Somethings got a hold on me & I’m fairly certain it’s Jess Folley of Burlesque the Musical at The Savoy London. 

I have seen this show twice now. The glow up in the last week is admirable. And whilst it could still be taken in a few scenes, the corset  has been laced tight & the majority of those loose suspenders have been clipped. 

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This show opens with a power move we don’t see often enough on the Westend Stage. Radical inclusivity. A true representation of the art form & name sake of the piece. Reflecting realism whilst still presenting this girly pop fantasy. 

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Jess Folley, who plays Ali, Xtina’s beloved small town archetype. Is simply spectacular. Her vocals are on point in every scene. And this week, costume caught up. Her vocal ability had my jaw on the floor repeatedly throughout the show. I could listen to her on repeat. - we are going to need NEED a cast album. Just saying.

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Todrik Hall, who embodies Shaun, Stanley Tucci’s character from the movie & all round show stopper. Brings ‘it’ to the stage. Wearing many hats in this production; actor, choreographer, composer and that one he clearly nicked off Boy George. Hall has done an impressive job bringing this production together. Mostly with respect to the show girls who assled before us, and keeping space for the future sparkling diamantés yet to come. 

Orfeh has such a powerful voice. I am so glad i got to see her as Tess for a second time on the press night. Her stage presence is unmatched and her comedic timing with Todrik throughout was perfection. But someone really does need to get this woman a Cathrine D’lish.