REVIEW: The Band - A New Musical By Tim Firth & The Music Of Take That. Liverpool Empire

Monday night at The Liverpool Empire was the Press night performance of Tim Firth’s new musical, THE BAND and the music of Take That. The tour runs in  Liverpool until 3rd February. The UK tour has now topped a record-breaking £10million at the box office and it’s no wonder why the production is a winner for its audiences.


The story is about five 16 year olds in 1992 who idolised THE BAND. We get a glimpse of what like was like for them as teenagers and then 25 years later when they reunite with their friendship group in a quest to meet their heart-throb idols. Featuring the music of Take That, the winners of BBC’s Let it Shine - Five To Five wowed the Liverpool audience with their stunning vocals, stage presence and brilliant performances alongside their strong cast.

The talented cast is comprised of AJ Bentley, Nick Carsberg, Curtis T Johns, Yazdan Qafouri and Sario Solomon. They really do play The Band with such finesse. The vocals are exceptionally strong throughout and the harmonies tight and flawless. Joining the five vocalists are Rachel Lumberg, Faye Christall, Emily Joyce, Alison Fitzjohn,  Jayne McKenna, Katy Clayton, Sarah Kate Howarth, Lauren Jacobs, Rachelle Diedericks, Martin Miller and Andy Williams.

The actresses who played the teens were fantastic. They were playful, convincing in their portrayal of impressionable teens and endearing in their youthfulness and display of unwavering loyalty to THE BAND and each other. Fast forward 25 years and the more mature actresses were equally as captivating in their witty delivery, rawness of dialogue and the way they addressed deeply moving subject matters that impacted each of their lives.

The set is a sight to behold and it’s glitz, clever lighting and sheer size convinces you that you are at a gig. The choreography is fast-paced and executed with precision and ease by the cast. It’s an extravaganza from the get-go. As the audience is enthralled by the polished vocal delivery of the band, enamoured by the magnetism of the teenagers and grown up version of the pack alike, this show is highly engaging and emotive. The audience participation is guaranteed to be high and the energy equally so. Kudos to writer Tim Firth and his creative team for having the vision to execute a show of such quality.

Was opening night a success? Judging by the standing ovation and interaction from the crowd, I’m sure the cast and production team will TAKE THAT as a yes.

Running time : 2 hours 15 mins
Buy your tickets Here