Easy to Follow: 4
Family Friendly: 4
Must see: 3.5
Title: Here & Now
Venue: Theatre Royal Plymouth
Date: 24/3/26
Here & Now is a fun, enthusiastic and sparkly musical production full of life and charisma.
Based on the music by the band Steps the show is a love letter to the iconic tracks of the
90’s and early 2000s as well as celebrating the Queer community and strong female
characters.
The production boasts an impressive set (designed by Tom Rogers) from the moment you
walk in you are immediately immersed by giant shelves stacked with cleaning products
which framed the entire stage. What was especially captivating about the set was the use of
lights in the shelves around the stage, throughout the production they would change colour
to match the scene and mood, this was a fun and creative decision which made the stage
feel very alive. Lighting as a whole was excellent, lighting designer Howard Hudson did a
fabulous job at creating an over the top disco vibe which was wonderful and matched the
music and acting perfectly.
Acting wise the production had a stellar cast led by Lara Denning who played Caz,
Denning delivered a skilled performance and showcased a great range of skill. From
heartfelt and heartbreaking scenes which created great empathy and love for the character,
to fantastic musical numbers full of craziness and amazing vocals Denning did not seem out
of her comfort zone at all. Jacqui Dubois (Vel), Rosie Singha (Neeta) and Blake Patrick Anderson (Robbie) all gave good and emotionally deep performances which were full of personality. Together with Lara Denning (Caz) they showcased a friendship full of warmth which left me smiling. Some other actors who stood out were Sally Ann Matthews (Patricia) and River Medway (Jem) both of them were excellent in their line delivery and stage presence, they both delivered characters which felt real and hilarious. River Medway also delivered an outstanding musical performance but that is no surprise as they have a wealth of experience as a Drag Artist.
This performance would not have been what it was if it wasn’t for the incredible ensemble/
dancers who were absolutely fantastic. Choreographer Matt Cole delivered well thought
through and full choreography which meant the stage felt full and explosive at all times. Not
once did I feel the stage was too busy during musical numbers and that is super impressive.
The dancers themselves were flawless in their routines delivering several high quality and
technically difficult dances which blew me away.
Overall, I believe Director Rachel Kavanaugh did a great job in directing this production and
everyone involved should feel incredibly proud. I think this is a great production and a
celebration of people which feels heartwarming and loving, a perfect feel good show.
Plymouth Theatre Review 
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