Curtains up Showcase, session one Genting Casino Westcliffe, Southend on Sea September 28-30 inclusive Producer Maria Johnson Reviewer Mark Ritchie After a patchy response from bookers and potential attendees to the first ever Curtains Up event, which UK Cabaret covered last year at the famous Purfleet Circus Tavern, it was on to sunny Southend on … Continue reading
Abbamania – Uk Tour 2015 The Orchard, Dartford 2/10/15 Judging from tonight’s audience it was apparent that the wonder of Abba appeals to all ages. 1970s costumes were spotted amongst the crowd which added to the party atmosphere. We were greeted with Agnetha, Benny, Bjorn and Anni – Frid in addition a bassist, drummer and … Continue reading
UK Cabaret reviewer, Comedian and writer Johnny Tait takes his first ever trip to the Edinburgh Festival and its much celebrated fringe to check out the comedy on offer and sample the unique atmosphere We have all visited showcases in one way or another, to perform or to book an act. Last week I took … Continue reading
Equity North and West Yorkshire Branch annual variety spectacularJubilee club Leeds July 9 2015 Producer Valerie Mann& Ashley Wheelhouse Reviewer Mark Ritchie The Equity faithful gathered to enjoy a top notch variety show with headliner Billy Pearce largely responsible for putting bums on seats. The old adage about paying customers valuing live entertainment more when … Continue reading
BETTE MIDLER 1st Direct Arena – LEEDS 15th July 2015 2 hrs – no interval Divine intervention orchestra – Musical director: Maurice No Pleasure July 15th 2015 saw a sensational event staged at the First Direct Arena – Leeds – featuring Bette Midler and the divine intervention orchestra directed by Maurice No Pleasure. Unfortunately, from … Continue reading
Stand Up and Rock 2015St Georges Hall Bradford June 3rd 2015 Running time 3 hrs Producer Jasper Carrott Reviewer Keith Christie Right from the opening bars of the opening song, a packed audience seemed to know they were in for an evening of music, laughter and happiness. Three hours later no-one was disappointed- This is … Continue reading
Dan Knights StormNew Lodge Club Barnsley Sunday July 12th 2015 Reviewer Karen Sutcliffe Fronted by singer Dan Knights, this Yorkshire based four piece band were performing to a full concert room. All apparently eager to enjoy this popular local band. On the evening Dan Knights vocals were pitch perfect, aided by his aesthetically pleasing band … Continue reading
2015 BlackpoolMark Ritchie takes a long hard look at Blackpool, examining the changes and improvements which are bringing people back to this hot-bed of live entertainment. ————————————————— It’s been an age since the wakes weeks and the miner’s holiday breaks, which made Blackpool the most popular and innovative of all the early 20th century British … Continue reading
Dance Your Heart OutTheatre Royal and Opera House Wakefield 5/6 June 2015 Running time 2 hrs Producer and Choreographer Melissa Radway Reviewer Mark Ritchie An astonishing 82 strong cast of dancers and dance students all danced their hearts out on stage at Wakefield’s magnificent Frank Matcham built gem of a theatre in Wakefield. The show’s … Continue reading
The Night The Stars Came Out Whenever I get asked, what has been the highlight of my career, without any thought or hesitation, I immediately reply “Touring as support act to the great showbiz legend Joe Longthorne” So when I was invited to attend his 60th birthday celebration, I jumped at the opportunity to be … Continue reading