Reviewed by Amanda Browne
We went along last night (24 April 2018) to see The Last Ship at the Royal & Derngate in Northampton, filled with interest. I try not to read too much on a show as I like to form my own opinion, I was very unsure what to expect and went with an open mind. The Derngate was packed, a fair few Geordie accents to heard amongst the crowd!
This show opens like no other I have ever seen, the cast coming onto the stage in ones or twos interacting with the audience and each other. Before the lights are dimmed, your in. I am unsure I can adequately describe one of the most stunning sets I have ever seen on stage. I could by no means describe it with any justice. It’s quite simply stunning. It plays a major part in the ambience of this show and the set designers, lighting and graphics department should be congratulated. Bloody amazing scenes of the sky, the ships, the sea. The cranes I thought I was in the same room as them!
The cast, where do you start, no single star, a group of very talented actors and actresses with the most amazing voices I have heard collectively on stage this year. I think I was in awe. Powerful voices all of them, Frances McNamee… wow! Elaine Paige meets Streisand? Richard Fleeshman, definitely sex on legs and fabulous voice to go with it, Charlie Hardwick… who knew! So many standout performances I can only congratulate you all.
Stomp meets the sea is my best description. This show is full of surprises musically… kinda sea shanties one minute to show-stopping chorus line jazz hands numbers the next. Basically a story of love, family, determination and courage the show is played out against the backdrop of The Last Ship to be built in a shipyard in the North East, following in the main the family of Peggy and Jackie White.
It surely is a magnificent show, the music and lyrics having been written by none other than Sting. I have nothing but admiration for the cast and all involved with this production, I was mesmerised from the start, it’s by far the most astonishing piece of musical theatre I have ever seen, catch it this week at the Royal & Derngate, I hope you enjoy it as much as we did.
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £12 to £50 (booking fees may apply).
The Last Ship is at the Royal & Derngate in Northampton from 24-28 April 2018, for more information or to book tickets visit www.royalandderngate.co.uk or call the box office on 01604 624811.
Royal & Derngate, Guildhall Road, Northampton, NN1 1DP | 01604 624811
