Reviewed by Jan Dixon
What a brilliant show! I would thoroughly recommend it! Do go and see 20th Century Boy: The Musical Based on the Life of Marc Bolan. I saw the show at the Kings Theatre in Portsmouth on 23rd April 2018; it’s opening night. It runs until Wednesday 25th April 2018 – so there is still time to get your tickets and be entertained to a high standard.
This hit musical is inspired by the life of rock legend Marc Bolan, the first star to showcase the glam rock genre. The show was written by John Maher, with additional material by Nicky Graham and Colin Giffin. It is based on an original idea by Nicky Graham, Colin Giffin and Brian Dunham. It features rock classics such as Get It On, Ride a White Swan, I Love to Boogie, Metal Guru, Hot Love and 20th Century Boy.
The show started with Marc Bolan (George Maguire) looking wistfully at a projection of a tree; with reflection back over his life. His story is told from his early teenage years to his untimely death at the age of 29 years old. A cast of nine depicted Marc’s life history very competently; using well-acted scenarios and excellent singing talent to highlight key moments in Marc’s development as a singer and performer. This included his interactions with Tony Visconti, John Peel and David Bowie, the latter actor showing very competent singing ability.
All of the cast demonstrated their amazing singing ability; in particular Ellena Vincent as Gloria Jones (Marc’s partner) and Sarah Moss as June Child, his wife. George Maguire sang extremely well in the style of Marc Bolan, imitating his style and movement with great gusto.
The staging and scenery were very effective; creating amazing backdrops to the storyline. Change of scenes were very professionally undertaken, with lighting and props used to further enhance the show. The band were at the very back of the stage, which helped to set scenes of concert performances. All were supremely competent musicians, which included a portrayal of Mickey Finn (Matthew Ashcroft) as part of T. Rex, Marc’s backing band.
The audience showed their enjoyment of the show by clapping and singing along to the well-known songs; at the finale dancing in the aisles in celebration of the music of Marc Bolan. This was definitely a 5-star show – do come and see it and be entertained.
The Kings Theatre Southsea was designed by the architect Frank Matcham and opened in 1907. It is operated by the Kings Theatre Trust and was designated a Grade II listed building in 1976. The Kings Theatre is less than 5 miles from the M27 and A27, with several routes through Portsmouth available. It is a 20 minute walk from both the local train stations of Fratton and Portsmouth & Southsea. There is limited parking nearby or in Waitrose carpark (restrictions apply).
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £21.50 to £29.50 (booking fees may apply).
20th Century Boy is at the Kings Theatre in Portsmouth from 23-25 April 2018, for more information or to book tickets click visit kingsportsmouth.co.uk or call the box office on 023 9282 8282.
The Kings Theatre, Albert Road, Southsea, Portsmouth, Hants, PO5 2QJ | 023 9282 8282
