Starstruck

HERALD EXPRESS By Hannah Maltwood

ALTHOUGH now days, variety shows may seem a thing of the past, Starstruck and its hilarious and talented cast proved that it was very much alive on opening night at Babbacombe Theatre recently.
Having never been to a variety show before, I was unsure what to think as we entered the theatre, however by the time we left I was Starstruck.

The show was produced and directed by the ever-talented Colin Matthews, who this year celebrates his 30th year at Babbacombe Theatre.

Starstruck was a traditional show offering a mixture of old fashioned skits and comedy sets, hilarious impressions, beautifully choreographed dances and powerfully sung classics ballads, modern chart-toppers and even a beautiful song from the opera — there really was something for everyone.

Although the entire cast went all out in their performances, and were faultless with their delivery it was the four youngest stars who stole the show. When Kidz & Co. youngsters, Kiara Banks, Paris Frost, Sophie Brown and Gracie Cobley entered the stage in their Beauty and The Beast 'Belle' dresses the whole audience reacted with a united 'Aw'. And hands were stung with ferocious clapping after their all-singing, all-dancing performance of 'Be Our Guest'.

The shows headlining act was compare and comedian Andy Oakley, who has been in 'show business' for over 30 years, and it showed — not because of his age — because of how at home he was on the stage.

Andy was clearly a favourite with the crowd and had the entire audience in stitches with his playful tales, impressions, costumes and classic comedy skits with the ever popular Dean Winters, Ben Nickless and Paul Cobley, who together made an enjoyable team to watch. The groups topical humour may have been a tad risqué on occasion, however their hilarious antics, talent and genuine love for performing made it a crowd pleaser for all ages.

Popular chart-topping singer Keedie also deserves a special mention after showing the incredible range of her beautiful voice by belting out an operatic classic that left me (and most of the audience) with goose-bumps. Keedie also teamed up with the multi-talented West End favourite, Paul Cobley and singing sensation and X-Factor star Eloise Cole, to tackle everything from pop songs, rock classics and love ballads.

Not only did Starstruck showcase a variety of performances, but each performer in the show had a variety of talents. Each and every member of the cast helped to make the show the sell-out success and pleasure to watch that it was.

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FROM A LETTER RECEIVED VIA EMAIL ON 20th JULY 

Hello Babbacombe,

My wife and I persuaded our friends from Reading to join us at the Starstruck show on Tuesday last, 12th. July. Never having been to the theatre before the were not sure what to expect, having been for many years past we were sure they would not be disappointed.

They were truly amazed at the quality of entertainment, two whole hours of comedy dancing and singing. What a fantastic show again and would like to thank the cast and all concerned making our visit to Devon so memorable once again.

Kindest Regards,Gill & Colin Kerswill - Kent.