ACT Reviews 2022-2023 Season

THE FULL MONTY Music & Lyrics by David Yazbek; Book by Terrence McNally Director: Nathaniel McCartney

Musical Director: Alasdair Gordon Choreographer: Danielle Radcliffe Bacup RCTG

It is 25 years since the much-loved film, and 22 years since the American musical version which moved the location from Sheffield to Buffalo. This tale of a group of amateurs trying to be “Chippendales” is relevant today. The musical, as in the original film version, retains the grittiness of the lads from Sheffield and their situations. The score is a rocking blend of pop, jazz and a touch of salsa, successfully played out by

experienced musicians. Not all the musical numbers were equal in interpretation but this did not spoil the enjoyment. Direction captured the hopelessness and pathos of the lives of the men. Choreography suited the concept giving the climatic final scene a touch of realism as they go for the “Full Monty”. A simple set of trucked inserts and projected imagery was more than enough to allow the drama to unfold. Lighting and sound were equal partners giving atmosphere to the world of the unemployed steelworkers. This story of brotherhood, much needed cash, low esteem, self-respect and their relationships with their partners and families was honestly told. The action opens on a ladies’ night, and we meet male stripper “Keno”. Patrick Duffy played the cameo role of camp, Buddy Walsh (Keno) with great conviction. His strip scene included pole dancing which left the audience shouting for more, Patrick knew just how far to take the character. After hearing the off-stage audience of ladies reaction to the stripper, Jerry, one of our ex steelworkers, gets the idea that what Keno can do he could. He then recruits his buddies and the fun begins. Stage presentation was colourless and drab like their lives. What they