Reviewed by Linda Pickford
I was a teenager in the sixties and loved Dusty Springfield, so I was delighted to get an opportunity to see a musical based on her music. After an early dinner at one of the many restaurants near the Theatre Royal in Plymouth I entered the theatre with enthusiasm.
The story is based on three lonely and broken-hearted people looking for love. Alison, played last night by Michelle Long, a recent widow who has fallen unsuitably in love with her young student. Paul trying to discover if his feelings for an old friend were ever reciprocated and Kat whose Gran has just died and who was jilted by an online boyfriend. They all feel that they need advice and guidance from the owner of “The Preacher Man” a record shop in London. Unfortunately, they find the shop closed and a coffee house in its place. They discover that It is run by the son of the man they are looking for and they seek his help.
Overall the storyline is unsteady and seems to be put together just to fit in with the songs chosen. The cast certainly deserved better.
The set designs by Morgan Large were terrific and I particularly enjoyed the record shop. So reminiscent of listening to the music in the booths before purchase. Act one was not so good, the dancers seemed to get into each other’s way and at times actually bumped into one another. It did improve by the second act, they started to gel together, and the singing became stronger. It never reached the verve of Dusty, but it was great to hear the songs again. “Spooky” sang as a duet by Ellie-Jane Goddard and Michael Howe was my particular favourite. I didn’t like the coffee house scene where Alice Barlow, as Kat, dressed as a waitress tried to show off to her online love. For some unknown reason he was wearing a silly singlet and kilt. Craig Revel Horwood’s choreography at its worst. A pity because she has a delightful voice. Nigel Richards who played the “The Son of a Preacher Man” held several of the scenes with his strong voice and obvious experience.
If you enjoy sixties music I suggest you take a chance and try it yourself. The music is good so just sit back and enjoy.
Rating: 3/5
Tickets cost from £12 to £36 (booking fees may apply).
Son of a Preacher Man is at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth from 23-27 January 2018, for more information or to book tickets visit www.theatreroyal.com or call the box office on 01752 267222.
Theatre Royal Plymouth, Royal Parade, Plymouth, PL1 2TR | 01752 267222
