Memphis

          I was excited at the prospect of seeing this. I'd heard brilliant things about Beverly Knight from when she had been in The Bodyguard and I wanted to see her for myself. I know many people will be shocked I didn't see The Bodyguard but to be honest I wasn't a great fan of the film. The small amount that I did like it, wasn't enough to attract me to see the show. Its a similar reason that even though I'm a fan of Michael Jackson, I have absolutely no desire to see the show Thriller Live. Beverly Knight was by no means the driving force for seeing the show however. The story was ,for me, the main attraction. Its also a Tony Award-winning hit in America. I had to see this for myself.

          The audience was good. A mixture of all ages and backgrounds and that's what I like to see when I go to the theatre. This, the Shaftesbury Theatre, is one of my favourite theatres in London. I was last here for the recent production of From Here To Eternity (you read my review of that here). The auditorium is inviting with comfortable seating and the staff are friendly and welcoming. As I sat down I found my self nervous with anticipation. Something I've never felt before. I certainly wasn't disappointed.

          I feel it a necessity to say that the show has a lot a racism depicted in it, which I know some people out there wont agree with. One must remember however that the show is set in a time where racism was unfortunately the norm. I never felt however that the show overstepped the mark in its language or overall portrayal of this aspect of American, and world, history. The actors put the struggle of black Americans across fantastically, better than I've ever seen it portrayed before. A few people in the theatre were in tears at parts and I must admit I was close to tears at times myself. I think what helps is that the production intersperses the racism towards and struggle of the characters with upbeat moments both in terms of storyline and with joyous songs.

          That's another thing which excited me. I am a great fan of the soul and rock and roll music coming out of America in the 1950s, the place and time in which this show is set. The music certainly didn't disappoint. It's an understatement to call it toe-tapping. If I was watching it in America I could bet money that people would be standing up and dancing, but as it was a British audience we just sat there enthusiastically clapping along. From the get go I was getting chills up my spine and a smile was spreading across my face. The song 'The Music Of My Soul' just spoke to me. Beverly Knight, on many occasions, has been called the 'queen of British soul' and that is most definitely an accolade she has earnt. Her voice is sublime, and the emotion she can put into her music is shocking for someone so young. I couldn't help but smile when her voice echoed around the theatre. Killian Donnelly is also fantastic. yes, he plays the role a little over the top at times but he plays it brilliantly. Engaging at all times and a true pleasure to watch.

          All the cast are brilliant and bring the music and the story to life. They draw you in and ones concentration never falters. I was transfixed throughout. The sets are sublime. Sometimes a little simple and understated, but they are used brilliantly. The costumes are also a sight to behold. David Gallo and Paul Tazewell must therefore be congratulated on their achievements. Sergio Trujillo must also be congratulated on his choreography which, like the music and overall performances, kept me transfixed. Often the dancing in musicals can seem unnecessary and a little over the top. On this production however it fitted in seamlessly and appeared very natural.

          The difficult subject of racism in 1950s America has been portrayed sympathetically yet with an unmistakable truth that is moving and pulls at heart stings. Believe me when I say that even with this tough and often difficult subject, this show is a joy and an absolute triumph of a musical. May it long be in the West End. Definitely one to go and see. I can guarantee you a fun night out.

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