Review-Witches of Eastwick
March 18, 2009
Date Reviewed: 17th March 2009
Venue: Sunderland Empire
I have never seen the hit movie or London version of this musical so The Witches of Eastwick is a totally new show to me. Being a little unsure as what to expect, I soon found I was wrapped up in the story and thoroughly enjoying the show.
The premise is simple, set in the 1950s there are three friends who live in an American town called Eastwick and wish for the man of their dreams. Then a stranger buys a house, who turns out to be one Darryl Van Horne, the devil himself and the man they had been waiting for. Soon the three women are at his every beck and call, much to the consternation of the good folk of Eastwick. We do have a sub plot regarding one the son of one of the women and his girlfriend, but the main action revolves around the women and Darryl.
While most of the musical numbers are instantly forgettable, with the exception of “Dirty Laundry” they are pleasant enough within the show. But it is Casting Director Kay Magson, who makes this show the excellent vehicle it is. She has brought together three first class leading ladies to portray the “Witches” who cannot be faulted along with a leading man who fits perfectly in to the role of devil Darryl Van Horne.
Marti Pellow (Wet Wet Wet and Chicago) is a revelation as the devil, his energy seems to know no bounds and you can feel the chemistry between him and his leading ladies. Playing the three friends who become the Witches of Eastwick, are Ria Jones as Alexandra, Rebecca Thornhill as Suki and Poppy Tierney as Jane. These leading ladies have appeared in shows such as Les Miserables (Jones and Thornhill both having played Fantine while Tierney has played Cosette), My Fair Lady, Anything Goes, Singing In The Rain, Cats and Mary Poppins and their command of their craft shows. From singing solo to flying high as a trio, these women command the stage and work with Pellow to give a memorable night at the theatre.
Director Nikolai Foster, keeps the action going at a cracking pace and designer Peter McKintosh has kept the designs straight forward but there are several surprises and special effects along the way.
This is definitely a show for adults, which contains humour and four of the best performances you are likely to see in a touring show today.
John Dixon
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