My Thoughts On Mame

Mame is a hidden gem of musical theatre with Music And Lyrics by Jerry Herman. It ran on broadway briefly in 1966. This is the first time the show has been revived in 50 years! But it certainly doesn’t feel like it was written 50 years ago. Starring the incredible Tracie Bennett as the very charismatic “Mame”. To get such a Talent as Tracie Bennett in an intimate space is such a treat. 

The first thing that struck me whilst walking into the theatre was the gorgeous set design by Philip Witcomb. Complete with art deco sliders and what looks like a never ending stage which is accomplished with very clever lighting design. 

Set in 1920s New York the production oozes with style and sophistication. The story follows Mame who is greeted with her Nephew and that is where the story takes you on a heartwarming adventure. I have to mention Nick Winston who directed and choreographed this piece. I felt like I was in a West End theatre because there are so many huge show stopping numbers with genius choreography executed brilliantly by the incredibly talented ensemble.

Tracie’s eleven o’clock number is “If he walked into my life” and it was theatrical gold, worth the ticket price alone to see this. It is a masterclass in acting through song. The music is brilliant with a lot of toe tapping numbers and the band are visible on stage which worked well. Mame’s friendship with Vera, played by Harriet Thorpe provided very comedic sections, especially the curtain call which was accompanied with excellent lighting design.

Tracie Bennett is a brilliant leading lady and her dancing was very impressive, the whole cast were very strong. Don’t miss this 5 star production and I hope it does transfer to a larger space, I can easily see it in a west end venue.

Thanks for reading! Have you seen Mame? Feel free to comment below or message me on instagram @unofficialtheatre

Eugene