The Illegal Eagles at the Royal & Derngate Review
The Illegal Eagles
Royal & Derngate, Northampton
19 May 2016
Reviewed by Jayne Wiggins
I have always been happy with the parking in the ‘cultural sector’ of Northampton. The multi storey beside the theatre is a well-lit car park with a low parking charge of £1 after 6pm. My only complaint this evening would be the queue to buy the parking ticket and the queue to get out of the car park after the show. The theatre is an architectural gem during the light when the interior can be seen against the backdrop of the sun shining through the windows. It is a large venue with multiple entrances and a feeling of space and openness when we entered the building. The bar was a little disappointing as we first entered. A large queue and numerous pumps were out of action as the beer had already run out. One bar was closed for refurbishment so this was a big disappointment. In the end we didn’t wait too long to be served. 7 members of staff were running the bar, but there was still discontent in the queue as customers around us complained of staff serving queue jumpers.
There was actually a shortage of staff of entry this evening, the staff there were eager to sell a programme rather than direct us to our entry door. At the door however, staff were extremely helpful and walked us to our designated seats.
We had good seats though from experience, all of the seats in this theatre, offer spectacular views of the stage. We were close enough to see the disabled access and wheel chair seating. There was a little movement needed to fit all wheel chair users in, but the staff dealt with that with care and discretion.
The show itself took me through every emotion. It is not fair to call this band a simple tribute band – as they should be recognised for their own amazing talent. The first act was nerve wracking for me. I have yet to experience a ‘bad’ show, and I was running the risk of experiencing my first! I realised that I was making a judgement based on knowledge of the music. My husband assured me that he loved these tracks and that this group were doing them justice. I was struck by the musicality and talent the showed in instrumentals. Switching between instruments, all seven of these performers managed to wow me with their musical expertise.
The second act though finally caught my attention for the songs I know. Desperado and Hotel California were my favourites, positively and spectacularly executed with musical precision and a full performance. If you like music concerts – this would be a tame but enjoyable concert for you to enjoy and reminisce to. If you enjoy a show, a performance, expert musicians and vocalists – THIS IS THE SHOW FOR YOU.
A truly entertaining evening for the diehard Eagles fans, the diehard Illegal Eagles fans, and those who are new to the genre.
Rating: 5/5 
The Illegal Eagles are currently touring around the UK. For more information, tour dates and venues visit www.illegaleagles.com.
For other shows at the Royal & Derngate visit www.royalandderngate.co.uk.
Royal & Derngate, Guildhall Road, Northampton, NN1 1DP | 01604 624811
