There’s no better way to lose the winter blues than a beach holiday in the sun! But this beach holiday is sure to be one you’ll remember for a long time afterwards. I got out of the freezing Sheffield city and went for a romantic getaway at the Lyceum, for a wedding unlike any other!
After being abandoned at the altar by her fiancée, bride-to-be Ella goes on her honeymoon holiday with her family instead and meets the attractive tour guide Nadeem. But with the abandonment being a huge mix-up, groom Nathan and his best man Ash head to Türkiye to try and win his wife back, with unexpected consequences for the entire bridal party, who all have secrets they’ve kept hidden from one another.
First of all, the musical was very fun. You’d be challenged to go to this production and not have a good time. There was so much remarkable about this touring show, from the large set pieces reminiscent of Moulin Rouge! to the talent on stage that I really enjoyed. There were several elements that didn’t quite hit the mark however. Firstly, the sound levels were slightly off, with performers sometimes drowned out by the instruments below them (although this is a simple fix!). The story was a great one, with many twists and turns throughout, but the whole story felt like it had to wrap up very quickly, with new plot points added within ten minutes of the musical ending. Finally, the repeated use of a vision of Kylie Minogue was fun at first but felt strange the more it appeared.
The leads in this musical were great, but the production is outstanding for its supporting cast and ensemble performers. To name but a few, Giovanni Spanò as Ash was nothing short of hilarious. Imagine Del Trotter on the beach as a best man, and turn it up to 100 and you’ve got Ash! Fantastic throughout, Spanò’s performance is spectacular. As are Jamie Chapman as Spencer and Scott Paige as Michael, both amazingly camp and that queer energy that they bring fits both of their characters perfectly, as the romantic hotel manager and bridesman respectively. Chapman gives off that lovable English charm that is so reminiscent of all hoteliers from the UK ending up across the world to huge comedic brilliance.
Finally, Sydney Isitt-Ager as Helen/Ensemble is the epitome of a remarkable ensemble member, having more quick-changes than you could imagine! One minute she’s Helen from the wedding, the next she’s an air hostess and a mere moment later she’s the belly dancing hotel instructor, all within the bounds of a musical number. What a star, I can’t wait to see Isitt-Ager, and all of these performers in another show very soon!
This musical is a feel-good romcom for anyone looking for a comedic, uplifting story with some recognisable tunes throughout. Whilst the creative decision making didn’t always hit the mark, you’re sure to have a fun night out with this musical if you’re able to catch it.
Rating: ★★★☆☆
I Should Be So Lucky is playing at the Sheffield Lyceum until January 20th, & touring the U.K. until May 11th
