An Officer and a Gentleman at Mayflower Theatre, Southampton Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Sarah D
The 1982 cult classic “An Officer and a Gentleman” is one of my all-time favourite films so I was thrilled when asked to review the musical version of the same title at The Mayflower Theatre, Southampton last night. This fantastic production directed by Nikolai Foster is based on the original film, including a catalogue of back to back 80s classics to take us along on the ride. Including songs from icons such as Cyndi Lauper, Blondie and Madonna it is a perfect night out.
Right from the off we are transported back to the era and are treated to an amazing all female rendition of “It’s A Man’s, Man’s, Man’s World” featuring stunning, strong and sophisticated vocals from all but in particular Wendi Harriott as Aunt Bunny and Melanie Masson as Esther Pokrifki.
We were quickly introduced to our officer candidates at the Academy and followed them on their journey as recruits all hoping they would make it to graduation; all under the strict guidance of Gunnery Sergeant Emil Foley played by the charismatic Jamal Kane Crawford. He did the role justice indeed.
We meet our “Mayonnaise” Zack Mayo, played by the powerhouse Luke Baker, as he enters the stage to the roar of his motorbike. He quickly befriends the lovable Sid Worley played by the charismatic Paul French. I really loved this pairing. The bad boy attitude from Mayo soon attracts the attention of local factory worker Paula Pokrifki, played by Georgia Lennon. The two of them did a good job of portraying the chemistry we know and love from the film.
The set is a visual delight with illuminations to stimulate audience members. With clever set changes and use of lighting, it all adds to the ambiance of the show.
The show really comes in to his own in the second half which is marginally longer than the first Act.
You’ll love the nostalgia this show brings if you are a fan of the show, but even if you haven’t seen the film you will enjoy the showstopping numbers throughout.
There is a particular scene in the film that stirs the emotions and I was wondering how they would tackle this on the stage. I needn’t have worried; it was dealt with sensitively and allowed the audience to really grieve along with those on stage. I was absolutely blown away with the emotional performance by Paul French during his rendition of Family Man; it actually gave me goosebumps. I felt every emotion as he belted out that number with immense passion in his voice.
The final scene is where the theatre really comes alive, both on stage and in the audience. The electricity in the theatre was palpable and there was an eruption of whoops and cheers as the final scene was underway. It really is well worth a visit and audience members really will be “up where they belong”.
Rating: 4/5
An Officer and A Gentleman is showing at the Mayflower Theatre, Southampton.
https://www.mayflower.org.uk/whats-on/an-officer-and-a-gentleman-2024/
26th to 29th June 2024.
Tickets start from £19.50 and can be purchased at www.mayflower.org.uk