Calling all StageSiders, welcome back to another review here at StageSideUK. This time around we are talking about a night dedicated to Musical Theatre, as Showtunes Must Go On steps into the Majestic Theatre in Darlington. So settle in and lets talk all things musicals!
Disclaimer: we were gifted a pair of press tickets in exchange for an honest review of the show.
At its heart, Showtunes Must Go On feels like the kind of show many theatre lovers imagine creating themselves. It is an evening where performers can dress up, step into character, and sing the musical theatre songs they love most. (Now let’s be honest, how many of us mentally put on our own one person production of Kinkyboots? Just me?)
That sense of enthusiasm is present throughout the performance. The cast clearly cherish the opportunity to celebrate the genre, and there is an easy-going energy to the evening that keeps the audience engaged without feeling too stiff or traditional.
For those attending at the Majestic Theatre in Darlington, it was an easy sell; a chance to hear recognisable songs performed live, in a setting that celebrates the shared love of musical theatre.
One of the show’s strongest elements is its structure. The set list moves comfortably between musical theatre classics and more contemporary pieces, creating a varied setlist. They also balanced the upbeat numbers with more reflective ballads.
This mixture keeps the evening flowing nicely and ensures the audience experiences a real breadth of musical theatre styles. From energetic ensemble moments to more intimate vocal showcases, the show offers performers opportunities to highlight different strengths while maintaining a steady rhythm throughout the performance.
For an audience in Darlington that clearly appreciates musical theatre in all its forms, this blend of old and new worked really well.
Where Showtunes Must Go On occasionally feels as though it could go further is in its audience interaction. There are a handful of moments where the performers engage directly with the crowd, suggesting the possibility of a more interactive evening.
However, those moments stop just short of fully breaking down the performer–audience barrier. The atmosphere in the theatre suggests many audience members would happily join in with a singalong, yet the show never quite pushes into that territory.
This may not have been the production’s intention, but given the celebratory nature of the concept, a few additional opportunities for audience participation could have heightened the energy of the evening in my opinion.
Accessibility
The show contains several moments of flashing lights, colourful lights shining into the audience and some blackouts. The show also features interaction and conversation with the audience. None of these elements were too much for me, but it is worth being aware of.
Value for Money
For musical theatre enthusiasts looking for a relaxed evening of familiar songs, Showtunes Must Go On provides a pleasant night out that won’t break the bank. The concept is straightforward but effective, delivering a celebration of musical theatre that focuses on the songs audiences already know and enjoy. There are costume changes, props, choreography and some great vocals! for £17, you can’t really go wrong!
Have Your Say
Have you seen Showtunes Must Go On? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
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insane show really enjoyed it, all of the performers were incredible, got chills when I heard she used to be mine, insane, worth the watch, would deffo recommend if anyone is pondering on buying tickets, JUST DO IT