REVIEW: Sunny Afternoon

© Manuel Harlan

As the city is hit by wind and rain it’s a delight to be indoors and be warmed by a jubilant show that celebrates the music of The Kinks.

A Sunny Afternoon is currently playing at The Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham.

The Kinks –formed by working-class brothers Ray and Dave Davies, and Pete Quaife – were one of the most influential bands of the 1960’s and their popularity remains undiminished judging by the success of this award-winning musical based around the highs and lows of the iconic band.

Ray Davies provides the sensational music and lyrics for the show while the book by Joe Penhall explores the background of The Kinks and the social and political era in which their music was released.

The show is packed with many of the legendary group's songs including the title song of the musical and Dead End Street, You Really Got Me, Stop Your Sobbing, This Time Tomorrow, Waterloo Sunset, Till the End of the Day, and a showstopping rendition of Lola.

The music blends into the stories of the band, their families, loves, heartaches, and also taps into the events that are unfolding around the rock group including landmark moments in British history.

The moment when the show celebrates England beating West Germany in 1966 to win the World Cup had the entire auditorium energised with passion. Audience members were smiling, clapping enthusiastically, punching the air with vigour and whooping with sheer joy in the theatre.

The show’s director Edward Hall ensures that spirit of euphoria continues throughout the show, and he handles the dark and gritty moments, such as when the band is exploited by those who were employed to look after the best interests of the musicians, with real dramatic edge. Yes, this is not just some sort of nostalgic jukebox musical cashing in on the music of The Kinks but a show with dramatic bite too. Hall balances drama, comedy, biography and history with perfection.

The show is fearless and has the courage to throw a spotlight on the anger, rebellion, betrayal, class struggle, family strife, and the friction and inner turmoil of the band members.

The changing social and economic landscapes of the 1960’s are vividly referenced in the costumes and set designs by Miriam Buether. This no expenses spared production recreates the miniskirts, jackets, shirts and shoes of The Swinging 60’s with real style. Adam Cooper’s choreography, Rick Fisher’s lighting, and Carole Hancock's makeup, hair and wigs add further rich details which heighten the atmosphere of the times and help to anchor the show.  

The huge cast and crew, from singers and dancers to musicians and technicians, are an absolute joy and their high quality work is evident throughout the epic show. The pitch-perfect four band members of The Kinks are played by Danny Horn (Ray), Oliver Hoare (Dave), Harry Curley (Pete) and Zakarie Stokes (Mick).

Sunny Afternoon is a sparkling feel-good musical tonic guaranteed to warm the heart.

Verdict: ★★★★★

Sunny Afternoon is now playing at The Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham until Saturday 25^th October