Review: Cabaret, Alhambra Theatre, Bradford

Set in the hedonistic atmosphere of 1930s Berlin it captures the dark side of the city, from its sexual perversions and decadent way of life to the brutal overtures of the rise of the Nazis. It’s a raunchy production that pulls no punches – it is sexually explicit and sensual one moment and blissfully nostalgic and romantic the next.

The imaginatively designed sets and lighting give this production a sense of pace, deep emotion and excitement right up to the final moving moment that predicts the horrors of what is to come in the future.

The story revolves around Sally Bowles, a performer at the Kit Kat Klub and her ill-fated romance with the bisexual American author, Clifford Bradshaw and includes some of the most iconic songs in musical theatre.

As Sally Bowles, understudy Emily Bull was amazing. She was powerful and spirited yet at the same time tender and believable whilst Matt Rawle’s Clifford Bradshaw had depth, strength and sensitivity especially in the closing scenes.

Creating the role of Emcee is always a challenge but Will Young excelled with his own sinister, stylised characterisation, proving what an amazing asset he is to British musical theatre.

His interpretation was fresh, comedic and at times moving especially in the final moments. Cabaret has an excellent supporting cast and a high energy chorus that bring the show to life, making it one of the best touring versions that’s been around for a long time.

To Sept 30.