Reel To Real: The Movies Musical

Edinburgh is best known for shows on a
shoestring budget being performed in tiny venues. So something as
expensive and large-scale as Reel To Real is a bit
of a novelty. Musical numbers from some of Hollywood’s greatest
movies are projected on stage while live performers sing and dance.
It sounds silly but this is a slick operation and the audience are
transfixed throughout.

Jack and Jill’s father is a Hollywood
studio mogul and he is soon to hand over his movie-making empire to
one of his children. To decide who, he sends his them on a
round-the-world race. The plot is naff but serves as a great device
for the inclusion of top show tunes, including ‘Puttin’ On The
Ritz’, ‘Diamonds Are A Girl’s Best Friend’ and ‘Singin’ In The
Rain’.

A faultless cast, glorious choreography
and endlessly imaginative staging make this a surefire family treat.
It won’t stimulate your intellect but everyone needs a rest between
the serious stuff.