Once again The Full Monty is on a UK tour and after much excitement, it is currently at Norwich’s Theatre Royal.
Based on the classic, British 90s film, Simon Beaufoy and the team successfully transpose everything from screen to stage. For those that don’t know the story, it’s pretty basic and there are no prizes for guessing the final scene. 
We follow six guys as they put their troubles behind them and take to the stage with the hope their ‘Buns of Steel’ strip show can save their livelihoods and families.
The soap-star cast (Gary Lucy as Gaz, Kai Owen as Dave, Andrew Dunn as Gerald, Louis Emerick as Horse, Joe Gill as Lomper and James Redman as Guy) made a great ensemble and although, for me, there was no standout performance it was clear to see that each actor had taken to their role with ease. A few touching scenes helped portray the sensitive and serious side some people try to hide behind bravado and humour.
The play touches on many serious themes such as homosexuality, depression and unemployment, but remains a feel-good show thanks to humour and comradery.
The stage was predominately set in an old steel factory to help create the hard and industrial way of life in Sheffield during that time. The sets rarely changed, but the use of props created small but effective changes to the location.
A slow-starting first act soon built up to an act closing scene causing huge eruptions of laughter. Naturally, the second scene was stronger, felt busier and the pace picked up to finish the show with a well-known finale to Leave Your Hat On.
The Full Monty definitely delivers a fun and ‘cheeky’ night out!
The Full Monty is on at The Theatre Royal Norwich until 1st December. More details here
It is on tour until May 2019. Information about the tour dates can be found here
Director – Rupert Hill
Choreographer – Ian West
Sound and Lighting – Luke Swaffield and Colin Grenfell
Reviewer – Dawn Maidstone
Playhouse Pickings 