Dirty Rotten Scoundrels at the Wales Millennium Centre Review
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels
Wales Millennium Centre
18-22 August 2015
Reviewed by Yvette Morgan
We visited the Donald Gordon Theatre, which is located in the stunning Canolfan Mileniwm Cymru/Wales Millennium Centre, an arts centre housing theatres for musicals, opera, ballet and dance, as well as cafes and arts organisations. It was opened in 2004 and occupies a 7.5 acre site.
The stunning centre comprises one large theatre and two smaller halls with shops, bars and restaurants in the regenerated Cardiff Bay.
The Millennium Centre is home to the Cardiff Bay Visitor Centre and has an airy relaxed ambiance. On arrival we were greeted by friendly helpful staff, who were happy to help with enquiries, we stayed in the lobby for a while where we enjoyed live music from an energetic guitarist.
After browsing the well-stocked gift shop we made our way to the David Morgan room located on the second floor for pre-show drinks, in a comfortable relaxed atmosphere. And large windows with views of the city.
Like so many musicals these days, the show is based on a film, the movie starred Michael Caine and Steve Martin, and was a very funny enjoyable film, and the stage version is equally as funny brilliant show so witty and charming
The action is set in the luxurious Beaumont-Sur-Mer on the French Riviera, where debonair English conman Lawrence played by Michael Praed, masquerading as a disinherited prince seducing rich single ladies, persuading them to part with their cash or expensive jewellery. All is going well until a rival con man, Freddy Benson, a young American played by Noel Sullivan, arrives in town and threatens the whole operation.
On Freddie’s arrival the show became hilarious, after an initial attempt of working together, they realise the resort isn’t big enough to accommodate two conmen, so they stake a wager for the affections of millionaire soap heiress Christine Colgate, played by Phoebe Coupe on the night we visited (usually Carley Stenson), that would see the loser leaving town. However an unexpected twist sees the pair getting a taste of their own medicine.
There was a fantastic chemistry between the cast, who gave the impression they were having just as much fun as the audience. The dancers were enthusiastic and energetic and the whole cast engaged the audience very well. The whole show was glitzy, sassy wittily entertaining and definitely worth seeing.
Rating: 5/5 
Tickets cost from £17.50 to £45.50 (booking fees may apply).
Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is at the Wales Millennium Centre until 22 August 2015. For more information or to book tickets click here or call the box office on 029 2063 6464.
Wales Millennium Centre, Bute Place, Cardiff Bay, CF10 5AL | 029 2063 6464
