again showed off just how good this group are when singing and dancing in ensemble mood. They also show just how tight knit the group are as the bigger ones guided the two youngest members, Noah and Ted, not that they needed much guiding because they were both on it all of the time.

Another thing it highlighted for me was the individual talents when it came to dance; the young ladies are all great little movers on stage but I must also mention Roman who is a choreographer in the making as he really looks to understand dance and is a dancer in the making. Roman also took centre stage for "Consider Yourself" from "Oliver" highlighting a good confident singing style. Sitting and watching this group, "Confidence" is the word that sums them up.

Closing the first half of the show was a wonderful version of "Six" by Lacey, Lucie-Mae, Lexie, Caitlin, Alexandra and Emily, all proving that these six could also bust out some impressive moves.

Bringing us into the second half was another brilliant full cast version of "Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious", setting the energy levels for the second part of this showcase.

Not long into the second half came my favourite piece of the whole show "You've Got A Friend In Me" from "Toy Story". This featured Ted, Noah, Caitlin and Alexandra; the cuteness level was completely off the scale in this one, especially with Ted and Noah dressed up in cowboy outfits.

"You Will Be Found" featured the powerful voice of Gabriella and the sublime ballet work of Alexandra.

I loved the choreography for "We're All In This Together" and the cherry on the top of this showcase cake came with the finale of "Defying Gravity" complete with some wonderful outfits.

Finally, I would like to congratulate Caitlin and Emily on their two-hander acting piece about a maths exam. It may have been nerves that threw one of them off but neither panicked and after a quick regrouping finished the piece to a massive round of applause. It doesn't matter is you forget a line, it's how you recover and not let it affect you that matters.

A lovely evening of brilliant entertainment by a team of talented and hard working young people and tutored by another group of lovely and talented people headed up by JJ McCormack.

 "Grease The Musical" by Zak Scott Productions Summer School.

Squire Performing Arts Centre, Nottingham.

I may not have had a leather jacket to don, but I automatically raided my pink attire and hair gel and systematically made my way to Squire Performing Arts Centre as fast as greased lightning to watch one of my favourite electrifying, fun and frothy musicals that transported me back to my teenage years, "Grease". Now, when I say that, I mean that I was a teenager when the film was released, not that I was at school in the late 1950's!

After all these years, and the amount of times that I have seen show on stage, this musical is still amazingly good fun and everyone knows the complete soundtrack in full. “Summer Nights”, “You’re The One That I Want”, “Sandy”, “Hopelessly Devoted To You”, "Greased Lightning", “Grease”, “Beauty School Drop Out” and my favourite “There Are Worse Things I Could Do”. First performed in 1971, seven years before the film version starring John Travolta as Danny Zuko and Olivia Newton-John as Sandy Dumbrowski, it's lost none of its' frothiness.

We all know what to expect from "Grease" so I don't really need to tell the story of the musical. What I can tell you is that this production encapsulate the whole feel of the era, 1959, and of the "belonging" to the separate gangs, The "T Birds", the leather jacketed "lads" gang, and the "Pink Ladies", the all more refined collection of ladies who have sleep over parties and discuss the teen idols of the day and make up.

What makes a difference to a show is the vision of the Director, and Creative Director Zak Charlesworth has made subtle changes that make this production feel very fresh. He has omitted the "Alma Mater" opening scene and opened with Danny and Sandy, as in the film. This production is a blend of the original musical and the film, with the songs in almost the original order with the additional songs from the film slotted in as per the movie version.

"Grease" is a sexy film, let's not sugar coat it, a group of High School teenagers back in the 50's were just as emotionally rampant as teenagers are today. Many of the productions that I have seen on stage have played that side of the story down, some even leaving out "There Are Worst Things I Could Do" to skip over the possible pregnancy, but this production doesn't shy away from the attraction of the opposite sex, but does it with plenty of humour.

What also makes this show extra special is that, with it being a Summer School production, it's all put together in one week, a fact that belies the quality of this show.

Danny Zuko is played by Nathan Crookdale. I last saw Nathan as Lurch in "The Addams Family", and this role is as different as you can get, and so is the vocal style and level. As Lurch he showed a baritone level, and in this we hear a different vocal technique with a smooth falsetto, as highlighted in the song "Sandy", showing that Nathan has a great range vocally. I also loved the arrogant stances that he takes, blended with some sharp Michael Jackson-esque moves. Nathan is  a very confident actor, singer and dancer who really manages to bring the character to the surface.

Sandra "Sandy" Dubrowski is played by Neve Johnson. Her vocals, and especially in "Hopelessly Devoted To You", have a lovely delicate feel to them, contrasting with the more fun vocals of "You're The One That I Want". The image change from good old Sandra Dee to the final version of Sandy is a massive transformation, and from where I was sitting, looked just like the Olivia Newton-John vision at this stage. It shows just how much effort has gone into the costume and wigs to create those iconic Grease images.

Phoebe Litherland is Betty Rizzo. Rizzo is one spunky lady who is in charge of what she does. The whole "girl power" image that Stockard Channing created in the film is here, brought to the stage by Phoebe. I can see and hear the work that Phoebe has invested in this role because the accent is perfect, as is the whole attitude and stage stances. Rizzo's song is the aforementioned "There Are Worse Things I Could Do" and was like listening to Stockard Channing, note perfect.  The wig and costume completes the image of Rizzo to a tee.

Eddie Clarkson is Kenickie. When the film was made, John Travolta wanted to sing "Greased Lightning" even though the car belonged to Kenickie, so it's right that the musical goes back to the original version which allows Eddie to belt out the brilliant "Greased Lightning" with all the suggestive hip wiggles and thrusts required to visually show his intentions with his car, "Greased Lightning". This whole scene with the car's transformation is also a fresh version of the scene with an ensemble starting the upcycle and the rest of the crew making an entrance in a very colourful costume change.

Doody, one of the younger members of Zuko's crew, and boyfriend to Frenchy, is played by Stevie Kirkham. There's a really nice naivety about this character with a lovely boyish response to Doody asking Frenchy out to the dance. There's also another one of those changes that I had not seen in previous productions in "Those Magic Changes" scene where Doody is "playing" the guitar to the rest of the lads. 

Niamh Syson plays Frenchy. Oh, I love this character because she is such a simplistic person. She wants to be a beautician but fails at that, confirmation coming from Teen Angel in the dream sequence, surrounded by plenty of ensemble angels. A lovely fun role that Niamh excels at.

Teen Angel, who gets just the one song in the show, "Beauty School Dropout", but what a song, is played by Samuel Perrin. I think that Samuel is a new name to me, but what a way to catch my attention with his comic ability in this role. He has a lovely comic face which transfers to the role, making Teen Angel an even more fun role to watch.

Quillen Parker plays Roger, or "Rump" as he is nicknamed. Why does he have this nickname? Because he is the best "mooner" in school. Don't know what a "mooner" is? Look it up or come and see "Grease". The song "Mooning" has a lovely falsetto part which Quillen hits well. Roger is a "proper lad" and that fun and playfulness shows perfectly via Quillen's skills. I've seen Quillen in several musicals over the last few years and have seen him mature on stage. His voice has matured and deepened well and his comedy delivery is second to none. Quillen is a really expressive actor and even if he was in a silent musical, you'd know every emotion his character would be feeling. It also shows just how much fun this young performer is having on stage.

Finlay Tomlinson is Sonny, a wonderful comedy role for an actor and Finlay, like Quillen, looks to be enjoying every second playing Sonny. It's a fun performance with plenty of energy and quite an animated character, forever chasing skirt. If you've seen Fin on stage previously, you may have to take a second look because he looks so different. Fin's trademark hairstyle has been slicked back and he doesn't wear his glasses in this role. He seems to have shot up in height again and is looking very trim. This young man is another that I have seen on stage many times and he still manages to make me smile, especially as the testosterone filled Sonny. This is another role that he has absolutely smashed in all departments.

Jan, the compulsive eater, is played by Isobel Pickering. Izzy is one of those actors who always looks natural on stage, and that makes the comedy just flow from her. The scenes in the sleepover scenes are lovely to watch as are the scene where we first properly get to see Jan at school where she makes sure that none of the food left about is wasted.

Hermione Cumbers is Marty, the "beauty" of "The Pink Ladies", looking more mature than the rest of the ladies, that is until she opens her mouth. A nice cheeky performance from Hermione.

Alex Povey plays the nerdy Eugene. Yet another actor who I've had the pleasure of reviewing and watching his acting skills grow. The slicked back hair and nerdy spectacles, as well as the costume was enough to get me checking in the programme who was playing this particular role, as he was completely unrecognisable. This is another one of those really fun roles which Alex plays with lots of gusto.

Talking of fun roles, Lucy Gordon is Patty Simcox, the athletic and attractive cheerleader who also, and quite naturally, has an eye for all of the jocks, including Danny, even though she knows that Danny has eyes for Sandy.

Maddi Woodland is Miss Lynch, the Rydell High Head Teacher. I really can't commend the costume, make up and wigs team enough with this character. It was like looking at a mature woman addressing the school in full Head Mistress mode. Maddi's physicality is excellent as Miss Lynch.

Vince Fontaine, the fast talking radio DJ, is played by Jamie Higgins. I have always been an admirer of U.S. DJs of this era. The Weird Beard, Johnny Holliday, Joey Niagra and Hunter Hancock; radio presenters who talked as fast as the rock n roll music they played, and that took skill to never be lost for words and rhyme what they were announcing. I was really impressed by the speed that Jamie rattled his way through Fontaine's speed speak and he looked the part of the DJ who comes into the young girls room every night......via Station WAXX.

Cha Cha, Kenickie's blind date for the prom, is played by Lexi Hart, the best cha-cha dancer with the worst reputation, Cha Cha that is not Lexi. the scene with Eugene where she is trying to teach him to Cha Cha Cha is as comical as ever.

Johnny Casino is played by Riley Chambers. A singer who performs at prom night, providing the music, with his band, for the dance competition. The last time I saw Riley on stage was at Derby Theatre, with a false beard, I think. This time around he is at the top of the stairs in the corner, so hopefully next time I get to see him on stage, it will be a bit more centre stage and without a beard. Decent singer just waiting for a bigger role.

The Radio Girl is played by Avaani Babra, who looked fabulous, on or off the radio. There was a slight sound issue in Avaani's scene, but nothing could spoil hearing that lovely voice.

The Announcer was Siena Thorpe.

An energetic and fresh-faced ensemble added more meat to this rich stew consisting of Amelia-Jane Chamberlain, Alice Whitaker, Bethany Stockdale, Clarissa Armitage, Evie Perks, Isla Baskill-Conroy, Katie Winfield, Keeley Rickerby, Libby Stockdale, Lottie Ellis, Lucy Coulson-Jones, Megan Price, Molly Price and Violet Graney.

Choreographed by Shannon O'Donnell who has a reputation for exciting and energetic choreography, so this show sill have been a Godsend for Shannon. The big ensemble numbers were performed so smoothly, and as you can see from the above, this is a big cast. I think my favourite piece was for the "Greased Lightning" scene, and I really commend the decision to keep the sexiness in the choreography because that made this show more real than some others. 

Set Design is by A Stage For Hire, and as soon as you walk into the auditorium, the set hits you right between the eyes. I won't give any spoilers, but let's just say that the two tier set with the two big doors where "Greased Lightning" makes its' entrance does not disappoint.

Technical Director is Roydon Charlesworth.

The car is supplied by Sculpture Studios, and as I mentioned earlier, the transformation scene is done in a novel way. No spoilers.

Musical Director is Sam Griffiths, another legend of, not only local theatres, but transatlantic fame, so you just know that anything to do with the music side of a show is in excellent hands with Sam, and it was tonight (Wednesday).

Costumes for the show have been provided by Friends and Family of Zak Scott Productions, and as I have already alluded to, they are excellent.

Make up is uncredited, but I know that it's often the norm for the actors to do their own make up sometimes. Never the less, whoever is responsible, they all looked fabulous.

The wigs used in this show are equally fabulous and are thanks to Simon Theobald and Carol McTernan.

Props have been supplied by Claire Collishaw.

Sound design is by Future Techs, which is a team of young people who are trained via Squire Performing Arts Centre and Zak Scott Productions in order to provide training in areas concerning to the technical side of lighting and sound design and operation. Not everybody wants to be centre stage and this programme provides young people an opportunity to be part of a show like this. Let's face it, where would a show be without sound and lighting? It also provides an incite into stage management as well, providing the technicians of the future.

Lighting Design is by Abby Cattow. Only one slight light slip up in the second act but apart from that a great job done. LX Hire from Encore and Dave Martin.

Production Manager is Ellie Simmonds.

Producer is Zak Scott Productions.

When you see a musical like "Grease" as many times as I have, you can't help but notice changes, some magic, some less magic, but what makes this musical so very magical is the story, the strength of the acting and that brilliant soundtrack. You will not be disappointed at all and you'll leave the theatre singing away to several of the big hit songs, and they'll stay with you for long after you've got home. It'll be "the word" on every theatre goers lips this week, and mine as I'll be telling everyone about it.

It's the one that you want to see on a warm Nottingham Summer night.

"Grease The Musical" is at Squire Performing Arts Centre until Saturday 15 August.