Ten years on since USHERS first came to the stage and the first opportunity I’ve had to watch it. The Musical comedy is an inside view into how the front of house teams in a theatre might behave, although it is fair to say you wouldn’t want too many bosses like Robin (Daniel Paige).
Luke Bayer as Ben has a long-standing relationship with partner Gary (Cleve September). Gary has signed up to work in Austria for a year and the two are barely talking to one another after Gary delivered the news to Ben.
Star-obsessed Rosie (Bethany Amber Perrins) breaks every rule going as the tik tok “Theatre Ninja” posting videos online that are forbidden due to her job. However, the character’s ditzy attitude and love of the Leading Men have you rooting for her to come out on top no matter what she does.
Lucy (Danielle Rose) arrives for her first shift. Thrown into the world of USHERS which she doesn’t understand and quickly picks up the “slang” while trying to make sense of the chemistry reaction she is having with fellow worker Stephen (Christopher Foley).
However, the star of the show belongs to Theatre Manager Robin. Paige’s performance as the overbearing, lecherous, misogynist failed Opera Singer is outstanding. His over-the-top attitudes towards his staff are disgusting. It takes a great actor to pull off playing such a dislikeable character while still loving the actor.
References to recent Theatre productions are thrown into conversations throughout the evening. Some are rather curt and met with laughter or gasps. There are several references made to the long-running musical Mumma Mia. Listen out to hear if your favourite gets a shout-out.
Director Max Reynold, alongside choreographer Adam Haigh, have brilliantly bought new life into USHERS since the now ten year old book by James Rottger first came to the stage.
USHERS is the performance before and after the main event that the Theatregoers never watch. Where the overpriced drinks and programmes are all that matters to those in charge. If they hit their targets there’s something to sing about. It’s an all-round funny and entertaining night at the Theatre where perhaps “Anything Goes”!
For more information about USHERS and future productions at The Other Palace please visit the link below.
Five Stars.
Photo credit Craig Fuller
Home
Theatre, Films and Art reviews 