For the uninitiated, the legendary 1930s singer Al Bowlly is supposed to have been the first pop star and inventor of crooning. This show reworks the mythology of his life story in a sublime mix of performances of his songs, interactive theatre, and dance from costumed retro types. Live band The Gramophone Party is excellent, transporting us to an era of romance with their smooth tunes, while Jake Oldershaw makes a convincingly charming Al. Although the show doesn’t score many points for biographical accuracy, the nostalgic lyrics are guaranteed to get you swaying along in your seats. Take a suitably rakish partner, don your ballroom vintage best, and make sure you stick around for the post show dance.
The Bongo Club, 22 – 27 Aug, 1.30 pm (3.30pm), £10.00, fpp237.
tw rating 4/5
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Sections: by Alice Longhurst - ED2011 Theatre Reviews - tw rating 4/5 | Tags: The Bongo Club, Untied Artists
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