I went into this production with little to no expectations, as an individual in my mid 20s the band has never been on my radar save for a few of their well known classics. This meant that this performance was able to speak for itself outside of any pre conceived expectations or admiration of the popular British group.

The production was a well rounded example of how a jukebox musical can be produced, with the story line leaning into a biographical depiction of the bands rise to fame. You really felt as though you were along for the ride as they chased fame and ascended the ranks and became Rock and Role legends. The ‘Concert Style’ interludes were a great accompaniment to the story and was the guiding force of these moments in history.

In these days of modern musical theatre actor/musos are more prevalent than ever, placing them at the heart of productions and this show was no acceptation. Several of the leading cast were proficient in various instruments and supported the musicality of the show as a whole alongside the band onstage. This allowed for a more integrated and believable portrayal of these characters, to whom music was such a guiding force in their lives.

The choreography as a whole harkened back to the 60s with its flagrant use of rhythmic and carefree stylistic choices. This allows the audience to be immersed in the culture and style of an era long gone but never forgotten. The ensemble gave such heart and vibrancy to these dances and we were encouraged to have fun alongside them.

Stylistically the direction and staging took a very liberal approach to the 4th wall and frequently had the performance entering/ exiting through the audience in the stalls. It was interesting to see up close the nuances in the performers faces as they braced themselves to enter into their world from ours. Personally I saw this as a stylistic parallel to the band and their working class origins, just as they attempted to break down the classist barriers in the industry, The performers are breaking down our preconceived notions that we are two worlds apart as actors and spectators.

The cast blew me away with their talent not only completely embodying their characters traits, abilities and relationships but performing such technical songs on stage whilst playing the instrument really resonated with me and I believe the whole audience.

A prior Kinks fan or not this show is not too be missed and will have you on the edge of your seating waiting for the next uplifting song to blast through the sound system!