Along with a lucky audience of Garrick first-nighters I dropped in to see the new production of Amanda Whittington’s updated hit play Satin n’ Steel and I must say this highly entertaining, bitter-sweet love story packs a punch with some real surprises.
The secret of its success lies in the clever way it allows audiences a fascinating peek behind the showbiz scenes, a fly-on-the-wall view of a world we’ve always suspected is there but are never allowed to see. Thanks to Gareth Tudor Price’s sure-footed direction and John Brooking’s great designs the real life struggles and emotions of two hardworking and heart-warming performers are brought to powerful life.
Local boy and TV star (Doctors, Emmerdale) Tom Roberts is sublime as the getting-on-a-bit pubs and clubs entertainer Vince with a poppy repertoire that time has rendered a nostalgia-fest, still feisty even as he nears the end of a gritty career.
His gorgeous real-life partner Kilke John (Crazy For You, A Christmas Carol) catches perfectly her character Teena’s journey from the immature girl who can sing a bit to the seasoned professional she becomes, giving the play an extra high-voltage kick. Young and unsure of herself at first, partnership with Vince gives her the confidence to grow and shine in the showbiz lights. Except there’s a secret, and sooner or later the cat has to come out of the bag.
Moving and funny by turns Satin n’ Steel brilliantly lets us in on the laughter (and tears) behind the magical world of entertainment. If you like a warm human drama with plenty of great music that has a nostalgic feel, this is definitely for you.
Following its Lichfield debut Satin n’ Steel goes on a lengthy tour, but catch it while you can here on its home patch.
Satin n’ Steel runs at the Garrick until Saturday (April 25). For tickets go online at www.lichfieldgarrick.com or phone the box office on 01543 412121.
