As a child of the ‘sixties myself, I was looking forward with
enthusiasm to reviewing ” What’s New, Pussycat?” I was not to be
disappointed. The show had been advertised as a flashback to the music
of that era, the Mods, scooters etc. and it was this and much more.
My immediate reaction, upon hearing of this production, was that it
would probably be a musical biography of Tom Jones (as in the Welsh
singing star). In fact, it is a fascinating mixture of his songs with
the story of the other Tom Jones (the character created in the novel by
Henry Fielding). It was a show which kept our attention from start to
finish with a combination of powerful singing, witty dialogue and
excellent choreography. There was a great onstage chemistry among the
performers and the whole show was received at the end with a well earned
standing ovation and an encore which had us singing and clapping along.
The show’s run in Birmingham has now ended and at this stage, I am not
sure what plans are in store for the future, but I would say that if
anyone has the opportunity to see this for themselves, it is well worth
a visit. On a personal level, I am very grateful to the Rep for the
opportunity to review the show and mention must be made of the staff and
their unfailing courtesy and helpfulness, especially with regard to
accommodating my wife and her mobility issues. All in all, a thoroughly
enjoyable afternoon.
Rating. *****
Colin McIlwaine.
