Sharon Stevens reviews The Drifters Girl at the Theatre Royal...
Hello, happiness!
We went to see Drifters Girl at the Theatre Royal and had a fantastic time.
Instantly, we were thrown into the era with the opening act. It took us right back in time. The music, the costumes, the jukebox and the lighting. We were there with them. The singing and dancing were captivating, and every note sung was on time and at the right pitch, etc. It grabbed our attention from the start and continued all through the performance.
We learned a lot about the Drifters and their experiences from their conception, the challenges they faced in the form of losses, maltreatment from others in the same industry, and racism they faced while touring. The show showed us how resilient they were and focused on what they wanted to achieve and were passionate about.
and how some men in society then felt about having a woman in a position higher than them
Mrs Treadwell (Carly Mercedes Dyer) was a force to be reckoned with and overcame the same challenges, but more so because of her personal loss and how some men in society then felt about having a woman in a position higher than them. This was conveyed expertly by the cast.
During the show, we met other characters in a way that distracted us from the fact that only six actors were on stage. Miles Anthony Daley, Ashford Campbell, Tarik Frimpong, and Daniel Haswell were convincing when playing their other parts. Jaydah Bell-Ricketts played the role of the daughter of Faye and George Treadwell. Props were used as visual representations, which were also used to add to the comedic segments. The singing was outstanding, whether with the orchestra or as a capella.
We felt many emotions throughout the performance - happiness, sadness, disgust, and joy. These were delivered as songs entwined with comedy sketches and monologues. The stage was used in many ways, with bright lighting and various moving visuals that enhanced the delivery.
At the end of the performance, we could dance. I will be honest: I wanted to do it throughout the production.
The Drifter’s Girl plays at the Theatre Royal from Tuesday 20th until Saturday 24th February 2024.
We have a favour to ask
LeftLion is Nottingham’s meeting point for information about what’s going on in our city, from the established organisations to the grassroots. We want to keep what we do free to all to access, but increasingly we are relying on revenue from our readers to continue. Can you spare a few quid each month to support us?
