Calling all StageSiders, welcome back to another review here at StageSideUK. This time around we are talking about Defying Gravity, West End Women, which played at the Billingham Forum Theatre. If you care to read the review, look to … well this website.
Disclaimer: we were gifted two press tickets in exchange for an honest review of the show.
First we need to start out by saying what a show. The energy in that room was brilliant. If you are looking for a mix of contemporary musicals, new musicals and classic musicals…. this show has you covered! Featuring hits from Chess, Cabaret, Mamma Mia, Come From Away and so many more, this show really does have it all!
The production stitches together some of the finest moments from iconic female characters, female-led and female-created musicals, offering not just a showcase of powerhouse performances, but a great insight into the lives of women who thrive in this demanding industry. From the first number to the final standing ovation, Defying Gravity is a love letter to the resilience, brilliance, and spirit of women in theatre.
The evening featured a great blend of vocal performances and candid storytelling. We were treated to renditions from some really iconic shows, with the aim to uplift, inspire, and remind us of the stories women tell on stage every night across the world. It was a masterclass not only in vocal technique but in emotional connection, delivered with sincerity, commitment and so much passion!
What truly sets Defying Gravity apart, however, is its willingness to peel back the curtain on the realities of life in musical theatre. Between the balads and the sing-a-longs, the performers spoke openly and honestly about balancing motherhood with the eight-shows a week, the highs and heartbreaks of auditioning, and the tenacity it takes to keep chasing the dream and some of those dream roles they got to play. These moments were great in keeping the show moving but also showing the audience what it takes to be up on the stage, playing those parts we all love. A great reminder that our favourite musicals are being played out by real people.
Each performer brought their own flair, style and tone to the evening, creating a rich evening of entertainment. It was impossible not to be swept along by the sheer passion radiating from the stage, and on those moments where the audience were invited to sing and dance along, everyone was up and belting their hearts out. There was an overwhelming sense that this wasn’t just a performance – it was a shared moment in time, a shared expereince of pride, celebration, and solidarity.
At a time when womanhood and expressions of femeninity are being questioned, Defying Gravity was just what I needed, with the cast taking a moment to talk about gender expression and sexuality in musical theatre narratives.
I had such a blast at the Billingham Forum, thank you to ShowPlanr for inviting us down! A musical treat, and a truly fantastic show that I am still buzzing about!
Accesibility
There were several moments when the lighting from the stage was pointing at the audience, or fanned up the audience. The music wasn’t too loud and was quite well balanced.
Value for money
Tickets were £29.00 each for this performance in this venue. I would say this is a fair price for the night. As with Billingham, at the next two stops all tickets have the same price regardless where you sit. In Wrexham the price is £30 and in the Lichfield Garrick it is £33.
Overall
This show was fabulous. The costumes were gorgeous and yet simple, the vocals were brilliant and the stories were really interesting! I don’t think I have seen a better musical theatre tribute / concert night at a local theatre. I have followed the socials and I will be back if the tour comes back up my way!
Have your say!
Have you seen Defying Gravity? Let me know in the comments and let’s get a discussion going.
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Amazing show a must see show. Amazing talent and packed with all the west end show songs.
Honestly enjoyed every single moment! I hope they announce more dates for the future!