UK Theatre Network

Never Forget

The Tyne Theatre & Opera House

IT seems that the future of musical theatre is heading in the direction of the ‘juke-box’ musical. With a plethora of productions based on the back catalogue of groups such as ABBA, Queen and Boney M, it was a sure bet that one featuring the music of Take That would pop up.

‘Never Forget’ tells the story of five young men who enter a talent competition to form a Take That tribute band. Along the way, they discover that fame comes at a price but friendships last forever.

The ladies were out in full force, no doubt attracted as much by the physique of former Brookside and Hollyoaks star, Philip Olivier, as the hits penned by Gary Barlow. There was a huge scream upon his first appearance, followed by wolf-whistles and calls of ‘Get your kit off!’

The show isn’t exactly Ibsen or Chekhov – nor does it claim to be. It’s as camp as a row of pink tents and as cheesy as a Quatro Formaggi pizza, but the songs are fabulous and the choreography is breathtaking and the special effects are impressive, too.

‘Never Forget’ is an uplifting show that positively exudes the feel-good factor and makes for a great evening’s entertainment. Well worth a visit.

Steve Burbridge.

Runs until Saturday 6^th February 2010.