REVIEW: Show sparkles as pier marks special milestone

The cork has popped on a special summer show as Cromer Pier toasts a milestone in its proud history.

And the world’s only full-season, end-of-the-pier variety show is serving up a vintage yet modern offering worthy of marking the landmark jetty’s 125th anniversary.

From the opening explosion of a glitzy 1920s vibe party to the atmospheric, energetic musical theatre finale, the show captures the essence of seaside entertainment – with comedy, colour, spectacle and speciality surprises.

The bubbly doesn’t go flat for two and a half hours, which is a testament to its creators and cast.

Devisers Rob McVeigh and Amy Grimshaw – who know the show’s spirit, both having starred in it – delicately balance keeping seaside variety traditions alive while constantly keeping the music and production values bang up to date.

This summer, audiences can sample multi-scoop cones of breathless full cast routines ranging from pop to Traitors, sprinkled with stunning acrobatic and aerial acts and saucy postcard comedy plus moments of poignancy including reflecting on the pier’s rich heritage.

Headlining comic Jack Gleadow, from ’ull, combines cheek with warmth as he tunes his own brand of humour to cleverly pick up on people in the crowd.

Vocalists Fern Duffy and James Hammond bring a range of styles as they effortlessly  switch from West End stage songs to upbeat pop and mellow ballads, with Fern unfurling in the Abba medley with her Winner Takes It All.

Speciality turn Duo Douell (Jamie and Charlee) add drama and pyrotechnics to big production numbers and amaze with their own slots (children: don’t try at home what they do with apples and a chainsaw.)

Throughout the season there’s a monthly guest act, and the opening weeks are blessed with the bling and banter of drag artist Myra Dubois, whose razor-sharp wit sparkles as brightly as her costume jewellery.

Later in season the guests will be comedian Phil Lowen (July 21-Aug 8), magician Martin Daniels (Aug 11-29), and vocalist K-Lo (Sept 1-19).

And a big shout out to the engine room ensemble – dance captain Lewis Hemstock, Katie Tearle, Edel Makein, Lewis Thompson, Ashley Bellamy, and Ben Bartlett – for their tireless work in a hothouse theatre.

The show keeps up its reputation for stunning scenery, costumes and special effects – including a video back wall which shows some amazing images of the pier’s past from its Edwardian beginnings through storm disasters to its modern-day role as a magnet for locals and tourists seeking entertainment and inspiration in an iconic setting.

As always, there’ll be bits of the show you love and bits you don’t, but everyone should go and see it, as we are lucky to have this unique variety veteran, with a Doctor Who ability to constantly regenerate, on our doorstep.

The shows runs until September 19. Tickets from www.cromerpier.co.uk or the box office on 01263 512495

Review by Richard Batson