Happy Days A New Musical Review

15/01/2014

1,693 2 minutes read

Happy Days: A New Musical

Churchill Theatre, Bromley

11 to 18 January 2014

Reviewed by Lynn Short

Book by Garry Marshall,
Music & Lyrics by Paul Williams
Directed and choreographed by Andrew Wright
Creative Consultant Henry Winkler

I went with my husband to see this production on the opening night. We had watched, and greatly enjoyed, the television series and we wondered how successful it would be as a musical.

Happy Days is set in the city of Milwaukee, Wisconsin in 1959 and all the original characters are there. Of course the Fonz (Ben Freeman) is the hero and remains “cool” throughout. The action takes place mainly in Arnold’s diner which is under threat of demolition and the Fonz, the Cunningham’s and other members of the town are trying to save it.

This was a thoroughly enjoyable production. The musical numbers were evocative of the 1950’s, however I would find it difficult to be able to remember any of them now, apart from “Happy Days” itself. There was a good deal of humour, particularly in the scene set in the Leopard Lodge. The agile and athletic dancers were excellent. We particularly liked the choreography in the two numbers involving basketballs and hardware items!

It is always difficult to re-create such well-known characters but this cast certainly achieved it. We were particularly impressed with the portrayals of Marion Cunningham (Cheryl Baker) and Howard Cunningham (James Paterson).

This is an enjoyable, happy and entertaining show, suitable for younger members of the family as well. If you aren’t able to get to see it in Bromley it will be at:

Theatre Royal, BRIGHTON from 20 to 25 January
New Theatre, HULL from 28 January to 1 February
Bord Gais Energy Theatre, DUBLIN from 4 to 8February
Mayflower, SOUTHAMPTON from 11 to 15 February

The Churchill Theatre has comfortable seats with plenty of legroom and no restricted views. It is accessible for wheelchair users. The staff are welcoming, friendly and helpful.

The theatre is about 10 minutes’ walk from either Bromley South or Bromley North stations. The multi storey car park behind the Glades shopping centre is a 5 to 10 minute walk and after 6.30 p.m. it costs £1.

Rating: 5/5