MAGIC of MOTOWN

THE MAGIC OF MOTOWN THEATRE SEVERN SHREWSBURY WEDNESDAY 17th APRIL 2013

If you went along to see this show not knowing what songs or artistes that you were going to see / hear then on taking your seat a look at the stage and the full size backdrop depicting some of the many artistes to be featured sets you straight.

This show had it all as a Motown tribute - excellent musicians, superb singers, great songs, well choreographed dance moves, beautiful costumes in abundance and great lighting and sound.

With a four piece band on stage throughout the vocal show comprises of 4 guys and 3 girls who top and tale each half as a full ensemble on stage whilst in between use the stage individually the boys as the 4 Tops and the likes and the girls as The Supremes or Martha Reeves & the Vandellas, plus one boy & girl on "Endless Love".

Artistes featured include - Supremes, 4 Tops, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight, Martha & Vandellas, Isley Brothers, and the Jackson 5 ( made up of the 4 male vocalists and the smallest female one as a brilliant Michael complete with "moonwalk").

Too many great songs to list but a few were - This ole Heart of Mine, Stop In Name of Love, Proud Mary, Why Do Fools Fall In Love, Reach Out I'll Be There, Loco in Acopulco, Cant Help Myself, Midnight Train To Georgia, Heatwave, You Can't Hurry Love, Get Ready, Aint No Mountain High Enough, My Girl, Keep Me Hanging On, It Takes 2, I Want You Back, Dancing In The Street, Signed Sealed Delivered, Rockin' Robin and Blame It On The Boogie.

This show has a real feelgood factor that never mind the streets get the majority of the audience dancing in their seats.

A beauty of this show was that the show itself was the star with all vocalists sharing the lead vocal duties as well as excellent four part harmonies from the boys and three part from the girls.

However, if there is to be a downside then for me is the fact that the brass section of the backing is played on the keyboards and not with a live brass section. In times of austerity it could be down to cost!

If you want to lift your spirits then get along and see this show next time it is in your area.

Alan Crowe.

If you were at the show or seen it as elsewhere please feel free to add your comments!