The Karaoke Twist - Christmas Special

‘The Karaoke Twist – Christmas Special’ written by John Grimshaw is presented at the Don Russell Performing Arts Centre by A Lad in Sane Productions nightly at 8.00 pm until 15^th December.

Paul (Paris Romanis) is a shy but pleasant lad who would like a lasting relationship with a girl, so Matt (Daniel Kershaw) his brash friend decides to show him the ropes. In the process the chance to enter a karaoke competition appears at the local shopping centre. Meanwhile, stunning Sophie (Natalie Rees) is trying to similarly help her plain Irish friend Janet (Anna Grogan). Who will win the competition? Will any love come out of the meeting of the four?

I saw this play about a year ago at the Old Mill Theatre and it sparkled, and the audience laughed non-stop. Last night the new script, with a much poorer ending, fell flat. The humour was still in the writing, the lighting and costumes were well above average, but the cast seemed low. The pace of delivery wasn’t crisp enough, even the compere (Ray Condy) didn’t pick the tempo up.

Without a doubt the highlight of the show was the appearances of the waitress and the punk singer (both Holly Wilson), her vivacious approach and bright singing was wonderful. In fact all of the musical numbers worked, as the actors HAD to keep up with the music’s tempo.

I suspect that a different director would help, as Johnny may be getting a little stale with having written the show and putting it on twice. It still has all the possibilities there; it may just have been a poor night. The audience found it fun. Good luck.