Ruthie Henshall – Sounds Of Hollywood (Tour – Manchester)

Venue: Bridgewater Hall
Where: Manchester

The slightly melodramatic edge to songs from the heyday of Hollywood makes them ideally suited to the lavish versions of The Manchester Concert Orchestra conducted by Richard Balkind. The subtle pacing of the show prevents the sheer exuberance of the songs from become tiring. These are songs that need to be performed rather than simply sung. It is great when West End and Broadway star Ruthie Henshall achieves this vocally but the literal interpretation of the lyrics, which the cast makes when dancing, becomes unintentionally amusing.

Rather than use a support act Henhsall alternates with her four guest artists. Whilst this adds texture it also gives the impression that the star might not be wholly committed to the show. When she cuts loose any reservations vanish – wisely keeping the Streisland and Garland numbers for herself. But other parts of the show – showbiz anecdotes and some weird costume changes (including a fetching but puzzling ringmaster’s outfit) – make you wonder how much thought went into its development.

Encoring with a reprise of the song that closed the first act adds to the impression of Henshall passing the time between engagements rather than an artist fulfilling her ambition of performing songs that have been an inspiration.

– Dave Cunningham