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Little Voice Opens to Big Publicity

After a week and a half of previews The Rise and Fall of Little Voice finally opened at the Vaudeville Theatre on Tuesday night. Newspaper scribes had their pens poised as 18 year old X-Factor finalist Diana Vickers took to the stage in the title role. After catching the final preview the previous evening this author was as equally impressed with the young singers stage debut as some of the more seasoned critics.

A Versatile Performance Jane Horrocks established herself as a star with the earlier production and Diana Vickers matches the versatility demanded by the ‘Little Voice’ role. She perfectly captures the great performers from Dusty Springfield to Edith Piaf, rising to the boom of Shirley Bassey, yet finding the quiet vulnerability of Marilyn Monroe. Diana Vickers portrayal of ‘Little Voice’ is endearing, in contrast to Lesley Sharp’s bombastic and energetic ‘Mari’. Marc Warren is lively in the role of small-time hustler ‘Ray Say’, whilst James Cartwright (the son of the playwright) provides welcome distraction as Little Voice’s shy admirer ‘Billy’. Rachel Lumberg is hilarious as Mari’s neighbour, best friend and some-time dance partner ‘Sadie’.
	The Shy Girl with a Talent Billed as a ‘black comedy drama’ Jim Cartwright’s play tells the story of a reclusive girl living under the shadow of her abusive and alcoholic mother. Missing her dead father desperately ‘Little Voice’ spends hours alone in her bedroom finding escape with his old record collection. When her mother begins dating a local entertainment scout, ‘Ray Say’, Little Voice’s amazing talent for singing is quickly discovered. With a domineering mother, and a determined agent, a life in the spotlight beckons whether the timid starlet wants it or not.
The funny and moving story, directed by Terry Johnson, is booking until the end of January 2010. Buy Your Tickets Here

Posted by Ben on Wednesday 21st October 2009 at 4:59PM

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