Something Rotten, the madcap original musical set in Shakespearean times, has opened at Manchester Opera House to rapturous acclaim, earning a five-star review from critic Dianne Bourne. The production, which runs until July 19, features Manchester's own Jason Manford as Nick Bottom and Richard Fleeshman as a rock-god William Shakespeare.
A Love Letter to Musical Theatre
The show, created by Karey and Wayne Kirkpatrick and John O'Farrell, is described as an inventive love letter to the genre, woven together by a sublimely invested cast in a lavish production. The opening number, Welcome to the Renaissance, sets the stage with a sumptuous recreation of 1590s timber-framed England, designed by Colin Richmond.
Manford plays aspiring playwright Nick Bottom, who, along with his brother Nigel (Cassius Hackforth), is desperate for a hit play to rival Shakespeare. Nick's wife Bea, played by the majestic Marisha Wallace, tries to convince her husband she can help beyond the kitchen.
Hilarious Pastiches and Predictions
In a desperate bid for success, Nick seeks help from a clairvoyant, Thomas Nostradamus, brought to life in hilarious fashion by musicals legend Cory English. This leads to the show's biggest belter, A Musical, which features knowing nods to Chicago, Hamilton, and Les Miserables. The plot thickens when Nick tries to steal Shakespeare's biggest hit, resulting in the musical Omelette (instead of Hamlet) with a cast of dancing eggs.
Fleeshman excels as Shakespeare, delivering a standout performance in Will Power, gyrating in leather pants and codpiece like Elvis. His comedic lines, including name-dropping words he invented, add to the show's charm.
Standing Ovations and Future Success
The production, directed by Tim Jackson, whips along at a glorious pace, offering a feast for the eyes and ears over two hours. The opening night audience responded with standing ovations, and Bourne predicts the show is destined for musical greatness. Tickets start from £15.90, a nod to the Tudor era, and the Opera House's air conditioning provides a cool escape from the heatwave.
