Motown the Musical has a title that set my expectations at the "uninspiring jukebox musical" level, but it has been one of the highlights of the season so far at Milton Keynes Theatre, writes Chris Gregg.
This is a super slick, well crafted show with a big cast which tells the compelling story of the founder of the Motown record label, Berry Gordy and how he borrowed $800 from his family and started a business which developed some of the most important artists in the history of modern music from Diana Ross to Marvin Gaye, Smokey Robinson and of course Diana Ross.
It's no understatement to say that Motown built the soundtrack of a generation and 60 years on from the label's inception, Berry Gordy is still going strong at the age of 89 and was involved with this show which tells his story, warts and all including his relationship with Diana Ross and the circumstances which led to him selling his business.
For a show which centres around the music, the cast have some big shoes to fill but there are some outstanding performers in this show. Karis Anderson is sensational as Diana Ross drawing from her experience as a top five artist with the song ‘Black Heart’ in 2012 for which her band Stooshe were nominated for a Brit Award.
Her vocals are powerful and soulful with a beautiful tone which more than does justice to Ross. Alongside her are 2016 X Factor finalist Nathan Lewis as Smokey Robinson who has a bright stage presence and great chemistry with Edward Baruwa as Berry Gordy. He steals the show with his portrayal which is sincere, believable and emotional.
The remaining cast are polished and professional with all the classic dance routines and slick vocals so you really do feel like you've lived through it all.
The show uses the latest LED screen backdrops to recreate classic TV shows, music venues and studios with a very good sound system plus a live band so it's genuinely concert quality staging.
This is a show which has a solid story alongside an incredible selection of music and will appeal to every generation - and whether or not you were around in the sixties, you will recognise most of the songs.
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