Follow-up to the hit musical Dreamboats and Petticoats and written by Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran, Dreamboats and Miniskirts directed by Bill Kenwright and Keith Strachan, continues the story of Bobby, Laura and the St Mungo’s gang as they attempt to take on the changing music world of the 1960’s.
Life was sweet at the end of Dreamboats and Petticoats however we’re now heading into 1963 and it isn’t all rosy, after a number one hit Bobby (Alex Beaumont) and Laura’s (Elizabeth Carter) popularity is dwindling, Norman (Alastair Hill) and Sue (Louise Olley) have a baby on the way and Donna (Anna Campkin) and Ray (David Luke) seem to be talking but not quite hearing each other. Add to this the gang’s desperation to find fame and fortune in the hit parade with the help of their mates from St Mungo’s Youth Club.
The storyline isn’t the strongest but the young cast are hardworking and enthusiastic, special mention goes to Louise Olley (Sue) who has toured previously as the same character in Dreamboats and Petticoats, her performance is confident and for me she had by far the most stage presence. Each of the leads took great pleasure in the classics they were performing and with hits like ‘Twist and Shout’ ‘Be My Baby’ ‘You Don’t Own Me’ and ‘It’s In His Kiss’ the toe tapping soon started in the audience. The versatile cast also play all the musical numbers on stage too highlighting the talent amongst them.
Being so light on dialogue meant there were times during the show the links to songs were fairly weak and it was closer to a 60’s tribute concert than a musical production. The show would benefit from some character development; unlike Dreamboats and Petticoats where I willed Bobby and Sue to get together I didn’t feel the same emotion for the characters in this follow-up. However, the cast give so much energy that despite the lack of character development you find yourself getting swept up with the rest of the toe tapping, hand clapping audience and although this show won’t win and awards it’s certainly offers the audience a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
Showing at the Palace Theatre until Saturday 25th April
http://www.atgtickets.com/shows/dreamboats-and-miniskirts/palace-theatre-manchester/
