We Will Rock You: Majestic Theatre, Darlington

PRESENTED by first year students of Visual and Performing Arts at Darlington College, this production provides an opportunity for young would-be performers to showcase their talent, and youngsters more interested in the technical side of theatre to gain valuable experience in lighting, sound and stage management. The result is a vibrant, funny and immensely entertaining show that needs no allowances made for the inexperience of nearly everyone concerned.

The story is set in the future and follows the search for musical instruments hidden hundreds of years ago because real, ie rock, music is banned. Dreamer Galileo Figaro, engagingly played by David Austin, is unaware that he holds the key to the mystery of where the instruments are, until he meets a girl whom he names Scaramouche and they embark on the search together. Both have powerful singing voices and tackle their roles with convincing confidence.

Comedy is provided by the evil Khashoggi, played with relish by Jordan Poole with all his exits accompanied by a ‘Wa-ha-ha’ wicked laugh, which made me want to boo and hiss.

Star turn for me is Craig Johnson as Britney, joyfully leaping around the stage to the extent that on Monday night he dislocated his shoulder but…the show must go on. Great singing and a great mover too. Opposite Craig is Chloe Rowell as Meat, whose personality and voice should take her far.

Refreshing enthusiasm, a talented young cast (average age 16: astonishing) and backing tracks by Queen themselves; it’s a winner.

* Runs Until Saturday (June 18). Tickets available on the door or majestic-tickets.co.uk

Sue Heath