Review: Here and Now Steps Musical earns four stars – certainly no 'Tragedy!'

There are a few negatives, but bear with me. The storyline is weak unfortunately, depicting the lives and loves of a group of supermarket workers as they strive to achieve their dreams, and although there is no reference to the actual members of the pop group itself, the characters are funny and highly relatable. So does it really matter if the plot is a little thin on the ground? No of course not, this musical is all about comedy, fun and of course the music.

Yes, the script is totally cheesy although not predictable, as there are quite a few twists and turns, some of which I struggled to understand the point of actually, but then it is no worse than any other jukebox musical. It’s not Shakespeare, so don’t come if you expect anything more!

On the plus side, the casting of the show is superb and actually it is all about the ladies.

I have seen Lara Denning who takes the leading role of Caz, in a couple of other musicals and she always delivers an excellent vocal performance. Lara has the ability to sing both musical theatre and pop songs, which are extremely contrasting styles, and in “Here and Now” she has the opportunity to really show off her voice. Not only that, but she has dramatic strength, yet also a vulnerability which the character demands and she executes the role to perfection.

The unforgettable Steps hit ”One for Sorrow” had been rearranged as a ballad for the show and Lara’s rendition was a huge highlight, together with “Heartbeat.”

Jacqueline Dubois as Vel, Caz’s delightfully funny co-worker is an excellent character actress with good comedy timing and stage presence, while Rosie Singha as Neeta, a sweet young lady who is in love with one of the supermarket boys but terrified to let him know, is demure, that is until she begins to sing and then her killer vocals raised the roof!

Corrie legend, Sally Ann Matthews is hilarious in the role of the supermarket boss Patricia, displaying her comedic skills which we are perhaps not used to seeing on the small screen, and Lauren Wolfe makes an impact even though her role as the delivery driver Tracey is a small one.

The script never goes more than a page or so before the characters burst into song, resulting is some outstanding production numbers by the whole company, including “5,6,7,8”, “Summer of Love”’ “Last Thing on my Mind”, “Neon Blue”, “Better the Devil you Know”, oh the list is endless with no less than 21 classic Steps numbers in total.

But the highlight of the show for me was “Chain Reaction” delivered by Ru Paul’s Drag Race UK star, River Medway, in the role of Jem and his four deliciously camp dancers who rocked the theatre complete with washing machines (you really had to be there!) and ice blue and silver catsuits! Hilariously funny, totally over the top and I loved it!

The look of the show is vibrant with colourful scenery in the neon pinks, blues, red and yellows, and crystal clear lighting effects which complement the party atmosphere. 

Rachel Kavanaugh’s direction is sharp and as well done as it can be with a basic storyline such as this, and Matt Cole’s choreography is completely authentic, incorporating just a few of the best-loved Steps moves, (I think there would have been a riot otherwise!) but in the main he has also created high energy dance routines which completely fill the stage, executed by a company of skilled young performers who ooze enthusiasm and talent.

Musical Director Georgia Rawlings and her superb six strong band romped through the Steps hits with ease delivering a performance worthy of a pop concert.

From the off it was obvious that the audience wanted to join in. You could feel an impromptu movement in the crowd, and they got their chance at the end of the show in a Mega Mix of hits which had the whole theatre on its feet singing and dancing. A great way to end the night!

Guaranteed to make you smile, “Here and Now” may not be the most sophisticated musical, but believe me, you will come out of the theatre singing “Better the Devil You Know” and counting “5,6,7,8” as you walk.

It’s no “Tragedy” and certainly not “Better Best Forgotten”, just a fun-filled experience not only for Steps super fans, also those who simply enjoy an evening of light entertainment.

For tickets visit grand theatre.co.uk or call 01902 429212. Runs until March 15.

Pictures by Pamela Raith