Review: FOREVER PLAID is a Charming Crowd-Pleaser
The Off-Broadway and Toronto favourite musical revue FOREVER PLAID finds it's way back onto the stage at the PANASONIC THEATRE. Highlighting the rise in fame of close-harmony groups in the 1950s, the show follows The Plaids, a four-piece group - Sparky, Smudge, Jinx and Frankie and their untimely death on the heels of their big break. Scott Beaudin, Matt Cassidy, Jonathan Cullen and Jeff Madden star in this crowd pleasing and fun musical hit.
The show begins with the quartet coming from the afterlife to take the stage one last time in their what-should-have-been big break. It's a quirky and wild ride as the group of singers take us on a timeless journey with musical hits from the 50s including Moments to Remember, Heart and Soul, and Love in a Many Splendored Thing. The vivid and out-of-the-box personalities of the characters are brought to life with the charming and charismatic cast. Jonathan Cullen reminds Toronto audiences of his days leading the national tour of The Book of Mormon with his knockout performance. This bright personality, and immense vocal and dancing talent is magnetic and anchors the shows. His fellow cast mates also gel in this production that relies so heavily on chemistry.
While the production starts off with a very similar (but much less exciting) tone to that of Jersey Boys, it's not until the second half that it really proves its own ground. FOREVER PLAID is best during its numbers involving audience participation - making audiences laugh of out with their outrageous interactions. It's truly a fun night at the theatre.
FOREVER PLAID isn't a big musical production - lacking the set, choreography and enormity of a big Broadway production; but it's its subtle nuances and confidence that really brings it to life. It's a charming piece - not ground-breaking, but just as satisfying.
FOREVER PLAID is on stage at the Panasonic Theatre until June 12, 2016. For tickets and more information, visit mirvish.com
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