The Full Monty - Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

Sutton Coldfield Musical Theatre Company

Thrilling, laugh-out-loud entertainment from an excellent musical theatre company that never disappoints

Having seen many SCMTC productions I knew this company would deliver the goods, and once again they have done it with conviction and gusto. The high standard of performance, direction, choreography and music is maintained throughout this fabulous production of The Full Monty which opens tonight at Sutton Coldfield Town Hall, ‘high standard’ being a trade mark for this long-established group who celebrate their 85th anniversary this year.

Based on the book by Terrence McNally, with score by David Yazbek, this Americanised musical stage version adapted from the 1997 movie sees its locale switch from Sheffield UK to Buffalo NY (having been performed on Broadway) and this high-energy version will not disappoint.

The story features six unemployed, penniless steelworkers who, after witnessing their wives enthusiasm for the Chippendales show, decide to present their own, unique strip act at a local club. Jerry (Phil Bourn) declares that their strip show, devised to raise quick cash, will excel the Chippendales as they will ‘go the full monty’ (avert your eyes ladies) and strip all the way. As they rehearse and prepare for the show they find strength in their friendships, overcoming fear and self-consciousness, proving that what’s on the inside is more important than what’s on the outside. Partner to the raucousness of the story is the tenderness - the possible saving of rocky marriages becoming a reality as the men’s emotional fears and self doubt are exposed for the better.

Hilarious and heart-warming performances from the principal male cast - Midlands’ favourite Phil Bourn perfectly captures the character of the feisty, loyal and adventurous Jerry Lukowski, alongside Rob Fusco (the motivated, vulnerable, romantic Harold Nichols), Ben Green (the self conscious, lovable, cuddly Dave Bukatinski), Fidel Lloyd (the unpredictable, cool, gentleman Noah ‘Horse’ T. Simmons), Patrick Jervis (the quiet, awkward, secret Malcolm Macgregor) and Ben Adams (the enthusiastic, dopey and funny Ethan Girard).

The girls also deliver the goods, with sassy dancing, powerful singing and big personalities - Sarah Clark (Joanie Lish), Kerrie Davies (Georgie Bukatinsky), Charlotte Middleton (Estelle Genovese), Paula Lumsden (Jeanette Burmeister), Leanne Bowkett (Pam Lukowski), Sally Midwinter (Vicki Nichols) and Emily Jenkinson (Susan Hershey) all give sterling performances. With a strong, supporting ensemble this show ensures quality from start to finish.

A special mention goes to SCMTC's young performer, Ethan Bowley (Nathan Lukowski) who plays Jerry’s son, bringing the essential sentiment to the story and playing the part with assurance.

With tremendous, full harmony vocal performances supported by a fantastic, off-stage live band directed by Sheila Pearson, the production team has clearly worked hard to bring the balance of energy, hilarity, sadness and camaraderie to the stage. Theatre stalwart, Paul Lumsden, directs with passion and experience. Choreographer, Jenny Morris, delights us with the essential dance routines that serve up enough sauce as required, ensuring the production keeps the spirit and momentum at a unflagging pace.  With an impressive set and wardrobe, and a competent technical crew on board, the Full Monty has all the ingredients for a great show and a ticket is well-worth it if you want to witness 'The Goods'.

Runs to 24 March. Contains occasional strong language.

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