By: Suzanne Cleave
More than 30 years after FAME The Musical first premiered in Europe at the Theatre Royal Plymouth, this vibrant new revival comes full circle – and it’s one not to be missed.
Directed and choreographed by Theatre Royal Plymouth’s Associate Artistic Director Tom Jackson-Greaves, this revival combines inventive staging with an ensemble that breathes new life into the much-loved musical.
Set in New York’s High School of Performing Arts, FAME follows a group of young performers as they navigate friendship, ambition, heartbreak and the pursuit of success. While there may be waves of nostalgia for those who have seen the original film of the TV series, this revival shows that the message is equally as relevant today as it was all those years ago.
The students are the successful cohort of thousands of applicants – but the journey won’t be easy. They must work hard, in music, dance and drama, as well as academic subjects, to graduate.
The cast is exceptional, and we get to follow the journey of each student and teacher. Shanay Holmes is particularly outstanding as headteacher Miss Sherman, combining breathtaking vocals with warmth and compassion.
It’s hard to single out any others – but Megan Ellis gives Serena quiet determination; Olivia Foster-Browne shines as Mabel and Amonik Melaco as Tyrone Jackson balances confidence with vulnerability.
The choreography captures both the athleticism and discipline expected of aspiring performers. The large ensemble numbers are slick without feeling mechanical, allowing individual personalities to emerge. From the opening number to the finale, the cast performs with enthusiasm and immense energy.
One thing that stood out for me was the set – designed by Soutra Gilmour and constructed at TR2 – the theatre’s Production and Learning centre. Dominated by the weathered facade of the school, doused with graffiti and soot from the busy Manhattan streets. The building comes alive, with a revolving stage, moving walls and staircases that makes the scenes flow with ease.
FAME The Musical looks beyond nostalgia. Combining exhilarating choreography with heartfelt performances and imaginative design, it reminds audiences that FAME is ultimately about perseverance, creativity and finding your voice. More than three decades after its Plymouth premiere, it still earns its place on the stage. A production that the entire TRP team should be proud of!