The Full Monty – Leeds Grand

THE STAGE version of the film came to Leeds this week to entertain audiences which unsurprisingly were made up of mostly females.

This gave a somewhat hen night feel to proceedings which was nice considering the show’s content, and the cheers and wolf whistles helped to add some realism.

The show captured the charm of the film and within the production there were enough nods to some of the iconic scenes, for example the Job Centre spontaneous dance scene was well-received along with the cast auditioning for new members which added some much-needed fun to a first half which was a little slow to get going.

The introduction of Horse, played by Louis Emerick (Brookside), went down a treat as did the introduction of Chris Fountain (Hollyoaks) as Guy who brought the first half to an immensely funny finish.

The show also has some true heartstring-pulling moments and Anthony Lewis (Lomper) played his role with great sensitivity. I really enjoyed his portrayal of the character.

Gaz the leader of this rag-tag bunch of unemployed steel workers was played by Gary Lucy (Eastenders/Bill).

I took a while to warm to him as his Yorkshire accent was not quite on point. I’m sure he can get away with it as the production tours around the UK, but I’m sorry in Leeds it wasn’t quite right.

This said, his cheek and charm won me over in the end.

Kai Owen (Waterloo Road) stood out as Dave and he took the comedy role really well, and with wife Jean (Fiona Skinner) gave some moving moments as well.

I liked the former foremen of the lads Gerald, brilliantly played by Andrew Dunn (Dinnerladies).

Nathan who I think was played by Reiss Ward got a well-deserved cheer at the end, but as four youngster alternate the part an introduction at the start would have been nice.

The show’s climax got a well deserved standing ovation and I'm sure a few ladies like myself were hoping the lighting technician missed their cue.

*Until Saturday, Leeds Grand Theatre. Visit leedsgrandtheatre.com or call 0844 8482700 to book tickets.

Laura Harness