Reviewed by Jan Dixon
Wow! I attended an amazing show last night (Friday 23 February 2018) at Ferneham Hall. It was written, directed and produced by Trevor Payne and is now in its 32nd year with another new production. ‘That’ll Be The Day’ is the most successful touring rock ‘n’ roll show in the history of British theatre; a very well-deserved accolade. There was an excellent blend of vocals, music and comedy, with a backdrop of a screen showing footage from the bands/artists depicted.
The show starred Trevor Payne, Mark Street, Gary Anderson, Nikki Renee Hechavarria, Jane Watkins, Phil Hollender, Clive Fishlock, Ollie Gray, Jarrod Loughlin and Peter John Jackson. Each member of the cast demonstrated their vocals and/or instrumental talent; covering a wide range of music from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. Numbers included tributes to artists such as Buddy Holly, Roy Orbison, Elvis, Cliff Richard & The Shadows, Tom Jones, Dionne Warwick, The Beachboys, Lynyrd Skynyrd, The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Brian Ferry, The Carpenters, Rod Stewart, Tina Turner and Queen. Recognition in particular should go to Peter John Jackson for his rendition of ‘My Prayer’ and Nikki Renee Hechavarria for her performance of ‘Walk on By’. Trevor Payne was especially brilliant with his covers of Cliff Richard and Mick Jagger, obviously relishing his portrayal of these famous artistes.
The show was so professional, with smooth costume changes complimenting the many eras/genres of music covered. Trevor Payne and Gary Anderson were a great comedic double-act, providing interludes between musical numbers with their unique comedy; both live and on screen. This show certainly made you gasp with the wonderful talent of the performers and laugh out loud at the very funny comedy. A truly impressive variety show.
There was such a vibrant ‘feel good’ vibe to this show; the rapport between the cast members radiating through to the audience. Such a positive, happy and truly entertaining evening. I would thoroughly recommend this and encourage you to go to their next new show at Ferneham Hall on 4 October 2018. I certainly will be going! Most definitely a 5-star rating – very well deserved.
I would to thank the staff at Ferneham Hall for being so welcoming to the venue and for taking such a personal interest in making sure all patrons were looked after to the highest standard. Ferneham Hall is on Osborne Road, behind Fareham Shopping Centre and adjacent to Osborn Road multi-storey carpark. There is also provision for parking immediately outside Ferneham Hall. All parking is free after 6pm. If you are coming by road there is easy access off Junction 11 of the M27; by rail the venue is a 15 minute walk from the railway station.
Rating: 5/5
That’ll Be The Day is currently on tour around the UK, for more information and tour dates visit www.thatllbetheday.com.
For other shows at Ferneham Hall in Fareham visit www.fernehamhall.co.uk or call the box office on 01329 231942.
Ferneham Hall, Osborn Road, Fareham, Hampshire, PO16 7DB | 01329 231942
