Motown, featuring classic icons Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye and The Jackson 5, follow Berry Gordy’s record producing company, Motown Records, giving context to songs a generation grew up to. The show, at Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre, was a sensation!
For me, the set was a fundamental part of the production. It consisted of multiple screens which moved from above the stage mostly, but also stage left and right. These were particularly effective creating a multi-locational stage, perfect for this show in which we visit many different houses, arenas, and even a holiday house in the Bahamas. One scene which stuck in my mind was the creation of a restaurant in Paris. The restaurant was accurately represented, and as Berry and Diana confessed their love, the background conveyed the Seine at night with the moon reflecting on the water. The attention to detail was impressive, there were subtle ripples in the water and even a shooting star at the moment of their first kiss. This enhanced the romance of the scene and made for a really heart felt moment.
Overall, the costumes felt authentic to each celebrity. Each costume was loud with colour and sparkle. The Temptations had particularly eye-catching satin suits which enhanced the slick nature of their dancing. The costume which grabbed me had to be Diana Ross’stunning red gown and overcoat. She was portrayed with class and elegance and the flare of her costume only accentuated this. I particularly enjoyed her performance of ‘Reach Out And Touch Somebody’s Hand’ in which she asked the audience to hold hands with the person on either side of them and sway singing the popular chorus. This was highly emotive and not what I was expecting at all!
On the whole the vocals were sound with many of the leads, particularly the female leads, having powerful voices. There were a few slightly pitchy characters sadly, however this is often as expected in a cast so large. For me, the dancing was often much better than the singing. Every dance number, particularly ‘Dancing In The Street’ was flawlessly executed, oozing fire and passion. The nature of '80s dancing was perfectly portrayed and had clearly been rehearsed tirelessly.
By the end of the performance, the entire audience were on their feet and the applause was deafening! This show has so much energy and holds real nostalgia. You can’t not love it!
Reviewer - Grace McNicholas
on - 1/10/19
Saw the show in Southampton.
ReplyDeleteSome of our party had seen the show in London and reckoned this was better.
Dancing and scene changes were excellent.
Thought choreography of the Temptations and Contours routines were top class
Band good too.
Lad who played Stevie Wonder and Micheal Jackson is a star in the making!!
One of best live shows weve seen
Singing was of a generall