Seven Brides for Seven Brothers (Tour – Manchester)

Adam, the eldest of seven brothers who live in the backwoods of Oregon, goes to town to get himself a bride. The sweet but sassy Milly becomes his target and they marry the same day, but she only finds out about his brothers once they return to the backwoods cabin. Milly then sets about changing the six younger brothers from uncouth to well-mannered young men.

The first couple of scenes in this current revival are rather slow, but once Milly arrives at the cabin, the whole thing begins to warm up, and there are several beautifully choreographed and excellently executed dance numbers throughout. Director and Choreographer Patti Colombo has created an fully rounded show with no major holes, making it highly enjoyable.

Helena Blackman is an excellent Milly, sassy and with a stunning voice which carries her songs with ease, while Sam Attwater is only a pleasant Adam. He acts the part convincingly enough, but his voice is simply does not have the strength and resonance to pull off his big numbers.

The brothers and their brides are consistently well performed, but scenes are stolen by Sam Stone's Frank and Jack Greaves' Gideon.

These days Seven Brides for Seven Brothers might appear to be old-fashioned, but this is a rollicking good night out that has never passed its sell by date.

– Helen Jones