Get carried away by High School Musical 2 at Birmingham Alexandra Theatre

Dec 9 2009 by Gary Denning, Birmingham Mail

High School Musical 2

BIRMINGHAM ALEXANDRA THEATRE

HSM fans will know exactly what to expect from this musical based on the hit Disney film. Teenage romance, intrigue and finally reunion with plenty of singing, dancing and jokes leave a largely young audience cheering and clapping along.

The young cast is so enthusiastic and energetic as they launch into song after song that it is difficult not to get carried away with it all.

Lauren Hall is outstanding as the oh-so-evil Sharpay whose summer plan to split up young lovers Troy and Gabriella goes awry. She dominates the tale although Nikki Mae gives a thoroughly likeable Gabriella and Search for Troy winner Liam Doyle, of Coventry, proves to all those television voters that their trust was safely placed.

Ian Reddington, of Coronation Street and EastEnders fame, takes on the role of Mr Fulton, the one adult among all those crazy kids who brings a touch of his own brand of humour to the show.

This is well placed as a family Christmas show which is lively and fun and carries that wholesome message that true love wins and all can turn out well in the end.

Until January 2

VERDICT: HHHHI

DIANE PARKES