REVIEW: Saturday Night Fever - Storyhouse Chester
West End star Richard Winsor plays the lead role of Tony Manero and wears the iconic white suit with pride. Playing at the beautiful Storyhouse until Saturday 14h September and playing only 8 shows, including 3 matinees, Bill Kenwright's re-imagined production brings disco fever to the North West.
Richard Winsor has starred as the principal dancer with Matthew Bourne for 10 years and is a perfect fit for the role of Manero. The film role was of course played by John Travolta and whilst Winsor was not comparable to the movie star, in my opinion he did the role justice as the production pays homage to the 1977 classic movie.
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| Photo credit: Pamela Raith |
The story tells of a young Manero who escapes the harsh reality of working-class Brooklyn life as he pursues a life which takes him to dancing success.There are some complex and adult themes which are explored in the show around sexuality and tragedy (cue the high-pitched track).
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| Photo credit: Pamela Raith |
The stage and set design was impressive with a large mirror in the centre of the stage as the predominant feature with glitter balls dotted around the auditorium. The mirror added depth to the stage and highlighted the choreography perfectly. The interchangeable sets were impressive.
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| Photo Credit: Pamela Raith |
Faizal Jay as DJ Monty was an explosion of energy and it lifted my spirits to watch him energetically and enthusiastically dance his role as the DJ and compere.
The highlight for me was definitely the soundtrack. To think that I was the mere age of 4 when this movie hit the screens and yet the soundtrack is so fresh and enjoyable proves the timeless nature of the tracks. Jake Byrom (Barry Gibb), James Kenneth Haughan (Maurice Gibb) and Danny Knott (Robin Gibb) were exceptional.
The movie soundtrack featuring The Bee Gees has been reputed as being one of the best of all time and has certainly stood the test of time. Expect to hear tracks such as Night Fever, Stayin' Alive, Tragedy and Jive Talkin'.
Choreography was by the Olivier award-winning Bill Deamer, sound by Dan Samson and stage adaptation by Robert Stigwood in collaboration with Bill Oakes.
I really enjoyed the show and felt like I could switch off and enjoy the performance. It was dramatic and emotional in equal measure.
The show is suitable for aged 14years and upwards. There is strong language throughout.
It's not hanging around for long. Get your tickets now as it would be a Tragedy if you missed this entertaining show.
Book your tickets here
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