REVIEW – The Ukulele Man – The Story of GEORGE FORMBY by Marcel Cole
Review by Kathy M.
Sunday 21 July 2024 at 2 pm Raven Cellar Bar
I must admit I knew nothing of George Formby or Marcel Cole but was pleasantly surprised by the story telling, singing, dancing and instrument playing of the talented Marcel Cole in this moving musical theatre performance.
Following the ups and downs of the career of one of the most popular entertainers of the 30’s and 40’s, George Formby and his manager wife, Beryl – portrayed brilliantly by Marcel’s real-life mother, Katie Cole – wasn’t so much about the ukelele!
Directed by Mirjana Ristevski, the intimate cabaret style of the Raven Cellar Bar added to the atmosphere of war time entertainment. Simple costume changes, music and facial expressions instantly transported to you to a time and place in the past where live entertainment ruled.
Marcel made great eye contact with the audience as he portrayed the progress of George’s life from leaving school, becoming a jockey, an entertainer, actor, a window cleaner, joining the navy and entertaining the troops around the world during WWII. He even spent time in an asylum and rose again to be a great entertainer and awarded an OBE.
Katie accompanied Marcel on his journey and with a few costume changes, wigs and hats played the narrator, news presenter, his mother and of course, his wife Beryl.
The audience in the show I attended was about 90% over 60 years old who smiled, swayed and tapped through the songs but don’t let that deter you. The closing song of “Leaning on a Lamp Post” had everyone singing along.
Take your parents or your grand-parents – they’ll love to see a handsome young man working with his mum on stage and telling the story of someone the younger generation has probably never heard of in a heart-warming, simple way.
It was a professional, polished and highly entertaining show with a touch of nostalgia. A history lesson never felt so good! Marcel is charismatic, charming and incredibly talented plus good-looking and Katie almost stole the show with her gusto and enthusiasm. I’m sure she must be proud to be involved with her son’s award-winning show.
Thank you Kathy for your review. I was one of the over 60 year olds at that show and I concur with your comments. Marcel is a brilliant and personable young talent who gave a performance that was entirely engaging. I agree with you about the effect that the venue had on the atmosphere.It was very suited to the subject matter and added to the atmosphere.
I couldn’t agree more with you about his mother Katie, such a talented performer who I found totally mesmerising.
Together they entertained us while the time flew by. I came away feeling very happy that I was able to see this show.