Reviewed by Debbie Lowndes
WOW, WOW, WOW! What a musical!! Non-stop belly laughing from start to finish. Well done to everyone involved – remarkable entertainment.
The slimming group is set in a Church Hall in Headlingly, Leeds. The musical is about the trials and tribulations connected to gaining the perfect body – well at least a slimmer one aiming to fit into the dream wedding dress within 6 weeks! What I enjoyed about the performance was it really celebrates both the joys and assets of having a plus sized body. This is great such a non-judgemental outlook.
Kay Mellor wrote the musical and she has also written a TV series and a book. Throughout the performance scenes switched from fun packed lively Zumba sessions, light-hearted weigh-ins, hilarious street scenes, emotional yet funny dress fittings etc. The staging was cleverly designed, the bridal shop front spun around to reveal the inside of the shop with beautiful dresses and accessories.
There was a wide and inspiring cast. Jodie Prenger, as the sweet adorable bride to be Kelly. Sam Bailey, former X-Factor winner – playing Kelly’s mother Betty. Who features in numerous songs and she belts them out in key and in fine voice.
Natasha Hamilton, best known for being one of the three members of Atomic Kitten. Natasha played Julia Fleshman the slimming groups founder from head office. Who was portrayed as the baddy as she was responsible for Kelly taking a turn for the worse with the secret supply of slimming pills.
My personal favourite was Natalie Anderson, who I remember as Alicia from Emmerdale. Natalie took on the part of Lauren, the slimming group leader and wedding shop owner. Her acting and singing was captivating, she did capture my heart and I am so glad she also found love.
There were many other performers which included Kevin Kennedy, Rachael Woodings, Jonathan Halliwell, Joel Montague and Neil Hurst to name a few.
Well last, but by no means least, Freddie Flintoff, former cricketer, played groom to be Kevin. There was a laugh out loud moment, I recall, where he referred to Kelly as his fiaonkey as opposed fiancée. There was true chemistry portrayed between Kelly and Kevin. Freddie acts well throughout, with memorable moments along the way which keeps everyone laughing along.
Freddie does a solo singing performance, he has a gentle tender voice when singing the only fool is me. Comedy appears to be Freddie’s strong point and the audience laugh at him as well as along with him.
The musical was jam packed with funny one liners and numerous songs with titles such as “Diets are crap” and “Bit and battered”. Once again doing what was intended, keeping the laughter going.
I will end my comments here as I do want to say too much and spoil your enjoyment. This musical is a must see. It is a hilariously good night out. Book your tickets now and have a good laugh with your friends and family.
The musical got a standing ovation they final touch was great confetti failing into the audience during the final wedding scene.
Thank you to Nottingham Theatre Royal and their staff got hosting us and making this a memorable event.
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £19.50 to £45 (booking fees may apply).
Fat Friends is at the Theatre Royal in Nottingham from 26-31 March 2018, for more information or to book tickets visit www.trch.co.uk or call the box office on 0115 989 5555.
Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall, Theatre Square, Nottingham, NG1 5ND
