Review written by Tyrone Baptiste - 4.1.23
The Cher Show originally got its world premiere in Chicago in 2018 before a Broadway run for 9 months at Neil Simon Theatre and now finally, The Cher Show is here for its UK tour.
From the moment, you enter the theatre, you are greeted by the set which resembles the backstage of one of Cher's many farewell tours. There are sound effects designed by Dan Samson of crowd cheering which creates an atmospheric feeling giving you an indication of how inviting the show is. The set is designed by Tom Rogers and it is truly magnificent. There are hundreds of clothes rails to show just how many costumes Cher has. The set is cleverly used to help guide the audience through the fast-paced narrative by using mirrors, tv sets and more to display the years is a very clever touch to bring the audience closer to the show.
Millie O'Connell, Debbie Kurup and Danielle Steers
The costumes are designed by Gabriella Slade who captures the essence of who Cher truly is through the use of her costume designs. These costumes bring another edge to the characters which have been brought together by Rick Elice's book who has helped to bring Cher's story to life by using humour and emotion to bring us closer to the legendary diva's life. There are moments where the story does seem rushed with the action quickly going from the 1950s - the 1970s in the first act but with a life story like Cher, you want to capture every moment that the Goddess of Pop has lived. The lighting is designed by Ben Crackell who uses strong colourful lights at the start to resemble Cher's tours. A particular moment is during the song 'Bang Bang' where the tension between Cher and Sonny has reached a breaking point and the lighting used here captures the pure emotion at this moment which defies Cher as a person.
Debbie Kurup and the ensemble of The Cher Show
The Cher Show is directed by Arlene Phillips who directs the 3 Chers (Millie O'Connell, Danielle Steers and Debbie Kurup) to be fierce, humorous and heartfelt. The characterisation of the 3 Cher's represents the personalities that have helped to build the star we know today. This is brought together by Phillips's direction. The show is choreographed by Oti Mabuse who has created the dances to be energetic and high-impact. The group numbers are amazing to watch especially the dance break in 'Ain't Nobody's Business If I Do'.
The Cher Show has a very interesting premise in which the audience is taken on Cher's life story by the use of 3 Cher's (Babe, Lady and Star) who reflect on their life with the 3 Cher's who are present on stage the majority of the time which creates a fantasy narrative.
Millie O'Connell and the ensemble of The Cher Show
The youngest of the Cher's (Babe) is played by Millie O'Connell who from the moment she enters the stage encapsulates the mannerisms of Cher growing up in a world which doesn't understand her. This is highlighted in the song 'Half Breed' which was a personal and heartbreaking moment which is still relevant to today's society with Cher questioning why are people horrible to her because of her heritage. Her vocals skills are incredible and her facial expressions draw us in as an audience with this being supported by her comedy timing.
Lucas Rush and Danielle Steers
Danielle Steers plays 'Lady' who has some of the most emotional scenes of the musical which Steers plays with passion, courage and sensitivity. She has powerhouse vocals which soar throughout the auditorium. Steers has stage presence and it is felt throughout the show by her portrayal of Cher and her ability to tell her story with her vocals and facial expressions.
'Star' is played by Debbie Kurup who delivers vocals which leave you wanting more. She plays this character with passion and determination. The moment when Kurup arrives on stage for Star’s Broadway audition, it is done with sensitivity and an emotional connection that has the audience wanting to reach out and let her know it’s okay. The Way of Love is a powerhouse moment for Kurup as her vocals soar letting the audience be drawn into Star’s vulnerability and onto her journey of self-discovery.
Debbie Kurup
The vocals of O'Connell, Steers and Kurup blend perfectly together in Song for the Lonely creating beautiful harmonies. This song and moment is a personal favourite of mine. Everyone should see this song sung live by these leading ladies.
Within this show, many other actors and actresses play the people who have influenced Cher's life. Lucas Rush plays Sonny who captures the very essence of Sonny from his voice to his mannerisms. Their comedy timing helps to lift the narrative. Sam Ferriday shows great acting performances and versatility as he plays multiple roles including Greg Allman and Phil Spector. With each character he plays, there is a clear characterisation which delivers on stage.
Jake Mitchell plays Bob Mackie is energetic and he captures the audience's eyes every time he is on stage. Tori Scott plays Georgia, Cher's Mum and this is one of the finest performances of the night despite the little time on stage. She shines every time she enters the stage. She has fantastic vocals which is obvious from her rendition of 'Half Breed'. A moment which should be talked about is the end scene of the show which is between Star and Georgia. Both Kurup and Scott showcase their acting skills in this tender and beautiful scene between mother and daughter. A moment which is ever so poignant since the passing of Cher's Mum Georgia Holt in December 2022. This is a beautiful moment.
The Cher Show captures your heart and will have you dancing on your feet!
★★★★★
The Cher Show continues its UK tour at Mayflower Theatre until 7th January 2023. Tickets can be booked for the show here - The Cher Show | Mayflower Theatre | Southampton
Photos by Pamela Raith
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