Following a record-breaking world premiere, a new jukebox musical—featuring the hits of multi-platinum pop group Steps—has landed at the Wales Millennium Centre.
Watching this show feels like sitting down to a classic British sitcom like Dinnerladies or Miranda. However, instead of a TV screen, you are met with an incredibly vibrant, neon stage. Not only will you find yourself laughing out loud, but you’ll be tapping your toes to cult classics like “Better the Devil You Know,” “One for Sorrow,” and “5,6,7,8!”
The plot is as relatable as a classic soap opera, which is no surprise given it was penned by Hollyoaks writer Shaun Kitchener. The story follows Caz and her supermarket colleagues as they make a pact to create their own “Summer of Love,” eventually finding themselves fighting to save their beloved workplace from closure.
The production is centred around a massive, neon-lit supermarket called “Better Best Bargains,” complete with checkout tills and aisles numbered 5, 6, 7, and 8. The clever props range from shopping trolleys and bins to disco-ball-filled washing machines.
The audiences’ biggest reaction seemed to be when the character Jem, played by non other than Ru Pauls Drag Race contestant River Medway, took on the fabulous hit Chain Reaction.
However, for me, the standout moments were the solo ballads performed with dramatic power by Lara Denning. Her rendition of “Heartbeat” felt perfectly suited for the stage, filling the theatre with every soul-stirring note.
Will you leave feeling like you’ve witnessed the most profound piece of high art in history? Probably not. But you will leave having had a brilliant laugh, a dance, and a sing-along to the epic Megamix finale.
Whether you’re trying to survive the final stretch of Dry January or simply fancy some effortless fun, it would be a Tragedy if you didn’t book your tickets now.
