The plot deviates from the standard history of the boyband's road to success and the trials and tribulations along the way to one of friendship, love and loss. The story focuses on a group of school friends in two prominent times in their lives; aged 16 and 25 years later.

Unfortunately, the plot does require a little more Shine. As standalone songs, Take That have a memorable repertoire but incorporated into this show, they do nothing to drive the plot, at times feeling as though an afterthought to squeeze in another song. Having said this, a poignant scene near the end of Act 1 with A Million Love Songs was a memorable moment.

The cast show good characterisation throughout. ‘The girls' showing individuality in roles that could easily blend into one. The first thing I look forward to in a musical is that feeling of being blown away by vocals, however unfortunately these fell a little short. Whilst the ‘young girls’ harmonies were a standout moment vocally, casting for ‘The Band’ seemed to be based on their slick dance ability which often overshadowed their vocal talents. There were a fair few dud notes- especially in the higher registers where the harmonies distinctly lacked in blend.  

Leading the cast is Kym Marsh as Rachel. I was excited to see Kym in a musical as a big fan of her in the early 00’s, however she has but one solo singing line. This is a running theme in that seemingly no character gets their time in the spotlight as their moments are constantly marred by the jarring set and random songs being sung out as background noise.