Summer Holiday The Musical at the Theatre Royal Plymouth Review
26-30 June 2018
Reviewed by Linda Pickford
Yesterday was a beautiful summers day so it seemed very suitable to see the Summer Holiday The Musical at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth. I remember the original Cliff Richard film of the same name, so I was intrigued how a new musical would adapt the story for a stage performance.
A group of London Bus mechanics decide to do up a red London Bus for travel to the south of France. A fortnights holiday for them may turn into a new European holiday venture if the idea works. On their way they acquire the company of a female singing group (Do, Re, Mi) whose car has broken down. They need to get to Athens for a gig so obligingly the boys alter their route in order to acquire some female company. They soon discover a young boy stowaway and agree to take him along too. All is not as it seems though. The stowaway is really a well-known American singing star running away from a domineering mother. They are all set for romance, intrigue and adventure.
The opening acts were a little slow and at times the music overwhelmed the singing but soon everyone got in their stride and the audience sat back in their seats for an easy fun filled evening. The bus entrance was greeted with astonishment especially when it moved around the stage. The upstairs set of bedroom and shower didn’t quite work with just a covered box for the bed but otherwise was effective. By the time of the second act the cast had all won us over. The singing and dancing were good with excellent interaction between them all. The choreography was very clever with a very unusual skiing scene.
Ray Quinn as Don was exceptional with both his stage presence and vocals. The acts with Sophie Matthew (Barbara) were a delight particularly the shower scene when they sang Bachelor Boy. Billy Roberts, Joe Goldie and Rory Maguire who played The Shadows parts in the original film were also impressive and greatly added to the evenings enjoyment. Special mention must be made of Bobby Crush, his years of experience shown through.
A thoroughly entertaining evening, enjoyed by a very enthusiastic audience. The Theatre Royal is a great venue in an easy to get to part of Plymouth, so do try to see this “Feel Good” show. You won’t regret it.
Rating: 4/5
Tickets cost from £15 to £41 (booking fees may apply).
Summer Holiday The Musical is at the Theatre Royal in Plymouth from 26-30 June 2018, 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