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/
Reviews, Blogs and Thoughts by Lara Wadey 