42nd Street follows the story of a new show opening in America. As the show opens you are taken from auditions through to opening night whilst you follow the story of our young, fresh faced newcomer Peggy Sawyer. As Peggy tries to navigate her way around this cut-throat world of showbiz, she is introduced to helpful chorus girls, suave tenors, dismissive directors, and a veteran leading lady who frankly is passing her sell-by date. Throughout the show you see how difficult it can be to break it into the industry, whilst being given iconic songs such as "We're in the Money" and "Lullaby of Broadway". With huge costumes, and even bigger set pieces, this show is a show stopper!

Most will know that I am a huge advocate of local theatre. It's honestly where some of the best talent is. Full of unsung heroes that spend their day in normal jobs, whilst moonlighting on the stage as a huge star. We all wish we can have the opportunity to break into the industry in the way that our show's main character Peggy Sawyer does, but that doesn't always happen, however companies like BBLOC allow our local stars to shine on stage and give audiences the opportunity to see some incredible talent.

 

Peggy Sawyer is played by Becky Bagnall who plays the fresh faced chorus girl in such a sweet way that you can't help but root for her and be blown away by her tap dancing! Director Julian Marsh is played by Jonathan Busk, who's rendition of Lullaby of Broadway was absolutely incredible. Sally Wheeler takes to the role of established performer Dorothy Brock with ease, giving attitude, sass, and demands on stage as if she had been doing this her whole life. I also adored Chloe-Louisa Hughes, who played the caring Ann, taking Sawyer under her wing and ensuring that she could shine like a star. The comedic factor comes from the hilarious duo of Emma Wogan and Darren Ellery as writers Maggie and Bert. Their cynicism, dry humour, and comedic moments really brought the light to the show. 

It must be incredibly difficult to put on a show that is incredibly dance demanding. Especially tap dancing, which requires a level of skill and training that most don't keep up with, however BBLOC smashed it by gathering a huge ensemble of dancers that wowed the audience with synchronicity, stamina, and professionalism that the west end could only dream of. I loved how each step was as clear as the singing on stage and was blown away by the sheer level on talent on show. One stand out moment for me was not only the title track of the show, but also "There's a Sunny Side to Every Situation" where the cast appeared to be singing into their mirrors and wishing their fate could change. It was an incredible piece of staging that was so effective to the storytelling. 

Director Helen Barrington has seemingly done it again. She has brought together some of the best local talent to create a show that rivals that of the west end and national professional companies. She has managed to create a show using the best stars in the local area, whilst being able to entertain audiences show after show. Every member of the cast, and backstage crew should be incredibly proud of the show they put on. Move over Peggy Sawyer, we have some new stars in town!

With the next show being Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, I can't wait for what's in store.