Feel-good cheezefest
A feel-good cheezefest if ever there was one, “Now That’s What I Call a Musical” delivers a nostalgia-packed ride through the 80s, all wrapped up in a heartwarming—if predictable—story of friendship. As part of the Liverpool Empire’s centenary celebrations, the show brings a jukebox musical extravaganza to the stage, celebrating the iconic hits of the decade with all the flair and flamboyance one could hope for.
Led by a stellar cast, including Maia Hawkins (Younger April), Nikita Johal (Younger Gemma), Sam Bailey (April) and Nina Wadia (Gemma), the show boasts a strong ensemble that works tirelessly to sell every moment. The exceptional comedic timing across the board ensures that even the corniest lines land with charm. Particularly impressive is how well the older and younger versions of the main characters mirror each other’s mannerisms—clearly a testament to sharp casting choices. The chemistry between the two generations of characters adds depth, making the emotional beats land more effectively than expected.
The production itself is visually stunning, with show-stopping set designs that bring the neon-tinged world of the 80s to life. Craig Revel’s direction and choreography add polish and energy to the piece, making the musical numbers pop with vibrant movement and flair. The dance sequences are particularly engaging, capturing the joyful essence of the era while adding theatrical spectacle – even though sometimes they are considerably 80’s cringy. Costume design also plays a big role in the nostalgia factor, with bold colors, big hair, and dazzling outfits that transport audiences straight back to the golden age of pop.
However, as with many jukebox musicals, the integration of songs into the plot isn’t always seamless. Some numbers feel awkwardly shoehorned in, with “Hey Mickey” standing out as the biggest offender. The storyline, while sweet, occasionally veers into cringeworthy territory—especially when dealing with teenage crushes that lack the depth of a more fleshed-out romance. That said, the overall message of friendship and personal growth remains endearing, offering a feel-good experience that many audience members will appreciate.
And then, of course, there are the accents. Aware of the irony of me reviewing this sjow from Liverpool, however, some of the dialect choices are eyebrow-raising, if not outright bizarre. While it doesn’t detract too much from the overall enjoyment, it’s a curious detail that might leave some audience members scratching their heads.
A standout moment of the night was the guest appearance by Liverpool legend Sonia, whose presence was a treat for the hometown crowd. It was a fitting tribute to the city’s musical heritage and added an extra layer of excitement to an already lively production. The audience’s reaction to Sonia was electric, and her performance further elevated the celebratory nature of the show.
With 20 classic pop songs, a talented cast, and dazzling visuals, “Now That’s What I Call a Musical” delivers exactly what it promises—a fun, high-energy night at the theatre. While it may not be the most sophisticated production, it knows its audience well. Fans of 80s music and feel-good musicals will find plenty to love, and it’s hard not to walk away smiling and humming along. If you’re in the mood for a blast from the past with plenty of heart, this show is well worth a watch.