The Full Monty – Newcastle Theatre Royal

Writer: Simon Beaufoy

Director: Michael Gyngell

A lively, full house greeted the cast of The Full Montythis evening at the Theatre Royal, Newcastle.

Those of you who remember the film will not be disappointed with this stage adaptation which has been beautifully crafted by Simon Beaufoy.

It is a portrait of a community tackling the ups and downs of life following the closure of the steel works in Sheffield. It touches on many social issues including unemployment, depression, suicide, body image and homosexuality.

The play, for it is a play and not a musical, follows a group of unemployed men struggling to make ends meet. They witness the success of a male strip tease group, The Chippendales, and decide to form a group themselves but they plan to go the full Monty and strip naked.

The director, Michael Gyngell, skilfully brings each character to life in a series of interplays. By the end of the play the audience have begun to know each character intimately.

Although this play does touch on many social issues it is not without humour. Much of this humour is interspersed with some classic 90’s music. All of the film sound tracks are used including the iconic You Sexy Thing by Hot Chocolate and Hot Stuff by Donna Summers.

Danny Hatchard, as Gaz, strongly leads the cast and is the lynch pin that holds the story line together. The relationship shown between him and his young son, Nathan, are a joy to watch.

The first act portrays most of the social issues and then the play gets a wonderful humorous lift when Ben Onwukwe enters as Horse. Onwukwe’s characterisation is brilliant, his humour bringing the show to life.

The second half then concentrates on the choreographing of the strip tease act. The strip scenes are enacted with both humour and sensitivity.

A mention must be made of the remarkable set design. It is so versatile with multiple configurations which are seamlessly choreographed into a wide range of locations. The addition of accompanying upbeat music is a clever touch.

Although this play does feature some adult themes it is really about triumph over adversity. It is a feel good show, even though it tugs at the heart strings on occasions, and will leave you wanting more.

Do they leave their hats on? You will have to watch and wait and see. You will leave theatre however with a smile on your face.

Runs until 2nd March, before continuing on tour.