The Musical about Musicals, 42nd Street was first created as a film in 1933, but brought to life as a Stage Show in 1970, Thirty years on, it is still going strong.  

The story and whole show is a very typical old style Musical, with plenty off Singing, Dancing, and overacting! It follows a young wannabe Chorus Girl called Peggy Sawyer (Lara Pulver) who wants to audition for a new musical called "Pretty Lady." Unfortunately she arrives late and misses out on the part, but the Leading Man Billy Lawlor (Matthew Atwell) tries to get stubborn director Julian Marsh (James Smillie) to change his mind, he fails. The star off Pretty Lady, Dorothy Brock (Ruth Madoc) is a problem for the director, because she is married to the man who is putting in the money for the show, but having an affair with someone else. The Story unfolds, and isn't as complicated as it looks! There are many twists and turns to create a light hearted, and often-humorous show.  

The billed stars, Ruth Madoc and James Smillie, both do well at their parts, especially James Smillie as the harsh, but fair stereotypical director. Their voices are strong and they fit the parts well. Smillie, has a persona about him, which puts him in authority, and Madoc's performance is above average. The real star off the show for me though was Lara Pulver, the girl who actually becomes the star of the musical "Pretty Lady." She is outstanding, and brings the stage to life. Her voice is superb and her dancing is first class. She is pretty, and likable, just what the character needs. Her talents are wondrous, and I wouldn't be surprised to see her heading a West End show one-day. To be fair the cast all are very good at dancing, but parts off the singing and American accents leave a lot to be desired.

The show is full off Razzmatazz, especially one of the most famous numbers, "Were in the Money." In parts it is a real pleasure to sit back and watch. The young energetic cast's dancing, matched by some astounding choreography, make certain numbers carry the show. The simple yet effective set, and the unusual lighting also work wonders, but others times fail to keep the show in full swing.  

It’s a show for all the family, especially for Grandparents and Children; they would enjoy the simple story, strong musical numbers, and remarkable dances.  
A lively and enjoyable show perhaps not up to today’s style, but still worth a watch.  

 The Tick List

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