The musical cautionary tale, Spend Spend Spend at Manchester’s Royal Exchange Theatre, tells the story of Yorkshire lass Viv Nicholson, who won the football pools in 1961. Viv famously declared that she would “spend, spend, spend” her winnings of £152,319, which would be equivalent to around £4 million today. Viv’s life after winning the lottery was filled with ups and downs, including multiple marriages, bankruptcy, and struggles with alcoholism. The production features a genial music and lyrics by Steve Brown and Justin Greene, with standout performances by Rose Galbraith as the young Viv and Rachel Leskovac as the older Viv, who narrates the story. Despite the engaging performances, the production could benefit from more memorable songs and choreography.
Little Shop Of Horrors at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield is a dark comedy musical that tells the story of Seymour, a flower shop assistant who saves his colleague Audrey by feeding her abusive dentist boyfriend to a flesh-eating potted plant named Audrey II. The show features an eclectic score by Alan Menken and witty lyrics by Howard Ashman, with standout numbers like Skid Row, Somewhere That’s Green, and Suddenly, Seymour. The production in Sheffield features a talented cast, including Colin Ryan as Seymour, Georgina Onuorah as Audrey, Wilf Scolding as the dentist, and Sam Buttery as Audrey II. Georgia Lowe’s set design and Amy Hodge’s direction create a visually striking and entertaining show that culminates in a glorious finale for the man-eating plant.
Natasha, Pierre And The Great Comet Of 1812 at the Donmar Warehouse in London is a sung-through musical inspired by a segment of Leo Tolstoy’s War And Peace. The show features an original and eclectic score by Dave Malloy, incorporating Slavic strings, accordion, ballads, drinking songs, and more. Declan Bennett shines as Pierre, the tired and emotional guide through the story, alongside Chumisa Dornford-May as Natasha and Jamie Muscato as Anatole. Tim Sheader’s production has a cabaret-like feel, moving seamlessly between mischief and melancholy. Standout performances by Cat Simmons as Hélène and Maimuna Memon as Sonya add depth to the story, leading to a dramatic finale as a bright comet descends, leaving audiences eager for more.
Overall, these three musical productions offer unique and engaging experiences for theatregoers. Spend Spend Spend at the Royal Exchange Theatre provides a cautionary tale of lottery winner Viv Nicholson’s tumultuous life, portrayed with energy and emotion by the cast. Little Shop Of Horrors at the Crucible Theatre in Sheffield combines dark comedy with memorable songs and a talented ensemble cast, creating a visually striking and entertaining show. Natasha, Pierre And The Great Comet Of 1812 at the Donmar Warehouse in London offers a freewheeling retelling of a segment from War And Peace, with a diverse and original score, captivating performances, and a dynamic production that keeps audiences enthralled. Each production offers a different take on familiar stories, showcasing the diversity and vibrancy of musical theatre.
