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Five Guys Named Moe - One4Review

5 Stars

*****

What a joyful and brilliant show! Everything is right in this updated production starting with the technical side – staging, lighting, sound and costumes. The performances are dazzling – the song and dance routines, the humour and not forgetting the supporting jazz band. Also, the audience played their part in giving a good feel throughout.

The story is one of lost and found love. It stars Clarke Peters, the show’s original creator in 1990. He plays Nomax who finds himself transported back in time to meet up with the 5 Moes (Ashley Campbell, Christopher Colquhoun, Carlton Connell, Paul Hazel and Horace Oliver). Using the music and lyrics of Louis Jordan, a storyline has been cleverly constructed.

To many, Louis Jordan is not a household name but he was enormously popular in the 1940’s with his range of recordings in various styles from the blues to up tempo, boogie. His output was influential in the early development of rock and roll. What continues to make his songs fresh today is the humour in the quirky lyrics.

All the classic songs are performed with boundless energy, including ‘Choo, Choo Ch’Boogie’, ‘Caldonia Boogie’, ‘Reet Petite and Gone’ as well as the title song itself. It was interesting to look around to gauge the age range of the audience. It was not surprising to see a good representation of senior citizens but it was encouraging to see so many from younger generations. Sitting beside me were a couple of twenty somethings and they were chuckling and clapping throughout, proving quality can attract all age groups.

Reviewed by Ben

Venue; Venue Number                  Underbelly’s McEwan Hall; V300

Dates                                                  4 to 29 August 2010 (not 27)

Times                                                 17.15 to 18.45

Fringe Programme Page Number: 211

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