ROBIN HOOD AT THE REGENT THEATRE

As a parent I love making memories for Luke and his friend's and last night I think I was successful. We went to the wonderful Regent Theatre in Stoke to see Robin Hood with Jonathan Wilkes and Christian Patterson. It is Wilkes' 13th Year and this year he donned 'tight' green tights as he played the cheeky Robin Hood. It is Patterson's 10th performance in Stoke and Luke was surprised to see him dressed as a man this year, Friar Tuck...well at least for the beginning. They have great banter and the delivery of one liners is hilarious and so many well timed innuendos. The 3D show was fantastic but slightly frightening for young children.

Kai Owen was cast as this year's baddie, the Sheriff of Stokingham, his rendition of 'Bat of Hell was superb. The other members of the cast Little John (Pete Bonner), Will Scarlet (Delme Thomas), The Spirit of Sherwood (Rebecca Lisewski) and Maid Marion (Finley Guy) added a perfect balance of song, dance and humour.

The verdict of our favourite part was the '12 days of Christmas', and even hubby joined in with singing 'S-T-O-K-E'.

We will never tire of our family time at the Panto and we are already looking forward to 2019. If you get chance to see Robin Hood, it's on until 6th January, it is definitely worth a visit.

https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/robin-hood/regent-theatre/

NATIVITY THE MUSICAL

If I wasn't feeling Christmassy before tonight then I certainly am now after seeing 'Nativity The Musical'. I can honestly say it has got to be one of the best shows I've seen and Luke agreed. We saw the first and second movies together on Christmas Eve a few years ago so it was only right that he came with me to see the theatre show. 

The creator, Debbie Isitt made this feel-good movie into an adapted stage version. It was hilariously funny and entertaining with lots of singing and dancing. 

It's based at St Bernadette's School who are attempting to put on a Christmas show, their teacher Mr Maddens (Scott Garnham) promises that a Hollywood producer (played by Adam Thomas) will come to see the show. The new teaching Assistant, the crazy and very funny Mr Poppy (Simon Lipkin) brings the 'Sparkle and Shine' and puts on a phenomenal show. Luke and I laughed so much during the first half especially at the auditions, some parts were true to the movie and all the children were fantastic.

The scenery and costume changes were quick and impressive and it was like being transported from place to place. So many catchy tunes including some original hits Sparkle and Shine, Nazareth, One Night One Moment and She's the Brightest Star. 

It's a great show and I would highly recommend to see it with the whole family, every child wants a teacher like Mr Poppy!

To book tickets go to https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/nativity-the-musical/regent-theatre/

THE FULL MONTY

What better way to spend a Monday night than to go to The Regent theatre and watch 6 men do The Full Monty?

It was an absolutely brilliant production based on one of Britain's most successful films about 6 out-of-work steelworkers from Sheffield who decide to put on a show for one night only.

The show was filled with laughter and had a real feel-good feeling, however there were also serious themes including unemployment, poverty, depression, sexuality equality and body image.

Gary Lucy plays the cheeky and loveable Gaz along Kai Owen is his best friend Dave. Other big names include Andrew Dunn, Louis Emerick, James Redmond and Joe Gill. The scenery was stunning and it was like being transported to Sheffield.

It was very true to the film and most enjoyable giving lots of laughs and screams from the audience.

BENIDORM LIVE

In my previous life as a Travel Agent, myself and my colleagues saw many sides to the holidaymaker, so the first time I saw Benidorm on ITV I could definitely see comparisons! Anyone who has been on a package holiday will have seen and met such characters too, I'm sure.

My husband, Mark and I have never missed an episode and have loved every series. We were thrilled that it was going 'Live' but also sad to hear the ITV had axed it too. Seeing our favourite Solana staff Mateo (Jake Canuso) Jacqueline (Janine Duvitski) Liam (Adam Gillen) Joyce Temple-Savage (Sherrie Hewson) Sam (Shelley Longworth) and my personal favourite Kenneth (Tony Maudsley) all on stage together was exciting. The script fantastically written by Derren Litten had us in stitches from start till finish.

There was dancing, singing and comedy all the way through with a great storyline. The set was impressive and the double entendres and one liners had us belly laughing.

If you're a fan of the TV show or just even want an uplifting and comedic show get your tickets before the end of the week. www.atgtickets.com

AWFUL AUNTIE - Live on Stage

We were thrilled to hear that Birmingham Stage Company were bringing their production of Awful Auntie Live on Stage to our very own Lyceum Theatre, Crewe. It was our second time seeing this but it was still as good as the first.

The story is set in Saxby Hall owned by Lord and Lady Saxby and their 12, nearly 13 year old daughter, Stella. After a visit to London with her parents, Stella wakes up to find herself wrapped in bandages and that her 'Awful' Aunt Alberta is caring for her and that her life is in danger. With the help of a ghost and a very large owl Stella fights for her life and manages to outwit her Aunt.

Stella was played by understudy, Alice Harvey, the heroine is a brave, clever and courageous girl who's  relationship with Soot (the ghost) is endearing. Once again, Timothy Speyer did a fantastic job as the larger than life Awful Auntie. Very menacing but comical at the same time, the 'Here's Auntie' line had the audience laughing out loud. 

Wagner the Owl, was a life-like puppet controlled by Roberta Bellekom, there was some very clever puppetry involving Auntie and Stella in one scene. We loved Gibbon the butler (Richard James) he was lovable, crazy and true to his character in the book. 

Ashley Cousins plays the cockney-rhyming slanging chimney sweep ghost, he helped Stella play some hilarious tricks on her aunt. 

The revolving scenery and motorbike scene was impressive on this small stage, it had us all captivated.

Awful Auntie is on until the end of the week with matinee and evening performances. Also a special menu for children is available at the Lyceum Restaurant. To book your tickets please click on the link
https://crewelyceum.co.uk/Online/tickets-awful-auntie-crewe-2018

TELETUBBIES LIVE

I'm pretty sure everyone born in the 80's is familiar with The Teletubbies and their infamous sound 'Eh Oh'. It is still a popular TV series so what a treat that fans are able to see them live on stage too.

Teletubbies Live came to the beautiful Crewe Lyceum theatre this week. This colourful and larger than life Live show was captivating for children as young as 12 months old up to pre-schoolers. I took my childminder friend, Katie and 3 of her mindees all 2 and under, they were all entertained and sat beautifully (until the seats started to fold them in half!)😁

There was so much excitement when Tinky Winky, Dipsy, Laa-Laa and Po appeared on the stage, there was lots of waving and cheering from the audience and we all sang along to the well-known theme tune. The set was magical and included Teletubbyland with the addition of the giant rabbits. There was singing, dancing and interaction from the audience including a signed song at the end of the show.

Favourites such as the Sun Baby, Noo-noo and Tubby Phone make an appearance too. The show isn't too loud so any children sensitive to loud noises will be at ease, the running time was 1 hour 20 minutes which is perfect for little ones. Great for a first theatre show for the whole family!

Go to www.TeletubbiesLive.com for more dates.

SHREK THE MUSICAL

It's been a few years since I saw Shrek, the award-winning DreamWorks movie so was intrigued how it would be adapted for the Stage into a musical. When the Pint-sized Lord Farquaard demands Shrek to rescue Princess Fiona from the tower, he takes his loyal steed, Donkey on the adventure in turn to get his swamp back.

The only time I have felt such excitement at the theatre is during the Panto season, there was a real buzz and great to see so many children donning the 'Shrek' ears.

A giant Storybook opened the show, it had the audience engaged from start, the set, costumes and characters were colourful. It was fun to try recognising the fairytale charactes including Pinocchio, The three bears and the The three little pigs. Steffan Harri played Shrek, the lovable Ogre, the friendship between him and Donkey (Marcus Ayrton) gave us many laugh out loud moments.

X Factor contestant , Amelia Lily was the remarkable Princess Fiona, not only did she wow us with her singing but also her tap dancing skills too. 

For us as a family, Samuel Holmes as Lord Farquaad stole the show. He played the majority of the role on his knees which had us in stitches. 

The dragon puppetry was breath-taking and voiced by the amazing Lucinda Shaw. I'm glad we 'saw her face' at the end. 

I highly recommend the show for families of all ages, there was slapstick humour, great comedy moments and romance. Even my husband, Mark who is not a fan of Musicals thoroughly enjoyed it. However, it is beyond me why the family in front allowed their 7/8 year old child to play on her mobile phone during the second half though!

Don't miss out on this fantastic performance, its on until 13th May from http://www.atgtickets.com/venues/regent-theatre/

VINCENT & FLAVIA - TANGO MODERNO

I became a fan of Strictly Come Dancing after about 5 years of it being on TV, I always loved Flavia  Cacace (and her abs!) and Vincent Simone's lively character.

I didn't know what to expect when I went to see Tango Moderno at the Regent Theatre, Stoke, obviously I was expecting superb dancing but didn't know it would include current music and modern themes too, I had to explain what 'Tinder' was to my 70 year old Mother in law! There was all genres of dance including Waltz, Rumba, Quickstep and of course the Argentine Tango, we also saw some fantastic Hip Hop and contemporary too. The storytelling was engaging, and both singers Tom Parsons and Rebecca Lisweski were outstanding, their rendition of Sam Smith's 'May I lay by your Side' was emotional.

The costumes were dazzling and the change of scenery was fast-paced and cleverly done.

Even if you're not a fan of Ballroom dancing, this show covers all aspects of music and dance which pleased every audience member, the standing ovation at the end proved this!

THRILLER LIVE is THRILLING!!

This was my second time seeing the show and it did not disappoint. It's a spectacular live music event celebrating the career of the world's greatest entertainer. It takes you on a visual and electrifying journey of Michael's 40 year musical history.

It was 2 hours of non-stop hits including I want you back, ABC, Can you feel it, Smooth Criminal, Beat it, Billie Jean, Dirty Diana. Thriller and lots more.

The Lead singers Britt Quentin, Rory Taylor, Shaquille Hemmans and Adraina Louise were effortless and all sounded like the real deal. The production was entertaining and colourful. However, Sean Christopher had us mesmerised with his dance moves and his exact representation of the King of Pop.

The Thriller Live band were phenomenal and led by Andy Jeffcoat, Musical Director. The guitar break in Dirty Diana was definitely impressive too.

The whole audience were up and out of their seats at the end, it was such a good feeling being uplifted by the music of this incredible icon. If you are a fan of Michael Jackson's music, then Thriller Live is a must!

HAPPY 10th BIRTHDAY

In 2007 my life changed forever, not only did I become a mummy to Luke, but I also became a Mumpreneur. I bought a franchise for Baby Sign called Hullabaloo Kids and did my first class in 2008. Unfortunately the franchise wasn't legit and after 10 months or so the other franchisees and my self decided to break away and go it alone.

It was the best thing I ever did and although I didn't have the support of the other Franchisees we managed to stick together through social media. Year on year I added extra strings to my bow, Tippy Toes Toddler Dance, Party Entertainment, Facepainting and then Zumba for adults and Kids.

This year is my 10th year of trading so on the 14th January I decided to hold a party celebrate my achievement and invite families from past and present to come along so I could say Thank you. It was so lovely to see all the children who had attended my classes, I did my best to remember most of their names, I don't think I forgot anyone! We had a bouncy castle and a magician who kept the children entertained. So many people had donated prizes for a tombola and raffle and we managed to raise £157.00 for the SMA Trust.

Monies raised will go towards funding vital research into a cure for and treatments for Spinal Muscular Atrophy. It's a genetic neuromuscular condition which causes severe muscle weakness affecting crawling, walking, arm, hand and neck movement and breathing and swallowing. It is a cause close to my heart as my cousin's daughter, Jade has this condition. I am pleased we were able to raise awareness and raise some much needed funds.

From the bottom of my heart I would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who attended and for always supporting my little business. I did mention my husband, Mark who has allowed me to do this and support me in my crazy new ventures.
I absolutely love what I do and I really do have the best job in the world. Here's to the next 10 years!!