Reviewed by Joanna Woodburn
Prepare yourself for Curtains – a musical whodunnit, now playing at the Regent Theatre in Stoke-on-Trent.
In 1929 the Regent Theatre originally opened as a super cinema. Following a £23 million development of the city centre it reopened in 1999 and plays host to the very best in drama, musicals, opera and dance.
This theatre is a grand and impressive venue. With its attractive décor and imposing dome, and with comfortable seats and ample leg room, it is a most pleasant auditorium. The staff work hard to take care of their customers. The John Street multi-storey car park is only a few minutes away, with very reasonable, well lit parking after 6 pm and there is disabled parking opposite the theatre.
Curtains, with a book by Rupert Holmes (based on the original book and concept of the same name by Peter Stone), lyrics by Fred Ebb, music by John Kander, with additional lyrics by Kander and Holmes. This funny musical is an informal imitation of murder mystery plots set backstage, in 1959 Boston, Massachusetts. With an array of enjoyable songs and dynamic characters this show will keep the audience engrossed from start to finish!
The story unfolds following the murder of Jessica Cranshaw, an actress lacking in talent, during the opening night of ‘Robbin’ Hood of the Old West’. A police Lieutenant, Frank Cioffi, is put on the case to find the murderer – he is a fan of musical theatre too. He tries to solve the case, to help to save the show, to find love without being killed as well.
The character of Lieutenant Cioffi, excellently played by Jason Manford (The Producers, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Guys and Dolls) is central to the story. This role allows Mr. Manford to present a great range of acting skills throughout the performance.
From the outset of the show, the audience are treated to various memorable songs including ‘Wide Open Spaces’ and ‘Show People’ – such a strong musical display!
The large, strong cast include Jason Manford as Lieutenant Frank Cioffi and Carley Stenson (Les Miserables, Legally Blonde, Shrek, Spamalot, Hollyoaks) as Georgia Hendricks.
This skilled group are well-prepared to deliver excellence in their performance of this most enjoyable show to any audience who are fortunate to witness this acting masterclass! They are all confident in their roles, dovetailing very well to produce a first-rate and polished show for all patrons to take joy in.
Jason Manford draws on his expert timing to bring life to his character as Lieutenant Cioffi. With skill and style he dominates this part, which will be most impressive to audiences. Mr. Manford gives an astounding performance. Powerful and uplifting, with a fine musical tone, he exhibits real excellence in his role.
Carley Stenson brings so much to the part of Georgia Hendricks – she displays her fine voice especially in ‘Thataway!’. Miss Stenson presents her strong thespian skills, playing her role impeccably.
Andy Coxon, as Aaron Fox, should also be commended for his talented and passionate vocal ‘I Miss the Music’.
The staging of Curtains is extremely professional, with authentic costumes and highly effective sets, produced to bring a very good tempo to the production.
Should it be Curtains for you? Most definitely but for the right reasons! Enjoy!
To the cast and production team – a massive bravo!
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £13 (plus £3.65 transaction fee).
Curtains is at the Regent Theatre in Stoke from 3-7 December 2019, for more information or to book tickets visit www.atgtickets.com/regent-theatre or call the box office on 0844 871 7649.
Regent Theatre, Piccadilly, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST1 1AP | 0844 871 7649
