This week at Milton Keynes Theatre, there's a chance to discover what can happen when you turn the feelgood factor up to 11, writes Chris Gregg.
Summer Holiday, based on the sixties Cliff Richard movie, is an obvious choice for a jukebox musical and is the second time the film has been adapted for the stage.
In this new version, the cast share the limelight with what appears to be a full size double decker bus as they all go on a Summer Holiday.
Starring as the Cliff Richard character Don is Ray Quinn (below).
You may remember him as the runner-up in the X Factor in 2006 (losing to Leona Lewis) which led to a number one album and winning Dancing On Ice.
He's a very confident lead with some very impressive acrobatic dance moves who easily steals the show. His three holidaymaking chums Billy Roberts (Steve), Joe Goldie (Edwin) and Rory Maguire (Cyril) deliver solid performances and the gang are joined by a trio of girls, Gabby Antrobus (Mimsie), Alice Baker (Alma) and Laura Marie Benson (Angie), whose car breaks down and they are lured onto the bus by the boys singing insistently that they want to 'take them for a ride' and don't take no for an answer.
The charm of this show is that it recaptures a more innocent time and although it's tempting to view it with a modern, cynical eye, it's performed without any irony. Even the song about having a 'swinging affair' has no subtext.
This show really excels when it comes to the dance routines. While the tightly choreographed ensemble numbers are a feast for the eyes, the highlight is a dance with Don and his love interest Sophie Matthew (Barbara) which was flawlessly in time, similar to the dancing in the movie La La Land.
There is also an appearance from vintage actor and TV presenter, Bobby Crush (below) as Barbara's agent Jerry.
Of course, there's plenty of hits. In fact, even more than in the original film as more of Cliff's back catalogue have been crow-barred in to the show, including a very randomly placed performance of Living Doll.
Expect to be singing along long after you thought the show has finished as the cast seem determined to continue singing until they have repeated all of the show's songs at the end.
What this show lacks in plot it certainly makes up for with bucket loads of innocent fun. Audiences were on their feet at the end and although some were putting their coats on and quietly leaving, most people left the theatre with a big smile.
Don't miss this show if you love Mama Mia, Grease or Hairspray; even if you're not a Cliff fan, you'll have a good time.
Summer Holiday is at Milton Keynes Theatre until Saturday 19th May 2018.
To book tickets click here
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