Reviewed by Joanna Woodburn
The sensational hit West End show, Motown The Musical, is currently on tour and playing at the New Theatre in Oxford. The musical tells the true story of the legendary record label that brought us music that defined a generation and changed music history. It truly is the magic of Motown and is a treat for all generations!
The New Theatre, Oxford is an excellent venue, situated right in the centre of the historic city. Although parking in Oxford can be tricky, there is an excellent Park and Ride service and the theatre is only a ten minute walk from the station. The New Theatre has an expansive, most impressive auditorium, with comfortable seats with ample leg room and is completely access friendly. Service is impeccable and staff go out of their way to look after their patrons, we were well looked after from start to finish.
Based on the book by Motown founder Berry Gordy, the musical tells the story of the legendary Detroit music label and all the highs and lows along the way. The label changed music history and launched the careers of many stars, including Diana Ross and the Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Smokey Robinson, the Jackson 5 and many more.
The show takes us back to the time of oppression and looming war in America. With much nostalgia, the story takes us from Gordy as a child with big dreams of making a difference through to him starting Motown with a loan and discovering the stars whom will make his dreams come true and then the reality of the decline as the stars are lured away by the money of bigger companies.
With such a rich catalogue of hits to delve into, Motown the Musical features excerpts from more than 50 well known songs, which will keep your feet tapping and you humming the tunes for days after. Favourites such as ‘My Guy’, ‘Happy Birthday’, ‘Dancing in the Street’ and ‘I Heard it Through the Grapevine’ propel the story forward as well as giving moments for the audience to just enjoy and indulge.
The very talented cast give convincing performances and we feel a fast paced roller-coaster of emotions as the story unfolds. We see the oppression the musicians faced amidst a backdrop of beautiful sets and glamorous costumes. The constant theme of the importance of family will strike a chord at this time of the year in particular. By the end of the show we are in 1983, with the realisation for Berry that even those who leave him will always come back in the end.
Cordell Mosteller is charismatic and so likeable as Gordy, his outstanding performance is note perfect and full of energy and commitment. Karis Anderson is superb as Diana Ross, bringing the house down, particularly when engaging the house with some fun audience participation! Nathan Lewis as Smokey Robinson delivers a convincing, faultless performance.
This jukebox musical will appeal not just to fans of the label but to all music lovers. Motown music has a timeless quality, with so many of the songs ingrained in modern culture, it is a show that will be a hit across the generations.
Motown the Musical is an amazing, inspiring show with a song for all – you will leave the theatre with a smile on your face and a spring in your step.
High energy, full of soul and positivity – Motown the Musical is the perfect must-see 24 carat gold disc of a show!
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £13 (plus £3.65 transaction fee).
Motown the Musical is at the New Theatre in Oxford from 17 December 2019 to 4 January 2020, for more information or to book tickets visit www.atgtickets.com/oxford or call the box office on 0844 871 3020.
New Theatre Oxford, George Street, Oxford, OX1 2AG | 0844 871 3020
