Now in its 17th year at The Alexandra, Stage Experience offers an invaluable platform to young talent aged 9-24 who wish to pursue a career in theatre; whether that be through acting, singing, dancing or technical. It has produced some real success stories including Liam Doyle who has gone on to perform in the West End and No 1 touring musicals such as Hairspray, Wicked and Heathers. This summer production is a jewel in the Alexandra’s annual programme and this week’s run of Fame showcases this tenfold.

Many of us have seen the 1980 film, which includes the iconic title number ‘Fame’. However, this is where the similarities disperse as the stage production has wholly new music by Steve Margoshes, with lyrics by Jacques Levy, and a book by Jose Fernandez presenting new characters who each have their own battles whilst studying at New York City’s High School for the Performing Arts including fame-obsessed Carmen, dyslexic dancer Tyrone, determined actor Nick, and ‘overweight’ dancer Mabel.

Directed and choreographed by Pollyann Tanner (who has been with the scheme since its conception in 2003), and produced by the venue’s manager Becky Peers, the Alexandra have formulated a professional team of freelancers to helm and steer the production and in doing so, giving these young people the most representative and authentic stage experience.

Alex Johnson’s lighting design matches the energy on stage, and the split level set is thoroughly utilised throughout the performance, even on occasions when there are 70+ bodies on stage at any one time. Tanner’s choreography is cleverly layered to enable the playing space to feel a little less chaotic in the most part and the delivery - whilst could have been tighter - is executed extremely well, especially considering the cast have only had 13 days in which to learn the material!

The eight-strong band, under the direction of Chris Newton, perform the iconic soundtrack well but there are times, particularly in the larger ensemble numbers, when the sound balance between the musicians and vocals is heavily weighted towards the pit, meaning the vocals cannot be heard clearly. This is occasionally the case in dialogue based scenes as well. ‘Tyrone’s Rap’ - for instance - was hindered due to this imbalance and being a pinnacle moment, this doesn’t allow the audience to connect with his character as quickly or easily.

There are several of the featured performers who absolutely need a mention, notably the charismatic Laura Byran as Carmen and Louis Goode as Joe, the vocally brilliant Freya Hancox as Serena, Cree Henson as Schlomo and Molly Hopkins as Ms Bell, and all-round talent Mason Daw as Nick Piazza. Remember THEIR names, Besties! Makes me personally feel proud to be from the West Midlands!

A great choice of musical to showcase the best young talent that the Midlands has to offer.

Reviewed by: Jenny Ell

Fame plays at The Alexandra in Birmingham until 27 August, with tickets available here.