Reviewed by Amanda Gazzard
Wow!!! This has to be one of the best musical performances I have seen for a long time.
Thriller Live! is entertaining from the outset and pays homage to the legend that was Michael Jackson.
The audience is taken back through a lyrically journey of some of Michael Jackson’s musical hits. The hits spanned from the early days with the Jackson Five up to his most successful albums Bad and Thriller.
There was never going to be enough time to cover every single hit but what they did cover was a fantastic choice. I won’t spoil every song covered but we were treated to various tunes such as “I want you back”, Blame it on the boogie”, “She’s out of my life”, “Earth song”, “Bad” and “Thriller” to name but a few.
I need to be clear, Thriller Live! was not a tribute band, and instead this performance was even better and far outweighed my expectations of the evening.
Vocalist Eddy Lima who portrayed Michael Jackson made you truly believe you could have been watching the star dance right in front of you. It was evident Eddy knew how to move on the stage and was an expert in his craft. I take my hat off to him.
The 4 main performers Adriana Louise, Britt Quentin, Shaquille Hemmans and Rory Taylor flawlessly flowed from one song to the next and their vocal abilities were amazing. If I had to choose a favourite out of them it would have to be Britt Quentin, as vocally his range was an honour to listen to, you will not be left disappointed.
From the first act all the way through to the final act the whole audience engaged and throughout all of the show the auditorium regularly got to their feet to have a boogie.
I have never seen a musical with so many costume changes and you will not be left dissatisfied. The costumes were in keeping with the music and the energy on the stage throughout the performance was breath taking. Well done to the choreography as it was spot on.
All of the performers gave 100% and it was evident they were passionate about their performances.
The live band was incorporated into the staging which was very striking and the solos of the guitarists on the stage made you feel as though you were at a rock concert.
I could have happily sat and listened for longer but alas it was not meant to be as it had to end but I can confidently say I will be watching this show again.
This is well worth an evening out and I cannot rate this show highly enough.
Please note: Parking restrictions are now in place around the Cliffs Pavilion due to residents parking. The easiest place to park for free after 6pm is the sea front. It’s only a short walk up the steps to the theatre.
The theatre has a varied range of confectionery and beverages to purchase before, during and following the performance.
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £26.00 to £39.00 (booking fees may apply).
Thriller Live is at the Cliffs Pavilion from 4-9 June 2018, for more information or to book tickets visit southendtheatres.org.uk or call the box office on 01702 351135.
Cliffs Pavilion, Station Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS0 7RA | 01702 351135
