The Cher Show
Having seen this show earlier in the tour, I was more than happy to be revisiting it knowing how wonderful it is. If I take anything from the show it is that Cher is a truly formidable character who has worked so hard in her career, claiming the Icon status that she holds.
The Cher Show charts the career of one of the most famous women in the music world and we are treated to 3 ‘goddess warriors’ playing the role with gravitas, insane vocals and kick-ass attitude. Millie O’Connell plays ‘Babe’ travelling through Cher’s early life. Danielle Steers plays ‘Lady’ as we navigate through the years and finally, Debbie Kurup plays ‘Star’, bringing Cher more up to date. All of these performers are the complete embodiment of Cher herself with accent and vocal performance to match. The stage presence for each ‘Cher’ is second to none, commanding each and every scene and providing some of the most polished vocal performances I’ve heard for a long time.
Of course, The Cher Show is peppered with lots of Cher classics, including ‘I Got You Babe’, ‘Strong Enough’, ‘Believe’, ‘Gypsy Tramps and Thieves’ and ‘If I Could Turn Back Time’. Everything about each musical performance is top tier and with choreography by Oti Mabuse, the ensemble cast bring something extra special to the stage dazzling with high energy routines.
Obviously, Cher started her career under the wing of Sonny (Guy Woolf) who throughout their life together became a leading light in the music world. Woolf delivered on every level in his portrayal of Sonny, a highlight being his duet with Millie O’Connell for ‘I Got You Babe’. If you’ve ever seen old footage of the pair performing this song, then it is almost like watching the real thing. Each of them absolutely nailing the mannerisms and vocals.
Now, as soon as the show starts you are dazzled with an impressive light display courtesy of Ben Cracknell. I am always impressed by Ben’s lighting and for this show everything is big, brash and sparkly, so the quality of the design and execution is spot on. The set, designed by Tom Rogers displays an array of wigs synonymous with Cher and her many reincarnations throughout her career. The costumes are, as you would expect, as camp as Christmas, but we love it! Designed by Gabriella Slade, it’s no surprise when you realise that she also bought us the stunning costumes for Six the Musical. There are small similarities in the style, however each and every outfit bursts off the stage with sequins and sparkle aplenty.
We also meet the guiding force behind Cher, her Mum Georgia played magnificently by Tori Scott. Scott’s voice was so beautiful in the more tender moments, and I would have loved to hear more from her character. Cher’s mum really did shape her life and instilled in her that if you want something, then go and get it. Scott played the matriarchal role very well.
There are so many plus points with this musical and having seen it twice now I wish ‘I Could Turn Back Time’ to see it all over again. It is fun, fierce and kick-ass, jampacked with Cher anthems that will have you singing all the way home.
The Cher Show is playing at the Wolverhampton Grand until the 22nd October 2022. Tickets available here: https://www.grandtheatre.co.uk/whats-on/the-cher-show/
Photo credit: Pamela Raith
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