Review: HERE & NOW, Wolverhampton Grand - Tour
Photo credit: Pamela Raith
As a woman in her late 30s, this reviewer sits within the perfect demographic catered to by Here And Now: The Steps Musical, which is now touring the UK & Ireland following a hugely successful world premiere production in Birmingham in November 2024.
In a nutshell, we have the story of four friends/colleagues who work at seaside supermarket, Better Best Bargains, each going through varying stories of the heart (apologies in advance for the Steps puns - not sorry), and all soundtracked by iconic music of pop band, Steps.
We were fortunate enough to visit Better Best Bargains during its first outing and whilst the production remains much as we remember it, there are a number of new cast members for the tour who bring with it a fresh, renewed sense of confidence and assuredness in what they wish to deliver.
Tom Rogers' static set design places us in the supermarket for almost the full duration, with portable checkouts, shelving and other props moving us around the shop setting. Howard Hudson’s use of bright fluorescent lights amongst some of the more playful lighting for the musical numbers is balanced well. Whilst the ensemble cast showcase a multitude of brightly coloured costumes, designed by Gabrielle Slade, the key players are predominantly in a tabard and gilet uniform but even this has its charm. These do also change on a couple of commercial occasions e.g. Valentine’s Day to reflect time passing, which is a nice touch.
Brilliantly directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, this is ultimately a show about love and friendship, upon which it delivers tenfold. The chemistry and believability between our four main protagonists (Caz, Vel, Robbie and Neeta) in particular is something quite special, and as if they have built up their relationship over a much longer period of time than they have had available to them. The way it made us feel…quite frankly, all warm and fuzzy inside!
Like Rebecca Lock preceding her, Lara Denning as Caz is the beating heart (heartbeat) of the production. Her warmth, incredible vocals and generosity towards her fellow performers makes for the ultimate leading lady. Amongst this wholly 'light' musical, there are some serious topics touched upon including child loss, which Denning navigates beautifully. There are some emotional beats that perhaps don't quite land fully, such as when Caz's husband Gareth (Chris Grahamson) says he's leaving her, potentially scuppering her adoption plans. Ordinarily, this would stir up much greater emotion but the pace of the show moves it along swiftly.
The pairings that form during the show (Jacqui DuBois as voice of reason Vel and Lauren Woolf as the iconic Tracey; the supremely talented, vocal powerhouse Rosie Singha as Neeta and Ben Darcy as loveable Ben; and Blake Patrick Anderson as the endearing Robbie and River Medway as fierce Jem) provide us with wonderful moments, accented by their own backstories. Shaun Kitchener's book, whilst a little farfetched at times, supports these relationships, pushing them to the forefront of the fluff surrounding them. Notable too is Sally Ann Matthew’s comedic turn as shop manager Patricia - deliciously awkward!
The show's ensemble cast also provide highly energetic support, delivering Matt Cole's choreography with attack and precision. Steps' routines are well known amongst fans and Cole's work is respectful to this whilst bringing his own originality to the musical numbers.
The star of the show though will always be the music and it is undeniable that Steps are a pop phenomenon who gave us many brilliant songs. The six-strong band sounds much bigger than their parts, further enhanced by Adam Fisher's excellent sound design and operational team.
Utterly joyful, pure escapism.
**** Four stars
Reviewed by: Jenny Ell
