The Commitments – Milton Keynes Theatre and Touring

Ryan Kelly and James Killeen in The Commitments at the Milton Keynes Theatre and Touring. Picture: Ellie Kurttz

The Commitments continues at the Milton Keynes Theatre until 29 October 2022 and then tours until 1 July 2023.

Star rating: five stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

With soul music at its core, The Commitments is a show that will have you dancing in the aisles and laughing throughout.

Set in working-class Dublin in the 1980s, we follow music fan Jimmy Rabbitte (James Killeen) as he brings together a bunch of amateur musicians to create a soul band with big dreams and ambitions. There are a few arguments along the way amongst the mismatched characters, as well as romance and friendship, but somehow, they come together to create powerful live music that is impossible not to dance to. As we see the band evolve, the show ends with a recording contract on the horizon, but will they make the big time?

Adapted from the 1991 film, the funny show is full of lots of adult humour, so not one for youngsters; but if you’re in need of a feelgood night of frivolity, then this is the show for you. Every cast member performs their part effortlessly, as if they were made for the role. With formidable voices, superb acting skills and infectious energy, there isn’t one cast member that doesn’t perform to their optimum; although huge kudos to the characters that also play instruments live on stage – very impressive.

The set, designed by Tim Blazdell, cleverly transforms from bedroom to pub and club. The smooth transitions keep up with the fast pace and add to the humour of some scenes, like the auditions, where each dodgy act is revealed from behind a door. The scenery, costumes (Alice Lessing) and props tie this incredible show together.

If you find it hard to sit still in your seat all show, then worry not, as the finale offers an opportunity for everyone to rise to their feet and dance the night away. If you’re a lover of soul classics like Otis Redding’s ‘Try a Little Tenderness’ and Wilson Pickett’s ‘Mustang Sally’, then you’ll be in your element. It’s easy to see why The Commitments was such a stand-out success in the West End. Catch the talented cast in this fun, uplifting, joy of a watch, directed by Andrew Linnie.

Hannah Grimmette