Picture: Ellie Kurttz
The Commitments continues at the Waterside Theatre, Aylesbury until 4 February 2023 and then tours until 1 July 2023.
Star rating: five stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Get ready to rock‘n’roll with The Commitments at Aylesbury’s Waterside Theatre, which will have audiences dancing in the aisles until the end of the week. If you’re looking for an infectious soundtrack and ‘good craic’, then this light-hearted musical is for you.
Adapted from Roddy Doyle’s novel and the BAFTA Award-winning film of the same name (1991), the show introduces the audience to working-class Dublin in the 1980s and our protagonist, Jimmy Rabbitte (James Killeen), whose love of soul music has inspired him to create a band. Hooking in his two best friends, Jimmy sets about sourcing amateur musicians to create ‘the world’s hardest working band’. But the road to success isn’t plain sailing, and the band hit a few bumps in the road with egos, arguments and failed romances playing a part in their demise.
Expect plenty of laughs along the way and lots of stellar songs including soul classics like ‘Try a Little Tenderness’ and ‘Mustang Sally’, performed live on stage by the cast. The multi-talented actor-musicians impress so much that it makes it impossible to choose just one standout performance – you’ll be astounded by their skills. There’s also a familiar face in the group, with Coronation Street’s Nigel Pivaro appearing at poignant moments throughout the show as Jimmy’s cynical Dad.
The set is smart but simple in the way it transitions from pub to club and bedroom. It cleverly mirrors the band’s journey, starting in Jimmy’s typical Dublin terrace house to the full stage at their final venue, Hell’s Hole. Every detail is thought of, with the era perfectly encapsulated in the costumes designed by Alice Lessing – think rara skirts and denim jackets.
For a night like no other, which ends with a full-on party, then head to Aylesbury Waterside Theatre this week to see Andrew Linnie’s production of The Commitments. Whether you’re a fan of soul music or have seen the film, catch this show for a joy-filled evening of catchy tunes, great moves and adult humour. A note of caution though, with plenty of sexual references, it’s a show to steer very young kids away from – keep it as a night out for the parents, you deserve it.
Hannah Grimmette
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