DUSTY review

DUSTY tells the story of the absolutely wonderful and iconic British singer, Dusty Springfield. Dusty Springfield is known as the blue-eyed woman of soul, thanks to her luscious vocals and smooth and sultry singing style. DUSTY is told through the eyes of her childhood friend Nancy, who knew her better than anyone, we learnt a lot more about Dusty Springfield than we expected during the show, so not only is it enjoyable, it also manages to be educational, in a musical sense. We love everything about the 60’s. The innovative and original musicians making music that people still hope to emulate, to this day, just shows what an amazing and creative decade it was. Everything about the 60’s just oozes style, class and the epitome of cool.

There are a whole load of songs that are sung in the show and what we adored, was the 3D screen, showing Dusty singing, almost as if she was there in actual person. It is wonderful how they combine that, with a live actress also singing in the show. The design, set, lighting and direction of this show is amazing. So much work has gone in to the production and the huge list of names and credits that have worked on this show reads like a who’s who. DUSTY is a fantastic homage to the late singer and we were once again reminded of her brilliance. Chris Cowey, of Top of the Pops fame is responsible for the direction of the show. What he doesn’t know about music, isn’t worth knowing and we love the fact that so much has gone in to making this show worthy of Dusty’s legacy, of which he has a lot of input.

DUSTY. Credit: Elliott Franks
DUSTY. Credit: Elliott Franks

The cast in the show are superb. The singers are powerful and strong. The dancers are wonderful and graceful. We actually found it hard to tear ourselves away from the dancing and at one point, Megan Makin’s turn almost took over from the lead, we were mesmerised by her glowing and energetic performance, complete with a mega-watt smile that lit up the stage. There are so many wonderful songs in the show, that show how many brilliant people and songwriters and musicians that Dusty worked with. Burt Bacharach and Carole King’s work with Dusty is beyond magic. Full props should be pointed out and given to the costume and wig department in the show, also. We are completely envious of every outfit and want them all! 60’s fashion will never date. The dresses are beautiful, funky and again, so cool. Colourful mini dresses and knee high boots, heavy eyeliner and kohl eye make-up added with the occasional full on sparkling numbers just made us smile throughout.

We felt like there was a slight PA issue at a couple of points in the show, which should be easy to iron out. Other than that, we can’t really fault the rest of the show. DUSTY is simply joyous. Make sure you get yourselves down there to watch it. The younger generation need to be aware of her importance and her songs and the lyrics in the songs touched us greatly. We know that we’re off to check out her back catalogue of work once again and we cannot get certain songs out of our heads. The duets in the show, the soul of the backing singers, the energy – we loved everything. We loved learning about where the songs came from and what inspired certain songs. Only certain musicians singing thought provoking lyrics can touch someone in such a profound way. Dusty Springfield, what an incredible talent.

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Carys Jones
Carys Jones
I am passionate about everything any anything that involves music, theatre and the arts! I love interviewing artists and getting to learn more about them. When I’m not doing artsy things, you may find me watching rugby, singing with my choir and travelling to a new part of the world. Carpe diem.

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