REVIEW: Fame gives us something to remember

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Fame – The Musical got audiences on their feet for a memorable show at Bournemouth Pavilion.

Fame is based on the 1980 film, and is an international smash-hit now viewed as a classic. It follows the lives of students at New York’s High School for the Performing Arts, through finding themselves, and finding each other.

This version of the show is slightly darker than usual, and I was slightly disappointed that the songs have changed from the original film (I have never seen the stage show before) and now it does not feature some of my favourites such as Out Here On My Own, and I Sing the Body Electric.

However, it is a great production. From the moment the show starts, the whole cast is enthusiastic and energetic, and it features some great voices such as Molly McGuire as Serena, and of course Keith Jack alongside her as Nick.

Mica Paris received a great reaction as Miss Sherman, especially when she sang her show stopping solo ballad These Are My Children, causing people to cheer even half way through.

A stand out performance for me came from Stephanie Rojas, who played Carmen, who was fantastic throughout but then her portrayal of the character’s fall from grace and then her performance of the song In L.A. was outstanding.

The characters Joe and Goody brought some great comedy relief, and Goody with his trumpet was fantastic. Jorgie Porter as Iris was also just stunning in her soft ballet dances, as well as the more upbeat numbers.

Unfortunately the musical itself for me felt a little flat at times, and the second half seemed rushed, but this was not fault of the cast or crew, it is just an observation of the story. However the production team did a great job with the show, bringing a classic to life isn’t easy, especially one that is so locked in it’s time.

Overall, it’s a good show, and has just a great cast. I do recommend it to anyone who loves the arts, or is a Fame enthusiast.

Image: A scene from Fame The Musical Tour @ Palace Theatre, Manchester. Director and Choreographer Nick Winston.
(Taken 19-07-18)
©Tristram Kenton 07-18
(3 Raveley Street, LONDON NW5 2HX TEL 0207 267 5550 Mob 07973 617 355)email: tristram@tristramkenton.com

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