Reader Reviews
Burlesque (Jermyn Street Theatre, Inner London)
Back to Show Details| Score | Comment | Date |
 | On a scale of one to Matilda (!) this is an outstanding new British musical - engaging, funny, engrossing, entertaining and ultimately thought-provoking. It is served well by its cast and comes to life on the tiny Jermyn Street Theatre stage. Some work on the first Act is still required but, overall, the show is in fine shape for a transfer to a larger West End Theatre. - seejaybe43 | 21 Dec 11 |
| Rich, touching, and fun production that transcends the tiny studio. I'm from a generation where McCarthyism was a recent phenomenon so I'm wary of light-hearted treatment of it, but this really works well. - Nick Palmer | 19 Nov 11 |
| This needs a bigger life and a bigger stage. It is at long last a good new Brit musical with a book and songs you really care for. There was more than just a piano?! I hope it goes further. The two old 'theatre husband & wife trooper' leads were just excellent With some very strong support from the men in the company. Sadly the girls needed better voices. I hope we hear more of it. - outonthefringe | 17 Nov 11 |
| From the American wireless programme playing when one enters the auditorium to the intimate atmosphere, the Jermyn Street Theatre lends itself to this musical. The show starts with us meeting Freddie the owner of the Palace Theatre (Linal Haft) and Lula the co-owner (Buster Skeggs). Onto the Theatre star comedian double act Rags Ryan (Chris Holland) and Johnny Reno (Jon-Paul Hevey). You would think they had played together for years their timing is so good, Holland is so funny to Reno’s straight man. Another star of the Burlesque experience is Honey Hogan (Alicia Davies) who is the long suffering girlfriend of Johnny. The songs vary from comedy knockabout to lively company numbers and some great solos. Burlesque includes excellent comedy, dark drama and explores personal relationships on various levels as part of the excellent story line. More than two hours flash by. The actors mentioned above are all quality and Holland in particular has a wonderful singing voice. The supporting team add to the production. The performance includes live music. The pianist is terrific. The occasional tenor sax brilliant. I loved this musical and immediately booked to go again. - Peter Stanniland | 14 Nov 11 |
