Emma's Theatrics

For anyone who knows anything about The Rocky Horror Picture Show, you will know that it is, first and foremost, a cult favourite. Its appeal is fiercely niche, adored by devoted fans across the world, but leaving little room for newcomers - particularly at events like these. I am a newcomer. I reviewed the UK tour last year, which gave me a glimpse of the extraordinary love audiences have for this show, and I genuinely loved the atmosphere. But tonight was something differen

Based on the notorious 1992 movie with Whitney Houston , The Bodyguard returns for yet another tour of the UK. It follow the fictional story of Rachel Marron, an international superstar, as she is being targeted by an anonymous stalker. Bodyguard Frank Farmer is subsequently employed to ensure Rachel’s safety, as well as that of her sister and 10-year old son. Having had its previous tour swept up in controversy surrounding audience behaviour in theatres, expectations for th

The festive season is well and truly upon us, and with it comes the time to be merry, jolly, and ready to usher in the new year. In the UK, nothing is more synonymous with Christmas cheer than a pantomime - and Guildford’s Beauty and the Beast certainly does not disappoint. Bursting with bright, colourful costumes, slapstick humour, and all the festive flair you could wish for, this year’s production guarantees magical fun for audiences of all ages. Back with another classic

Most of us are familiar with the music of The Kinks , whether by name or simply by recognising one of their iconic tunes. Yet far fewer of us know the band’s full story—how it began with brothers Ray and Dave Davies and grew into one of the most influential British groups of the 20th century. Their legacy reaches far beyond a playlist of hits, and Sunny Afternoon aims to trace the emotion, conflict, and ambition behind that legacy. Over the past two years of reviewing, thi

The hit West End jukebox musical Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story has embarked on a new UK tour, once again delighting audiences with its iconic musical catalogue. The show follows Texas-born musician Buddy Holly as he breaks away from the conventions of country music and ventures into the emerging world of rock ‘n’ roll in the 1950s. At a time when this genre was still seen as rebellious—and even taboo among older generations— Buddy Holly and the Crickets helped to revolution

Based on the chart-topping hits of the multi-million-selling pop phenomenon Steps, Here & Now follows four friends and co-workers who make a pact to have the perfect “summer of love.” Naturally, things don’t go quite as planned. Set in a brightly lit supermarket, Better Best Bargains, the production makes clever use of its setting to create a vibrant, high-energy backdrop for the story. Despite its dynamic choreography and enthusiastic performances, the musical ultimately le