Review: I Should Be So Lucky
Written by Colin Dixon on 29th November 2023
On a cold November evening, as I battled the Cardiff Bay traffic looking for somewhere to park, little did I know that “I Should Be So Lucky” would transport me from the chilly Welsh streets to the sun-soaked realms reminiscent of Mamma Mia, ITV’s Benidorm, and the ever-charming Gavin and Stacey. And what a delightful surprise it turned out to be!
Now, I must confess, as a devout disciple of the traditional theatre, the idea of a jukebox musical had me envisioning a show with a cruise ship or holiday camp vibe. But oh, how wrong I was! “I Should Be So Lucky” shattered my preconceived notions, proving that one can embrace the magic of Stock, Aitken, and Waterman without feeling the need for a conga line and a poolside cocktail.
The narrative, a rollercoaster ride from jilted bride woes to the dazzling heights of pop stardom and familial love, seamlessly intertwined with the infectious beats of iconic tunes, is a testament to the brilliance of the creative minds behind the production. The result? A cocktail of wholesome humour, unexpected twists, and heartbreak that keeps you on the edge of your seat, pondering the age-old question: will they, or won’t they?
Ella (Lucie-Mae Sunmner, Titanic the Musical, Mary Poppins & Chicago), the magnetic centre of the performance, surrounded by her lively hen group, injects an infectious energy that spreads like wildfire throughout the audience. The bromance between Nathan (Billy Roberts, Rock of Ages & The Wizard of Oz) and Ash (Giovanni Spano, Footloose & Mamma Mia), on a mission that is as absurd as it is endearing, adds a layer of genuine chemistry that transcends the footlights. And let’s not forget Spencer, the campy hotel manager, whose impeccable timing and comic relief are a sheer delight. As if that wasn’t enough, Kylie Minogue herself makes a cameo as the Fairy Godmother, sprinkling an extra layer of glitter and stardust over an already magical production.
But it’s not just the star-studded cast that steals the show; the technical prowess on display is equally commendable. The marriage of sound, lighting, and set design is a masterclass in creating a visually stunning backdrop. Love hearts, strategically placed in the staging, provide a minimalist yet effective set that adds depth and dimension to the unfolding drama.
The ensemble, with their fabulous choreography and vibrant side characters, breathe life into the production. And oh, the costumes! A riot of colour and glitter, perfectly synchronised with the show’s themes, showcase an attention to detail that extends to texture and period authenticity.
Vocally, the cast is nothing short of impeccable, delivering pitch-perfect performances with masterful control over pace, tone, and volume. The musical journey through the years, featuring classics from Sunita, Bananarama, Rick Astley, and the queen herself, Kylie, seamlessly adapts to the stage, building up to a finale that had even the most reserved audience members dancing in the aisles.
“I Should Be So Lucky” is more than a jukebox musical; it’s a testament to the transformative power of live performance and cheesy pop music. It demolishes preconceived notions, delivering an energetic, heartfelt, and visually dazzling experience that leaves you not just applauding but dancing your way into the night. Lucky, indeed!
I Should Be So Lucky, is on at the Wales Millennium Centre until the 2nd of December.
Tickets are still available from: https://www.wmc.org.uk/en/whats-on/2023/i-should-be-so-lucky