I’m not one to gush, and of late I’ve been criticised for being down on dull, formulaic and at times guff musical productions wasting our time in London, however, tonight I’ve just witnessed THE GREATEST MUSICAL PRODUCTION IN HISTORY!
Really, Miss Saigon 2014 is something incredibly rare and so very special.
In 20 years of reviewing theatre I’ve never been in the presence of such a universally talented cast with God given vocal genius.
This show has everything – amazing songs, phenomenal cast, incredible staging and an enthralling epic story.
There is not one weak link in this soon to be award winning / record breaking production…..
Enjoy Alex Belfield’s Exclusive Review for Celebrity Radio via YouTube:
Firstly, Cameron Macintosh Is truly a genius. He offers a master-class in staging, lighting, direction and performance. This show is visually stunning and captivating.
This is an amazing play set to music. The story is moving and the songs are guaranteed to draw a tear from even the biggest cynics eye.
The costumes & choreography are superb and I’m certain the lighting will win every award going for Miss Saigon – it couldn’t be more effective and powerful.
Despite the above, the reason this show is a mega-hit success and will be BEST MUSICAL 2014/2015 is down to the cast.
I’ve never heard such consistent, moving, wonderful vocals – and this score ain’t easy! (I saw this show on a 2 show day – even more impressive!)
With Broadway smash hit songs including ‘Sun And Moon’, ‘The Last Night Of The World’, ‘I Still Believe’, ‘The American Dream’ & ‘Bui Doi’ by Alain Boublil & Claud-Michel Schonberg – this show has it all! (Think Les Mis without the French wining).
Miss Saigon first hit the stage in 1989 and reminds us of the endless consequences of War. Miss Saigon focuses on the Vietnam war. This story is timeless.
It’s a love story of epic proportions.
It’s beautiful. It’s hysterical. It’s devastating. It has purpose and has meaning.
I rarely single people out in my reviews but Miss Saigon is the exception:
Alistair Brammer is perfectly cast as Chris. His rendition of ‘Why God Why’ is one of the most moving and pure I’ve ever heard anywhere in the world. He’s got charm and owns the part. He’s the epitome of a Broadway / West End Male Lead.
Jon Jon Briones doesn’t just play The Engineer, he lives it! Jon steals the show with his remarkable performance of ‘The American Dream’ in the second act. I’ve not seen such a masterfully energetic and impressive 11 o’clock number since Nathan Lane in the Producers. His performance is truly mezmerising and he adds such much required warmth and comedy to the show.
Enjoy Celebrity Radio’s Exclusive interview with Jon Jon & Alistair recorded at the Prince Edward Theatre, West End London….
Eva Noblezada is the biggest theatre Star of 2014 and one of the most impressive I’ve ever had the joy of seeing perform Live. I just love her. Her voice has been kissed by God and her performance is beyond spectacular.
We fell in love with her the second she appeared on stage. I cannot comprehend how she performs this role 8 times a week – she gives ever inch of her energy to make ‘Kim’ believable. You’re a Star my dear.
Finally, I must mention Hugh Maynard who opens Act 11 with ‘Bui Doi’. This is the heart of the show, the lost and forgotten children of war.
Maynard knocked it out of the park with this almost gospel inspired, heartfelt, hugely emotion and powerful version of this song. Bravo. What a voice. What a Star.
Enjoy an Exclusive interview with Hugh and Alex from September 2014:
Miss Saigon at the Prince Edward Theatre in the West End of London made me laugh, cry and think. It left me feeling inspired and in total admiration of the incredible talent in this sell-out hit production.
If you want to be a West End Star – go see Miss Saigon and see how you compare, you could save yourself a lot of time!
Miss Saigon performs 8 times a week at 7.30pm and matinee’s Thursday & Saturday’s at 2.30pm.
Don’t miss Miss Saigon – best show in many many years….if not EVER!
Review by Alex Belfield at Celebrity Radio 6th May 2014.
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