The Official Take That musical ‘Greatest Days’ arrives at Leeds Grand Theatre this week. From award-winning writer Tim Firth (Calendar Girls, Our House, Kinky Boots), the musical follows a group of five best friends in the 1990s who are obsessed with their favourite boy band. The girls then reunite more than 20 years later with a plan to see their heartthrobs one last time.
It is – surprisingly – not really about Take That at all, but instead about a specific shared experience and a celebration of friendship. Tinged with heartbreak, Greatest Days is both heart-warming and hilarious; fair warning it does get very emotional, tissues at the ready!
English singer, actress and TV presenter Kym Marsh and her daughter Emilie Cunliffe as Rachel and Young Rachel, both shine in their roles; embodying the characters with an emotion and a pathos that really makes the show relatable and endearing.
Greatest Days features more than 15 of Take That’s record-breaking songs which are effortlessly woven into the narrative in new and illuminating ways.
The set design is simple, yet extremely effective and the use of the moveable steps was ingenious throughout. It has a wonderful storyline which is heart-warming and a relatable tale of loss and love. The hits are great fun, the music is fantastic and performed with exceptional energy from the cast.
Overall the musical is a great night out, especially for anyone of an age who can relate their own memories to the ubiquitous hits, albeit you certainly don’t have to be a Take That fan to thoroughly enjoy every moment.
This joyful and emotional smash hit musical is a must visit and is sure to be one you’ll Never Forget!
Greatest Days is at Leeds Grand Theatre from Tuesday 21 to Saturday 25 November 2023.
Book tickets online at: leedsheritagetheatres.com or call 0113 243 0808.
Review and images by Victoria Reddington @vic_reddington
