Joseph has been one of my favourite musicals since childhood (I was even part of the cast a couple of times during my school days) but I have to admit something rare for me – I wasn’t looking forward to the show! The reason that so many people have flocked to see this West End production at the Adelphi Theatre – Gareth Gates of Pop Idol fame – gave me reservations. The fact is, I’ve never been a fan of his and I worried I wouldn’t like the performance.

Thankfully, Mr. Gates proved me wrong. Even if I don’t like his music, he can actually sing and he gave a strong, charismatic performance in the title role. The costumes were bright, the choreography both practiced and entertaining and of course the brilliant storyline and songs carry the show all the way through. The whole audience (lots of Gareth Gates fans!) enjoyed themselves and the show was definitely suitable for children as there were lots of families present. By the end of the show everyone was clapping along so if you like to participate in a musical, Joseph is definitely for you!

See the deals available on Joseph tickets, or other shows to see at the Adelphi Theatre.

Playing in the Ambassadors Theatre, Stomp isn’t your traditional musical. In fact, it’s more of a dance show but the percussive music and ingenious choreography rank it amongst one of the most enjoyable spectacles in the West End – it’s certainly the most unique. As a child in the 90s I’d seen Stomp on television several times so thought I knew what to expect with the show, but it was far more exciting and engaging than I expected.

The dancers – or should I call them musicians – are so highly skilled that you marvel at how they’re able to dance and put complex musical arrangements together at the same time. They’re so energetic and the timing of each scene is perfect. The audience was mesmerized throughout the entire performance but be warned – it’s 1 hour 40 without a break so best not to drink too much beforehand! Stomp really is unique and this is a perfect show if you love great choreography and non-stop action.

Take a look at all the deals available on Stomp tickets.

Telling the story of tragic twins separated at birth, Blood Brothers is a fantastically thoughtful, emotive musical but not a good choice if you prefer light-hearted comedy. The humour is Northern and gritty, but much of the show is about romance, drama and eventually tragedy. You can tell right from the start that the brothers are doomed and watching their downfall would bring a tear to anyone’s eye.

The acting in this show really is superb and much of the story is driven by the script, rather than by the songs themselves. However, the singing is powerful and full of emotion – you empathise with every character that gets caught up in the fateful lives of the twins – especially their mother who is particularly well cast. If you want a musical that makes you think then Blood Brothers is the one for you. Be warned though – there is some strong language so the show might not be suitable for young children.

If you’d like to see the show, take a look at the Blood Brothers tickets available.

Nominated for 11 Olivier Awards and with a hit movie coming out just a couple of years ago, Hairspray is enjoying massive success at the moment. It’s been playing in the Shaftesbury Theatre in the West End since 2007 with Michael Ball starring as Edna Turnblad and its popularity shows no signs of abating.
Hairspray tells the story of racial segregation in 1960s Baltimore, but this sensitive subject is handled with so much comedy and bright scenery that the mood is upbeat throughout. The hair in this musical is huge as you’d expect, and seeing men hamming it up as women is hilarious as always. The singing is absolutely fantastic – one of the best shows I’ve ever seen as far as vocal talent is concerned.

Hairspray the musical is suitable for all the family and offers real feel-good escapism. It’s playing at the Shaftesbury throughout 2009 and there are some fantastic deals on tickets available – a must-see musical!

Take a look at more information on the Shaftesbury Theatre, and the best deals available on Hairspray tickets.

Grease actually started life as a stage show in 1971, but the opening run in London in 1973 was so poorly received that it closed after just a few months – despite starring Elaine Paige and an unknown Richard Gere! Most people will know the story from the film and if like me you were mesmerised by John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John you’ll look forward to seeing this musical!

The story of course follows Danny and Sandy, two high school teenagers in the 1950s. With all the talk of rock, roll, sex and hotrods this show isn’t for young children but there’s plenty of comedy and the pace is fast from the start. The costumes are fun, the sets are colourful and the songs are upbeat and recognisable. The choreography is possibly the best part of the show – the hand jive and the acrobatics performed by couples (girls being thrown into the air!) are thoroughly entertaining.

The lead players have big shoes to fill and whilst they give a very different performance to Travolta and Newton-John it’s still top notch. They don’t have the same personality as the originals but their vocals and dancing are fantastic and probably better suited to the stage than the film actors! Girls especially will love seeing Grease but there’s enough comedy (bordering on rude!) to entertain the boys as well.

See the best available deals on Grease tickets.