Essex boy done very good in All the Fun of the Fair

Saturday 17th September 2011, 10:31AM BST.

David Essex in All the Fun of the Fair at Birmingham

All the Fun of the Fair

New Alexandra,

Birmingham

It’s about three years since this musical, created from David Essex’s back catalogue, first appeared and it was then somewhat slow, gloomy and not terribly well-focused.

But a West End run and some reworking have transformed this show completely.

The plot has travelling fair owner Levi coming to terms with his wife’s death and his son’s sometimes dangerous romantic affairs.

The 1970s superstar may now be sixty-four, but legions of devoted fans greeted his first entrance with cheers and a remark about his trademark mane of black curly hair was met with a nostalgic buzz from the audience.

Many of the original cast reprise their roles.

And it’s a strong line-up with the acting generally convincing.

The hits were delivered very effectively—especially Hold Me Close and Gonna Make You a Star.

I thought Silver Dream Machine had been dropped, but it arrives splendidly at the finale with Jack on his motorbike appearing to ride out into the auditorium and over the audience in an impressive special effect.

By Jerald Smith

For tickets click here

View more: Birmingham news.