THE BEST of West End and Broadway aims to bring not only the best show numbers to the Opera House stage, but also top performers. By and large it succeeds.
It's a mixed bag of music, from Lloyd Webber classics such as Jesus Christ Superstar and Phantom of the Opera to other well-known productions such as Miss Saigon and Grease.
I must admit I was expecting more full-on West End glitz, so I was a bit disappointed when the show opened with a rousing number sung by Martin Callaghan dressed 'smart casual', as if he was ready for an evening down the pub.
But like many a West End production, this show succeeds in drawing you in as the evening goes on. The powerful City Concert Orchestra, seated on stage, belt the music out fabulously, and the singing is great.
Performers can change from week to week, and Sunday's performance (July 29) featured Glyn Kerslake, Martin Callaghan, Anna-Jane Casey and Helen Hobson -- introduced by TV celebrity Lisa Riley.
Showstoppers included Anna-Jane's breathtaking All That Jazz, Glyn singing The Music of the Night, Helen's rendition of As If We Never Said Goodbye, and the very moving Bui Doi sung by Martin.
Lisa also treated us to a bit of singing, although it didn't really add anything to the night. But she is a happy, if not word-perfect, hostess conducting chirpy interviews with the performers and involving the audience.
If you like your musicals, then this is worth seeing. Catch it at the Blackpool Opera House on Sunday nights at 7pm until October 28.
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