Anything Goes (Sheffield Crucible)

In another show-stopping Christmas treat, Sheffield Theatres delivers yet again this year with a raunchy, punchy and colourful delight.

Cole Porter‘s 1934 naughty nautical drama has tap-danced into Sheffield this cold December, bringing with it laughter, jollity and good old-fashioned fun.

The show was written in the depression era of the 1930’s, when the farcical comedy must have provided light relief to the country’s woes. This draws a parallel to today’s Britain, living in the shadows of a huge recession, where escapism through theatre entertainment is a welcome tonic.

Featuring hit songs such as "Anything Goes", "You’re The Top", and "I Get a Kick Out of You", the music of the show delivers recognised feel-good favourites. Combined with the energy and dynamism of the talented cast, Anything Goes makes for a feel-good festive treat.

The storyline, which follows the love-triangle between Reno Sweeney, Billy Crocker and Hope Harcourt takes place on board the SS American boat. Crocker is a stowaway who tries to break up the engagement between Harcourt and Lord Evelyn Oakleigh (a marriage of convenience to help the Harcourt family out of financial difficulty.)

Stealing the show, Debbie Kurup‘s Reno Sweeney is sassy, sultry and smooth. Complex dance routines are delivered effortlessly whilst singing and her mannerisms and quirkiness portray wonderfully the complex character of the evangelist turned nightclub singer.

The tap-dancing routines are infectious. On the bus home I spotted a group of women waiting for their bus whilst attempting to recreate Sweeney’s impressive footwork.

The dry comedy of Stephen Matthew‘s Lord Evelyn Oakleigh brings many a laugh, whilst Crocker’s shenanigans provide slapstick comedy.

Daniel Evans‘ 2014 take on this age-old classic is delightful, delectable and de-lovely.

Anything Goes continues at the Crucible Theatre Sheffield until 17 January 2015.