> JULIAN CLARY LIVE

Shanklin Theatre, IoW
15 May 2019

Julian Clary - In his own words...‘Are you ready for some filth? I know I am. It’s been a while since he sallied forth to pleasure the provinces with his particular brand of saucy innuendo. Is the time right now?’

Born to Mince!... In this outrageously camp new show, (that was going to be called 'Bed Knobs and Knee Pads', but was advised might not sell too well on the Isle of Wight), renowned homosexual Julian Clary bares his soul as never before in the interests of light entertainment.

He murdered some well known songs along the way, read a sneak preview from his next memoir 'A Night At the Lubricant' and made withering remarks about punters foolish enough to sit in the front row. You know the kind of thing. It’s the only life he knows.

We where so lucky to get the last two tickets, tonight's show was a complete sell-out! Julian minced about and did not disappoint. Not quite as entertaining as when he's in Panto, the lord of mince still managed to raise the roof and tickle a few funny bones... Certainly worth the petrol money to Shanklin!

This might well be his final mince…

9 out of 10

> THE NUTCRACKER

Shanklin Theatre, IoW
3 Dec 2018

The Russian State Ballet present The Nutcracker - the music, the story, the drama. It's the perfect magical night out! A great way to warm up a chilly December eve and get into the festive spirit!

For many people, The Nutcracker is the true curtain-raiser to the festive season, and this production held nothing back - it was a show of great power and presence. Lovely costumes and simple set changes... a classic story, brought to life by very accomplished dancers. We enjoyed this eve out in Shanklin with Mark, Helen and Frankie Bailey.

 

10 out of 10

> 9 to 5 THE MUSICAL

Shanklin Theatre, IoW
29th October 2017

The Isle of Wight Savoyards - have done it again! This enthusiastic and highly creative Theatre group did Dolly proud... Their production of 9 to 5 the Musical hit all the right notes and the female leads shone like true stars... Westend quality at Isle of Wight prices - fantastic!

9 TO 5 THE MUSICAL is the hilarious musical comedy based on the hit movie, that centres on three office workers who turn the tables on their sexist boss.

Outrageous, thought provoking and even a little romantic, 9 TO 5 THE MUSICAL is about teaming up and taking care of business. Featuring original numbers from Dolly Parton's Oscar, Tony and Grammy Award nominated score including Backwoods Barbie, Shine Like the Sun and the original hit song 9 TO 5.

We joined in the fun - sang along to 9 to 5 and enjoyed every moment! Great costumes, clever sets and some really nice retro styling too... fabulous!

10 out of 10

> PANTO TIME!

Shanklin Theatre, Isle of Wight
23rd December 2016

Shanklin Theatre - Pantomime time is here again... We head to Shanklin to enjoy the classic, Cinderella. This family favourite was brought to life by the fantastic Spotlight IOW

What a fun experience. Lots of laughs and plenty of innuendo... It's hard to get the balance right, but this production managed it in style. The acting, singing and dancing was spot on! Simple painted cloth backdrops and minimal on-stage props made for a clean, uncluttered show. The costume's were of the highest quality too, the wardrobe of the two ugly sisters stole the show... over the top and utterly outrageous... perfect!

Thank you to Mum and Dad for the perfect pre-festive break treat!

8 out of 10.

> EDDIE IZZARD

Shanklin Theatre, IOW
2nd October 2016

Eddie Izzard - the genius comedian with the big heart brings his marvellous show the the Isle of wight.  

Eddie Izzard has spruced up his previous show Force Majeure, and is presenting a new “reloaded” version for our enjoyment. He is well known for his rambling style of comedy, often bringing a whimsical stream of consciousness to the stage, much to the audiences’ bemusement. True to form, Force Majeure Reloaded delivers laughs a plenty. We even had a short moment dedicated to the concept behind the name of our Island.

For the past three years Izzard has been touring the globe, presenting his stand-up comedy show to audiences in four different languages. Before playing Shanklin, it will have been seen by audiences in Ireland, Russia, South Africa, Canada and the United States.

Mr. Izzard is on the Island filming a new Victorian costume epic with DAME JUDY DENCH. I was graced with a regal viewing of Dame Judy as she entered the Theatre Foyer... Radiant!! AND... All procedes from the show went to Island based charaties... what a nice chap!

10 out of 10.

> OLIVER

Shanklin Theatre, IOW
11th October 2015

Oliver - one of the best English musicals ever! Based upon the novel Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens - with music and lyrics by Lionel Bart. 

This Island Savoyards production had to work really hard to stand up to the fabulous 1968 musical film version... That said, I am happy to report that this production was very, very good. I admit, no one can better Ron Moody and Oliver Reed from the film, but the troop did themselves proud. Great sets and costumes also helped to make this a very enjoyable show... nice way to spend a sunny Sunday afternoon in Shanklin. Great work!

Special shout out to Jesse Rann for her brilliant portrayal of Nancy and Brad Barnley who made Bill Sykes a force to be reckoned with!

10 out of 10!

> EVITA SEEN IN SHANKLIN!

Shanklin Theatre, Isle of Wight
6th April 2015

Evita - The Island Savoyards' ambitious production of Evita at Shanklin Theatre has to be the hot culture ticket for Spring!...  

Our first visit to Shanklin Theatre and our first opportunity to enjoy the work of the Island Savoyards. The two leads of Evita and Che were superb, with an excellent support cast. Atmospheric sets and faultless costumes made for a show that was hard to knock. Evita is not an easy musical to pull off, the songs and arrangements are challenging. But this cast did it... Well done all. Also, we can't wait to enjoy their production of Oliver later this year. We will return!

10 out of 10!