Local Reviews
In May 2015, Julie E said about Milton Keynes Theatre
Have You Booked Your Tickets to see the Fabulous Sound of Music at Milton Keynes Theatre?
The Aisles were alive with the Sound of Music as the tour came to a packed Milton Keynes theatre, The show is based is on the true story of the Von Trapp family, a love story set in a climate of political change when Austria was annexed by Nazi Germany prior to word war 2.
The lead role is played by winner of BBC talent show Over the Rainbow. Danielle Hope, who has effortlessly moved from the role of Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz to that of Maria.
The story begins with disruptive Maria a novice at an Abbey in the Austrian mountains, agreeing with the Mother Abbess that she should be allowed to take on the temporary role of a governess for a local family of 7 children, to allow her to enjoy fresh air and her passion for singing.
The Children’s strict widowed father is played by Stephen Houghton, who initially discourages Maria’s attempts to sing with his offspring, however his outlook changes as he sees the positive effect it has on them, and in turn his relationship with them.
The singing performances from the entire cast are wonderful from the Mother Abbess down to the youngest of the children. But star of the show unsuprisingly is Dannielle who is as near to Julie Andrews as makes no odds.
The audience was made up of all ages and the show is equally appealing to all of them
For a touring show one surprising thing is the quality of the set, from the Abbey to the Von Trap home. The scene changes are seamless, and along with the lighting and music you really get the atmospheric feeling of an ancient religious building in the Abbey Scenes.
The show is uplifting and you will be toe tapping along with the familiar show songs including
Maria
My Favourite things
Do-Re-Mi
Sixteen going On Seventeen
the Lonely Goatherd
So Long Farewell
Climb Every Mountain
Edelweiss
And of course the Sound of Music
The Aisles were alive with the Sound of Music as the tour came to a packed Milton Keynes theatre, The show is based is on the true story of the Von Trapp family, a love story set in a climate of political change when Austria was annexed by Nazi Germany prior to word war 2.
The lead role is played by winner of BBC talent show Over the Rainbow. Danielle Hope, who has effortlessly moved from the role of Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz to that of Maria.
The story begins with disruptive Maria a novice at an Abbey in the Austrian mountains, agreeing with the Mother Abbess that she should be allowed to take on the temporary role of a governess for a local family of 7 children, to allow her to enjoy fresh air and her passion for singing.
The Children’s strict widowed father is played by Stephen Houghton, who initially discourages Maria’s attempts to sing with his offspring, however his outlook changes as he sees the positive effect it has on them, and in turn his relationship with them.
The singing performances from the entire cast are wonderful from the Mother Abbess down to the youngest of the children. But star of the show unsuprisingly is Dannielle who is as near to Julie Andrews as makes no odds.
The audience was made up of all ages and the show is equally appealing to all of them
For a touring show one surprising thing is the quality of the set, from the Abbey to the Von Trap home. The scene changes are seamless, and along with the lighting and music you really get the atmospheric feeling of an ancient religious building in the Abbey Scenes.
The show is uplifting and you will be toe tapping along with the familiar show songs including
Maria
My Favourite things
Do-Re-Mi
Sixteen going On Seventeen
the Lonely Goatherd
So Long Farewell
Climb Every Mountain
Edelweiss
And of course the Sound of Music
Source: thebestof.co.uk
In May 2015, Dave E said about Milton Keynes Theatre
First things first if you are going to see the stage show Barnum, make sure you take your seats a good 10 minutes before the scheduled start. The supporting cast appear amongst the seats performing juggling, hoopla, a variety of handstands and more, building a great atmosphere before the curtain rises.
The show at Milton Keynes Theatre for one week only is based on the true story of Phineas Taylor Barnum, who was an extraordinary American showman.
There was much love for Star of the show Brian Conley the moment he stepped onto the stage, he acts, sings, performs magic and performs circus skills as well. He also adds his own familiar comic flair, with audience members in the front row drawn into his routine.
The story introduces PT Barnum just before he sets up his famous American Museum in New York in the mid-1800s. A family man with a savvy wife, Chairey played by Linzi Hateley.
Highlights of the museum are a 160-year-old lady who with a slight marketing amendment attracts the crowds, a 25-inch man, who he names Tom Thumb, clever use of props and scenery bring Thumb into scale.
Barnum then recruits his famous “Nightingale” Jenny Lind, played by Kimberley Blake whose wonderful operatic voice charms the audience. There is an obvious chemistry between Barnum and Lind as their show tours America, however the story continues he passes over her contract, and returns home to Chairey. Eventually he agrees to a partnership to establish a spectacular three ring circus and the shows finale plays out.
The costumes and set compliment the great cast, and the lighting especially in the Black and White scene very effective.
Barnum is at Milton Keynes Theatre until Saturday, May 16th there are very few Tickets available but you may be lucky try online at or from the box office.
The show at Milton Keynes Theatre for one week only is based on the true story of Phineas Taylor Barnum, who was an extraordinary American showman.
There was much love for Star of the show Brian Conley the moment he stepped onto the stage, he acts, sings, performs magic and performs circus skills as well. He also adds his own familiar comic flair, with audience members in the front row drawn into his routine.
The story introduces PT Barnum just before he sets up his famous American Museum in New York in the mid-1800s. A family man with a savvy wife, Chairey played by Linzi Hateley.
Highlights of the museum are a 160-year-old lady who with a slight marketing amendment attracts the crowds, a 25-inch man, who he names Tom Thumb, clever use of props and scenery bring Thumb into scale.
Barnum then recruits his famous “Nightingale” Jenny Lind, played by Kimberley Blake whose wonderful operatic voice charms the audience. There is an obvious chemistry between Barnum and Lind as their show tours America, however the story continues he passes over her contract, and returns home to Chairey. Eventually he agrees to a partnership to establish a spectacular three ring circus and the shows finale plays out.
The costumes and set compliment the great cast, and the lighting especially in the Black and White scene very effective.
Barnum is at Milton Keynes Theatre until Saturday, May 16th there are very few Tickets available but you may be lucky try online at or from the box office.
Source: thebestof.co.uk
In May 2015, richard e said about Milton Keynes Theatre
We enjoyed a great night out on Tuesday 5th May at Milton Keynes Theatre watching the smash hit film The King’s Speech, adapted for the stage.
The production is set against a wooden backdrop with doors and window openings that allow the set to be transformed into different rooms seamlessly. The smooth transition from each scene is even enjoyable to watch.
Raymond Coulthard takes on the role of King George VI or as he is affectionately known, Bertie and brilliantly portrays the frustration caused by a speech impediment. You’re willing him on at every stutter. Playing the Queen Mother is Claire Lams who provides some comedy value with her austere sarcasm particularly towards Lionel Logue, Bertie’s speech therapist. Jason Donovan plays the part of the amateur dramatic Australian brilliantly; it’s easy to see his friendship with George VI blossom on stage.
The audience is taken through some prominent moments in British history. From the death of King George V, to Edward VIII’s romance with Wallace Simpson and subsequent abdication, Bertie and Elizabeth remain as strong as ever. The ending scene where Bertie delivers his speech is a triumph for all watching. After Bertie and Lionel shake hands and declare their newly found friendship, the audience erupted into applause and stood to show their appreciation for such an enjoyable production.
The production is set against a wooden backdrop with doors and window openings that allow the set to be transformed into different rooms seamlessly. The smooth transition from each scene is even enjoyable to watch.
Raymond Coulthard takes on the role of King George VI or as he is affectionately known, Bertie and brilliantly portrays the frustration caused by a speech impediment. You’re willing him on at every stutter. Playing the Queen Mother is Claire Lams who provides some comedy value with her austere sarcasm particularly towards Lionel Logue, Bertie’s speech therapist. Jason Donovan plays the part of the amateur dramatic Australian brilliantly; it’s easy to see his friendship with George VI blossom on stage.
The audience is taken through some prominent moments in British history. From the death of King George V, to Edward VIII’s romance with Wallace Simpson and subsequent abdication, Bertie and Elizabeth remain as strong as ever. The ending scene where Bertie delivers his speech is a triumph for all watching. After Bertie and Lionel shake hands and declare their newly found friendship, the audience erupted into applause and stood to show their appreciation for such an enjoyable production.
Source: thebestof.co.uk
In March 2015, Luke E said about Milton Keynes Theatre
We had the privilege of watching the Mel Brooks musical – The Producers tonight at the MK theatre and on the back of it, I cannot recommend it enough. The brilliantly bizarre comedy show features well-known stars such as Jason Manford, Phil Jupitus, Louis Spence and David Bedella. Who knew that the funny Manchester man Jason Manford could act, sing and dance so naturally in a main role as Leo Bloom; an accountant dreaming of becoming a broadway producer; all whilst constantly supplying genius pieces of comedy I might add. He is complimented by the other main star of the show – Cory English, who plays Max Bialystock, a broadway producer whose career has taken a nose dive, and will seemingly do anything to get it back on track! His scene in jail was a personal highlight as he did a recap of the entire show so far through the medium of comical song and dance. I couldn’t have cast a more suitable person myself for the role that Phil Jupitus took on; Franz Liebkind, a rumbustious escaped Nazi that wrote the play that the two producers decide to use as their ‘guaranteed flop’ in order to make a quick buck. As you may expect, Louis Spence teamed with David Bedella create some wonderfully camp, and side splittingly funny scenes. The entrance of Ulla, a Swedish actress auditioning for the play, quickly balances this out as she strips down, dances and quick changes in a racy number. This is a production that doesn’t take itself too seriously, which makes it all the funnier, with a relaxed and happy atmosphere. The stars of the show quite literally provide a laugh a minute from the onset and throughout.
Source: thebestof.co.uk
In January 2015, Emily B said about Milton Keynes Theatre
The Full Monty - Milton Keynes
Milton Keynes theatre is playing host to The Full Monty this week and I was lucky enough to be one of the first people through the door! There was a buzzy feeling within the theatre and everyone could not wait for the show to get started.
The show began with a bang and quickly got into the various storylines which ran through the show along side each other, touching on issues we do still have in today's society that were also common problems back when the show was set, but of course they were made to be light and funny.
Cast members such as Gary Lucy, most famous for his stint on The Bill and Eastenders was the star of the show in my eyes. He was well rehearsed and took well to the role, like he'd been playing it for years!
My most favourite part was the end, but not because I wanted it to end! After an hour or so of watching a group of scruffy middle aged men try to dance around in their undies they finally conquered the routine and took to the stage with a hilarious and rather raunchy striptease which was enjoyed by everyone, including the small percentage of male spectators who had clearly been dragged along by their partners!
The Full Monty is definitely a show that I would go to see again and have recommended to my friends and family. A fun, feel good show which will have you all in stitches.
Milton Keynes theatre is playing host to The Full Monty this week and I was lucky enough to be one of the first people through the door! There was a buzzy feeling within the theatre and everyone could not wait for the show to get started.
The show began with a bang and quickly got into the various storylines which ran through the show along side each other, touching on issues we do still have in today's society that were also common problems back when the show was set, but of course they were made to be light and funny.
Cast members such as Gary Lucy, most famous for his stint on The Bill and Eastenders was the star of the show in my eyes. He was well rehearsed and took well to the role, like he'd been playing it for years!
My most favourite part was the end, but not because I wanted it to end! After an hour or so of watching a group of scruffy middle aged men try to dance around in their undies they finally conquered the routine and took to the stage with a hilarious and rather raunchy striptease which was enjoyed by everyone, including the small percentage of male spectators who had clearly been dragged along by their partners!
The Full Monty is definitely a show that I would go to see again and have recommended to my friends and family. A fun, feel good show which will have you all in stitches.
Source: thebestof.co.uk
In October 2014, Dave E said about Milton Keynes Theatre
Last night my wife and I visited Milton Keynes Theatre to see the first night of Dreamboats and Miniskirts, the sequel to the successful Dreamboats and Petticoats. The story moves on into the early sixties and we were treated to 40 songs from that era, all sung live and all music played live. The cast clearly enjoying their roles, and the plot punctuated with comic lines penned by the award winning writers Laurence Marks and Maurice Gran.
Prior to the show and at the interval we visited the impressive Piano Bar in the Theatre Foyer, lots of space and not crowded like West End Theatre bars tend to be. The resident pianist helping to give the bar a unique relaxed atmosphere.
Prior to the show and at the interval we visited the impressive Piano Bar in the Theatre Foyer, lots of space and not crowded like West End Theatre bars tend to be. The resident pianist helping to give the bar a unique relaxed atmosphere.
Source: thebestof.co.uk
In August 2014, James M said about Milton Keynes Theatre
Tonight my wife and I went to Milton Keynes Theatre for the first time, and what great night it was from start to finish. The theatre staff were welcoming, friendly and very helpful. We had the pleasure of seeing The Wiz which I cannot recommend enough. If you get a chance you must see this show, for such a youthful cast the performance was outstanding even down to the finer details like the costume designs. I honestly can't fault the performance at all, even Toto the dog was faultless. You can really tell so much hard work and effort has been put into the show, so a huge well done and thank you to everyone involved you made our night!
Source: thebestof.co.uk
In December 2013, Olly U said about Milton Keynes Theatre
I visited the theatre on Friday night with my parents and my little boy to watch Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and it was a great experience. It was the first time my lad had been to a panto and he wants to go back again already, it's going to be difficult to explain to him why he has to wait a whole year! Anyway, the theatre staff were great, the acting was excellent and there was something for everyone in the show. You really won't be disappointed and if you haven't yet been you really should go. Fantastic venue and fantastic show Thank You.
Source: thebestof.co.uk
In October 2013, Nathan T said about Milton Keynes Theatre
I'm a big fan of MK theatre after seeing numerous shows there now. The new Piano Bar in the foyer is looks fantastic and the theatre itself it's spacious, comfortable and inviting. As local theatres go, Milton Keynes is extremely lucky to have such a great one on its doorstep.
Source: thebestof.co.uk
In September 2013, Olly U said about Milton Keynes Theatre
I went to see Carnaby Street last night and it was a great night all round. The service was great, the show was great and the obvious due care and attention to everything was handled spot on by the theatre. Thanks for a great night.
Source: thebestof.co.uk