FeaturedMusicalNorth East & YorkshireReview

42nd Street – Leeds Grand Theatre

Reviewer: Laura Stimpson

Book: Michael Steward and Mark Bramble

Music: Harry Warren

Lyrics: Al Dubin

Director: Jonathan Church

42nd Street started out as a Warner Brothers film by Busby Berkeley in 1933. It was a surprisingly a huge hit at a time when musical films were losing their appeal. Brought to the stage in 1980, it became one of the most successful and longest running musicals of all time and after tonight’s performance at Leeds Grand Theatre, its success is unsurprising.

The story follows superstar Dorothy Brock, played by Samantha Womack, and a group of young dancers as they rehearse new musical Pretty Lady, the latest work of producer Bert Barry, played by Les Dennis, and director Julian Marsh, played by Michael Praed. New chorus girl Peggy Sawyer, played by Nicole-Lily Baisden, hits on some good luck when she gets a part in the chorus after turning up to an audition late, due to nerves and being sent away. Little did she know, she’d elevate straight for the stars when Brock breaks her ankle and it’s touch and go as to whether the show can go on. She is a talented, pure hearted dreamer, and boy do all our dreams come true when we watch her grow into a leading lady in the newly released Pretty Lady.

Unnamed 2

The score includes classics such as We’re in the Money, Keep Young and Beautiful, Lullaby of Broadway and 42nd Street. These are all performed beautifully, with precise choreography by Bill Deamer, good humour and pizazz.

The set and costumes designed by Robert Jones are truly magnificent. Projection is used to transform the set from a warehouse rehearsal space, to a train station and downtown Broadway. There are multiple layers, providing opportunities for even more spectacular dance scenes. The costumes are wonderfully crafted, sparkling, and as much a part of the joy of this performance as the dancing. The performance is as sparkling as the costumes, it is sharp and precise in every way. No detail has been missed from the skill of the dance routines to the precision of the spotlights and lighting which make a huge difference to this show.

The whole cast are superb and the way they work together in the high energy ensemble pieces are the highlights of the show. A special mention must be given however to Nicole-Lily Baisden for their flawless interpretation of Peggy Sawyer. They are a hugely talented singer, dancer and actor, perfectly suited to this role. Another mention for Faye Tozer as Maggie Jones who proved to be a wonderful character actor and an absolute pleasure to watch throughout.

There’s something joyful about these old musicals even though some of the themes are outdated. The songs are beautifully crafted and timeless, the style and costumes are a joy to see and the dancing and pizazz appeals to all age groups.

There just aren’t enough superlatives for the pure joy these highly skilled performers brought to Leeds tonight. A top-class performance of this beautifully crated show. This reviewer would urge everyone to see it.

Runs until 29 July 2023

The Reviews Hub Score

Sparkling spectacular

Show More
Photo of The Reviews Hub - Yorkshire & North East

The Reviews Hub - Yorkshire & North East

The Yorkshire & North East team is under the editorship of Jacob Bush. The Reviews Hub was set up in 2007. Our mission is to provide the most in-depth, nationwide arts coverage online.

Related Articles

One Comment

  1. Nicole-Lily was brilliant in a fabulous show with great cast. She will be a super star!

Back to top button
The Reviews Hub