High Society, The Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham.
High Society was a major hit musical film way back in 1956, starring Bing Crosby, Grace Kelly, and Frank Sinatra (it was actually Kelly’s final film role before she became Princess Grace of Monaco). It was over 40 years later that it was adapted into a stage musical. Heaven knows why it took so long because this was made for the stage.
The story follows pretentious socialite Tracy Lord (played with wide eyed exuberance by Helen Gorge) who is planning to marry an equally pretentious but otherwise mismatched suitor in a lavish ceremony. Two tabloid reporters turn up pretending to be guests (played by the wonderful Freddie Fox and a delightful Carly Mercedes Dyer) and if that was not enough Tracy’s ex also turns up (played by the sublime Julian Ovenden). There then follows a spiralling turn of events including fake identities and partner swapping. It’s a very funny piece – almost slapstick at times – and it’s just joy throughout.
Filled with classic songs like True Love, Well Did You Evah?, Who Wants To Be A Millionaire, Let’s Do It, and I’ve Got You Under My Skin – all of course written by the incomparable Cole Porter. A particular highlight is the decadently performed Let’s Misbehave. These songs are timeless.
The whole cast perform it all beautifully. It’s an absolute delight to watch.
Rachel Kavanaugh has done a wonderful job of directing this. It’s just perfect.
A high class, old school musical comedy. Sublime.
This show isn’t performed very often so don’t miss it.
5 stars. Pure class.
