DISNEY'S High School Musical: The Ice Tour had audiences going wild in the aisles when it landed at the Echo Arena on Thursday, and if you're going to see it while it's on UK shores, you're in for a treat.
The concept is simple, but strangely magical: all the adventures of your favourite East High crew, performed by a bunch of world class skaters.
In true Disney style, the ice production is larger-than-life from the outset, with vibrant, colourful costumes, loud music and plenty of audience participation.
It opens with a whimsical warm-up session, where fans of the films are treated to a montage of 'behind the scenes' clips from the making of the third movie, and High School newbies are given a quick crash course in Wildcats and Brainiacs, ready for the ultimate teenage treat..
The mini dance lesson is also a nice touch, and gets even the most reluctant mums and dads up on their feet to perfect a routine that would leave Britney breathless!
Split into two acts, the show features the plots of the first two High School films, zooming seamlessly from one dazzling song and dance number to the next.
High School fans will be delighted to know that all the musical favourites are in there, including 'We're All In This Together', 'Fabulous' and 'You are the Music in Me'. Add to this some of the most breathtaking ice dancing you're ever likely to see and you know you're onto a winner.
The elegant Gladys Orozco and talented Trey Ehre make an enchanting couple as Gabriella and Troy, while Helena Grundberg and V'yacheslav Chiliy play flamboyant rivals Sharpay and Ryan with panache.
All in all, the show is a joy to behold - corny, yes, but its infectious exuberance wins over even the most unlikely fans. It's a spectacular production; great for little ones, who can dance - and wave their pompoms! - to their heart's content, but still fun if, like me, you're someone for whom high school is a dim and distant memory... And whether you've seen the film or not, it's a gem of a show to watch.
It's cheeky, uplifting and, in terms of the production itself, polished to perfection.
Unmissable.
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