Terry Wills on a barnstorming musical at the Alex.
Another week, another show, another audience recalling days that although long gone, will never be forgotten.
So it was at the Alex as the talented enthusiastic young cast showcased their musical talents in Dreamboats and Petticoats. Classed as a musical in essence it simply gives golden oldies an opportunity to wallow in nostalgia from the rock’n’roll era. The story tells of two young musicians, Norman (Matthew Colthart) and Bobby (Gregg Fossard). They’re competing in a mationwide song writing competition while at the same time vying for the attention of the flirtatious, gorgeous blonde, Sue (Louise Lolley) But when Bobby discovers Laura (Hannah Boyce) is a talented piano player, love and rock’n’roll beckons
From the opening number Let’s Dance, taking in classics such as Bobby’s Girl, Runaway, Only the Lonely, It’s My Party. Let’s Twist Again finishing with the whole company and audience belting out C’mon Everybody it was fun all the way.
A full company periodically fills the stage; girls with dresses swirling and guys twanging merrily away on guitars. With and audience that was more than ready to join in, Dreamboats and Petticoats was a firm reminder that the musical tradition of the fifties and sixties is firmly cemented in pop history.
Another enjoyable night, and with one of the greatest ever musicals, namely West
Side Story, to follow, the Alex can anticipate more plaudits from those who enjoy the best of musical theatre.
Dreamboats and Petticoats is at the New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham, until 29th March. Tickets are available from www.atgtickets.com