The Wedding Singer

Published Tuesday 26 February 2008 at 19:20 by Natalie Anglesey

It may not be Sondheim, but the UK premiere of the stage version of the 1998 film, which starred Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore, doesn’t pretend to be anything more than a feel-good show.

The current vogue for musicals set in the eighties perpetuates the return of frizzy perms, mullets and shoulder pads while, apart from the obvious nostalgia value, the script is much funnier than expected. But don’t expect a carbon copy of the film because, wisely, the two leads have avoided any attempt at a tribute act. Although one of the highlights involves members of an in-flight tribute convention.

Charismatic West End star Jonathan Wilkes steals the show as the wedding singer of the title. He sings and dances with an easy grace and is instantly likeable as wannabe rocker Robbie Hart, with a nice line in comedy.

Helping to mend his jilted heart is waitress Julia, played by Natalie Casey, who has a personality as big as her voice. There’s an obvious rapport between them, essential for the success of thie show, and they can certainly belt out a song.

Although this isn’t a juke-box musical, the songs are reminiscent of the period and while they are pleasant enough, are mainly forgettable. However, this production is in the capable hands of Karen Bruce, who has created terrific choreography delivered by a high-energy cast.

The audience needed no coaxing to give a standing ovation to this feel-good show.