The Magic Of Motown
Format: Music Show
Genre: Motown
Review Date: January 24 2020
Performance: January 24 2020
Location: Floral Pavilion, New Brighton
Duration: 150 Minutes incl. an interval
Age Rating: 8+
What a feeling! We were dancing on the ceiling thanks to The Magic Of Motown at the Floral Pavilion – well in the aisles actually, obviously observing safety regulations.
Description
In its 13th year and seen by over a million people, it’s no surprise that this show is one of the biggest success stories in British theatre history. From the very beginning, the performers’ enthusiasm was infectious. The audience loved it, singing along to every song, enjoying the live music, costume changes, dancing and outstanding vocals.
From acapella performances, with sublime harmonies to rip-roaring duets and trademark dance moves; there was something for every Motown/soul music lover. We shared memories of the original Motown classic performers Diana Ross, Marvin Gaye, Martha and the Vandellas through to the more recent Jacksons and Lionel Richie numbers. this show had it all!
There were also slower songs that reminded you of the ‘slowies’ in the youth club and your first kiss, high-energy dance tunes and tear-jerkers that took you right back in time when your heart was broken for the first time. There were comedic moments, great interaction with the audience and stunning costumes that dazzled with all the sparkle you would expect from this genre of music. It really was a joyous occasion.
There was also a mass sing-a-long to such numbers as The O’Jays’ Love Train, and Marvin Gaye’s How Sweet It is (To Be Loved By You). Lionel Richie’s All Night Long was excellent, before they went into the interval with Dancing On The Ceiling, Poignant moments included a solo of Touch Me In The Morning by Diana Ross, and it was hard to believe that all this magical entertainment was provided by just four male and three female performers (ably supported by three talented musicians).
Analysis
The staging was great, the lighting and sound were excellent, and my only suggestion might be the addition of some brass instruments to really give an ‘oomph’ to it all. This tribute show is just one of the acts from Entertainers UK, and if you get the opportunity to go and see this particular Motown tribute band you certainly won’t be disappointed!
If anything, the show seemed to end far too early in the night, and I reckon the audience would have been up to partying at least another couple of hours.
Summary
The Magic Of Motown is a fabulous music show that has the ability to unite people of all ages, and Floral Pavilion was a great setting with a relaxed feel and the staff obviously enjoying the music too. This really was The Magic Of Motown!
Notes
Target Audience: Age 30+
Content: 0/5 – No Content Likely To Offend
Recommendation: Yes
Overall Rating: 9/10 – Outstanding
Further Information
For more information about The Magic Of Motown, click here.
