In 1989 I was 15, so when I saw Now That’s What I Call a Musical – which opened at Mayflower Theatre last night – was set then (and in 2009 for the friends 20 year reunion) I knew I had to go.
Much like we were back then, characters Gemma and April are busy planning their lives around their dreams and listening to the charts, but, before they know it, 20 years have passed and it’s the most dreaded event of their lives – the school reunion.
This brand new production is directed and choreographed by Craig Revel Horwood, and stars Nina Wadia and Sam Bailey as older Gemma and April, and at various points in the tour Sinitta, Sonia, Carol Decker and Jay Osmond have made guest appearances.
The girls younger selves are played by Nikita Johal (Gemma) and Maia Hawkins (April), who was absolutely outstanding on her professional debut – it felt like she had been on stage for years, and, for me, she gave the strongest performance of the night!
She’s definitely one to watch for the future.
Is Now That’s What I Call a Musical the best show you’ll ever see?
Probably not to be honest. The storyline is there, but sometimes it feels a little surreal as the choreographed dances move the sets around, and I did find myself wondering what was happening at times – especially with Sonia, our star for the night’s advice scene, which didn’t really fit at all.
But – with a score celebrating 40 years of the iconic and chart-topping compilations brand, NOW That’s What I Call Music – it’s a cheesy fun-filled evening bursting with hits, which makes it a must-see show for any fans of 80s music.
And, if you’re the right age – like I am – it will take you on a nostalgic trip down memory lane that will leave you smiling as you leave, and wishing you could do it all over again.
Tickets for NOW That’s What I Call A Musical (Tuesday 14 – Saturday 18 January 2025) are on sale at at mayflower.org.uk or 02380 711811.
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