Review: Fame at Ipswich Regent
Fame the Musical hits the Ipswich Regent Stage as part of a 30th anniversary tour. Based on the big hit movie of the 80s Fame follows the stories of an intake of students into the prestige High School of Performing Arts on West 46th Street in New York.
From the tough auditions to get a place at the school, to the highs and lows of learning and training, not all the students will make the grade or make it big in the world that is showbiz… Who will find Fame…?
An auditorium filled with the smoke from dry ice and some clever lighting effects start the show with a bang and it’s action packed from the offset. With amazing vocals and fantastic choreography every single musical number is spot on.
From a colourful flamenco routine to the lyrical ballet pieces this production has something for fans of all dance genres. Added to this some very talented actor musicians, simple but effective staging, clever lighting and excellent vocals, this production makes for a very enjoyable theatre visit.
A very talented cast brings the action to life, and there isn’t a weak actor amongst them. Jorgie Porter brings a beautiful femininity as Iris and Jamal Kane Crawford plays the perfect Tyrone – a real man’s man who is not academic but loves to dance.
Stephanie Rojas is perfectly cast as Carmen and this talented actress shows the character’s emotions with ease, coupled with amazing vocals and fabulous dancing skills.
Molly McGuire was a real surprise as shy and unsure Serena, where did that strong singing voice come from? Such a joy to watch on stage.
With such a big cast it’s hard to mention them all, however Mica Paris as Miss Sherman really lifted the roof of the theatre with the most amazing soulful vocals.
Fame the Musical doesn’t really have much of a strong storyline, however that doesn’t mater as the amazing musical numbers make up for it in abundance.
So, don those leg warmers and book your tickets now for Fame the Musical, at the Ipswich Regent Theatre until Saturday 3rd November (and then on national tour). Tickets available from the Box Office on 01473 433100.
Review: Wendy Cook, Ipswich24 Magazine
