The Curtain Theatre Reviewers

Friday 17th April 2026 "Pirates of Penzance" Melbourne Operatic Society Duchess Theatre, Long Eaton ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars) I have to admit, I haven’t seen Melbourne Operatic Society before and I don’t think I’ve ever seen this show so I came in with no expectations and nothing to compare it to, this however, made it all the more enjoyable. Before the show had even started I felt like I was back in the appreciative era of theatre, the MD walked in after the audience was seated and then the room erupted in applause. The overture lasted around about 10 minutes and already the audience were humming along. During the interval, I spoke to some audience members around me and they expressed their love for the G&S music and we agreed it’s sad to see it’s not being performed much anymore. Having performed in some older, more traditional shows myself I understand the appreciation for these types of shows. The story consists of a young pirate who has just finished his training and has now ...

Tuesday 14th April 2026 "The Wedding Singer"  LEOS Musical Theatre Company May Hall, Trent College ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars) It’s opening night for LEOS at May Hall and it’s sad to see so little people in the audience! Saying that, they were not a quiet audience! The laughs, the cries and pure joy that resonated throughout the auditorium was immense. It is clear they appreciated every word from that stage. Having seen many versions of this show, I have to say, this was one of my favourites. The story tells of a wedding singer named Robbie who falls in love with a waitress named Julia who is already betrothed to someone else, however, this does not stop him from using his charm to get the girl. Set in the 80s, this show brings back a nostalgic feel with a comedic twist. On the whole, the entire cast were very strong, vocally and physically. I especially enjoyed the perfect casting of Natalie Webster playing Julia Sullivan and Shan Bhumbra playing Robbie Hart, harmonising impeccably du...

 Tuesday 7th April 2026 "The Cher Show" Duchess Theatre, Long Eaton ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 Stars) Cher is one of those performers who everyone knows, no matter what generation you’re from. With a career that has lasted decades, she has constantly changed her style, music and image, proving time and time again how talented and unique she really is. From her music to her fashion, she has created a legacy that is still recognised today. As I walked into the auditorium, the first thing that caught my attention was the stage. The set was already visible, with large illuminated letters spelling out “CHER” against a dark background, which instantly set the tone for the show. The use of staging blocks and flight cases gave it a real concert feel, almost like being backstage at a live tour. With disco balls and lighting rigs already in place, it didn’t feel like a traditional musical it felt like a full Cher experience. Even before the show started, there was already a real buzz in the theatre. Whi...