Reader Reviews
Jerry Springer - The Opera (Cambridge Theatre, West End)
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 | it is the best thing ever to hit the wast end. i do not know what everyone is going on about it is a bit offensive yes, but it is only acting, noone belives that jesus is gay. i bet half the people who have complaiend havent even seen it. i hope all the protesters realise that they are putting people out of jobs, and preventing others from having a good time and think it takes courage for those actors to stand up there and say those lines so why cant they respect them for it. so y dont all u protesters get a life and realise that it is only acting and nobody belives that jesus is gay . if god had thought it was too offensive he would have stoped it from being performed and broadcasted. to all you protester THANKS ALOTT FOR RUINING MY BIRTHDAY PRESESNT (SCARCASTIC BY THE WAY)(they were ticketc to go and see jerry springer the opera)and just so you all know it was the funniest thing i have ever seen and david bedella has an amazing voice - 62.255.32.13) | 17 Mar 05 |
| This is nothing like I have ever seen before in theatre. Yes, there is alot of swearing and so on, and I think that you would need to be very open minded to see it, but I did enjoy it very much. The voices of the singers are excellent as so is the stage. I will warn you though...IF YOU ARE EASILY OFFENDED, DO NOT GO. A fun night out. - 62.252.64.30) | 20 Jan 05 |
| Mildly entertaining but overall forgettable and rather pointless. The whole thing just seems rather tired - swearing in song stops being funny after half an hour or so, and the lazy moralising is extremely weak and inept. - 81.156.178.164) | 31 Dec 04 |
| Whether you like it or not, this sort of writing may just become an important element in the future of satirical theatre. It's brilliant - harsh, repetitive but fresh and by gosh, so very true. I'd suggest that this is certainly a production for the younger generation, the ones who have grown up with Trash TV. I recently saw The Producers, which is supposed to be all very tongue-in-cheek and spectacularly hysterical. Well, it's not. And Jerry Springer is something more intelligent than that description suggests. I believe that The Producers has waning relevance in the 21st Century, whereas Jerry Springer is indeed very potent indeed. Go and see it while Benjamin Lake is back, or alternatively watch it on BBC2 on Jan 8th! - 81.154.149.113) | 24 Dec 04 |
| An utterly juvenile script and nothing that coud be called a song. Astonishing that all the critics were taken in by this. The show was almost saved by an excellent cast and band, but the titters from the audience when they first heard someone usng the F word died out after about 15 minutes. From this point on, the show has nothing more to offer. A lukewarm response from a smallish audience indicated how let down they all felt, probably having heard about the adoring reviews. By the beginning of the second half there were appreciably more empty seats. Don't bother. There are plenty shows in the West End which send you out with a smile. This is not one of them. - 81.136.201.237) | 01 Dec 04 |
| Definitely over-hyped. Total waste of time and money. How un-surprising to read that the producers of this show that glorifies selfishness and mindlessly shouting down anybody with a different opinion have seen their own relationship break down. I hope the irony isn't lost on them. - 82.33.92.215) | 31 Oct 04 |
| I think this is one of those productions that you either "get" or you "don't get". I certainly get it, and I loved it! - 217.42.62.232) | 29 Oct 04 |
| Apparently this is supposed to be satirical/cynical. If this is the case, why did the National Theatre Shop sell Jerry Springer videos and books and why did Springer himself supported the show (although even he said it was excessive)? The writers must be laughing themselves silly that they have managed to peddle such unmitigated, disjointed rubbish and have it heralded as "art" just because it has profuse swearing. - 81.134.69.67) | 27 Oct 04 |
| Poorest and most pathetic play I have ever seen. Love the comments that make fun or criticise the ones who say this is sh*t, don't really make me think they are that open minded and modern after all... Attack on Christianity is the only thing they have found to make everyone laugh in second half, that's to say how creative this is... Having to resort to so many f* words to make an audiance laugh shows poor sense of imagination... Not only do I not recommend it, but I think anyone in his right mind would not pay the ridiculously high ticket price to get a 50% chance of having a good time... just look at how split the audience is.. I left mid 2nd half, too sad and boring.. and relieved I did not have the silly idea to go with anyone of older age ! How unconfortable that would have been... - 147.62.42.119) | 27 Oct 04 |
| Jerry Springer and the public's obsession with TV stardom is ripe for satire. What a pity that this is nothing more than a pathetic attempt to glorify Springer's abuse at the cost of any style or taste. I have no objection to profuse bad language until it is used simply to shout down anybody who disagrees. The excessive attack on Christianity that forms most of Act Two reminded me of ignorant schoolchildren screaming obscenities simply to cause offence. It's terrifying to watch people luxuriating in this mindless bigotry. - 81.134.85.167) | 22 Oct 04 |
| Just because it contains numerous swear words – it does not mean it is "brilliant" or "shocking" or "original". It starts off well – but it becomes boring after second half. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (195.153.80.130) | 28 Sep 04 |
| It's not brilliant theatre (but then again, there's not much of it in the West End at the moment), but it is spectacularly funny! The singing and music is magnificent, the set delightful and the storyline wonderfully pointless. Just between you and I: the comedy is too "common" for those posh people who think they know it all, so don't worry about the negative reviews! But if you're from the generation that grew up with and appreciated Trash TV, sarcasm and the liberal use of language, you'll love this show! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (195.92.194.17) | 23 Sep 04 |
| If you want to sit and hear people singing 'f*cking this' and 'f*cking that' and hearing grown men saying they want to dress in nappies and shit their pants and get their asses wiped. If that makes you laugh then you'll love it. As for the second half I have no idea I left after the first break and just couldn't be bothered to go back. I consider myself open-minded but even I was quite disgusted and offended by it all. It wasn't funny and it wasn't clever - don't believe the hype. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (194.203.81.11) | 22 Sep 04 |
| Original, funny and has you humming tunes with X rated lyrics. Like many I think this is so much more than a novelty show. I love it as it's like a breath a fresh air in a stale West End. If you want to see something that will leave you smiling, Jerry is the show for you. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (217.42.49.118) | 19 Sep 04 |
| As a fan of all genres of performance art, including musicals AND classical opera, this show is the most original piece of theatre I have seen for a very long time. No - it isn't suitable for those who are easily offended. Neither is it suitable for those who go just because it's "a bit naughty" to see a show where every other word has four letters... It is musically outstanding, with some amazing hairs-on-the-back-of-your-neck moments when the whole cast is singing full pelt. The Jesus and Satan spat comes to mind - even the most highly trained operatic performers would find that one a challenge! The storyline is just a work of genius - even if Act 2 is a bit slow getting going. Aside from all that, it's just hilarious, and you will (or at least, should) leave the theatre with your sides aching and your cheeks stained with tears! As for the price issue, I can recommend buying the cheaper tickets which put you higher up the theatre - that way, you see all the entrances and exits without having to turn round or look up (and your wallet doesn't take too much of a bashing). If you go for dinner beforehand in Chinatown next door then it's a cheap night all round!! My only gripe at the moment is that the current cast - almost without exception - are missing the X-factor the original London cast had. They are still amazing singers and actors, but somehow, they don't gel as well, and the show lacks energy and that vital "it" as a result. David Soul springs to mind as an odd choice, but he does bring other moments of humour that Michael missed. Having said that, go and see it anyway - I have seen it 3 times so far, and don't intend to stop now, so needless to say I don't agree with the people who say it's boring after the first ten minutes, and doesn't inspire you to see it again! I suggest you go and see it, then buy the soundtrack, learn the words off by heart, and go round singing "Chick with a Dick with a Heart" or "Every Last Motherf***** Should Go Down" very loudly indeed. Frankly, rock on JSTO. Long may you live... - USER: Whatsonstage.com (62.255.32.13) | 16 Sep 04 |
| If you going to see one great show this year make sure it's this one! Absolutely hilarious! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (82.211.73.66) | 01 Sep 04 |
| With a good (not great) score and intentionally absurd "plot", Jerry the Musical is thoroughly and jaw-droppingly entertaining throughout. It's an utterly unique theatrical experience... but not for the easily offended. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (207.237.9.179) | 24 Aug 04 |
| I saw the show last night and I am not offended by swearing or risque black comedy but I am offended by crass repetitive and tasteless entertainment masqerading as high art. My main problem is that I don't like the aesthetics of modern opera and the genre of the talk show. I also don't find sexual swear words funny when sung baritone or tenor. I wish I had seen Michael Brandon rather than the rather lacklustre David Soul. I hated the first half and rather admired the second which at least had some ideas and melody beyond the facile. I wanted to like it as lots of people I respect have loved the show but I am afraid my feelings are mixed! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (80.225.62.13) | 14 Aug 04 |
| From Mrs San Pietro Vancouver BC, Canada Wasn't sure we'd like this when we bought the tickets for Saturday night but it was tremendous. Inventive, funny and strong performances all round. Would do great business in North America. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (212.137.34.25) | 03 Aug 04 |
| Well....dip me in chocolate and throw me to the.....you gotta go to the show to get it....and if swearing offends you...don't go....otherwise you'll laugh like a drain - USER: Whatsonstage.com (212.30.3.248) | 26 Jul 04 |
| All I can say is, I can't see this musical running for such a long time. It just doesn't have the right aspects. I hope you know what I mean: when you've seen it once, it's lost its charm...well, that would be the case if it had charm in the first place. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (82.3.32.72) | 25 Jul 04 |
| "People who are used to sharing half a brain cell between others will probably go head-over-heels for this show: "Ooh, look...a musical made up of a load of swearing in the script and musical score". They'll probably go home after buying the cast recording, play it at full volume and invoke the wrath of their family and neighbours. Still, if that's what they want to waste their lives on, okay, fine with me. But I recommend they try 'We Will Rock You' or 'Les Mis' first, before they spend all their savings on insulting souvenir merchandise and over-priced tickets for this show." I urge you to purchase or borrow the soundtrack and listen to it at home. You should recognise, then, that the compositional techniques used are incredible and the songs are wonderfully witty. I've been listening to it in the car whilst on holiday and, once again, it made me chuckle all the way through. Indeed, I am one of those "people who are used to sharing half a brain cell", but personally, I would rather spend £40 on something refreshingly cynical (it's cynicism over cynicism, which is perhaps why some people don't understand the humour?), than a tacky money-spinner or a once great musical that has been pummelled into the ground. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (195.92.194.18) | 23 Jul 04 |
| It ain't an opera. It ain't a musical. This is more a pastiche of musicals and popular culture rather than an out and out show. David Soul is utterly wasted in the title role as Jerry is the only character who does not actually sing. Gains an extra star just for having song where every second word is c**t, something I never thought I'd see/hear! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (62.254.189.98) | 21 Jul 04 |
| People who are used to sharing half a brain cell between others will probably go head-over-heels for this show: "Ooh, look...a musical made up of a load of swearing in the script and musical score". They'll probably go home after buying the cast recording, play it at full volume and invoke the wrath of their family and neighbours. Still, if that's what they want to waste their lives on, okay, fine with me. But I recommend they try 'We Will Rock You' or 'Les Mis' first, before they spend all their savings on insulting souvenir merchandise and over-priced tickets for this show. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (62.254.0.34) | 16 Jul 04 |
| Not very appropriate for theatre, I'm afraid. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (62.254.0.34) | 15 Jul 04 |
| It's NOT A MUSICAL! It has singing, but that's all you can say for it...it's boring, repetitive, messy, uninspirational, time-wasting, idiotic and gives theatre a bad name in too many ways to list right now. Why it's performed in a theatre is beyond me...imagine having to sit still for several hours, not even being able to scream at the cast to SHUT UP with the unwitty, idiotic comments. They might as well just make it up as they go along...it's not hard...just swear a bit, and there you have it. NOT a musical. Sorry. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (62.254.0.34) | 11 Jul 04 |
| Having seen it at the National, I got some £25 day tickets (front row, excellent value) and hit the Cambridge. Whilst it lacked the crisp energy and freshness of the National production, it was good to see that the humour was still as apparent. David Badella is occasionally replaced with a different performer (I've forgotten his name), as when I saw it. He's more of an operatic singer, with a greater range. But, he lacks the slyness and prescence of Badella and doesn't do the part justice. There have been a few more cast changes too - Andrea has been replaced with a smaller, less powerful singer and, more importantly, Dwight/God is now played by a relatively tiny man with no prescence or charisma whatsoever. Benjamin Lake was brilliant in the original production, his huge physique was most fitting. There have also been a few changes in the ensemble, to create a less contrasted group of individuals. I wanted to catch it before Brandon is replaced on the 12th July. He was just as spectacular this time as before. Jerry Springer The Opera is one of those productions you love or you hate. I love it, and will always love it, because it was, and to some extent, still is, a refreshing concept that goes against a lot of what some have come to espect in today's productions. I'm sick of all those who say that people who like Jerry Springer The Opera are somewhat "easily amused". The production is clever, cynical and groundbreaking - it's a shame some can't accept that it does this with a rock-bottom tone, disgusting language and stereotypes. Crouch's design is simply thrilling, and, I'm glad to see, unchanged for the Cambridge. In particular, the last 20 minutes are fabulous design-wise. But, the most impressive element in JSTOpera is the score - just brilliant. Anyone that finds it necessary to criticise the music are clearly not educated in music. It's full of musically-sacred motifs and ingenious plays-on-techniques. The greatest moment of the show is the melisma between Satan and Jesus, with Steve the Security Guy in the middle. It's neo-classicism at it's most disturbing. But, the show has lost some of its sparkle, so fans of the original production, don't get your hopes up too high. It will be interesting to see in a couple of month's time though, when most of the cast would have changed. I also think it will be just as much a hit on Broadway as well - that is, if the Americans can accept the parody. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (195.92.194.12) | 10 Jul 04 |
| Wow..... The BEST thing I have ever seen - USER: Whatsonstage.com (82.211.73.66) | 30 Jun 04 |
| saw Jerry last night, and although I enjoyed it, I feel that it would work better as a musical rather than an opera as some of the song were difficult to understand, the concept was very good though:-) - USER: Whatsonstage.com (62.254.0.34) | 17 Jun 04 |
| Absolute nonsense. I cannot believe a show such as this can be shown in London! The language was shocking, the "acting" was appalling, the singing was incomprehensible and the plot was like my worst ever visit to the dentist. One good thing - the actor playing Jerry Springer was very good and the actor playing the warm-up guy/devil had a good vocal range (just a shame the words were rubbish). - USER: Whatsonstage.com (12.39.71.54) | 14 Jun 04 |
| Tepid. Especially after seeing the very excellent US-themed comedy "Americana Absurdum" over in Southwark. Some game performers in "Jerry", but they could only take the material so far. If you want a rewarding Yank day, attend the Edward Hopper exhibition at the Tate, get a pint, then book a seat for the "Americana" piece. What West End show can be recommended? Democracy? -CN - USER: Whatsonstage.com (24.90.10.251) | 12 Jun 04 |
| amazing shawntel was hot!!!!!! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (62.31.98.228) | 25 May 04 |
| Simply the worst thing I've ever seen in London - I suspect the only reason this show has got any publicity is the swearing, as the rest of it is not worth mentioning. Definite case of "emperor's new clothes". A waste of a couple of hours of my life. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (193.130.19.189) | 19 May 04 |
| I was thoroughly disappointed with this show especially after all the hype. I saw a Friday night performance in a half empty Cambridge Theatre and found the whole evening to be rather flat and dull. The cast didn't appear to be making much of an effort and many of the apparent comic monents were lost through bad diction and quiet performances. For example I suspect we were suspected Shawntel's aspiration to be a pole dancer funny.....at this performance the role was played by Sarah Ryan and the joke was lost as Sarah just wasn't totally inconceivable as a pole dancer! The whole thing was diffficult and awkward to watch. As so many other people seem to think it's fantastic, I am hoping that I just happened to see a bad performance. However, this is West End...there shouldn't be bad performances. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (80.5.160.6) | 29 Apr 04 |
| A big disappointment. Once the shock value wears off (after about 10 minutes), it becomes extremely boring - unless you are a pea-brain who will laugh at anything rude (and there were plenty of them in our audience). Thought the music was awful too. David Bedella is obviously very tallented, but his talents are sadly wasted in this "show". - USER: Whatsonstage.com (213.40.3.65) | 15 Apr 04 |
| PITIFUL....a one joke show and you've heard it within the first five minutes...The concept is great but they need some real songs and a witty book with a total rewrite. Possibly the most overrated show ever. How does it get such good reviews -- because people are prepared to laugh at anything Jerry Springer related no matter how unclever. Not, repeat not, worth 50 quid. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (170.148.92.53) | 29 Mar 04 |
| The operatic advert breaks are a work of genius! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (128.40.79.243) | 22 Mar 04 |
| Sorry, but dont understand why anyone thought it was any good, Ive seen more musicals than i can remember, and this was the worst by a long way. No tunes that you would remember, poor singers and just not worth £50. If you want to spend £50 this month in the West End, book for The Producers !!! Trust me, its the best show EVER !! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (217.17.115.232) | 07 Mar 04 |
| Went on Sat night. Was thinking wouldn't it be great if it swopped the Olivers and it has! Where else would you see tap dancing Klu Klax Clan members and falsettos from trailer trash. This is one of the bravest shows to hit the West End. With some older musicals loking tired and the rest consisting of pop's greatest hits- Jerry wins hands down. Not for the easily offended. But if you like your shows to be edgy, relevant and most of all hilarious- Jerry if for you. Make this your Jerry Springer moment! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (213.122.191.77) | 23 Feb 04 |
| Saw this at a half empty matinee. It was no less ejoyable though- just a shame as the cast worked like dogs. This is not for the easily offended. But what it does offer the audience is a bawdy, original and funny night out. Ok, there is a real lack of emotion. You won't feel moved to tears- but this isn't Tosca. The cast are all amazing, the sets have real depth and the songs although not- sing-a-long are hilarious and real one offs. An excellent night out. Ignore the price and go. It is Value for money. Go Jerry! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (213.122.14.191) | 22 Feb 04 |
| Absolutley Amazing. This is the sort of show which makes you re-assess the current state of Muscial Theatre. An inspired and inventive piece, quite unlike anything I have seen before. I just wish I could see it every week. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (194.200.154.253) | 29 Jan 04 |
| The 1st 10 mins were good and clever but soon after Jerry enters the show goes downhill. The show is very pointless and not really that funny. Its not a show for opera fans. Its really a show for narrow minded people who get a kick out of hearing the F word over and over again. Probably the most stupid show i've ever seen and yes im a regular theatre goer! The last good musical was RENT and since then most musicals suck - USER: Whatsonstage.com (66.119.33.170) | 23 Jan 04 |
| great show!! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (81.86.241.122) | 18 Dec 03 |
| This show is definitely WOW! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (62.253.64.6) | 14 Dec 03 |
| wow spelt backwards is wow! there is nothing like this show, it blew me away! the cast are superb (david bedella and alison jiear really rock. richard thomas and stewart lee have really hit something here. if you're not easily offended and have an ear for great music, go and see it!!!!!! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (213.48.229.83) | 22 Nov 03 |
| This is my Jerry Springer moment ... what a fantastic show! I've seen it through the scratch performances at BAC, then the National and now the West End - hoorah! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (212.19.90.93) | 12 Nov 03 |
| Innovative, exciting, tuneful and VERY funny. Act 2 just absolutely brilliant. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (217.137.154.18) | 11 Nov 03 |
| well Jerry came to push his own show and the 1st night went wild. still one of the best sung shows to be found in the WE today. as talked on here the leads picked out are still fab but so are David and Benjamin and Valda - just WOW. I do still feel act 2 takes a real dip and we have to get through the first 20mins to get us back on top. act 1 still works in a total rounded way. is there enough people out there to keep this going? or was the NT sell out the lot - well time will tell but this is not an out of town coach party show. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (217.13.129.151) | 11 Nov 03 |
| Is Andrew Bevis and Alison Jiear back in it yet? - USER: Whatsonstage.com (217.137.82.29) | 05 Nov 03 |
| I just saw the show for the second time. The first time I saw it at tnational and now have seen it at the cambridge. I was worried it might not be as good or that it might have been cut down but it is better.It seems to suit a conventional theatre more and I thought the show was absolutely brilliant the best thing I have seen in the West End for ages.You must see this show. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (81.134.214.70) | 05 Nov 03 |
| Absolutely brilliant! Love it! All the cast are amazing! especially Andrew Bevis, David Bedella and Alison Jiear! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (217.137.83.7) | 01 Nov 03 |
| OK well i havent seen it but jst the title gives me a slight giggle... and that does it for me.... so im defrinately gonna go... will ut a second review up as soon as i get home from the show... bisous - USER: Whatsonstage.com (213.48.250.229) | 29 Oct 03 |
| The show in London, miss it at your peril. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (132.185.144.12) | 28 Oct 03 |
| People wo leave during intervals are just not real theatregoers. You should always stick it out. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (80.1.29.11) | 26 Oct 03 |
| Absolute Rubbish. The first 20 mins is quite good - mainly because of novelty, shock value etc - but then it is just more of the same - there are only so many time that it is funny. second half is just bizarre. I was in a group of 6 people all of us got bored. In fairness half the audience seem to find it hilarious, the other half either endured it or left early. only regret is that i didnt leave during the interval - USER: Whatsonstage.com (213.86.203.66) | 15 Oct 03 |
| WOW, WOW, WOW!!!! Saw Jerry twice during the summer, it's the best show i've seen in years! People keep saying it's not for the 'usual theatregoer', what a load of sh*t. I've been in the theatre business for 10 years now, and never seen anything like it! Cant wait for the recording to come out in just a few weeks. GO, GO, GO. C DEAN (deancalvin@hotmail.com) - USER: Whatsonstage.com (62.252.209.127) | 14 Oct 03 |
| Seen it 8 times....Andrew Bevis is the best!! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (217.137.83.27) | 04 Oct 03 |
| Brilliant show, have seen it twice but don't go if you are easily offended! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (62.6.139.13) | 30 Sep 03 |
| Brilliant - USER: Whatsonstage.com (81.128.119.117) | 27 Sep 03 |
| An amazing show that kept me riveted despite a massive case of jet lag. It gets redundant in the first act and loses focus in the second act (and God comes in a poor second to Satan when it comes to casting), but this is a must-see musical. Give it an extra half-star for originality. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (12.107.15.2) | 25 Sep 03 |
| Quite simply the best and funniest show I have ever seen .It is a musical in the top six.For funny it tops The Producers. For originality it is up there with Hair, Chorus Line and West Side Story. I absolutely loved it - USER: Whatsonstage.com (81.128.119.117) | 21 Sep 03 |
| Quite simply the best and funniest show I have ever seen .It is a musical in the top six.For funny it tops The Producers. For originality it is up there with Hair, Chorus Line and West Side Story. I absolutely loved it - USER: Whatsonstage.com (81.128.119.117) | 21 Sep 03 |
| I wanted to like this. Really, I did. I was expecting it to be wonderful; instead, I think it was possibly the least enjoyable evening I've ever spent in a theatre. The concept - the operatic contrast with the language - is terribly clever and original, a really great idea. Sadly, the show itself is just stupid - actually - and I never thought this would be possible! - less good than the TV show. There are only so many times I can hear someone sing "What the f*ck" and find it entertaining. It's just so juvenile; it seems to be based on the fact that someone singing swear words is funny. The cast is very good (especially whoever is playing the Devil), and the idea is interesting - it's just a shame that the excecution is so dire. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (195.92.67.69) | 17 Sep 03 |
| Saw this last might for the second time. I agree with all your four and five star reviewers. This is a magnificently innovative piece and marks a major development in musical theatre. Yes, it uses four letter words and is adult entertainment but not everything has to be for all the family. I was delighted to see that the audience was of a wide age range and they all loved it. When I first saw it earlier this year, I was not sure about Michael Brandon but he is now firmly in control. The singing and production are thrilling. Long may it continue. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (195.93.34.13) | 13 Sep 03 |
| It's a pretty astonishing evening, I can tell you! Tap-dancing Klu Klux Klan. A husband who wants to be his wife's 'baby'. The Chick with the.... Very, very rude and very, very funny - I was in stitches from the moment the cast filed on. There are some terrific voices in the energetic cast - particularly Benjamin Lake, who plays Dwight and God, and David Bedella, who has great stage presence as the warm-up man and The Devil. True, the second act drags a bit and you get the feeling that it's lost its way, but the finale (just when you thought it was over) is wonderful. Andrew B - USER: Whatsonstage.com (193.130.127.205) | 28 Jul 03 |
| I went to see this Production back in April 03. I went along not knowing what to expect from this production only having watched the Jerry Springer show on Television.But I was really suprised. You get a Jerry Springer show on stage and more.. The Sets and lighting are breath taking to say the least. Singing and Dancing spot on. This is a night out at the theatre you will never forget. Please be warned though this production is for people aged 18+. Its is not a show for the younger ones. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (80.5.40.24) | 29 Jun 03 |
| Andrew Bevis has an absolutely outstanding voice. All the cast have good voices and Michael Brandon is spot on with Jerry Springer. Brilliant show......a lot of fun! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (217.137.88.43) | 23 Jun 03 |
| I have seen many new and old preductions around the country but never have I seen such an amazing work of art! The voices of the performers were incredible, costumes and characters spot on! A show full off 100% entertainment, do not miss this one, kill for a ticket if you have too! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (81.86.68.80) | 11 Jun 03 |
| Saw this and Caligula a few days apart - a pretty polarising experience, but loved them both. This was a very brave piece of theatre, ridiculous in the extreme, but performed with such endless enthusiasm that it was impossible not to love it. The 'audience' have a stellar line in insults, and though the 2nd half is perhaps not quite as much fun, the final encore number more than makes up for it. Inspired. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (212.113.17.219) | 21 May 03 |
| I wasn't as taken by the show as most of the other reviewers here. I thought the first half worked very well, as it basically stuck to the Jerry Springer show premise of having an assortment of odd-bods come on stage and talk - or sing, in this case - about their various proclivities and problems. It was the second Act, where the action is set in Hell, that I found less entertaining. For me it was like the producers had, literally, lost the plot - the action suddenly went from the focussed area of the TV show and studio to a camp Hell where you had the likes of Jesus, the Devil and Jerry battling it out. I clearly missed the point of this, and it left me feeling that if I'd left at the interval I'd have enjoyed the show more. I think there was enough fire and brimstone in the fictional studio without having to visit the depths of Hell. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (213.38.32.137) | 19 May 03 |
| What an absolutely amazing experience. Crude, crass, in your face offensive at times, I loved every minute. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (81.152.89.74) | 19 May 03 |
| It *is* good, but not *great*. It's fun, certainly, but it is essentially built around the single joke of having the guests' lines delivered in high operatic style. (It's not that new a joke though - remember Monserrat Caballe singing 'I should be so lucky'?) The inherent flaw in such a project, though, is that in satirising something essentially banal and (for all its freakery) quotidian, the musical never quite transcends the original material. The second act attempts this, but apart from some deliciously blasphemous iconoclasm (Jesus: "Actually I am a bit gay") it feels a bit of a mess, with the primal struggle between good and evil reduced to little more than a neighbours' squabble. But maybe that's the point. JSTO is a series of brilliant set pieces - the KKK routine is inspired, like Mel Brooks at his best - but doesn't have much in the way of either narrative or character psychology to really engage an audience. Not that the audience I was in seemed to care that much. It *is* a breath of fresh air to have something like this at the National. It deserves to do well, and I hope it will help to bring in (badly needed) new audiences to this theatre. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (195.92.67.66) | 08 May 03 |
| One of the best musicals I have ever seeen, and certainly the funniest. I first saw this in Edinborough the day Springer was there! I thought it was a bit shaky, but they have patched it up and it is brilliant. Praise must obviously mainly go to Richard Thomas and Stewart Lee who are comic genius's, my English teacher went to uni with Thomas and says he was hilarious to be round. Praise must also go to Nick Hytner the new national director, for putting on such a daring show in one of his bigger national theatres, this surely shows that he is bringing the national out of the chirpy nunn musicals. It is even more hilarious to see the reactions of the older audience members who clearly dont know who Jerry Springer is, and came to see an opera!They were the percentage who did not give a standing ovation to the spot on cast. For anyone booking be warned if you are very religious you may well find the second act very offensive, and do not take kids, but for the rest of you book now, and get to the south bank. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (80.40.0.224) | 04 May 03 |
| With some trepidation, I took four Icelanders and one Lithuanian. I made them watch an episode of JS a few nights before, as they hadn't seen the TV show. Everyone enjoyed it, which is some tribute. Personnally, I thought it was stunning and have already booked to go again in 10 days time. It sweeps through the National like a giant breath of fresh air. Gold star to Nicholas Hytner and the RNT for bravery and imagination - what a cracking start! A handfull of gold stars to Tom Morris and BAC without which this sort of show would never get developed. A sackfull of gold stars to Richard Thomas and Stewart Lee for breaking the mould of musical theatre like no-one has in more than 20 years. To London's theatregoers - conclusive proof that we're born lucky to live here and be able to share in this excitement. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (212.211.102.35) | 03 May 03 |
| This is one of the best shows I have seen in the past 20 years or so. I am already booking to see it again. The shocks and laughs of the audience at times drowned some of the beautiful choral singing. One or two of the "arias" were genuinely moving - especially the lady who dreams of being a pole dancer. What starts as a really good and innovative show just keeps on getting better and better. GM. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (170.66.1.123) | 02 May 03 |
| What can I say? AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (217.154.44.162) | 01 May 03 |
| As a fan of both classical opera (preferring DonG to Wozzeck) and the cabaret musicals of Weill/Brecht (or Weill/anyone), I was totally smitten by this Richard Thomas fusion of the two when I saw it in Edinburgh last Summer. It was made more electric by the presence of the real JerryS a few rows in front, as most of the circle audience kept glancing over to see his reaction - he seemed generally amused, though he did declare “None of it is true” at the interval, presumably a reference to pronouncements made by his inner Valkyrie and/or his prostitute incident! I was therefore intrigued to know what changes had been made for the “premier” completed version staged at the National, and booked for the 3rd preview performance. The new version is even more stunning, mainly through: big bucks spent on a great set (base background seems OK though bit odd in 1st half, but obviously geared for 2nd half); pyrotechnics (real fiery cross & fire of Hell!); lots of added choreography; trims & rewrites to sharpen 2nd half - aided by tech effects; innovative end section which reintroduces musical pizzazz following the original fade-down ending. It was also good to see that most of the main parts were played by the original singers (the nappy-lady has such a perfect pitch for “dip me in chocolate & throw me to the lesbians“ and all of her other arias). The new JS looks less like the original than the Edinburgh chap (who we could of course compare with the real JS), but he is nearer in voice/intonation. The only down-side change I could see was that JC had swapped his nappy from the 1st half for a shiny pharaoh-wrap in the 2nd - a bit too Lloyd-Webber(ish) for my liking! I agree with the WoS reviewer that this show should develop an instant cult following. In fact I will be in the forefront for this as we have just bought tickets to see it (for the 3rd time) in May. I have also been lobbying friends to book before it sells out - or develops a 3 month waiting list if is does do a West End transfer. My wife tells me that mainstream London audiences are less likely to accept the constant profanities and clear blasphemies that Edinburgh audiences almost expects of Fringe productions, but I feel that: a) most London theatre goers will appreciate the need for satires to shock in order to make them think of the subject matter; b) as Anna Russell said of the absurdities in Wagner‘s Ring Cycle “You can get away with anything providing you sing it“. Final advice for potential audience: It does help to have some familiarity with the JS show (I bought a JS video from a charity shop) to fully appreciate what is being satirised, and to judge whether you will be offended or not. The few previous reviewers who had a negative reaction were presumably JS virgins (“raped by a panto“ as the chorus might say!). It is NOT an opera in the conventional sense, although all lines except JS’s are sung in a mix of opera or musical show styles, which makes it nearer the classical definition than say Carmen. Imagine it more as a Weill musical with Berg/Schoenberg style arias and JS show issues/profanities. Your mental reaction to such a weird mix should tell you whether to book or not. Alasdair - USER: Whatsonstage.com (80.225.196.142) | 30 Apr 03 |
| Amazing! I love NT productions, this is their best production since March 2001 when My Fair Lady, now at Drury Lane, was produced, Everything made me feel I was in Jerry Springer. There is a lot of bad language; don't go if easily offended but go if you want a great night of high-class entertainment. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (194.105.168.6) | 30 Apr 03 |
| Absolutely amazing!!!!! I have never laughed so much in all my life - and especially not at the national theatre!! Yes, there is a lot of swearing (!!!) but there is a lot more to the comedy than just that!!! Go and see it now before the queues for returns are too long!!!! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (195.93.50.13) | 30 Apr 03 |
| Jerry Springer is quite possibly one of the most original shows EVER produced in London. Both hysterically funny and shocking at the same time, I will be rushing back for more. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (217.44.140.176) | 30 Apr 03 |
| Magnificent. A hilarious evening superbly acted,sung and directed. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (195.93.50.13) | 30 Apr 03 |
| I found this rubbish to be an over emphasized load of nonsensical swearing and utter tripe unfit for human consumption. This musical is nothing more than a collection of cliches and uninteresting musical gibberish unworthy of the OPERA title. It was not worth the bother of the train ticket to get to the theatre. Don't waste your time with this crap stay home and knit some socks for the winter. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (81.26.103.88) | 30 Apr 03 |
| The first act was just lifted from the show...remind to do Eurotrash it's so easy........the second was more interesting but the ensemble could have shut up for a while, some really nice tunes but for all the input this has had over two years....wouldn't recommend it to friends unless they love jerry Springer - USER: Whatsonstage.com (81.26.103.88) | 30 Apr 03 |
| Amazing singing. The contrast between the completely uplifting music and the stream of swearwords is hilarious and totally unique. There is just about some kind of moral to this tale, but really it is just aurally and visually stunning to bother about messages. I loved it. Liz - USER: Whatsonstage.com (139.222.250.217) | 27 Apr 03 |
| A really unusual and throughly entertaining night out. I'm not sure I'd recommend it to my elderly mother (or to some of my much less elderly friends), but it's a long time since I've smiled so much in the theatre or laughed so much at a musical. The casting was superb, the performances excellent (especially Satan) and the musical itself is endlessly inventive. Like so many others, I was a little wary, but thank God for the WOS event, which encouraged me to try something I thought I wouldn't like. Being in such good seats also helped! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (195.217.255.161) | 24 Apr 03 |
| Brilliant. Refreshingly different to anything currently (ever?) in the WestEnd. Great cast who looked like they were having as much fun as we were. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (195.102.142.238) | 24 Apr 03 |
| Brilliant. Went along not really knowing anything about the show, but found myself chuckling along for almost the whole time. Can't think of any other show that has put a smile on my face for over two hours straight. Such a refreshing show so different to all the others. Finale at the end of Act One is absolutely outstanding, the only thing surpassing it in the West End was the finale at the end of Act Two (won't give it away) but it easily triggered a standing ovation. The Jerry Springer character is very good, but for me the star of the show was Michael Bedella's Warm Up Guy. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (62.49.29.221) | 23 Apr 03 |
| I saw this last night (part of the WOS group that went, as usual, en masse) after having been bullied into buying a ticket. All I can say is, thank goodness for bullying. I really did think it was going to be lousy but that it "had" to be seen nonetheless. One of those things you had to have an opinion about. I didn't expect one of the funniest shows I have seen in years with plot twists, immense humour, brilliant songs and utter lunacy - AND its at the National Theatre. Leave your prejudices at home and go and take a look. This show is, imho, going to be massive. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (80.193.222.20) | 23 Apr 03 |
| Went to see this as part of the whatsonstage group outing. I didn't really know what to expect, but my attention was grabbed right from the start, and sustained right until the final devilish moments. I was completely entertained the whole time. It was an absolute riot, and it was so stimulating to be able to see, and enjoy, something that is so different. Oh, and packed house and great atmosphere! Standing ovation at the end etc. I'd go and see that again anytime. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (62.252.0.5) | 23 Apr 03 |
| Saw the show last night and thought it was very good. This has got to transfer to the west end. - USER: Whatsonstage.com (62.255.64.5) | 17 Apr 03 |
| Well!!! What a show! Approached the production cautiously, fearing that I would either absolutely love it or loath it, and found myself hugely entertained. The first act is stunning, followed by a messy and less satisfactory second. The piece is still in preview and some moments could be cut (sometimes it steps too far into bad taste) but on the whole found it a wonderfully refreshing and UNIQUE night out. How wonderful to see a new musical work that can stand alone, breaking away from all the traditional rules. The cast, without exception, is outstanding. The singing for this production has to be heard to be believed - ASTONISHING! I was truly blown away by the vocals and the acting was top notch as well. Brilliant set (though the second act relies too much on stage wizadry). Interestingly though, my friend found Act II much better than the first. Personally, I didn't think it wrapped the show up at all well - was hoping for something deeper behind the mayhem and abuse, which was delivered in Jerry's "thought for the day", but I felt it was a case of too little too late. Still,there's time for more fleshing out and equally some trimming before opening night. The concept is truly ingenious, and pulled off stunningly. As it stands, a terrific night out and a sharp comment on the disgrace that is modern society... But I hope they make it even sharper! - USER: Whatsonstage.com (80.193.222.20) | 17 Apr 03 |
| I went to see Jerry the other night and thought it was brilliant. Only the resources of the National Theatre could have developed such a great night of enetertainemt. Its funny, witty and a real opportunity to bring new audiences to the theatre. I hope we get more exciting operas/musicals like it... - USER: Whatsonstage.com (80.193.222.20) | 14 Apr 03 |
