The world premiere of Here & Now - The Steps Musical certainly had some hype in its build up, Besties! Yesterday, we had the pleasure of attending the gala night of this new production at The Alexandra in Birmingham. A jukebox musical packed full of Steps songs was going to go one of two ways, so was it a total smash or an absolute tragedy?…

Set in a supermarket called Better Best Bargains, the story follows four co-workers as they navigate their way through personal struggles, from trying to find true love to finding the courage to kick a lover to the curb. The friendly four dream of a summer of love, but their jobs are put in peril when a big wig takes control over the company and threatens to break apart the foundations of their friendship. Lies, deceit and a whole lot of love is in the air in this fast paced show, so you either get on the shopping conveyor belt from the beginning or you don't get on at all…. safe to say, we got on!

Here & Now is camp, audacious and completely hilarious but also manages to weave in some truly heartfelt moments and the cast bring their absolute A game.

Rebecca Lock, true to form, is an absolute powerhouse in the role of Caz, bringing an honest and nuanced portrayal to the role that still manages to fit into this larger than life world and sang our socks off! Blake Patrick Anderson is infectiously lovely as the Andrex puppy-like Robbie. The character is an absolute sweetheart who you cant help but like and route for, and Anderson has some killer vocals to boot. Hiba Elchikhe is equally fabulous and likeable in the role of Neeta and sings the roof off the Alex. Sharlene Hector is a show stealer in the role of Vel, and has the audience hanging onto her every word. Hector provides a masterclass in comedy acting and has a breathtaking voice. This cast really are the full package, not a line is wasted or dropped and every joke lands. Bravo to Will Burton CDG for splendid casting.

The most refreshing thing about the show is Shaun Kitchener’s book. You sometimes find with jukebox musicals that the book is a little sloppy and is merely a device to cram in as many hits as possible, but Kitchener’s witty and razor sharp writing feels cohesive and the show flows really well. It really is a laugh a minute show. Rachel Kavanaugh’s direction is perfect for the piece. A show like this is all about energy and pace and neither drops for a second. We particularly love Tom Rogers’ bold supermarket set design; the colours pop and the symmetry soothes our souls.

Here & Now is delectable entertainment for the whole family. It truly has something for people of all ages and we would recommend anyone to buy a ticket, if you are looking for a fun night out. The staging is slick, the jokes are endless and the vocals are stupendous, so get yourself down to The Alexandra to see this show! Can’t make it to Birmingham? Dont worry, this news isn’t one for sorrow….. Here & Now is heading out on tour in 2025!

Outrageously good fun.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: James Edge

Here & Now plays at The Alexandra in Birmingham until 30 November, with tickets available here.