The Wedding Singer – Leeds Grand
BACK TO the Eighties for musicals fans in a stage adaptation of the entertaining romantic comedy film.
Cassie Compton perfectly captures the kooky charm of Drew Barrymore while Jon Robyns gives a likeable portrayal of the Adam Sandler character.
He is a popular wedding singer dumped at the altar by his rock chick girlfriend, while she is the loveable waitress preparing to marry a slick city trader.
The moment Robbie and Julia meet by accident, we the audience know they’re destined to end up together.
Their path to true love – at a Vegas wedding surrounded by 80s tribute artists – is paved with comedy, misunderstandings, betrayals, self-loathing and some surprisingly potty-mouthed moments.
The songs showcase a host of 80s musical styles, some recalling particular hits of the decade: those in the first half are irresistibly catchy pop numbers, while the second half introduces some variety to keep us interested.
In a show that’s unashamedly cheesy and milks the 80s nostalgia to the max, Ray Quinn is suitably oily as trader Glen and Ruth Madoc – Gladys in 80s sitcom HiDeHi, is hilarious as grannie Rosie.
The Wedding Singer is certainly not a work of art, and it’s not even a classic of the fun pop musicals genre, but it’s enjoyable while it lasts.
• Grand Theatre, Leeds, until Saturday. Visit leedsgrandtheatre.co.uk or call 084 4848 2700 to book tickets.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here