Review: The Cher Show is a tour de force with incredible performances

In The Cher Show: A New Musical at Manchester Opera House, the highs and the lows of Cher’s story are brought to life with three incredible performances by three incredible performers. 

Director Arlene Phillips brings a tour de force of a show with all-out acting, smash-hit singing and killer choreography from Oti Mabuse that captivates your attention from start to finish.

Debbie Kurrup, Danielle Steers and Millie O’ Connell each play Cher in three stages of her life, Babe (O’Connell), Lady (Steers) and Star (Kurrup).

The trio reflect on Cher’s past, vividly retold through a number of her greatest hits that work perfectly with the story as the show undergoes a deep dive through the decades of the one and only Goddess of Pop’s life.

Cher’s emotional journey from sixteen year old Cherilyn Sarkeesian, dreaming of stardom to becoming the role model that inspired generations makes for a powerful uplifting story that needs to be seen. 

While Cher herself might not be on stage in person, with Kurrup, Steers and O’ Connell’s amazing performances she most definitely appears in spirit, as all three faces of Cher capture her iconic presence and deliver must-see performances that shine throughout the show from beginning to end, leaving the audience wanting more.

When all three Chers are on stage together, the trio’s infectious chemistry is clear for all to see, and when they sing together, magic happens as they all deliver spellbinding renditions of Cher’s songs throughout the years, eventually building to a crescendo with a fantastic finale performance. 

The supporting cast is also brilliant in their roles.

Lucas Rush plays Sonny and they bring a powerful performance, both in singing and acting as they interact with each version of Cher.

Jake Mitchell dazzles as Cher’s legendary costume designer Bob Mackie, with a colourful performance to match the outfits he makes.

Sam Ferriday expertly plays a quadruple of roles showing his excellent range as he drifts into different roles throughout the years such as Greg Allman, Phil Spector and Rob Camilletti, changing each time with each role.

Last but never least, Tori Scott takes to the stage as Georgia, Cher’s mother, whose cracking wit and flawless comedic delivery means she always commands attention on stage.

And unforgettable are the twelve strong cast of ensemble dancers who play a myriad of roles throughout the musical, using expert choreography to make sure every scene stays lively, adding another level of quality to a production that already boasts innovative set design from Tom Rogers, impeccable costumes designed by Gabriella Slade and wonderful use of lighting designed by Ben Cracknell.

The Cher Show is an iconic experience for everyone to enjoy with empowering performances across the board, hilarious jokes and a seamless show so tightly paced you’ll be wishing you could turn back time just to see it over and over again.

The Cher Show is at Manchester Opera House until Saturday 21st May.