Review: The Full Monty at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre by Lara Wadey

The Full Monty is a highly entertaining and thought-provoking play. Originally adapted from the 1997 film, the play retains the humour and heart of the movie while adding its own theatrical flair.

When the film originally came out in 1997, I worked for Odeon Cinema. I remember the film showing on the big screen for over a year. If I remember correctly, it was going to originally be called ‘Eggs, Beans, and Chippendales’ which really doesn’t have the same ring to it, as “The Full Monty”. The film was huge, and I have as much love for it now, as I did then.

The story line revolves around a group of unemployed steelworkers in Sheffield, who decide to create a male strip show to make ends meet. Each struggling with their own individual story, but desperate for money; and Gaz played by Danny Hatchard desperate to see his son.

All six of the leads Danny Hatchard, Neil Hurst, Ben Onwukwe, Nicholas Prasad, Bill Ward and Jake Quickenden had such great chemistry, effortlessly filling their roles perfectly as we laughed and cried with them as we followed them on their journey. The fact that each individual character resembled their character from the film was a perfect touch. Even if you haven’t seen the film you won’t struggle to follow the story as it’s been taken to the stage and written perfectly by Simon Beaufoy.

I don’t want to give too much away but all the funny moments from the film are in the show, especially one of my favorite scenes, when they’re all standing in the queue at the job center, and all individually starting to dance because they can feel the music from the music playing in the background; not to mention Dave wrapping himself in cling film, whilst eating a Mars bar.

The choreography of the strip scenes is handled with a mix of humor and sensitivity, ensuring that the audience is entertained while also empathizing with the characters’ vulnerabilities.

In summary, The Full Monty is a thoroughly enjoyable play that combines humor, heart, and social commentary. It successfully tackles serious issues including unemployment, sexual equality, suicide, homosexuality, and body image. If you’re looking for a play that will make you laugh, tug at your heartstrings and leaves you wanting more, then The Full Monty is for you.

If you are planning on going to the show this week, then please help the cast in supporting our local Aylesbury Foodbank. They are asking theatergoers to bring a donation, if they can. Cast member Bill Ward, playing Gerald, said this about the appeal:

‘Myself and the Full Monty company have the pleasure of telling a story that is still so relevant today. The cost-of-living crisis is impacting individuals and families across the whole country, and it is our honour to shine a spotlight on how together we can help alleviate the strain, in Aylesbury at least, this week. We will be popping in some cans over the course of the week and hope audiences will join us in doing the same’.

The show runs at the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre until Saturday 25th November 2023. For more information and bookings go to http://www.atgtickets.com/venues/aylesbury-waterside-theatre/

Review: Madagascar The Musical at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre by Lara Wadey

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre played host to the theatrical adaptation of DreamWorks’ animated blockbuster Madagascar. From the moment the curtain lifted, the audience was whisked away on a roaring adventure that blended animated charm with the magic of live performance.

For those of you that don’t know the story, may I introduce Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe and Gloria the Hippo. The story follows them as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar.

The attention to detail in bringing the beloved characters to life was evident, from the wonderful costumes to the impressive set pieces that seamlessly transitioned between scenes.

The whole cast gave their all throughout the show, you could feel their infectious energy. Joseph Hewlett played Alex the lion who was full of energy. Gloria the Hippo was played by Jarnéia Richard-Noel, she was a complete and utter diva. Marty the Zebra played by Francisco Gomes, was as lovable on stage as he was in the film. My two favourites, that are still making me smile now are Joshua Oakes-Rogers at the hypochondriac giraffe Melman, who’s clearly more worried about his health than anything else in life. And from the second act the outrageous Karim Zeroual as King Julien, this for me is when it stopped being a children’s production and was for everyone, how he moved, talked, his mannerisms were just priceless.

Bravo to everyone that helped bring this animated classic to life in a way that is sure to leave a lasting impression on theatregoers and fans alike of all ages. I also loved how the puppetry and innovative stagecraft brought an extra layer of excitement to key scenes, making them even more memorable on stage.

Madagascar fans can “Move It, Move It” down to Aylesbury Waterside Theatre until Saturday 18^th November 2023 to see this hilarious show.