REVIEW: Cromer Pier Show 2017 on July 1.
Whilst turning 40 fills many people with a sense of dread and despair, the major milestone has been nothing but a cause of major celebration for the Cromer Pier Show, and rightly so.
Celebrating its ruby anniversary this year, the show has gone from strength to strength and remains as relevant, fresh and vibrant today as it did 40 years ago.
This year's summer spectacular encompasses a variety of talents and tributes. With singing, dancing and comedy juggling, the show has something for everyone.
The A Decade of Dance Dance Dance segment early in the show sets the mood, with upbeat and toe-tapping renditions from Emily Yarrow and Lee Bright of Fame, Footloose and (I've Had) The Time of My Life, together with show-stopping dance routines from the show's backbone, The Seaside Special Dancers.
Funny man Phil Butler returns for the fourth time with his razor-sharp wit and apparent mind-reading skills. Butler is the glue that holds together all the sparkles, sequins and glitter. His quick-witted introductions and comedic sketches progress the show naturally and with ease.
Segments from Joey Howard and Australian James Bustar had the audience in stitches. Bustar impressed by juggling everything from bowling balls to knives and even a chain saw! Watching Bustar interact with the audience was the best part of his act. His interactions with unsuspecting audience member Mark left the audience in hysterics. Emily Yarrow's performance of Nessun Dorma was another highlight. Her pitch perfect rendition of the aria from Giacomo Puccini's opera Turandot was simply spectacular.
It's great to see the Cromer Pier Show continue to thrive and develop. In the age of Netflix and social media, it is often said we are getting less and less social and a show like this brings family and friends of all ages together. The whole team, including choreographer, devisor and director Di Cooke should be extremely proud! Happy 40th Birthday and here's to many more!
The show runs until September 23. Show times are 2.30pm and 8pm, with Show Two opening on July 8. Tickets start from £12. For more information, call 01263 512495 or visit www.cromerpier.co.uk.
ADAM LAZZARI
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