Immaculately delivered and objectively hilarious lines (albeit I was not the target demographic), perfectly executed choreography (of Jason Gilkison), incredible vocals, boundless energy, and no plot whatsoever as far as I could tell, I Should Be So Lucky was quite the experience.
The songs of trio Stock Aitken Waterman, which defined its era topping the charts in the 1980s and 1990s, are brought to life on stage in a whirlwind performance that includes eight hits from Kylie herself, naturally most notably "I Should Be So Lucky," as well as hits from Jason Donovan, Rick Astley, Sinitta, and Jason Donovan's "Too Many Broken Hearts." By the time the bows are taken parts of 30 different songs have been explored in this musical madness. Debbie Isitt, best known for Nativity, has filled the show with some brilliant quips despite it being a little disconnected.
The show is almost absurd in nature, running at 100 miles an hour from the first curtain and bounding through its incredibly tenuous plot with impressive energy, it's a strange contrast I was enjoying myself and laughing along, the show is harmless and bright, but you cannot help but be baffled as the story completely falls apart. Ella (Lucie-Mae Summer) faces heartbreak as her fiancé, Nathan (Billy Roberts), abandons her at the altar. The catalyst for this turn of events is Nathan's grandfather, who resides in a dementia care home.
The elderly and seemingly incoherent gentleman cryptically hints at a ‘family secret,’ casting doubt on the wisdom of the impending marriage. Naturally after reasoning with the logic of this situation, Nathan runs away from his dreams. Ella’s family whisk her away on her honeymoon at a Turkish resort to try and make her feel better where she seemingly moves on very quickly with the resort's tour guide. The show then races through several whirlwind romances and side plots of old rivals and family drama.
Kayla Carter as bridesmaid Bonnie performs a genuinely stunning and musical turned ballad rendition of Sonia’s ‘You'll Never Stop Me From Loving You’ about her crush on the best man Ash- and the frantic, wholly devoted and driving force that is the best man, Giovanni Spand is an enigmatic watch. A particular stand out is Scott Paige as Ella’s friend Michael who delivers a heartfelt and immaculately comedic performance throughout. The friends and family create a warm dynamic and fun performance gelling well on stage.
Kylie Minogue herself swoops down in mirror/screen situations throughout the show as Ella's' fabulous ‘reflection’ which, despite being truly glamorous in Kylie's style, unfortunately, feels a little awkward and forced, and like a missed opportunity.
The show was received exceptionally by the majority of the audience who got up and danced at the end and sang along throughout. An entertaining night out, fun despite the chaos especially if you’re a Kylie fan!