Big Girls Don’t Cry Lyric Theatre, London August 20 Reviewer: Catherine Usher Celebrating a decade of the successful tribute concert show, Big Girls Don’t Cry appeared in the West End for one night only. Obviously comparisons will be drawn with the musical and subsequent film, Jersey Boys, but although the music is the same, the … Continue reading
Showcase Productions Showcase 2017 Viva Cabaret Theatre Blackpool November 14,15& 16 Producer; Barrie& Vicci Lucas Reviewer; Mark Ritchie A gathering of the light entertainment clans on the Fylde coast and another year for the UK’s biggest trade event, with more key bookers, more acts and more sessions than any other. Compere Lee Lard was quick … Continue reading
EQUITY ENJOY CELEBRATIONS AT THE JUBILEE As Equity members gathered at the Jubilee Social Club in Leeds, during the union’s Year of Variety, our managing editor Mark Ritchie dons his entertainer’s hat to join in with the fun. The first thing to report here is that what you read below is definitely not a review … Continue reading
Mainstream entertainments showcase 2017 Wilnecote club, Tamworth June 21st 2017 Producers: Shadow AV& Barry Herbert Reviewer: Mark Ritchie The air-conditioning was a real boon on such a balmy evening in Staffordshire, as bookers gathered to see the tribute treats in store. Comedy Compere Terry Gauci joked, filled and wise-cracked his way through an evening, which … Continue reading
Pal Entertainments Extravaganza The night of the chaotic general election provided a break from the hurly-burly of the hustings for the audience at this historic venue. The Theatre Royal & Opera House Wakefield is one of just 27 or so of the remaining Frank Matcham theatres and there is never a bad seat in a … Continue reading
Showcase Productions Showcase Stratford Arthouse, Stratford Upon Avon February 21/22 afternoons and evenings Producers Barrie& Vicci Lucas and Colin Jones Reviewer: Mark Ritchie A return to an iconic showcase venue for many of the main booker’s and agents in the UK, in an ‘invitation only’ atmosphere, as opposed to a boozy free for all. This … Continue reading
John Howe Presentations Showcase 2016 Riverside holiday park, Bognor Regis Producers; John &Dot Howe, Sam Nicol and Tamara Treacy. November 14&15 2016 Reviewer; Mark Ritchie John and Dot Howe welcomed clients and guests to Bognor Regis and bookers from the cruise ship cabaret, ferry entertainment and holiday centre market gathered to find new faces. The … Continue reading
Vern Allen Showcase Second Session November 22nd Reviewer Johnny Tait We will welcomed in by Sarah Yeo, an acoustic guitarist who set the mood for the evening. Opening the session was three-piece band Missing Cat. Call me old school if you like, but I believe appearance is important and, in my view, the … Continue reading
Vern Allen Showcase 2016 Ladram Bay Holiday Centre November 21st Reviewer Johnny Tait Before the showcase officially began, on a stormy night in Devon, we were entertained by acoustic guitarist and vocalist Alan Dobson. Sammy Christiansen opened with a Sam Cooke number, Twisting the Night Away. I felt this was not a suitable … Continue reading
Charity Night Dereham Memorial Hall Reviewer Johnny Tait One of the advantages of being in showbiz is that it enables us to help others, I recently asked to perform at a fundraiser for R.P awareness. Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) is a disease of the eye that leads to loss of vision and blindness. RP fighting blindness … Continue reading