This is our review for Now That’s What I Call A Musical at Liverpool‘s Empire Theatre!
Synopsis Of Now That’s What I Call A Musical
Twenty years is a long time, but not long enough for memories to fade. In this show, we meet Gemma and April, who are BFFs from their secondary school days in Birmingham in 1989. But two decades on, Gemma is at her school reunion, lamenting the fact that April isn’t present. The show provides flashbacks of how their friendship evolves, from finishing school to their excursions thereafter.
Indeed, Gemma is quite the success story, becoming a nurse and marrying Tim. Meanwhile, April seeks a more ambitious goal of conquering Hollywood and moves out to LA at 18. Over time, their lines of communication become less frequent, and we wonder if their bond still exists. However, April does indeed appear at the 2009 school reunion and reunites with Gemma. But that’s where the problems begin …
Analysis Of Now That’s What I Call A Musical
Nina Wadia and Sami Bailey do a fine job of demonstrating the changing relationship between the modern Gemma and April. But there is such authenticity to the friendship of the younger Gemma and April via Nikita Johal and Maia Hawkins. It’s a story that many can relate to, how various circumstances can test a seemingly endless friendship. A shoutout, too, to Luke Latchman and Shakil Hussain, who play the younger and older Frank, Gemma’s brother, to great effect.
Based on the title of the show, though, it’s the soundtrack that will draw the most attention. This is in many ways a tribute to 1980s music with plenty of hits. These include Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, Gold, Mickey, and Everybody Wants To Rule The World. Not to mention the performances of such tunes, with Sam Bailey stealing the show with some spectacular high-notes. And for the Liverpool audience, Sonia’s cameo is a memorable moment that elicits a huge ovation.
Summary Of Now That’s What I Call A Musical
The best way I can describe this show is that it’s an ideal production for any theatre newbies. Indeed, there are plenty of famous songs, there are fantastic performances, and there is a feel-good vibe throughout. The show never takes itself too seriously, and even during the more emotional moments, there are amusing one-liners. I’m not sure if it’s a fitting tribute to the Now albums necessarily. But it is a very entertaining show and one that I recommend, especially for those who love the 1980s!
