BWW Reviews: THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE, Landor Theatre, August 28 2015

Diana Field

Multi-Tony Award winner 'Thoroughly Modern Millie' has hit London this summer at The Landor Theatre and it is certainly not one to miss!

With music by Jeanine Tesori, lyrics by Dick Scanlan and book by Scanlan and Richard Morris, Millie is based on the 1967 film of the same name. It tells the story of a small town girl who comes to New York City looking to marry for money, not love. She checks into a hotel, owned by the leader of a white slavery ring in China, unaware of the danger she is stepping into.

The fantastic Francesca Lara Gordon portrays Millie's strength and determination beautifully alongside flawless vocals. Ben Stacey plays Jimmy Smith and is sure to melt many hearts. His impressive vocals will have you mesmerised! Sarah Marie Maxwell who plays Miss Dorothy is perfectly cast. She is a definite highlight and fills the space with her mellifluous voice.

Every musical needs a bad guy or in this case a bad Chinese lady - that is Mrs Meers, played brilliantly by Steph Parry. Her comic timing is to die for. Speaking of comic timing, you cannot help but love Christina Meehan who plays Miss Flannery.

Anthony Starr (Bun Foo) and Alex Codd (Ching Ho) made an adorable brotherly pair. Samuel Harris played Mr Trevor Graydon III with perfection and Chipo Kureya, although young for the role, really embraced the character of Muzzy.

This entire show had me in fits with the help of perfect direction from young Matthew Iliffe and carried out with its hard work from this amazing cast.

With choreography from Sam Spencer-Lane, the ensemble (including George Hinson, Thomas Inge and Charlie Johnson) really did the choreography justice with beat-perfect tap routines and endless energy. I couldn't help but dance in my seat!

All in all this is a fantastic revival of the Broadway hit show. Its minimalist design by Andrew Riley really works in this small space and the combination with the cast really brings it to life. The cast features many recent graduates and it is clear to see that every one of them has a starry future waiting.

For a fun, lively and uplifting evening at the theatre, this is definitely a top choice - so beat the drums and go see Thoroughly Modern Millie now!

Thoroughly Modern Millie runs at The Landor Theatre until 13th September.

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