The world of musical theatre has given us countless memorable productions, but there are only a few that manage to capture the hearts of generations. “Annie” is undoubtedly one of those extraordinary shows that have stood the test of time. With its timeless story, unforgettable songs, and endearing characters, this beloved musical continues to captivate audiences of all ages, reminding us of the power of hope, resilience, and the importance of finding family in unexpected places. In this blog post, we will look into the magic of “Annie” and explore why it continues to be a cherished classic even decades after its debut.

For the purpose of this review, we were given free entries to Annie, The Musical.

Background

“Annie” takes us on a journey to the 1930s during the Great Depression, where we meet the optimistic and spunky Annie, a young orphan with an unwavering belief that her parents will one day return to claim her. Through a series of serendipitous events, Annie finds herself chosen to spend Christmas with the wealthy industrialist Oliver Warbucks, who ultimately helps her in her quest to find her family. The story of a little girl navigating a harsh world while retaining her hope and optimism resonates deeply with audiences, reminding us of the power of dreams and the strength of the human spirit.

Music and Lyrics

Annie is famous for its unforgettable music, composed by Charles Strouse, with lyrics by Martin Charnin. From the iconic anthem “Tomorrow” to the heartwarming “Maybe” and the uplifting “You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile,” the musical is filled with catchy tunes that have become ingrained in popular culture. The songs beautifully convey the emotions of the characters, providing powerful moments that linger in the hearts and minds of the audience long after the curtain falls. Our favourite songs were “It’s The Hard-Knock Life”, “I Don’t Need Anything But You” and “Tomorrow.” Which was sang a few times throughout the musical.

Memorable Characters

One of the reasons Annie has remained a favourite among theatregoers is its memorable cast of characters. Annie’s indomitable spirit and her resilience in the face of adversity inspire audiences to believe in their own dreams. The larger-than-life personality of Daddy Warbucks, who is initially stern but gradually shows his softer side, provides a touching representation of the transformative power of love and compassion. The devious yet hilarious Miss Hannigan, played by Strictly Come Dancing judge Craig Revel Horwood and the adorable and loyal Sandy, Annie’s faithful dog, add depth and humour to the story, making the characters all the more endearing.

At its core, Annie is a story about hope, family, and finding a sense of belonging. It reminds us that no matter how difficult life may seem, the power of optimism and the support of loved ones can carry us through even the darkest times. Annie’s unwavering belief that tomorrow will be better, her ability to see the good in people, and her resilience in the face of adversity serve as a beacon of hope for audiences of all ages. Especially the younger audience that attends the show.

Since its Broadway debut in 1977, “Annie” has become a cultural phenomenon, inspiring numerous revivals, adaptations, and even a film, which we are sure brings so many childhood memories. The musical has touched the lives of millions of people around the world, bringing smiles to faces and tears to eyes. Its timeless themes and catchy songs continue to resonate with new generations, ensuring that the magic of “Annie” lives on.

Conclusion

The story is beautiful and has a nice message of hope and love. The songs are known by most people and are so catchy. The cast members did a fabulous job of bringing this story to life and making our Cardiff audience have this unforgettable experience. It was awesome to see Craig Revel Horwood in his Miss Hannigan role, but we are saddened that we could not witness the magical Paul O’Grady in full glory, because he would have been amazing too. May he Rest in Peace.
There were many nice moments throughout the musical and we do not want to spoil it, but there was Tap Dance and other nice choreography too. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a newcomer to the world of musical theatre, you are going to like this musical for sure and you do not want to miss the cute dog. Yes, there was a dog on stage and we all had heart-eyes over it.

Cast

Craig Revel Horwood as Miss Hannigan

Alex Bourne as Daddy Warbucks

Zoe Akinyosade as Annie

Amelia Adams as Grace Farrell

Paul French as Rooster

Billie-Kay as Lily

David Burrows as LT Ward, Franklin Roosevelt and Jimmy Johnson

A big thank you to Wales Millennium Centre for having us.

The length of this musical

The show runs for approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes (including 1 interval.)

Getting your tickets

Book your tickets now! You can purchase your tickets HERE. The ticket prices start from £18.00 and the show is available until Saturday 8th July 2023. There is still some availability in most days at the moment and remember to check the times of the shows, as they may vary.

Age guidance:  5+ (no under 2s.) Further details can be found on their website. 

If you have already watched this musical, let us know your thoughts in the comments below or if you go to watch it, come back and left us know too. 

Read our previous posts here and don’t forget to follow our socials Instagram and Twitter.

Thank you for reading. 

Stay safe

Kay

The post Annie at Wales Millennium Centre – Review appeared first on This Is Cardiff.

If you are a Titanic fan, you will be happy to know they are in Cardiff until Saturday 13th May. Celebrating their 10th anniversary, with a UK tour. The Titanic is one of the most infamous shipwrecks in history, and has been the subject of numerous books, movies, and other forms of art. One such artistic adaptation is the musical, “Titanic,” which premiered on Broadway in 1997.

For the purpose of this review, we were given free entries to Titanic, The Musical.

History

The musical was written by Peter Stone, with music and lyrics by Maury Yeston. It tells the story of the ill-fated maiden voyage of the Titanic, which sank on the 15th April, 1912, after colliding with an iceberg. The musical follows the lives of several passengers and crew members aboard the ship, as they grapple with the joy, romance, and tragedy of their journey. A total of 711 passengers survived this tragedy, with approximately 1,503 passengers who lost their lives.

“Titanic” was praised for its stunning score, which blends a range of musical styles, including classical, folk, and contemporary. The show features powerful ballads like “The Proposal/The Night Was Alive” and “I Give You My Hand,” as well as rousing ensemble numbers like “I Have Danced” and “Still.”

In addition to its memorable music, “Titanic” is also notable for its impressive staging. The show employs a massive set that recreates the ship’s interior and exterior with intricate lighting design, which plays a big part in this musical. This immersive production allows audiences to feel like they are on board the Titanic themselves, adding to the emotional impact of the show.

Despite its critical acclaim and success on Broadway (it won five Tony Awards, including Best Musical), “Titanic” has had a mixed reception over the years. Some critics have criticised the show for its unwieldy size and sprawling narrative, while others have praised its ambition and epic scale.

Regardless of one’s opinion on the musical, there is no denying that it offers a moving and thought-provoking exploration of the human drama behind one of history’s most tragic events. As we continue to reflect on the legacy of the Titanic, “Titanic” remains a powerful tribute to the lives that were lost and the stories that were left behind. It was nice to step away from the Titanic film (1997) story of Jack and Rose and dip into the true reality of the passengers of that ship and what they may have experienced, in that unforgettable trip.

Cast

Martin Allanson, plays J. Bruce Ismay
Valda Akiks, plays Ida Straus
Graham Bickley, plays Captain Edward Smith
Sam Brown, plays Frederick Fleet
James Darch, plays Edgar Beane
David Delve, plays Isidor Straus
Catherine Digges, plays Head Maid
Adam Filipe, plays Frederick Barrett
Emily George, plays Kate Murphy
Luke Harley, plays Andrew Latimer
Emma Harrold, plays Lady Caroline Neville
Alastair Hill, plays Harold Bride
Abi Hudson, plays Maid
Barnaby Hughes, plays Herbert Pitman / Henry Etches
Paul Kemble, plays Joseph Boxhall
Niamh Long, plays Kate Mullins
Matthew McDonald, plays Charles Clarke
Ian McLarnon, plays Thomas Andrews
Danny Michaels, plays Joseph Bell
Chris Nevin, plays Jim Farrell
Jack North, plays Charles Lightoller
Joseph Peacock, plays Bellboy / Wallace Hartley
Billy Roberts, plays William McMaster Murdoch
Bree Smith, plays Alice Beane
Lucie-Mae Summer, plays Kate McGowan

A big thank you to New Theatre, Cardiff for having us.

The length of this musical

The show runs for approximately 2 hours and 30 mins. Which includes a 20 minutes interval.

Getting your tickets

You can purchase your tickets HERE. The ticket prices start from £30.00 and the show is available until Saturday 13th May 2023. There is still some availability and remember to check the times of the shows, as they may vary.

If you have already watched this musical, let us know your thoughts in the comments below or if you go to watch it, come back here if you can and left us know too. 

Read our previous review here and don’t forget to follow our socials Instagram and Twitter.

Thank you for reading. 

Stay safe

Kay

The post Titanic, The Musical at New Theatre – Review appeared first on This Is Cardiff.

Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, has landed in Cardiff’s Wales Millennium Centre until the 20th May. For a whole two weeks, people will have the opportunity to attend this show and enjoy the magic it brings. We attended the opening night on Thursday and it was everything we imagined and more.

For the purpose of this review, we were given free entries to Roald Dahl’s, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Musical.

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a beloved children’s novel by Roald Dahl, which has been adapted into several forms of media, including films, stage plays, and even an opera. One of the most recent adaptations is the musical version of the story, which premiered in London’s West End in 2013 and then made its way to Broadway in 2017. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: The Musical and explore what makes it such a fantastic adaptation of this classic story.

Plot

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is a classic children’s novel written by Roald Dahl, first published in 1964. The story revolves around a young boy named Charlie Bucket, who lives with his parents and grandparents in a small, impoverished town. Charlie’s family is extremely poor, and they can barely afford to buy food, let alone candy or sweets. However, Charlie is a kind and optimistic child, and he never loses hope that things will get better.
One day, the famous candy maker, Willy Wonka, announces that he is going to open the gates of his mysterious chocolate factory to five lucky children who find golden tickets hidden in his candy bars. The entire world goes wild with excitement, and everyone wants to be one of the lucky few who get to see the magical factory. Charlie is desperate to find a golden ticket, but his family can’t afford to buy him candy, so he has to rely on pure luck. This story has a beautiful message of hope, love and humility, whilst providing joy and wonder to children as well as adults.

Set

One of the most notable things about the musical is the set design, which is simply breathtaking. The sets are designed to look like they are made out of candy and other sweet treats, which perfectly captures the whimsical and fantastical world of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory. The use of vibrant colors, lighting, and special effects also adds to the overall magical feel of the show.

The musical is directed by James Brining, Director/Chief of Leeds Playhouse. The music and lyrics were composed by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, who also worked on the hit musicals “Hairspray” and “Catch Me If You Can.” Together, the creative team has produced a dazzling and imaginative show that captures the spirit of the original story while adding its own unique flair.

Another highlight of the musical is the performances of the cast members, especially the actors who played Charlie Bucket (Isaac Sugden), Grandpa Joe (Michael D’Cruze) and Willy Wonka (Gareth Snook.) Each of the actors brought their own unique energy and charm to their roles, making Charlie and the other characters endearing and relatable. Meanwhile, Willy Wonka is portrayed as a quirky, whimsical, and slightly mysterious figure and if you have been to London or Broadway productions, they have featured strong performances from the actors who played this iconic character.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a musical without the music, and “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” delivers on that front as well. The songs are catchy, fun, and often quite humorous, with titles like “The Candy Man,” “The Oompa Loompa Song,” and “It Must Be Believed to Be Seen.” The musical also included some poignant and emotional moments, particularly in the song “Pure Imagination”, which became our favourite song.

Conclusion

All in all, “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory: The Musical” is a delightful and entertaining show that is sure to please audiences of all ages. It captures the essence of Roald Dahl’s beloved story while also adding its own unique spin. With its stunning set design, strong performances, and catchy songs, it’s no wonder that this musical has become a favourite of theatre fans around the world.

Reviews from a younger audience:

The comments from our T.I.C (This is Cardiff) mini are as follows:

I like it so much, I want to cry – T.I.C mini (7 years old)

I want to go see Charlie and the Chocolate factory again – T.I.C mini (7 years old)

Cast

Charlie Bucket, played by Isaac Sugden
Grandpa Joe, played by Michael D’Cruze
Willy Wonka, played by Gareth Snook
Grandpa George / Mr Salt, played by Christopher Howell
Grandma Josephine / Mrs Gloop, played by Kate Milner Evans
Grandma Georgina / Mrs Beauregarde, played by Emily Winter
Mrs Bucket / Mrs Teavee, played by Leonie Spilsbury
Augustus Gloop, played by Robin Simoes Da Silva
Violet Beauregarde, played by Marisha Morgan
Veruca Salt, played by Emma Robotham Hunt
Mike Teavee, played by Teddy Hinde
Mrs Pratchett, played by Victoria Nicol
Jerry, played by Ewan Gillies
Cherry, played by Lucy Hutchison

A big thank you to Wales Millennium Centre for having us.

The length of this musical

The show runs for approximately 2 hours and 30 mins. Which includes a 20 minutes interval.

Getting your tickets

Book your GOLDEN TICKET! You can purchase your tickets HERE. The ticket prices start from £19.50 and the show is available until Saturday 20th May 2023. There is still availability in most days at the moment and remember to check the times of the shows, as they may vary.

Age guidance:  7+ (no under 2s). Further details can be found on their website. 

If you have already watched this musical, let us know your thoughts in the comments below or if you go to watch it, come back here if you can and left us know too. 

Read our previous review here and don’t forget to follow our socials Instagram and Twitter.

Thank you for reading. 

Stay safe

Kay

The post Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Musical at Wales Millennium Centre – Review appeared first on This Is Cardiff.

The Bodyguard Musical is a thrilling and captivating stage production that is based on the popular 1992 movie of the same name, starring the unforgettable Whitney Houston. This musical has many fans around the world, captivating audiences with its stunning performances, mesmerising music, and compelling storyline. The Bodyguard Musical has now landed in Cardiff’s Wales Millennium Centre, until Saturday 29th April.

For the purpose of this review, we were given free entries to The Bodyguard Musical.

Plot

The story of The Bodyguard Musical revolves around the character of Rachel Marron, a superstar singer who becomes the target of a stalker. In order to protect her, the producers of her show hire a former Secret Service agent, Frank Farmer, to be her bodyguard. At first, Rachel is resistant to the idea of having a bodyguard, but she soon realises that Frank is the only person she can trust. As the story unfolds, we see the relationship between Rachel and Frank develop, while they both try to uncover the identity of the stalker who is threatening Rachel’s life.

One of the key elements of The Bodyguard Musical is the incredible music that is featured throughout the show. The musical includes some of the most iconic songs from the original movie, including “I Will Always Love You,” “I Have Nothing,” and “Run to You.” These songs are beautifully performed by the cast, led by the talented Melody Thornton, who takes on the role of Rachel Marron. Thornton is a singer, better known for being a member of The Pussycat Dolls, she brings a powerful and emotional performance to the stage, capturing the essence of Rachel’s character and delivering stunning renditions of the show’s most beloved songs. Frank Farmer is performed by Ayden Callaghan, known for his roles in Emmerdale and Hollyoaks. He is a very likeable character, that wins the audiences heart. And also did a wonderful job of bringing to life, the professional yet passionate character that is Frank Farmer.

Stage

In addition to the music, The Bodyguard Musical features spectacular choreography and stunning set design. The stage is set with elaborate backdrops and stunning lighting effects that bring the story to life. It is a much simpler stage, compared to other shows we have watched but it is perfect enough to portray the respective scenes. The choreography is expertly crafted, with the cast performing intricate dance routines that add to the excitement and energy of the production. Melody Thornton is entertaining to watch, she moved so effortlessly around the stage when dancing and if you are or were a Pussycat Doll fan, then you are in for a treat.

The show has been nominated for numerous awards, including the Olivier Awards and the Tony Awards, and has won several, including Best New Musical at the Whatsonstage Awards.

Summary

In conclusion, The Bodyguard Musical is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed. With its stunning music, captivating storyline, and impressive performances, this musical is a true masterpiece of the stage. Whether you are a fan of musical theatre or simply love a good story, The Bodyguard Musical is sure to leave you breathless and wanting to go to watch it again. Let’s not forget Whitney Houston’s shoes are hard to fill, because she was and will always be a superstar with a mega voice but Melody Thornton, redeemed herself and made this night her own. It was fantastic from start to finish. And as always congratulations to cast and crew for a fabulous show.

Cast

Melody Thornton – Rachel Marron
Ayden Callaghan – Frank Farmer
Emily-Mae – Nicki Marron
Frankie Keita – Fletcher
Graham Elwell – Tony
James Groom – Sy Spector
John Macaulay – Bill Devaney
Marios Nicolaides – The stalker
Fergal Coghlan – Ray Court

A big thank you to Wales Millennium Centre for having us.

The length of this musical

The show runs for approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, including the interval.

Getting your tickets

You can purchase your tickets HERE. The ticket prices start from £19.50 and the show is available until Saturday 29th April 2023. There is still availability in most days at the moment and remember to check the times of the shows, as they may vary.

Age guidance: 10+ (no under 2s). Further details can be found on their website. 

If you have already watched this musical, let us know your thoughts in the comments below or if you go to watch it, come back here if you can and left us know too. 

Thank you for reading. 

Stay safe

Kay

The post The Bodyguard Musical at Wales Millennium Centre – Review appeared first on This Is Cardiff.

Tir a Môr restaurant and bar, located at VOCO St David’s Hotel & Spa, Cardiff. At the heart of Cardiff Bay, in the iconic 5-star hotel. Recently awarded Green Key accreditation for its environmental and sustainability efforts. Tir a Môr, means land and sea in Welsh.
As you arrive to the hotel, the views are beautiful, especially on a sunny day. This building is very known in Wales for its architecture and many artists use it as inspiration for their pieces of art. It also has magnificent views, so we were excited to go through this experience.

We were invited to Tir a Môr as guests and our food was complimentary.

As you walk in the hotel’s main lobby, the design and feel is so modern. You have to go past the reception and the restaurant entrance is located on the right hand side. We went in and the host greeted us in a friendly manner. He directed us to our table, explained what the dishes of the day were and mentioned the waitress will be over soon. We were very lucky to have sat next to the window, with the Norwegian Church Arts Centre right in our view. We did not have to wait long for the waiter to come, but we were still unsure about what to order, so we asked if they could please give us more time.

The interior of the restaurant is so modern and elegant, the colours are beautiful. Dark blues, light blues, they give the restaurant elegance but yet a vibrant summer feel. There are wooden beams on the ceiling, big hanging paintings on the walls and there are plants located around different corners of the restaurant, that enhance the appearance of the space. The restaurant is surrounded by floor to ceiling windows that keep you in touch with the outside. With an airy feel, yet cosy by the restaurant’s use of colours and deco.

The Menu

The menu at Tir a Môr showcases the best of Welsh cuisine, with a focus on local, seasonal ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. The restaurant also offers a carefully curated wine list, featuring an array of top-quality bottles from around the world, as well as a range of local beers, ciders, and gins. The beef comes from Douglas Willis, who buys from a range of farms within Cefn Mawr, North Wales. So the meat is locally produced, which is amazing because we are not only tasting local produce but this restaurant is keeping their business local too.

Food ordered

For starters we ordered Pembrokeshire crab cake, poached egg and warm tartare sauce & Monkfish goujons, dragon aioli, lime. The crab cake tasted fresh and you could very much taste the crab, the tartare sauce had peas in it and complimented the crab cake well. The egg was perfectly poached and gave the cake the moisture and depth it needed. In our opinion the crab cake could have done with a bit more crunchiness to it, as that would have given it more texture and bite, apart from that it was nice and different. Portion wise it was a decent size, so it is filling enough to leave space for mains.

The Monkfish goujons were so crunchy and tasty. There were 3 on the plate and that aioli sauce was our favourite. We could have had a whole plate of those. They were perfectly cooked, non oily and so delicious.

For mains we both wanted meat, so we opted for 8oz Cefn Mar Farm rib-eye steak, king prawns, laverbread butter, triple cooked chips. Let’s start with the meat, we can tell you that to this day we are still thinking about that rib-eye steak. It was absolutely mouth-watering. It was a reasonable size, cooked how we wanted and so juicy. Then add to this king prawns (3), well cooked, not rubbery and well seasoned too. And if you like chips, well these chips were chunky and together with the peppercorn sauce, they tasted very nice.

The other main was an 8oz Cefn Mawr Farm sirloin, confit mushroom, roasted plum tomato, triple-cooked chips. The steak was cooked well and the peppercorn sauce complimented the steak very well. The mushrooms were nicely cooked and not soggy and well the chips were the same as above. We have to add here that both steaks were cooked how we ordered.

For sides we ordered Kale, rocket and beetroot salad & Garlic Blas y Tir leeks and sautéed potatoes. The salad tasted fresh and dressed with a slightly sweet balsamic dressing, which was very nice. This is a salad that is delicious, with just a few ingredients and we will most likely try to make it at home. Now the sautéed potatoes, they were a story all on their own. They were soft, with a good amount of salt, the leeks were soft and it was an acceptable sharing portion too. All of the portions to the dishes mentioned were decent portions, enough to fill you up but not leave you without space for dessert, which we obviously had.

For dessert, we had Blackberry and apple crumble, Black Mountain brandy liqueur custard & Merlyn cheesecake, milk chocolate, amaretto crumb. The apple crumble was a nice portion, good to share and so beautifully presented, however we wish it would have been less runny. The custard complimented it very well. It wasn’t overly sweet, as some you might taste elsewhere. The Merlyn cheesecake, well who doesn’t love a cheesecake because we obviously do. This was nicely presented, tasted very nice and the only comment we have is that we hoped the biscuit base would have been a slightly thicker, as we would have liked a bit more crunch to the cheesecake or maybe we just like biscuits too much.

For drinks, we had a Peroni beer and glass of Rosé. And the waitress constantly came to top up our water glasses, when they were getting empty. We didn’t have any coffee/tea at the end of dessert, as by this point we were completely full.

Summary

Overall the service and food was nice. The waitress constantly came over and asked how are food was or if we needed anything. Enough to make you feel valued as a customer, but not overly done to the point you feel it is too much attention. She was also knowledgeable and friendly.

Something we have to mention is that originally instead of the Monkfish goujons, we had ordered Menai oysters. And a couple of minutes after placing the whole order, we were told they didn’t have oysters. They were very apologetic and we asked the waitress, if she could recommend anything and she recommended the Monkfish. And it was delicious, so it was a win.

The experience at Tir a Môr was not only romantic, but the food was nice. There were a few things that we would have enjoyed more, if they would have been slightly different. But we have to appreciate the taste of the chef and we can’t fault them for their food quality. It was exceptional. The meat was well cooked and high quality. The portions were good, descent portions and the food on the plate was beautifully presented. Everything was seasoned just right and there was not one thing we thought was poorly seasoned.

Will we go back? Yes, we will. There are so many things on that menu to try out, such as breaded pork escalope, pan-fried salmon and Anglesey mussels. The list just goes on.

If you are planning on going to Tir a Môr on a romantic dinner for two, it could surely be the place to be. With its elegant decor, spacious seating, and warm lighting, the restaurant will give you a nice experience. Let’s not forget the food, the good service and the stunning views of Cardiff Bay. We can imagine how nice it must be in the summer time, having a special celebration or family meal with those views and good company.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Tir a Môr Restaurant at St David’s Hotel & Spa is a must-visit for anyone looking for a truly special dining experience in Cardiff. From its stunning views to its outstanding cuisine, this restaurant is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit, just like it did with us.

Location

VOCO St David’s Cardiff
Havannah Street, Cardiff CF10 5SD
+44 (0)29 2045 4045

Parking: There is parking just a short distance from the entrance of the hotel. You have to pay at the pay point machine on your way out.

Booking your table

To book your table, click HERE.

Have you been to Tir a Môr yet? What dishes do you recommend? Comment below.

Stay Safe

Kay

The post Tir a Môr, VOCO St. David’s Cardiff – Review appeared first on This Is Cardiff.

Matthew Bourne’s “Sleeping Beauty” is a retelling of the classic fairy tale that captivates audiences with its stunning choreography, imaginative sets, and incredible storytelling. This critically acclaimed ballet production is renowned for its bold and innovative interpretation of the classic story, making it a must-see for fans of dance and theatre alike. This production is now in Cardiff at Wales Millennium Centre until Saturday 4 February 2023.

For the purpose of this review, we were given free entries to Matthew Bourne’s, Sleeping Beauty.

At its core, “Sleeping Beauty” tells the story of Princess Aurora, who is cursed at birth to prick her finger on the spindle of a spinning wheel and fall into a deep sleep for 100 years. When she is finally awoken by the kiss of a prince, she finds herself in a strange and unfamiliar world, full of strange and mysterious creatures.

Bourne’s version of the story is both contemporary and timeless, incorporating elements of gothic horror, Victorian elegance, and fantastical magic. The choreography is breathtaking, blending traditional ballet with contemporary dance styles to create a truly unique and unforgettable experience. The dancers move with grace and precision, bringing the story to life through their movements and expressions.

The set design is also a highlight of the production, with breathtaking sets and stunning costumes that transport the audience to a world of magic and wonder. The use of lighting and special effects adds to the overall ambiance, creating an immersive experience that leaves the audience captivated and entranced.

In addition to the breathtaking dance and stunning visuals, the musical score is also a standout feature of the production. The lush, sweeping melodies are performed live by a full orchestra, adding to the overall impact of the show.

Overall, Matthew Bourne’s “Sleeping Beauty” is a must-see for fans of dance and theatre. Its imaginative retelling of the classic fairy tale, combined with its stunning choreography, beautiful sets, and incredible musical score, make it a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a fan of ballet or simply looking for a unique and captivating night out, “Sleeping Beauty” is not to be missed.

The Company/Cast

King Benedict | Andrew Monaghan, Dominic North, Danny Reubens

Queen Eleanor | Stephanie Billers, Kayla Collymore

Princess Aurora, their daughter | Katrina Lyndon, Ashley Shaw

Leo, the Royal Gamekeeper | Rory Macleod, Andrew Monaghan, Stephen Murray

Count Lilac, King of the Fairies | Paris Fitzpatrick, Dominic North, Christopher Thomas

Carabosse, the Dark Fairy | Ben Brown, Jackson Fisch, Paris Fitzpatrick Caradoc

Caradoc son of Carabosse | Ben Brown, Jackson Fisch, Paris Fitzpatrick

Ardor, the Fairy of Passion | Kayla Collymore, Katrina Lyndon, Bryony Wood

Hibernia, the Fairy of Rebirth | Megan Ferguson, Kurumi Kamayachi, Hannah Kremer

Autumnus, the Fairy of Plenty | James Lovell, Enrique Ngbokota, Christopher Thomas

Feral, the Fairy of Spirit | Jade Copas, Shoko Ito, Kurumi Kamayachi

Tantrum, the Fairy of Temperament | Jackson Fisch, Stephen Murray, Enrique Ngbokota

Lord Rupert, suitor to Aurora | Ben Brown, Isaac Peter Bowry, Cameron Flynn

Viscount Aubrey, another suitor | Benjamin Barlow Bazeley, Perreira de Jesus Franque, Danny Reubens

Sir Evelyn, another suitor | Benjamin Barlow Bazeley, James Lovell, Rory Macleod

Miss Maddox, Aurora’s Nanny | Stephanie Billers, Sophia Hurdley, Shoko Ito, Daisy May Kemp

Flossie, Aurora’s Maid | Jade Copas, Megan Ferguson, Bryony Wood

Archie, palace footman | Benjamin Barlow Bazeley, James Lovell, Rory Macleod

Bertie, palace footman | Isaac Peter Bowry, Ben Brown, Cameron Flynn

Carabosse Attendants | Benjamin Barlow Bazeley, Isaac Peter Bowry, Ben Brown, Cameron Flynn, Pereira de Jesus Franque, Danny Reubens

Caiff Garden Party Guests, Tourists, Sleepwalkers, Caradoc’s Henchmen, Wedding Guests a phypedwyr eu perfformio gan aelodau or Cwmni.

Garden Party Guests, Tourists, Sleepwalkers, Caradoc’s Henchmen, Wedding Guests and puppeteers all performed by members of the Company.

A big thank you to Wales Millennium Centre for having us.

The length of this musical

The show runs for approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes, including the interval.

Getting your tickets

You can purchase your tickets HERE. The tickets start from £18.00 and the show is available from 31 January – 4 February 2023. There is medium to high availability in most days at the moment and remember to check the times of the shows, as they may vary.

Age guidance: 5+ (no under 2s). Further details can be found on their website.

If you have already watched this production, let us know your thoughts in the comments below or if you go to watch it, come back here if you can and left us know too. 

Thank you for reading. 

Stay safe

Kay

The post Matthew Bourne’s Sleeping Beauty at Wales Millennium Centre – Review appeared first on This Is Cardiff.

Bugsy Malone The Musical has landed at the Wales Millennium Centre until Saturday 21st January. Bringing back memories from the 90’s. At that time, the Alan Parker Bugsy Malone film was still a hit and a pleasure to watch. It was so amazing as a child seeing an all children cast, with child actors such as Jodie Foster and Scott Baio. The songs were so catchy and after watching the movie just once, you would have memorised all of the soundtracks. Yes, it was that good.

For the purpose of this review, we were given free entries to Bugsy Malone, The Musical.

Background

“Bugsy Malone” is a musical comedy film released in 1976, directed by Alan Parker and written by Parker and Hall Bartlett. It features a cast of child actors and an all-singing, all-dancing cast, and is set in the 1920s in New York City. The film was a commercial and critical success and has since become a cult classic with catchy songs and witty dialogue. A stage musical adaptation of the film premiered in London’s West End in 1979. The show has been performed in many countries and it is still being performed as a school, community and professional production.

We attended the musical on their opening night and to make the most of this experience, our mini TIC member (9 years old) came along too.

The set is based on Fat Sam’s speakeasy and mixes showgirls and New York gangsters to take us along a journey of love, deception, gang wars and big dreams. At the beginning we were wondering if it would be an all children cast like in the film, but during the first couple of minutes you get to see that the main characters are children with the rest of the cast being slightly older. And it is totally understandable and good that they have kept the main characters children, because that was the whole point of the film.

There are no real guns on show and instead there is ones loaded with cream, which to some children can be confusing but yet they may find it to be fun. Each child and cast member performed phenomenally and their choreography was so on point and fun to watch. They were entertaining, the children were so professional in their singing and acting. There were funny one liners and some interacting with the audience, especially at the end of the show.

Plot

In Act 1 you will hear songs such as Tomorrow, Bad Guys and I’m Feeling Fine.

The story begins with the arrival of Bugsy Malone, a young and ambitious gangster, to New York City. He quickly rises through the ranks of the local gangs, earning the respect of their leaders, Fat Sam and Dandy Dan. Along the way, he also catches the eye of Blousey Brown, a young singer who works at Fat Sam’s speakeasy. As Bugsy and Blousey’s relationship develops, tensions between the gangs come to a head and a full-scale gang war erupts.

In Act 2 you will hear My name is Tallulah, So You Wanna be a Boxer and Give a Little love.

As the war rages on, Bugsy and Blousey must navigate the dangerous world of the gangs while also trying to keep their romance alive. Along the way, they are faced with betrayal, heartbreak, and difficult choices. In the end, Bugsy must decide between his love for Blousey and his loyalty to his fellow gangsters.

Summary

For us there were some outstanding scenes and funny ones too. We do not want to give too much away but there is a car scene that is very funny and well set up. When “My Name is Tallulah” was performed, it was awesome and so heart warming.

As the main characters are children it adds a touch of innocence and humor to the story, making this show great for families and audiences of all ages. With catchy songs and witty dialogue, Bugsy Malone is a musical adventure that will transport you back to the Roaring Twenties. If you ever have a chance to see it live, don’t miss it!

A special congratulations has to go to the main cast: Gabriel Payne (Bugsy), Mia Lakha (Blousey), Albie Snelson (Fat Sam), Jasmine Sakyiama (Tallulah) and Aidan Oti (Fizzy) because they are so talented and had beautiful and unique voices. We are sure you guys have inspired many of the children that went to see you that night, to achieve their dreams. And of course a big congratulations to the supporting cast too, because it was an all around brilliant performance.

A big thank you to Wales Millennium Centre for having us.

The length of this musical

The show runs for approximately 2 hours, including the interval.

Getting your tickets

You can purchase your tickets HERE. The tickets start from £17.50 and the show is available until Saturday 21st January. Age guidance: 6+. Please check the link for times as they may vary, depending on the day.

If you have already watched this production, let us know your thoughts in the comments below or if you go to watch it, come back here if you can and left us know too. 

Thank you for reading. 

Stay safe

Kay

The post Bugsy Malone at Wales Millennium Centre – Review appeared first on This Is Cardiff.

This is a sponsored post

We were kindly invited to Treetop Adventure Golf. Located in Level P3 in St. David’s, Cardiff City Centre.

There are four locations in the UK, one which it’s in the heart of Cardiff. Adventure golf consists of two 18 hole mini golf courses. Tropical Trail or Ancient Explorer. On the day you get to choose if you would like to do one or both courses and which course you would like to do, if you have chosen one.

We choose the Ancient Explorer course. There is The Sacred Mask and Chief Slumber. And along the way you will be distracted by the singing frogs, which we find awesome. It was great fun competing with the kids and between us we managed to score 4 holes in 1. Sadly for the kids, in the end the adults won.

At the entrance you are given a score card and a pencil and you are able to take the score of each playing member and add the total at the end. The facility counts with lockers, so you don’t have to carry your bag along and you can enjoy the experience without distractions.

Once you reach the end of the course, you get the opportunity to redeem yourself by having a Bonus 19th hole, which gives you the chance to win a FREE game on your next visit. We didn’t win this time but it was nice to be given a chance like that, specially with such a reward.

Fun Memories – Let’s not forget the photo booth. It is practical because your photos get sent straight to your email address. So there is no carrying photos around and there’s no chance to lose your photo.

After the excitement of mini golf, along came the pizzas and drinks at Pizza Cabana. The team were very friendly and helpful when it came to the dietary needs we had and we were all able to enjoy pizzas, without an issue. It is nice to be able to go to a place where you don’t feel left out because you cannot eat anything, specially when you are with kids, so we were happy for the inclusion.

Their new festive menu is available until Monday 2nd January 2023 and features Pigs ‘n’ Blankets Pizza, the Express Snowtini and more.

Prices:

18 holes (1 Course)

Adventurers £9.75
Senior masters (60+) £8.25
Young (under 5s) £4.50
Student putters* £8.25
Family of 4** £31

36 holes (2 courses)

Adventurers £15
Senior masters (60+) £12.50
Young (under 5s) £7.50
Student putters* (+FREE bottled beer, cider, 125ml wine or soft drink) £12.50
Family of 4** £48

*with valid student photo ID
** Family must have one child 12 years or under

NEW OFFER

Now the Early Bird offer is available on Sundays 10-12pm. Play 2 courses for the price of 1.
Monday to Friday: Before 1pm
Sundays: Before Midday

Note: Includes summer holidays. Excludes all other bank holidays and school holidays. Both courses to be played on the same visit.

Summary:

The kids had a blast and it is a good indoor activity. We all know what this UK weather is like, so this is something else fun to do in Cardiff indoors. It is an opportunity to let your competitive side out and to just have fun. There’s the Cabana, for food if you are hungry, there are lockers to store your items, the facility has toilets and most importantly the staff members are kind, friendly and always there to help out with queries and anything you have in mind.

Location:

Level P3
St David’s
Cardiff, CF10 2EL

Thanks to Treetop Adventure Golf in Cardiff for having us. We had a blast.

Be Safe

Thank you for reading.

Kay

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Thrilling, Captivating and Emotional

Les Misérables has landed at Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff and they will be there from 13 December 2022 until 14 January 2023. This is a show not to be missed! Les Misérables has been a hit on the stage since it first opened in London in 1985. It has been performed in 42 countries and seen by over 70 million people. The show has won numerous awards and accolades, including three Laurence Olivier Awards and a Tony Award for Best Musical.

For the purpose of this review, we were given free entries to Les Misérables.

Les Misérables is a beloved classic novel by Victor Hugo, first published in 1862. Set in 19th-century France, the story follows the struggles of ex-convict Jean Valjean as he seeks redemption and strives to make a better life for himself and those around him. With compelling characters, a gripping plot, and a powerful message of justice and hope, Les Misérables has captivated readers for generations. It has been adapted for the stage and screen many times, and remains an enduring work of art.

Plot

The show follows Jean Valjean as he embarks on a journey of redemption after his release from prison. Along the way, he meets a variety of characters, including the cruel Inspector Javert and the kindly Fantine. The story is filled with heartfelt moments, as well as thrilling action scenes. You will see the love story unfolding, between Cosette and Marius. The Inspectors ultimate fate. And Éponine’s constant struggles with love.

The music in Les Misérables is an integral part of the show, with its stirring ballads, dramatic ensemble pieces and uplifting choruses that reach into the depths of the audience’s soul. The show has some of the most iconic musical theatre songs of all time, including the heart-wrenching “I Dreamed a Dream”, the soulful “On My Own”, and the powerful “One Day More” that encapsulate the spirit of the musical. The musical score is a powerful reflection of the emotions of the characters, allowing us to further understand the story and immerse ourselves in the world of the musical. The music of Les Misérables is truly a masterpiece and an unforgettable experience.

Les Misérables has been translated into almost every major language, and it has been studied by generations of students in classrooms around the world. Its themes of justice, mercy, and redemption have inspired generations of readers to think more deeply about their own lives and the world around them.

Summary

This is the second time we watch this show and this time it felt like the very first time. It is fresh, the cast do an amazing job in captivating you with their characters and immersing you in this era. The songs were emotional and we had tears in our eyes when “On My Own” was being performed by Éponine (Siobhan O’Driscoll.)
Nic Greenshields returns to Cardiff to once again grace us with his voice and what a pleasure it was to be there. We cannot deny the amazing talent this actor has. His voice gives goosebumps, prepare yourself when you hear “Stars.” And how can we forget Dean Chisnall, who is back again as Jean Valjean. Both actors do an outstanding job.

What was our favourite performance? We have a few, but the one that stands out for us because of its comedy is “Master Of The House.” This was performed by Thénardier (Ian Hughes) and his wife, Madame Thénardier (Helen Walsh.) We would like to mention that Ian Hughes is from Merthyr Tydfil, so it is a very special moment to have someone Welsh in this wonderful play.

We will like to say a huge congratulations to the cast of Les Misérables, because they all did a phenomenal job. When we left the theatre, people’s faces were beaming with joy and we heard a few people commenting that they will sit and watch it all over again. From our side we were excited to watch it, but a little hesitant at the same time due to the length of the play, however when you sit there you lose track of time and before you know it, it is the end of Act 1. So this time we didn’t feel the 2 hours and 50 mins and if we did, it was worth it.

Cast members

Jean Valjean played by Dean Chisnall

Javert played by Nic Greenshields

Bishop of Digne played by Rick Zwart

Fantine played by Lauren Drew

Bamatabois played by George Arvidson

Madame played by Tessa Kadler

Little Cosette played by Mali Sylvester
Emma Roberts
Yasmin Teodosio

Madame Thénardier played by Helen Walsh

Young Éponine played by Cadi Mair Peart
Mali Grug Evans Davies
Maddison Belle Platt

Thénardier played by Ian Hughes

Éponine played by Siobhan O’Driscoll

Cosette played by Paige Blankson
——
Enjolras played by Samuel Wyn-Morris

Marius played by Will Callan

Combeferre played by Jordan Simon Pollard

Feuilly played by Harry Chandler

Courfeyrac played by Will Barratt

Joly played by Joseph McDonnell

Grantaire played by Raymond Walsh

Legles played by Dean Read

Jean Prouvaire played by Caleb Lagayan

Swings played by Aidan Banyard
Emily Olive Boyd
Damian Kneale
Jamie Pritchard
Rebecca Ridout
——
Directed by James Powell and Laurence Connor
Lyrics by Herbert Kretzmer
Musical staging by Geoffrey Garratt
Sound by Mick Potter
Lighting by Paule Constable
Costume design by Andreane Neofitou and Christine Rolland

A big thank you to Wales Millennium Centre for having us.

The length of this musical

The show runs for approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes, including the interval.

Where to purchase tickets for Les Misérables at Wales Millennium Centre?

Tickets for Les Misérables at Wales Millennium Centre can be purchased on their website. The show will be in Cardiff Bay until 14 January 2023. Ticket prices start from £22.50 onwards, click HERE to book your tickets now. Age guidance: 8+, no under 2’s (please check their website for more details.) There is medium to high availability in most days at the moment and remember to check the times of the shows, as they may vary specially now during the festive season.

If you have already watched this production, let us know your thoughts in the comments below or if you go to watch it, come back here if you can and left us know too. 

Thank you for reading. 

Stay safe

Kay

The post Les Misérables at Wales Millennium Centre – Review appeared first on This Is Cardiff.

My Fair Lady has landed in Cardiff’s Wales Millennium Centre and it will be here until 26 November. The Lincoln Center Theater Production award winning show is on tour in the UK and now we get the chance to enjoy it in our Welsh capital.  

For the purpose of this review, we were given free entries to My Fair Lady.

Earlier on in the week, we had the opportunity to attend My Fair Lady’s press night. As usual the atmosphere in the Donald Gordon Theatre is electric and you see smiles all around the room.

My Fair Lady is a production based on George Bernard Shaw’s 1913 play Pygmalion, with a book and lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner and music by Frederick Loewe. This show has had success at London’s West End and has been on tour for over 15 years. My Fair Lady is a story about a young lady, named Eliza Doolittle. She is a Cockney flower seller. In this story you also get to know Henry Higgins, a professor, whose only mission is to change the way Eliza speaks and make her into a descent lady. It is a story about transformation and love, with a couple of twists and deceptions along the way. 

Act 1

In this act we will be introduced to Eliza and Professor Higgins. You will hear songs such as Why Can’t the English?, Wouldn’t It Be Loverly? – Eliza and The “Loverly” Quartet. With A Little Bit of Luck – Dolittle + Company. I Could Have Danced All Night, The Rain In Spain, On The Street Where You Live. 

Act 2

In this act you will hear songs, such as You Did it, Get Me to the Church On Time, Without You, I’ve Grown Accustomed to Her Face. 

Apart from the beautiful costumes, the creative set and the occasional funny one liners, the show was very entertaining. It was a story that in our opinion it is relatable to many women and it reminded us slightly of Jack in Titanic, where he had to learn to dress decently, how to use cutlery correctly and how to speak. The story also showed the rocky relationship that Eliza (Charlotte Kennedy) had with Alfie, her father (who is none other than actor Adam Woodyatt from EastEnders.) Yes, you read that right.
This was an emotional, but liberating process for Eliza as she finally sets herself free from that situation. My Fair Lady is about hope, change and most importantly affection, because after Eliza had made the changes Professor Higgins (Michael D. Xavier) had helped her to achieve, the people around her grew to love her and care for her.

All of the cast members did a fantastic job, but we have to praise Charlotte Kennedy for her talent and voice, it was beautiful and soothing. Michael D. Xavier did a great job of giving Professor Higgins the character and charisma, that we enjoyed so much. And we also have to mention John Middleton who plays Colonel Pickering, because he was outstanding and we loved his celebration dance.

Nevertheless we were left with some unanswered questions. Questions such as: Do Eliza and Professor Higgins end up just being friends? Do they end up being a couple? We think that in the end, some of us were left with mixed responses but it leaves things to the imagination.

Costumes

The costumes were beautiful, elegant and sophisticated. You will see corsets, top hats and women wearing very elegant dresses with big hats. And yes, we have a favourite costume. But we won’t describe it, because you have to see it with your own eyes. She looked beautiful! 

Stage and props

The stage had a set mechanism we had never seen before, with Professor Higgins study being a rotating set where on one side there is the study and on the opposite side the entrance to the house with a staircase. We found this set amazing and so practical. It was a very clever set. Well done to the team that came up with this idea. 

In Act 1 there is the scene where they are all at the horse races (Scene 6) and the horses are galloping and we hear the sound travel all around the room, from one side to the other. We had never been to a play where they did this before. It was awesome and made the scene seem so much more realistic. 

Cast members

Eliza Doolittle, played by Charlotte Kennedy 

Professor Henry Higgins, played by Michael D. Xavier

Alfred P Doolittle, played by Adam Woodyatt (from EastEnders)

Mrs Pearce, played by Lesley Garrett

Colonel Pickering, played by John Middleton (from Emmerdale)

Mrs Higgins, played by Heather Jackson

Freddy Eynsford-HIll, played by Tom Liggins

The “Loverly” Quartet, played by Joseph Claus, Jordan Crouch, Tom Ping and Oliver Tester

Frank, The Bartender, played by Paul Westwood

Book and lyrics by: Alan Jay Lerner

Music by: Frederick Loewe

Directed by: Bartlett Sher 

A big thank you to Wales Millennium Centre for having us.

The length of this musical

The show runs for approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes, including the interval.

Where to purchase tickets for My Fair Lady at Wales Millennium Centre

Tickets for My Fair Lady at Wales Millennium Centre can be purchased on their website. The show will be in Cardiff Bay until 26 November. Ticket prices start from £19.50 onwards, click HERE to book your tickets now. Age guidance: 8+ (please check their website for more details.) There is medium to high availability in most days at the moment and remember to check the times of the shows, as they may vary.

If you have already watched this production, let us know your thoughts in the comments below or if you go to watch it, come back here if you can and left us know too.

Thank you for reading.

Stay safe

Kay

The post My Fair Lady at Wales Millennium Centre – Review appeared first on This Is Cardiff.