The Glenn Miller Story at the Waterside Theatre Aylesbury Review
The Glenn Miller Story
Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury
19-23 January 2016
Reviewed by Sarah Bryan
Wow, what a swinging show!
As we entered the Waterside Theatre in Aylesbury, we were greeted with a busy hum of upbeat chatty theatre goers, many indulging in delicious looking meals, sipping their wine and eagerly reading the programme for tonight’s performance of Tommy Steele in The Glenn Miller Story.
Plenty of staff and security were present in the foyer; those behind the ticket desk as well as those milling around welcoming the arriving guests were open, friendly and very polite. Alison was very hospitable and made us feel at ease with her warm exuberant energy.
The foyer was very clean and tidy, the bar staff pushed to their limits under the throng of keen customers waiting to be served; they coped well and took the time to ensure each customer was catered for and every beverage was up to a consistently high standard – all within a timely manner. I was served the most delicious hot chocolate brimming with cream and marshmallows – divine!
The auditorium itself was full to bursting and the performance was delivered with such energy and enthusiasm, I felt like it was the one and only night it was on. Tommy Steele’s portrayal of the Glenn Miller Story was simply amazing. This all singing and dancing showman is timeless, golden and very charismatic. A true entertainer, Tommy had every member of the audience entranced with his incredible warmth, his stage presence and his ability to make you believe he was being his true self and enjoying every moment, not tiring for a second.
Act One unfolded to reveal Glenn Millers rise to stardom, through tough and trying times and how he found love with Helen Burger; Sarah Soetaert’s depiction of the ever loyal, devoted and supporting wife of Glenn was brilliant – and what a truly marvellous singing voice she has too. The rapport between these two actors was fantastic and displayed with such depth and warmth. Each song was met with animated claps, in awed cheers and sincere smiles as the audience ranging vastly in age; were enticed into swaying in their seats. The 1st Act was so full of hope, love, joy and friendships, of dreams becoming a reality. It was exhilarating to watch such flawless performers and listen to the powerful orchestra, their genuine enjoyment shining through. I have never seen such an engaged, professional cast on stage. The 6 dancers’ energy was consistent and move for move perfect at all times.
After a 20 minute interval, Act Two told the story of Glenn Millers’ call to duty in 1942 and the rollercoaster of emotion ensued. Particularly touching, was the scene where Glenn Miller and the band are playing to the troops all the while the air raid siren can be heard overhead and juxtapose between the yearn for normality verses the harsh reality of war could be clearly felt.
As the story reached its sad and moving end, the show was grabbed by the braces and hoisted up, catapulted to a tremendous high with “Perfidia” and “Get Happy” – lifting the entire theatre and as it reached the finale, Tommy Steele engaged everyone present to sing along, the atmosphere was electric. There is something quite unique about this timeless, energetic, dazzling showman which shone out to the audience. He showed such gratitude and appreciation following an encore and delivered with confidence.
The absolute best show I have seen in a long while. 5 stars. I would give it 6 Stars if possible!
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £21.40 to £48.90 (plus £3.85 transaction fee).
The Glenn Miller Story is at the Waterside Theatre in Aylesbury until 23 January 2016. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 0844 871 7607.
Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1UG
