• It's gritty. A real piece of drama with violent and dangerous scenes on the picket line. 
• It's light hearted. Thanks to his loopy gran, ballet sessions and best friend. 
• It's emotional. A tear jerker during tender moments with his mother and at times father.

But ultimately I couldn't have been more proud of the boy who played Billy, Lewis Smallman. Can I just clarify, I have no family or friend connections to him at all, which is why I find it so odd. Maybe I'm getting old or something. But his talent is INCREDIBLE and the angry dance was out of this world. He is the definition of a triple threat and I could gush about him all day.

Book tickets here http://billyelliotthemusical.com/tour-dates/

• The dancers were great actors, with a gripping good vs evil vampire storyline and a feisty Aurora who didn't fall in love with a prince (yipee)
• The set and costumers were grand, gothic and magical. 
• The world class dancing provided a tantalising mix of styles, pace and energy.

To be honest, the whole performance was incredible as is all of Matthew Bourne's work. But, no matter how interesting I may have found it, my Disney hard-wired brain has ultimately decided you can't beat the classic.

*The script is not an excerpt from a scene in the performance. I wrote it using the storyline simply as inspiration.

IMAGE CREDIT https://goo.gl/K14VUp

Dear Valued Customers,

As you are well aware, Kellerman's Hotel and Resort has a long standing tradition of good old family fun with just a dash of rumba to spice up the trip for our more seasoned visitors. However, after a review of last season our advisory board have come to the conclusion that we need a refreshed vision, look and programme that reflects the changes in times.

We hope to accommodate our regulars with strong programme favourites such as bingo, outdoor dominoes and formal dance evenings but also attract new visitors with exciting additions. These include new dance nights allowing 'loose' and 'informal' choreography and an open door policy to all dress codes. The end of show will also take a new shape by steering away from our talent show format, as Johnny Castle takes on the role of creative director.

We know this transition will be a challenge for staff and visitors alike, but we hope you stay with us as we renew our policies to cater for a wider audience. This is an exciting time for our resort, and we are one of the first to be so bold. For your continued support we'd like to offer you a 20% discount on your next stay and a free dance lesson.

Finally I would like to take this opportunity to announce my early retirement from Kellerman's. I have made many memories and friends over the years, who I hope can support my decision to move onto other endeavours. I wish all employees the best of luck and I will continue to be an advocate for Kellerman's in this time of change.

Join hands and hearts and voices
Voices, hearts and hands
At Kellermans the friendships last long
As the mountains stand

Yours faithfully,
M. Kellerman

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Dirty Dancing the Musical delivered everything you would expect.

Every memorable, and even the not so memorable moments were replicated in the show from dancing on a log, putting baby in a corner to 'I carried a watermelon'. The audience understandably went wild every other minute, partly due to the majority of the crowd being female groups who'd had one too many and partly due to the topless 'Johnny Castle'. Expect this a lot. He was very... buff. *cough*

Kellerman's Resort was captured perfectly in the set and used creatively in the transitions. There isn't much to be said for the acting. It was average but it is really damn hard to come even close to such a classic. Even the best actors in the world would fail against the version of Dirty Dancing in my head.

The soundtrack was a winner, so no complaints there.

Really, this musical is a trip down memory lane, a fun night out and a chance to collectively boogie along to some of the most enjoyable songs of all time. Don't expect a Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey and you'll be fine.

Have the time of your life (sorry) at http://www.dirtydancingontour.com/tickets/tour-tickets/

IMAGE CREDIT http://goo.gl/cdkFFZ

I am unsure how to begin this letter. To expose a truth that will affect so many people. So I will begin where it began, the day I met Derren.

He'd been transferred to my class after misbehaving in another. He was confident, mischievous and quickly became known as the trickster. Only small things, you know, like loosening screws on a teachers chair legs or putting super glue on the end of their chalk sticks. It escalated to the point where he could orchestrate a full class to follow his command. No matter how severe the punishment, at least eraser duty seemed extreme back then, the class would follow the plan or at minimum encourage it. I think it was because he was a polite boy with good grades and a large vocabulary. A smooth talker, clever charmer or as you know him powerful performer.

I'd sit quietly in the back and observe the show. Oh he was good, no doubt about that but he wasn't great. I knew he needed me but I had to convince him of that fact.

He swanned into class one day and began devising his next trick. I could see him jotting down notes on a paper. Luckily for him his natural intelligence got him through high school comfortably so his mind could wander without much impact. I knew immediately his plan could be improved, they all could and this was no different. I passed him a note saying 'apples you see but labs the key'. I'm a cryptic person and he's a fast learner. The face that lifted from the note was one I will always remember. His eyes wide and hungry. His smile small and hiding his true excitement.

The teacher ended up in the middle of the sports hall taped to a trampoline in his boxers and tie. He never remembered how he ended up their yet it remained the most memorable event in the schools history. I love irony.

That began our partnership.

'Miracle' is my final tour. It has proven to be the one I reveal the truth. The miracle that I am the mastermind. The Derren you see is a fraud. The Derren you know is a fake. The Derren you love is finished. I can not stand by any longer, or more accurately sit on the sides any longer and let him take the glory. I devised his tricks, trained his mind and honed his skills. I also mixed up the formula that numbs the mind, making it susceptible to almost anything - an unnoticeable scratch on the surface of the skin, a drop in your drink or a injection in your apple and the key to the whole damn act.

----------------------

This was a last minute theatre trip that I had the highest expectations of. I've heard only great things about this great man and he was absolutely a great showman. He has flair and exudes this old school charm that is sprinkled with mischievous humour.

The first half was Derren at his best, clearly in his element. Reveling in a series of successful tricks that feed the mind through power of persuasion. However, I did not enjoy the second half in the slightest. He commits to staging a reenactment of some well known 'miracles' to prove a point but it was lost through my irritation and hatred of the point - one that I ironically agree with. I only wish he did more of the first half - that was the stuff that wowed me.

I am not Derren, you are entitled to make up your own mind. Catch the show before it's gone http://derrenbrown.co.uk/on-stage/

*the letter above is obviously a piece of fiction - please read as such.
**the review is very much my opinion - please read as such.

Edward Scissorhands is an incredible man with an incredible story. He has seen much acclaim due to his unusual, often unbelievable past and of course the cult film adaptation of his life. Edward still lives on his own, peering down on the love of his life from afar, with no plans to return to the limelight. However, I scooped an exclusive and rare meeting with the man himself, to discuss Matthew Bournes interpretation of his life story.

Image Credit: http://nicetogeekyou.com/2014/04/19/burton-ballet/

Entry into the, what most people have come to call, castle on a hill was strangely uplifting. You would assume that I would encounter a dark and dreary estate to reflect a somewhat tragic story. Yet the grounds were leafy green, the hedges were neatly sculptured and the sun was suspended just to the right of the mansion gifting light around the grounds. The gates had recently been reinforced thanks to charitable donations aiming to protect what has become a national treasure. The mansion itself however remained outdated and broken, almost capturing this mans spirit. I was ushered into a large bare space, seated on a green leather couch and asked to turn off all electronic equipment. With my note pad and pen in hand, Edward Scissorhands shuffled into the room, stood no more than 2 metres away and waited.

Hi Edward, thank you for your time today, myself and the readers are extremely excited to here from such an iconic figure.
Edward shifts his head to the right.

I know you have limited time today and I only have a few questions regarding the stage adaptation of your life. I smile nervously, hoping for a response.
Edward doesn't move.

I shift in my seat and begin, understanding this was to be brief and to the point. It has been a long time since you have allowed someone access to your story. Why did you agree to this interpretation?
The film was like a documentary. A lot of people saw it. Yet it was a long time ago. The time felt good. Good to retell my story. In a new way.

What do you gain from telling your story either through film or stage?
People understand. I am not a monster. I am not. He shifts his head back to centre.

Matthew Bourne left you with example video extracts expressing your story through dance. Was it the evidence of a powerful show that drew you to agree or the impressive backlog of work from Matthew himself?
Both.

He was a man of few words. It felt rude to ask for more yet... Could you explain a little further?
Matthew is a fan. Sending kind letters and invites to his shows. I know a lot are popular. I see emotion in his movement. He shifts his weight forward very slightly. This is stronger than words.

I swiftly move into my next question knowing it is much sought after information. His version differs slightly from the film. Which one truly reflects your life, if any?
Edward stands upright and stares wide eyed into the distance. I wait a couple of seconds hoping for an answer. Many people have speculated about the true events of his past. How much is actually divulged? Does he alter sections to conceal his true hurt? Some more negative people say he fabricates stories - that he is a fantasist and recluse. It looks like we will not get an answer today. I move on hoping I haven't damaged his engagement in this meeting.

Edward. His gaze falls onto me. What part of the show do you enjoy most?
The neighbours. You see lots. Different types of families. I met a lot of people. Nice and. And not so. 

It is definitely a very colourful and exciting section. You met a lot of interesting people who are brought to life on stage through simple yet precise choreography. What do you want the people who watch this show to experience?
He lifts his chin, closes his eyes and releases a breath. Life. 

With that final line, Edward lifts the right side of his mouth upwards for only a fleeting second but remains to be a moment that will last in my mind. I smile. Thank you.

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Edward was endearing, innocent and uplifting from the moment he shuffled on stage. All of the impressive scenes from the film were captured in moments of magic. It's true, you forget words aren't present as only movement takes you on this emotional journey. Finally, the iconic and powerful music is sprinkled throughout the show and is guaranteed to give you goose pimples.

If there is any show to watch this year, it's this one and it doesn't come around often. It's as rare and beautiful as a diamond.

*Obviously the interview is fictional.
** But the show is truly amazing.

Follow this link to see if Matthew Bournes Edward Scissorhands is touring near you: http://new-adventures.net/edward-scissorhands/tour-dates

N.B. This is not an extract from the play. It is an original piece that I wrote. 

I am a little late to the party, OK two months late but lets lock that tardiness into a box and focus on the wonder that is the Slava Snow Show.


This is an unforgettable experience, I won't call it a show as you do not sit back and simply watch actors on stage, you physically and emotionally experience this event.

This shows involves clowns but not your typical "intense stare, psychopath smile, knife holding" ones. These clowns are endearing, warming and without a doubt hilarious. You follow two different styles of clowns who are trained to perfection. It is amazing how a small movement of a body part could decide whether you laugh hysterically or indeed sigh with sympathy.

You are taken on a magical journey. A journey that ultimately makes no sense. If you want a gritty drama involving characters with motives, then leave the venue immediately. However, if you want two hours of wonder that erases work and family problems for a while, then this is your lucky day.

Adults suddenly revert into 5 year old children, indeed I was giggling as much as the toddler behind me! Where else can you watch a boat sailing through clouds, play with 10 foot inflatable balls and feel snowstorms inside a theatre! I feel sorry for any adult who wouldn't enjoy this event, as you would be missing a very innocent part of your soul. (harsh but true)

Magical, beautiful and honestly unforgettable.

I hope it returns this winter, where I plan on buying front row seats.

Cabaret the UK Tour jazz danced its political booty straight into the Alhambra Theatre, Bradford last September and I was lucky enough to park my rear in time for the show.

'Deliciously dirty and daring' Gina Cooke, 27.11.13

It is important to know the story is set in 1931, Berlin as the Nazis are rising to power. This political plot is the subconscious heart beat that drives the show and anyone with a basic knowledge of history would guess it is what inevitably darkens the plot.

The forefront of the story follows the life of ditzy performer Sally Bowles and American writer Cliff Bradshaw, who have a raunchy and rocky path ahead.

Siobhan Dillon portrays Sally as a youthful, excitable and slightly annoying performer searching for stardom. The characters self centered nature and fast paced dialogue initially irritated me but I think she brought much needed energy to what is a fairly dull story line. Her naivety and optimism enabled the audience a fresh angle at such a difficult part of history.

The Master of Ceremonies and compare of the show, Emcee, was played by Pop Idol winner Will Young. His voice was, as expected, technically the best, but his superb acting skills is what surprised me. Emcee is an odd, twisted and schizophrenic character, and one I imagine is a very difficult part to play. He also brings most of the shows humour, specifically look out for the bed scene. Comedy gold.

The bright lights and fosse dancing brought the story to life, helping to narrate the frivolous beginnings and inevitable demise of life in Germany.

Cabaret is a deliciously daring and dirty show full of oddity. The story is fairly basic, but the music, characters and choreography are exceptional.

This is one of my favourite musicals, so no pressure guys... Thankfully I was not let down by this touring production - in fact I was pleasantly surprised!

The musical is set in 1920's Chicago - who'd have guessed it?  It closely follows two murdering vixens, Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly. Both whom desperately crave and fight for the media's attention. They are ushered along by a smooth yet sleazy lawyer who is no stranger to the paparazzi lifestyle; with a name like, Billy Flynn, I'm not surprised.

The first thing that hit me when the curtains opened, was the orchestra placed smack bang in the middle of the set! This is highly unusual as they are normally hidden away in a dark place under the stage - so I was excited to see what a difference this would make. The answer; a great one! I feel the visible band created a sense of inclusion on the audiences part. I honestly felt like I'd gone for a drink in a dodgy yet intriguing jazz club, enjoying the smoky atmosphere with a couple hundred other visitors. The band and the characters were fully aware of our presence, who made sure we followed their crime filled story. The orchestra were far from a hindrance as they became apart of the stage, where choreography and scenes were blended into the tier band stands; definitely utilising all of the available space on set.

So, I inevitably started comparing this stage version to the film version of 'Chicago' starring Renee Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Richard Gere. I know, I know. I shouldn't, as they're two completely different mediums, it would be unfair to do such a thing... but I have to at least acknowledge them. There were the obvious cinematography differences and lack of A-Listers but the stage version was a welcome change for these simple reasons:

1) Watching the 'bob fosse' themed choreography live, executed with excruciating precision was incredible.
2) It had a darker, slower paced and sexier feel - much more appropriate to the storyline.
3) Hearing the songs performed live by actors with impressive vocal skills always trumps pre-recorded versions.
4) Being a part of the live, jazz infused, underground bar (secretly a theatre) is not to be missed.

Ali Bastian combined a playful and naive Roxy with the seductive bite of a fierce lady. Perfection. Tupele Dorgu gave a fresh boost to the character of Velma, updating her to the 21st century. I have to give her credit for her high stamina as she powered through her many physically tough numbers and big ballads. Stefan Booth simply melted on stage as he played a smooth and manipulative Billy Flynn. He was quietly commanding which secretly screamed powerful. Finally I give a massive round of applause to the ensemble, as without them, it would not have been anywhere near as impressive. Ensemble you are unbelievably talented - I would class you the stars of Chicago.

This musical is guilty of murder and it is also charged on the account of being too dirty, devious and sexy. A combination not welcomed in reality, but sneaking away for a night of fantasy does no harm... right?

Could you 'literally' get away with murder?