There is an old saying in theatre that “the show must go on” and nowhere is that old adage put more to the test than in The Play That Goes Wrong, a comedy of errors which collates every actor’s worst nightmare and throws them at the cast who are determined to carry on regardless.
Borrowing heavily from The Mousetrap, The Play That Goes Wrong is a scattergun comedy set around the fictitious Cornley Polytechnic Drama Society, who is performing The Murder at Haversham Manor, a murder mystery set in the roaring twenties. Despite the best endeavours of the cast, nothing quite goes right for them, as scenery collapses, actors are knocked unconscious, props break and unprepared understudies stand in.
With a varied blend of visual gags, slapstick, farce, wordplay, one-liners, missed cues and a rather more animated corpse than one would expect, the gags come thick and fast; some hitting the bullseye and others missing the target; but the whole thing is so fast-paced, that there is always another gag heading your way imminently. Garnering some genuine laugh out loud moments, the show has a sensible one hour forty minute runtime meaning that even if a few of the gags begin to outstay their welcome, the show does not.
Whilst there is plenty of fun to be found and a lot of chuckles, guffaws and belly-laughs to be had, the ending of the show descends into a rather shouty and chaotic handful of closing scenes which, unfortunately, slightly takes the edge off of what has come before. But that said, the cast is delightful, in particular, Kazeem Tosin Amore; and there is some excellent split second comedic timing and plenty of physical dexterity on offer as the fictional cast try desperately to keep their faces straight, their upper lips stiff and prevent the performance collapsing into a catastrophe.
*This review was taken from the Sheffield production*
Darren and Daniel got engaged yesterday, on Valentine’s nights in front of the world’s famous Blackpool Tower. The couple, Darren, 30 and Daniel, 18 spent the day at their favourite seaside town, before Darren got down on one knee and proposed to his now fiance.
To celebrate the happy couple’s good news, The Blackpool Tower turned the lights to rainbow colours and put their names in the giant love heart light at the front of the Grade 1 listed building.
Darren, 30, said, “It was a magical evening. We have a strong affinity with Blackpool, it’s where we spent our New Year’s Eve so it only feels right to get down on one knee at our favourite spot in the resort.”
The pair were then treated to an intimate champagne reception at The Blackpool Tower, something they’ve always dreamed of but never been able to do.
Darren added, “I’m so thankful to the team for going out of their way and making this Valentine’s Day even more special.
Daniel and Darren were one of five couples chosen by The Blackpool Tower to have their name blazoned on the side of the iconic Blackpool landmark. Each of the couples was then treated to a special romantic evening at The Blackpool Tower.
Kenny Mew, the general manager at The Blackpool Tower, said: “We are thrilled that we could be on hand to help the happy couple celebrate their engagement. I would like to pass on my congratulations from all the team here.
“We have hundreds of people that come to The Blackpool Tower every year to propose. With over 123 years of history, The Blackpool Tower has such a special place in a lot of peoples’ hearts. You simply can’t find another more romantic venue quite like here anywhere else in the country!”
The Blackpool Tower Eye also offers special engagement packages, perfect for those wanting to make their proposal extra special. The package includes access to The Blackpool Tower Eye as well as a bottle of bubbly, handpicked bunch of roses and chocolates to celebrate.
If you’ve never had a weekend away in Blackpool then I demand you book a train right away and head for the North West coast where you’ll find this unique entertainment town.
CREDIT: Pixabay
The seafront, known as the Golden Mile, is home to the world famous Blackpool Tower, three piers, the Pleasure Beach and the largest display of illuminations you’ll find in the UK.
Often referred to as the British Las Vegas, Blackpool has an entertainment scene like no other with a number of gay bars and clubs, live cabaret shows, theatres and amusements. Highlights include the Blackpool Tower with its famous Ballroom, the ‘Big One’ roller coaster that gives you fantastic views on the way up, and the new comedy carpet outside the Tower that has over 1,000 famous names and comedy quotes set out over 2,200 square metres.
With over thirty gay-owned and run B&Bs you’ll be sure of a personal and entertaining stay. So pack your trunks, your chuckle muscles, your head for heights and your sense of adventure as you explore the brightest jewel in the North West.
The Gay Bars
Flamingos
With seven nights of clubbing at the world famous Flamingo Club, attracting some of the biggest named DJs and club nights, you’ll be sure of a memorable night out.The club has an open to all, closed to prejudice policy, so you’re guaranteed of a great party atmosphere. The club illuminates from the brightly coloured dance floor, which calls for you to show it your best moves.
The Flying Handbag
One of Blackpool’s longest running venues, You’ll be in for a great time day or night. The long bar offers plenty of seating for a daytime catch up with friends and dance floor space. There’s a cabaret stage, for a whole host of entertainment, plus a snack bar, should you be feeling peckish during the party.
With all you need in one place, you’ll need a good excuse to leave.
If you’re travelling to Blackpool for a party, the Pride weekend or a holiday then you’re in for a treat. Blackpool has the largest selection of gay-run B&Bs in the world and all offer the home comforts and personal touches that you just can’t find in a chain brand hotel. Furthermore, the proprietors have pulled together to bring you the BAGS card – Blackpool Accommodation For Gays. Founded in 1997, the BAGS card will not only ensure your stay in Blackpool will be a friendly and welcoming experience but it’ll also give you fantastic discounts in over 60 establishments around Blackpool, including Bars, Cafes, Restaurants, Shops, Shows and Theatres. You can pick up your free discount card from one of the following accommodations.
If there’s availability left then try a stay at the popular Granby Lodge B&B set in the heart of Blackpool’s gay scene. Brian and Geoff have an unfailing love to ensure your stay in Blackpool is welcoming and comfortable. Plus they cook up one of the best breakfasts in the North- West. Rooms from £30.
Top Attractions
CREDIT: Pixababy
Blackpool Illuminations
Blackpool Promenade, Blackpool, FY1 5BE
Since 1879, Blackpool has been illuminating the promenade road which runs the length of the sea front. Attracting over 3.5 million visitors last year, the Blackpool Illuminations are the highlight of the calendar. Launching at the end of August, a well known face will switch on the 400,000 bulbs.
Pleasure Beach
Ocean Boulevard, Blackpool, FY4 1EZ
Tel: +44 (0)871 222 1234
The most fun you can have in one day out is all located within the Pleasure Beach walls. Carnival-style games, illusion and cabaret shows and not forgetting a collection of thrill seekers rides including the Big One!
The Big One climbs you to a height of 235ft. before dropping you at up to 87mph along the one-mile track.
Other unique rides include the Steeplechase where you choose a horse and race alongside other on separate tracks and the Avalanche where you free fall down a track at 50mph in the UK’s only bobsled ride.
Blackpool Zoo
East Park Drive, Blackpool, FY3 8PP Tel: +44 (0)1253 830 830
A wide selection of animals both large and small await your visit at Blackpool zoo in natural enclosures giving you a close up view of these magnificent creatures.
The Blackpool Tower
THE BLACKPOOL TOWER
Bank Hay Street, Blackpool, FY1 4BJ
Tel: +44 (0)871 222 9929
Celebrating 120 years the Blackpool Tower has been home to all the greats of British comedy. Visit the beautiful Ballroom with its famous Wurlitzer organ, rising from the floor. The tour starts with a 4D show on Blackpool including sights, smells, and special effects. From here you’ll enter the SkyWalk room at the top of the tower for uninterrupted views, including underfoot!
Blackpool Pride
Winter Gardens 97 Church Street Blackpool
FY1 1HU
Yearly event in June.
Blackpool Pride this year will be bigger and better than ever before with headlining act 5th Story performing alongside other special guests. The Winter Gardens are also hosting the European Same-Sex Dance Championship. So grab a partner or some friends and make sure you’re part of the North West’s biggest party.
Former X FACTOR judge Louis Walsh has found a new home judging seat… in Blackpool.
Stalwart talent judge Louis Walsh has found a new judging chair to occupy after leaving the X FACTOR this year. Walsh is now set to judge Talent Fest UK, which takes place in Blackpool’s Winter Gardens on 26th and 27th September.
Speaking about his new role as Talent Fest UK head judge Louis said,
“I’m really excited about judging Talent Fest UK. People ask me if I ever get fed up judging talent competitions, but to be honest it’s in my blood and I absolutely love it. Every day is different and you never know who is going to walk in the door. I don’t miss X Factor at all. I’ve so many new exciting projects up my sleeve. I’m looking for someone who not only has excellent talent, but with a great attitude and work ethic. Ideally I’d love to find an artist like Tom Jones with a great soulful voice or even the next Michael Buble.
Who knows what talent Talent Fest UK will unveil and it’s the not knowing and anticipation that excites me.”
We still reckon he’d make a brilliant judge drag on UK Drag Race if it ever makes it over here
