Reviewed by Nicola Wilkinson
There is certainly a ‘kind of magic’ in Plymouth this week with the brilliant staging of ‘We Will Rock You’ at the Theatre Royal.
I was pleased to be able to review this production which has seen amazing ticket sales – obviously a popular choice with the Plymouth theatre goers.
Plymouth’s Theatre Royal is a great setting for all genres of theatre work. Situated on the main Royal Parade in the city centre, the theatre has good bus connections and several nearby car parks. When we arrived last evening, the theatre was very busy with the opening night sell-out audience enjoying coffee, cakes and drinks prior to the show. The ever-helpful front of house staff were cheerfully greeting people as they arrived and ensuring everyone knew where to go.
Originally opening in 2002, this revamped production is certain to appeal to all Queen followers as no less than twenty-four of their iconic songs are incorporated into the show. We Will Rock You is set in the year 2300 where everyone’s lives are controlled by technology and live music is banned. One group, the Bohemians, is determined to break free from this regime and return to the days of Rock and Roll. Led by Galileo (played by Ian McIntosh) and Scaramouche (played by Elena Skye) this quest to bring back Rock and Roll is the main theme of the musical.
From the amazing opening, where you feel you are flying through the universe surrounded by shooting stars, to the spectacular finale, you are drawn into the story. Amazing futuristic staging and very clever stage set designs made this such a dynamic and dramatic piece of theatre.
Ian McIntosh as Galileo and Elena Skye as Scaramouche were excellent in their lead roles working so well together with brilliant vocals. Their tribute to the pop stars who have died young with the song ‘only the good die young’ was very touching and a highlight of the show for me.
Michael McKell played a very confident Buddy and worked well with the comedy elements of Ben Eltons script. Adam Strong worked well as Khashoggi and Killer Queen Jenny O’Leary was brilliant with a very strong voice, extravagantly shiny costumes and wow! those stiletto boots! Along with Amy Di Bartolomeo as Oz and David Michael Johnson as Brit, this was an amazingly strong cast supported by a very talented, energetic ensemble.
The costumes were very clever with a distinct difference between the bright shiny sci-fi attire of the Ga-Ga group and the dark, ripped clothing of the Bohemians.
From Radio-Ga Ga, cleverly adapted to include the lines internet Ga-ga, to the finale of Bohemian Rhapsody, this show was outstanding. Maybe the music was a bit loud in places and some of the well sung vocals were overpowered at times but hey! That’s Rock and Roll!!!
The audience gave a well-deserved standing ovation to such a high energy cast after a very rousing finale.
A brilliant tribute to the powerful music of Queen and the legend that was Freddie Mercury.
Be quick to get one of the remaining tickets for this virtually sold out production.
A well-deserved ***** rating.
Rating: 5/5
We Will Rock You is at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth from 2-7 December 2019, for more information or to book tickets visit www.theatreroyal.com or call the box office on 01752 267222.
Theatre Royal Plymouth, Royal Parade, Plymouth, PL1 2TR | 01752 267222
