Review by Paul Towers, 7/2/23
Stepping Out by Richard Harris
Directed by Julie Easter
Produced by Festival Players
At Loughborough Town Hall until Friday 10th February 2023
“Feel-good fun”
Stepping Out is one of those shows that lends itself to amateur players. It is an all-female cast with just one male character. Set in North London (the original location which the film with Liza Minelli transposed to New York) it is the story of seven women who, for various reasons, escape each week to a tap dancing class led by failed showgirl Mavis.
Author Richard Harris (not that one) is a prolific playwright and TV writer and has crafted an affectionate look at those lonely people (in this case women) who gather each week to escape from their dreary lives. Each of the characters has a story to tell. It is only when Mavis gets invited to submit a routine for a showcase that the entire group realise that they have talent.
In the finale the troupe tap their hearts out very professionally. Which makes the choreography of their frankly abysmal dancing in the beginning all the more remarkable. As has been said of Les Dawson’s out of tune piano playing, you have to be very good to play/dance very badly.
This is a show that is full of stand out funny one-liners and some excellent physical clowning.
Director Julie Easter has produced a great ensemble show that will resonate with every slightly bored housewife.
Stepping Out is at Loughborough Town Hall until Friday 10th February.
www.loughboroughtownhall.co.uk
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