Matt Cardle and the London cast of Memphis the Musical at the Shaftesbury Theatre, London. bryan
Memphis the Musical continues at the Shaftesbury Theatre, London until 31 October, 2015.
Star rating: 5 stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Memphis the Musical mixes fiction and fact to produce a sensational musical about the music scene and segregation in 1950s Memphis. The story is inspired by a mix of true events and people from the underground dance clubs of the time period. Memphis focuses on the growing fame and forbidden love of radio DJ, Huey Calhoun, played by former X Factor winner Matt Cardle (taking over from original Huey, Killian Donnelly, who is in rehearsals for Kinky Boots), and club singer Felicia Farrell, played by Beverley Knight.
This show deserves every five star rating it has received and every word of praise it has been given so far. Audience members experience a full spectrum of emotions and leave feeling exhilarated by the high energy and feel-good atmosphere that the show provides.
Making his acting debut, Cardle is a perfect Huey. He is goofy, hilarious and a brilliant performer, not forgetting his incredible vocals – he is the complete package. It would be great to see him return to musical theatre, following his stint in Memphis. Knight’s powerful, soulful vocals are unbelievable – hers is the kind of voice that leaves audiences in awe and covered in goosebumps, she is the perfect leading lady. They are also supported by the most wonderful and spirited cast.
David Bryan and Joe DiPietro’s rhythm and blues and rock‘n’roll influenced score is so good that it takes every ounce of self-restraint to resist getting up and dancing along to this incredible soundtrack. From the moment the curtain is raised on Act I, the cast completely blows everyone away (credit to Sergio Trujillo for the phenomenal choreography).
Ultimately it is the captivating charisma and upbeat feel of this production that pushes this show to the top of your West End ‘to see’ list.
Tal Fox
Readers may also be interested in:
Interview – Matt Cardle – from X Factor to Memphis the Musical
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