Max Reynolds weaves reality, comedy and pure staginess seamlessly from the moment you enter the auditorium as the ushers show you to your seats, take your coat and throw in a few one liners for good measure.
Benjamin Newsome presents the perfect cast with the right amount of depth and charm to keep you interested.
Choreography is genius in some places as Russell Smith pays homage to references from We Will Rock You’s ‘Radio Ga Ga’ and Mamma Mia’s ‘Dancing Queen’ although the dance break at the end of act two seemed to be out of place it was executed beautiful by this excellent cast.
Dan Buckley as Gary is heart warming and his relationship with Liam Ross Mills as Ben adds the realism that drives this show at times. The pair have voices to die for and sing their duet with great ease and intention.
Ross McNeill as the handsome Stephen is one to watch – his solo ‘Parts I Could Play’ is a highlight as he blends the harsh reality of the industry with ingenious comic acting beautifully no wonder Carly Thomas as newcomer Lucy falls in love at first sight!
The absolute gem in this comic crown is Ceris Hine as Rosie. Her comic timing is impeccable and although the writing for her character is one of the more favourable, it is her devotion and natural warmth that allows her to steal the show and no doubt a few more Twitter followers that Rosie so desperately craves!
Plugged as the next Rocky Horror/Forbidden Broadway the Ushers team are definitely onto something as I met its growing following who had already been to see the show 5/6 times who feel privileged to be part of its development.
I too am glad to be witnessing a potential masterpiece grow and with such versatility as the references lend themselves to the day to day theatre gossip keeping every show fresh and up to date – any theatre person should go and see this show, even if to cringe at yourself!
Review by Dean McCullough
+++++++
USHERS: The Front of House Musical
Cast includes:
Ralph Bogard, Ross Mcneill, Liam Ross-Mills, Daniel Buckley, Marvin Camden, Ceris Hine, Carly Thoms
Creative credits:
Music Yiannis Koutsakos. Lyrics by James Oban and Yiannis Koutsakos. Book by James Rottger. Additional Lyrics by James Rottger. Produced by James Oban for Kouban Productions Ltd. Directed by Max Reynolds. Musical Director Lee Freeman. Musical Arrangements: Michael Riley. Designer Amy Jobs. Choreographer Russell Smith. Associate Choreographer: Gemma Fuller. Casting Director Benjamin Newsome.
Charing Cross Theatre
http://www.charingcrosstheatre.co.uk/
Friday 14th March 2014
