Post by Lynda on Oct 22, 2008 11:20:45 GMT
Beyond the Barricade – Alex Theatre Birmingham
Last night I saw the above.
BTB has been going for nearly 10 years, yet this was the first time I have seen them, thanks to Season my theatre buddy.
I always thought it was a strange name for a group of people singing songs from the musicals, but now I realise its because three of them have been in Les Miserable (for those that haven’t seen Les Mis, the students build a barricade to defend themselves) and these 4 are now beyond that and have moved on hence the title.
To be honeset I wasn’t that fussed about going especially as it was an evening show and I prefer to go to matinees but as they do one nighters only, diff town each night I had no option.
There are four singers (2 girls and 2 guys) and a band on stage, with the sound and lighting chaps at the rear of the stalls.
They opened with some songs from Jesus Christ Super Star, Phantom, Cats, Mamma Mia - none of my favourite musicals, but I must say those guys and gals on stage had me mesmerised from the very start.
Katie especially reminded me of Lee Mead on ADWD, she not only sang but told the story at the same time, she really should be back onstage in west end . Andy on keyboards brings a smile to peoples faces with his enthusiasm, here again he reminded me of Gareth Weedon (MD keyboards in Joseph) with his movements.
Katie Andy and David have all been in Les Mis. The new girl Becky would make a very good Lady in the Lake in Spamalot.
When they were singing, it transported me back to each Musical . It was not just a case of opening their mouths and singing, they were “there” right in the shows. I have seen a similar one nighter with songs from the musicals but that fades into insignificance, these four people were so professional and it really showed they knew their art. I cant praise them enough. In fact it made me want to go and book to see Les Mis again, and wish that Miss Saigon was back on tour or in West End.
When they did the song that “goes on too long” from Spamalot I wish I had brought along my coconut shells and could have done a horsey along the aisle.
My only negative comment being I was disappointed there was nothing from Joseph, as it is topical at the moment. There was a reference to it, and the Nancys, but hey its their show - they can sing what they want.
There were no silly costume changes and long drawn out jokes. Just a few quips
Wonderful powerful singers. Had me crying during “Tell me its not true” from Blood Brothers and Bring him Home from Les is. Fabulous.
The show wasnt advertised in our Birmingham newspapers but the size of the audience speaks volumes for this talented foursome as I didn’t see any empty seats, word of mouth and repeated visits from loyal fans no doubt.
If ever they need a replacement I could suggest some fabulous singers from Joseph
David asked the audience to leave any comments, may I suggest the following:
Maybe a matinee once a week now and then for those that find it difficult to do evening shows for one reason or another.
Include a song from Joseph
A happy clappy rousing song for the finale, as I personally like to come out with such a song and on a high. “Can you hear the people sing” whilst a great song doesnt do it for me.
Thank you to all involved I thoroughly enjoyed myself last night, sorry I couldn’t wait to say hello as my husband was waiting in the car with the parking meter ticking.
Season, I shall come with you again when your guys are back in Brum next year.
I recommend this show to all and sundry, when its in a town near you do go and see it . ;D
Last night I saw the above.
BTB has been going for nearly 10 years, yet this was the first time I have seen them, thanks to Season my theatre buddy.
I always thought it was a strange name for a group of people singing songs from the musicals, but now I realise its because three of them have been in Les Miserable (for those that haven’t seen Les Mis, the students build a barricade to defend themselves) and these 4 are now beyond that and have moved on hence the title.
To be honeset I wasn’t that fussed about going especially as it was an evening show and I prefer to go to matinees but as they do one nighters only, diff town each night I had no option.
There are four singers (2 girls and 2 guys) and a band on stage, with the sound and lighting chaps at the rear of the stalls.
They opened with some songs from Jesus Christ Super Star, Phantom, Cats, Mamma Mia - none of my favourite musicals, but I must say those guys and gals on stage had me mesmerised from the very start.
Katie especially reminded me of Lee Mead on ADWD, she not only sang but told the story at the same time, she really should be back onstage in west end . Andy on keyboards brings a smile to peoples faces with his enthusiasm, here again he reminded me of Gareth Weedon (MD keyboards in Joseph) with his movements.
Katie Andy and David have all been in Les Mis. The new girl Becky would make a very good Lady in the Lake in Spamalot.
When they were singing, it transported me back to each Musical . It was not just a case of opening their mouths and singing, they were “there” right in the shows. I have seen a similar one nighter with songs from the musicals but that fades into insignificance, these four people were so professional and it really showed they knew their art. I cant praise them enough. In fact it made me want to go and book to see Les Mis again, and wish that Miss Saigon was back on tour or in West End.
When they did the song that “goes on too long” from Spamalot I wish I had brought along my coconut shells and could have done a horsey along the aisle.
My only negative comment being I was disappointed there was nothing from Joseph, as it is topical at the moment. There was a reference to it, and the Nancys, but hey its their show - they can sing what they want.
There were no silly costume changes and long drawn out jokes. Just a few quips
Wonderful powerful singers. Had me crying during “Tell me its not true” from Blood Brothers and Bring him Home from Les is. Fabulous.
The show wasnt advertised in our Birmingham newspapers but the size of the audience speaks volumes for this talented foursome as I didn’t see any empty seats, word of mouth and repeated visits from loyal fans no doubt.
If ever they need a replacement I could suggest some fabulous singers from Joseph
David asked the audience to leave any comments, may I suggest the following:
Maybe a matinee once a week now and then for those that find it difficult to do evening shows for one reason or another.
Include a song from Joseph
A happy clappy rousing song for the finale, as I personally like to come out with such a song and on a high. “Can you hear the people sing” whilst a great song doesnt do it for me.
Thank you to all involved I thoroughly enjoyed myself last night, sorry I couldn’t wait to say hello as my husband was waiting in the car with the parking meter ticking.
Season, I shall come with you again when your guys are back in Brum next year.
I recommend this show to all and sundry, when its in a town near you do go and see it . ;D