The Full Monty at the Belgrade Theatre Coventry Review
25 February to 2 March 2019
Reviewed by Catherine Brown
Gary Lucy leads a fantastic cast in an entertaining production of The Full Monty currently at the Belgrade Theatre in Coventry. Even before entering the auditorium, there was a buzz of excitement surrounding the stage version of the hit 1997 film. Adapted by Oscar winning writer Simon Beaufoy, the gritty script contains many well-known scenes and lines from the original comedy along with a few added extras to make the show feel fresh.
The story involves six out of work men from Sheffield, desperate to find an alternative way to make money. Friends Gaz (Gary Lucy) and Dave (Kai Owen) discover that stripping is a lucrative business and could be the chance to get the money Gaz needs to keep seeing his son Nathan. They are taught a routine by ballroom dancer Gerald (Andrew Dunn), who is keeping up the pretence of being employed to his wife Linda.
The supporting cast helped to change the scenery quickly from job club to bar to abandoned steel factory. The plot was easy to follow if you haven’t seen the film, and dealt with some serious issues such as unemployment, split parents and sexuality using humour. With the soundtrack including songs by Donna Summer, Hot Chocolate and Tom Jones the audience were often clapping along.
Classic scenes from the original film were cleverly recreated, including the dance moves while stood in line at the job centre and the audition process to recruit more men to their group. There was the expected sexual innuendo and hip thrusting that had the audience giggling away. My only criticism would be that Lucy’s attempt at a Sheffield accent was sometimes hard to understand.
The Belgrade Theatre in the centre of Coventry was a pleasure to visit, with friendly staff and comfortable seats. If you get chance, allow time to enjoy a drink or snack in the Belgrade cafe beforehand, where they serve a selection of fresh food sourced from local suppliers. The reception and foyer area is also welcoming, with drinks, snacks and merchandise on sale.
I would recommend The Full Monty with the disclaimer that some of the language is typical of a bunch of factory workers. With so many laugh out loud moments along with a heart-warming tale, I would give the show a 5/5 rating.
Rating: 5/5
Tickets cost from £24.75 to £36.75 (booking fees may apply).
The Full Monty is at the Belgrade Theatre in Coventry from 25 February to 2 March 2019, for more information or to book tickets visit www.belgrade.co.uk or call the box office on 02476 553055.
Belgrade Theatre, Belgrade Square, Coventry, CV1 1GS | 02476 55 3055
