Steps Musical 'Here & Now' Brings 90s Nostalgia to Wolverhampton Grand Theatre
The new musical Here & Now, based on the iconic songs of pop group Steps, is currently captivating audiences at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre until Sunday, March 15. This vibrant production offers a perfect blend of comedy, drama, and nostalgic tunes that transport viewers back to the 1990s.
A Nostalgic Journey for 90s Fans
As a self-proclaimed 90s enthusiast, the writer was eager to experience how Steps' beloved tracks would be woven into a theatrical narrative. The result is a show that left them smiling broadly after a recent Tuesday night performance. Here & Now masterfully integrates hits like 5, 6, 7, 8, Better Best Forgotten, and Deeper Shade of Blue into its storyline.
Plot and Setting in a Seaside Superstore
The musical is set in the fictional seaside superstore Better Best Bargains, where employees dance in the aisles on a Friday night. However, the cheerful atmosphere is disrupted when protagonist Caz uncovers lies and betrayal among the shelves. This discovery threatens the summer of love she and her friends had dreamed of, adding emotional depth to the lively production.
The bargain store setting proves highly effective, with numerous props and scenes enhancing the story's flow. Directed by award-winning Rachel Kavanaugh and written by Shaun Kitchener, the show balances bright, camp humor with themes of loss and heartbreak.
Standout Performances and Memorable Moments
The cast delivers exceptional energy, with Lara Denning shining in the lead role of Caz. A particularly unforgettable scene features River Medway as drag artist Jem performing Chain Reaction atop washing machines, after emerging from freezers dressed as frozen vegetables. This moment highlights the show's creative and hilarious spirit.
Audience members were spotted recreating classic Steps dance moves, adding to the interactive and joyful atmosphere. In a world often filled with gloom, Here & Now serves as a much-needed uplifting experience.
Final Verdict and Ticket Information
This musical guarantees that attendees will leave the theatre humming Steps tunes for days. It would indeed be a tragedy to miss this engaging production. Tickets can be booked through the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre website, with the show running until March 15.
Note: While tickets were provided for this review, all opinions expressed are entirely the writer's own.
