Stay Out Of Trouble And Get A Ticket To Mellow's Bad Girls

It never ceases to amaze us just how much time, effort, and money is invested in amateur dramatic productions. Managing a full time job, family commitments, and a rehearsal schedule must be a challenging task but it's clear to see that The Mellow Dramatics are at home on the stage; their passion and enthusiasm shines, enhancing their performance and captivating their audience. This evening we are transported to H.M. Prison, Larkhall for Bad Girls The Musical, where we are re-acquainted with the familiar characters from the popular ITV series which ran from 1999-2006.

Full of riots, romps, and rebellion the production is an exhilarating one, shocking and thrilling in equal measure. Though sad and pensive at times the audience are lifted by love, hope, and one woman's fight for justice.

With a strong voice and numerous suit jackets, Sharon Plummer shines as Scottish Wing Governor Helen Stewart. Her romance with prisoner Nikki Wade (played by Stacey Summers) is perfectly portrayed; full of chemistry and underlying tension a highlight of the show is their duet Every Night. The Prison Officers (aka Screws) embrace their roles and duties; cold, unsympathetic, and corrupt with the exception of Justin Mattison (played exceptionally well by John Davidson), a Screw with compassion who stands united with Miss Stewart.

The Two Julies (played by Natalie Veasey and Helen Parker) are a natural double act, providing entertainment and laughs throughout - watch out for their playful gestures during All Banged Up! Shell Dockley (played by Lucy Robinson) has great stage presence; loud and brash she is a force to be reckoned with, though the ignorant and menacing Jim Fenner (played by Andrew Warner) mistakenly thinks otherwise.

Directed by Donna Stephenson, the production uses clever 3D projection and features an incredibly talented live band, with Musical Direction from Rob Murray. A special mention goes to Natasha Ingham for her wonderful choreography, from 'A-List' to the grand finale, dances are well executed and full of energy. It is clear that there is a great spirit amongst the cast and their devotion does not go unnoticed - evident by the rapturous applause of the full house.

Bad Girls The Musical makes a surprisingly easy transition to the stage and genre of musical theatre thanks to the talented capabilities of The Mellow Dramatics. Do yourself a favour, stay out of trouble and get a ticket to this fantastic show.

Bad Girls The Musical runs at the delightful Brewhouse Arts Centre in Burton upon Trent until Sat 16 May.Tickets are from £10 and can be booked by calling 01283 508100 or visiting www.mellow-dramatics.org/tickets.