I Should Be So Lucky is, an extremely loosely plotted story, based around the musical productions of Stoke Aitken Waterman and while it is not high-brow theatre, it is pure joy from beginning to end. The story, such as it is, sees Ella jilted at the altar by Nathan, and her decision to go out on her honeymoon anyway with her friends and family, all passport-ready and in tow. Nathan however, quickly has second thoughts, as his reasoning is questioned following a chat with his dementia-addled granddad. And off we go on a world of bold colours, adventures, crazy characters, and of course, a brilliant collection of retro music.
However, the live cast is where it is at, and leading this is the least bold character of English Rose Ella, played with delightful charm by Lucie-Mae Sumner. It is true that at every turn the character of Ella is cast by the shadow of a bigger personality in this story, but upon her, the show leans and moves forward, and Sumner is excellent within the chaos that occurs around her.
The brilliant, loud proud, and utterly camp Michael is played with a huge personality by Scott Paige, stealing many of the scenes he appears within and a delightful storyline leading to one of the best musical moments. Finally, of mention from the cast is the true scene stealer, Jamie Chapman, who, briefly appears as two excellent side characters initially, and then simply takes over many a scene as hotel manager Spencer. The epitome of staying in character throughout and making the very best of every piece of material given to him. Tremendous entertainment.
The set by Tom Rogers is as bright and camp as the show, and relies greatly on the heart motif throughout, including the home of Ella and her family at 19 Heart House. Choreographer Jason Gilkison, who has worked as creative director on Strictly Come Dancing for over ten years, fills the stage with movement and keeps the ensemble busy with his inventive work, and this alongside fast-paced direction by Debbie Isitt, who has also written the show, means there is never a dull moment on stage.
I Should Be So Lucky - The Musical is pure fluff, in equal measure as good or bad as you might expect. However, it is, actually, pure entertainment from beginning to end, bringing fun, joy, and, if you like the producer's work, and why wouldn't you, glorious music as well. You should be so lucky to get a ticket soon.
With a cheese overload, I Should Be So Lucky -The Musical provides absolutely endless fun.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
