Review: Good Golly Miss Molly! at New Vic Theatre
This review examines the revival of Bob Eaton’s musical play Good Golly Miss Molly! at the New Vic Theatre in Newcastle-under-Lyme. Originally staged in 1989, the production blends social history with rock’n’roll standards to tell the true story of Hawes Street residents in Tunstall. The narrative focuses on their successful resistance against a council slum clearance program, opting for home improvements instead. The plot is framed through a band reunion, highlighting how music served as a unifying force for the community. Shirley Darroch delivers an understated performance as Molly, tracing her evolution from a schoolgirl to a community leader. While the reviewer praises the exuberant musical performances and the cast's ability to swap instruments, they note that the political conflict and stakes are somewhat underdeveloped compared to the original context. Nevertheless, the show provides a joyful and engaging experience, effectively capturing the spirit of working-class solidarity and people power. The production is part of the theatre’s 40th anniversary season and runs until May 2.
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Review: Good Golly Miss Molly! at New Vic Theatre
This review examines the revival of Bob Eaton’s musical play Good Golly Miss Molly! at the New Vic Theatre in Newcastle-under-Lyme. Originally staged in 1989, the production blends social history with rock’n’roll standards to tell the true story of Hawes Street residents in Tunstall. The narrative focuses on their successful resistance against a council slum clearance program, opting for home improvements instead. The plot is framed through a band reunion, highlighting how music served as a unifying force for the community. Shirley Darroch delivers an understated performance as Molly, tracing her evolution from a schoolgirl to a community leader. While the reviewer praises the exuberant musical performances and the cast's ability to swap instruments, they note that the political conflict and stakes are somewhat underdeveloped compared to the original context. Nevertheless, the show provides a joyful and engaging experience, effectively capturing the spirit of working-class solidarity and people power. The production is part of the theatre’s 40th anniversary season and runs until May 2.
The Guardian