Theatre Reviews

I caught Hemlines at the Etcetera Theatre in Camden and honestly, what a cracking show! It’s a sharp, funny feminist musical packed with heart and a brilliant cast who throw themselves into it completely.

The story follows three seamstresses who control world events through their garments, a clever and well executed concept. The venue’s tiny (it’s above a pub, so proper fringe vibes) which actually makes the whole thing feel more personal and immediate. You’re right there with the performers, and their energy is full-on from the very start. Alicia Badger, Madison Chippendale, and Lana Filies are hilarious, with lovely voices and real chemistry. You can tell they’re having an absolute blast on stage.

The songs, composed by Amelia Gilday, are original, clever and catchy. The writing strikes the sweet spot of being laugh-out-loud funny but also thoughtful. One minute you’re chuckling, the next you’re properly reflecting.

If you’re after something fresh, funny and a bit different, definitely check out Hemlines. It’s a proper gem.

Waitress at the Adelphi Theatre

First of all WOW. The theatre is beautiful and as soon as you enter the foyer you are hit with the delightful smell of cinnamon pie. The stage looks so pretty and I love the pies that are shown off at the side of the stage.

As soon as the curtain lifted I knew it was going to be a good show. Even though Jenna is stands alone centre stage, it starts the show on such a powerful note. The song 'Opening Up' brings so much light to the theatre and Lucie Jones as Jenna, Ashley Roberts as Dawn and Marisha Williams as Becky is a wonderful team and their voices are Incredible.

I just have to talk about the time where Jenna first meets Dr Pomatter. Dr Pomatter was played by David Hunter and I loved his slight awkwardness he brought on stage. This scene had me laughing so much my cheeks ached and I loved it so much.

Dawn’s song “when he sees me” is such a fun little song and honestly Ashley’s take on it is perfect. It’s the first time we really see Dawn’s perspective on the world and her life.

Ogie is also such an amazing character and is really just a dark horse. The way he tries to win Dawn over in his song ‘Never Ever Getting Rid Of Me’ is just adorable.

Overall, the first act made me laugh A LOT! In the second act the song 'You Matter To Me' is so
sweet. Jenna’s song 'She Used To Be Mine' is the most moving song in the whole show. It brought tears to my eyes and Lucie sang it perfectly. Her storytelling in this number is amazing and she sings with such emotion and power.

The last scene with little LuLu is adorable. In this performance LuLu was played by Annabelle Jones and
she is so cute! The finale song 'Opening Up’ once again brings light and happiness to the theatre.
Act 2 was the act that made me well up and cry.

I love that in this show the band is on stage a lot of the time. It give the band members much more recognition and the audience notice and appreciate it more as a live band more.

Overall Waitress is such an amazing musical and I recommend it to everyone over the age of 13!

Thank you so much. I really am so grateful for all of your help - you have been wonderful. You've made planning a hen party in London so easy!

We had an excellent time on our recent trip to London to see School of Rock.
The Strand Palace Hotel was very good and in a first class position for the many Theatres
and sightseeing around Covent Garden and Westminster. The train service and visit all
worked out well except for one thing - on arrival at the hotel desk it appeared the reservation
numbers and surnames were correct but the hotel records showed different christian names
and home post code was incorrect. Checks were made and we were able to sign in.