Our Experience with 'An Officer and a Gentleman The Musical'

This occasion brought the classic 1982 film to life on the main stage, taking the audience through a story of love, bravery, and salvation with a crowd-pleasing soundtrack that has something for everyone.

Tracking Zack Mayo's path as he joins a rigorous twelve-week training program to transform into a naval officer, testing both his mental and physical capabilities. His story, as well as that of the other candidates made us smile, laugh and gave us goosebumps at times, as it intertwines with dazzling Paula Pokrifki and the events unfold when they meet.

This show is a talent goldmine, featuring James Wilkinson-Jones as Zack Mayo and Julia Jones as Lynette Pomeroy stealing the spotlight. Notably, both Wilkinson-Jones and Pomeroy were understudies for these roles, but both gave incredible natural performances. Let's not forget Jamal Kane Crawford as Gunnery Sergeant Emil Foley, dominating the stage with his unforgettable charisma and raw intensity. We wracked our brains as to the best word to describe his performance, and settled on ‘iconic’. On the flipside, Paul French as Sid Worley showed his utmost dedication to his complex and deeply emotional character journey. Two words: Powerhouse vocals. Finally, the ladies of the cast including, Melanie Masson as Esther, with her comedic timing and belting some classic 80's ballads was truly a joy to experience.

We wanted share our favourite songs/performance moments from last night:

• ‘You’re The Voice’ - an interesting take on the song.
• ‘I Am Woman’ - the perfect way to envelop the emotions felt by the characters.
• ‘Kids in America’ - uniquely placed in the storyline.

“If you’re a fan of 80s music, female empowerment, candid story telling referencing family dynamics, mental health and civic duty, don’t hesitate to buy your tickets” - Sarah Thomas-Gordon, Marketing Manager at the BID.

The show will be at the Regent Theatre until Saturday 11th May and tickets can be booked at ATG Tickets here

We cannot emphasise enough that if you love film, theatre and feel-good experiences, this show will definitely not disappoint and we would thank the Regent Theatre for inviting us to come and see this absolute gem of a production.