Stoke Review of Can't Smile Without You

Theatre Review: Can't Smile Without You – The Regent, Hanley (PICTURES)
Tuesday, November 18, 2008, 09:20

THE thought of one-hit wonder Chesney Hawkes starring in a show based upon the music of Barry Manilow could be either a dream come true or the worst nightmare – depending on taste.
Thankfully, Bill Kenwright's production ensured Can't Smile Without You enjoyed a hugely successful first night at the Regent Theatre.

Chesney Hawkes as Tony With Siobhan Dillon and Jade Steele in Can’t Smile Without You at The Regent Theatre.




The story follows the fortunes of Tony Lowiman, played by Hawkes, and his band, the Romantics.


Their search for fame takes them to the U.S. where Tony falls for the conveniently named Mandy (Siobhan Dillon), but remains true to his fiancée Lucy (Francesca Jackson), who is meanwhile enjoying an illicit romance with Tony's best friend Steve. This love tangle is given a twist when Tony acquires a head injury and forgets about his romantic interests – both old and new.


The script is very much written around the music, resulting in an amusing, tongue-in-cheek introduction to the songs. For example, on their return to the U.S., the Romantics are faced with a crisis as cabaret singer Lola had ran off with Rico leaving the club Copacabana
in a bit of a fix.


Performances, all supported with a live orchestra, were consistently strong. Mandy (Dillon) sang with clear harmony throughout the show, including a poignant version of Could It Be Magic.
Hawkes also showcased his talents well as a solo artist in, for example, I Write The Songs, and as a band member in upbeat numbers such as New York Rhythm. Howard Samuels's portrayal of loud-mouthed talent-show host Jeff also stood out as he delivered an alternative version of the title song relating to lost profits rather than romance.


This contrast of styles provides diversity and a fresh edge to Manilow classics. However the production stopped short of being hilariously funny or as fully credible as a romantic drama. This was of little consequence as the audience clearly loved it.



Cheerful and cheesy, Can't Smile Without You provides a night of pure escapism, and is not just for Manilow fans. The show runs until Saturday. Call the box office on 0870 060 6649.


Fern Basnett

A Couple More Pics Unearthed

Fran - Acting or Giving The Other Contestants What For?

Fran Outside Bristol Hippodrome

Fran with Siobhan and Chesney 

New Poll

With the end of the first leg of Can't Smile Without You Tour is fast approaching, decided it was high time we had a poll for what other roles you would like to see Fran in.

If there is a role you think Fran would be great in and it isn't in the list no fear, add it in the comments or email me.

Multiple votes are allowed but please try not to select everything I know it may be difficult to decide as Fran would be good at anything.

Further Pics

It turns out that the last lot of IDA photos were care of Rachel Tucker Herself so many thanks Rachel for some great pictures. 

Rachel & Fran Looking A Little Nervous

Fran Meeting Laura Wells After a Performance of CSWY

Fran With Abbie Tabberer In Nottingham after CSWY

Guys keep the fan pics and reviews coming. 

Manilow Magic @ Theatre Royal

Published Date: 07 November 2008
If Barry Manilow is not appearing in person at Nottingham's Theatre Royal this week then his fans can revel in the next best thing.

Chesney Hawkes plays the lead role of Tony in the UK tour of Bill Kenwright's brand new musical love story Can't Smile Wihout You.

He meets a girl on his New York stag night, falls for her and then loses his memory after a fight when he returns to England.That's the plot but this is really a Manilow-fest, packed with more than 30 of his songs and backed by a class band under the direction of John Maher.

In support are excellent performances from 23-year-old Siobhan Dillon, who first came to the nation's attention as runner up in the BBC's hit TV show How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?, and Francesca Jackson,finalist from recent TV hit I'd Do Anything.

Performance Times: Evenings 7.30pm. Saturday matinee 2.30pmTicket Prices: £12- £30.50 Box Office: 0115 989 5555.

New Pics

I know most of you have probably seen most of the Nancy images on the other blogs but for those of you who haven't enjoy - Also be sure to check out some of the new shots from the What's on Stage outing to Rent Remixed Last November.

Denise & Fran @ Londons Rent Remixed Press Night

The Nancies Have a PJ Party !!

The Girls Looking Glam - I think this was from the Final Stage of Audtions looking at the outfits

The Girls 

Fran Hiding In the Back

All Dressed Up - Fran Hiding Round the Back Again

The Nancies give there feathers a test run

The Cast of Rent Remixed

Nottingham Review - This Time It's Good News

Review: Can't Smile Without You, Theatre Royal
Tuesday, November 04, 2008, 06:51


MAMMA Mia has a lot to answer for. Take a band's back catalogue, throw in a perfunctory story and stir. Sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn't (Shang A Lang anyone?).

If you adopt the same thinking to Barry Manilow songs, just how far up the cheese-ometer will it go? Thankfully, not that far, because if you want a thoroughly escapist night out with some fine musicianship, top singing voices and a knowing glint in its eye, I urge you to beat a path to the Theatre Royal this week.
Can't Smile Without You, does exactly what it says on the tin. It's a night of pop tunesmith Manilow magic.
There may be a story about a singer meeting a girl on a his stag weekend in New York, falling in love, and coming back to Blighty, only to be injured in a fight in which he loses his memory.
But it's only a device to get us thinking about when the next hit will be played – and whether true love will find a way.

Chesney Hawkes takes the lead role of Tony Lowiman (crossword fans should be able to work that one out!) and he is more than ably accompanied by Francesca Jackson as fiancée Lucy and Siobhan Dillon as television executive PA Mandy (cue for a song perhaps?)
The band, under the musical direction of John Maher, are extremely tight, with some of the arrangements enhancing what Manilow has already given us.
The Theatre Royal audience for opening night lapped up this piece of musical theatre with many suggesting on the way out a return later in the week.
It's the next best thing to a concert by the man himself. What better endorsement do you need?

Comments (1)
It was as corny as a Kansas wheatfield - but I loved every minute of it!Chesney Hawkes' voice is PERFECTLY suited to the songs and there was some very fine comic acting by Howard Samuels.The supporting cast were all 100% believeable despite it being decidedly 'tongue in cheek' and the band were just wonderful. The rendition of 'Sweet Heaven' alongside another song was worthy of the closing act of Les Miserables.I thoroughly enjoyed it and quite frankly, if I weren't 46 years old, I'd have Chesney Hawkes' babies!Well done to all concerned.
Yvette, Mansfield Woodhouse

2 New Pics

When the Nancies performed live at the Wicked Matinee during the competition avid theater fan Laura Allenby was on hand to get the following great shots that she has been kind enough to share with us.

Northampton

Below is the Whats on stage announcement for Northampton's showing of Can't Smile Without You.

Whats On Stage Northampton Article

Some New CSWY Pics

Official CSWY Pics of Fran

Been A While

Finally there was a review posted on line from Edinburgh - Again it's not the most pleasant of reviews, but if the person responsible can't even get the character names right when posting an article in the newspaper....... At least they got Fran's name right and again she has come off well. 

See the article for yourself

The Edinburgh Journal Review

Fan Review - What A Star She Is

“Can’t Smile Without You Review”.

I went to see “Can’t Smile Without You” on Wednesday 1st October at the Palace Theatre in Manchester. I was there visiting my friend Rachel who’s recently gone to study Drama at the nearby University, & it had always been our intention to go and see Francesca in the show; ever since we found out she was doing it.
We arrived at the theatre at about 7:15 on the evening, only to find, to our delight, that our seats had been upgraded – we were no longer in the upper circle but the grand circle, with a perfect view to the stage. I didn’t know many Barry Manilow songs prior to the show, so I wasn’t really sure of what to expect; other than an amazing performance from Fran... which obviously I got!
It took a while at the beginning to develop the storyline, but when it started to build up I really enjoyed it. It must’ve taken Fran at least 15 minutes to come on, & I remember nudging Rachel every time somebody came on – just hoping it would be her. The story was about a man called Tony, played by Chesney Hawkes, going to New York with his band in order to make it big in the music business.
The audience were given the impression during the climax to Fran’s entrance that Tony was falling in love on his travels with a girl called Mandy (ironically I thought!), played by Siobhan Dillon. So at this point I’d started to feel sorry for Tony’s girlfriend Lucy, played by Fran, as she had no idea what was going on. However, when she appeared on stage snogging the face off Tony’s best mate Scott; I laughed. It was exactly the kind of character I imagined her to play, & she suited the role brilliantly. Rachel and I must have been the only teenagers there, as when I looked around the theatre I could see mostly older couples; not forgetting of course the mad group of Chesney fans sitting about 4 rows in front of us. They were clapping and waving excitedly to every song he sang, however slow! It really added to the cheerful atmosphere generated from the audience in the theatre. During the interval we spotted two empty seats even nearer to the stage at the front of the grand circle, so, seizing the opportunity, moved straight away – at the time we were yet to realise how loud the Chesney fans actually were, LOL!
A performance I particularly enjoyed was “Copacabana”, where Fran appeared in dazzling gold; & obviously the bright yellow feather made her stand out even more. I also liked the songs “Looks Like We Made It” and “Who Needs To Dream”; they really made me think back to the time all those months ago when I first heard her sing. Those four weeks repeatedly dialling her number, hoping my votes would be enough – it made me truly believe how worthwhile that was.
After two standing ovations & most of the audience on their feet in appreciation of the amazing actors and actresses that had taken part, the show finished. As soon as the lights came back on, we hurried downstairs & straight to the stage door – I don’t think I could have bared the thought of not meeting Fran; I’d have been devastated! Rachel & I had only been waiting a matter of seconds before she appeared. I literally couldn’t speak for about a minute I was so star struck, but told myself I needed to get a grip else she’d soon go. She seemed in a bit of a rush, so I asked her if she had to leave. She said that she had to catch the 10:20 pm train & it was ten past as it was! She asked my friend where Oxford Street station was, & all three of us found it amusing when Rachel pointed across the road to a huge sign indicating the station was right there. Even so, she stayed to have a picture with each of us, & then I suggested one of us all together. After that had been taken, she made us check it to see if it was alright; saying she was happy to have another one. Just before she made a dash across the road I asked her to sign my programme, where she wrote “To Claire, With Love Francesca J xxx”. Then, telling us she had to love & leave us, she left. I was so happy I’d met her that I shed a few tears; I just couldn’t believe I’d met her. I’ve waited at stage doors at a few shows before to see the cast, but I was determined that night, & I have to say I’ve never met anybody as genuinely nice & appreciative of support from her fans as Francesca. She had to catch a train in 10 minutes, but took the time to chat to until then at least.
I’m hoping to go & see the show again in mid-November when it is on in Stoke, & hopefully I’ll see Francesca again too. She is such a talented woman, & I can guarantee that I’ll continue to follow & support her in whatever she chooses to do in the future. Francesca Jackson is a true inspiration.

Claire Dorricott.

Glasgow Review

Don't be alarmed by the title the cast come off well.

REVIEW: Say cheese for a snapshot of Barry Manilow magic

by Sarah Swain YOU would expect a musical based on the hits of Barry Manilow and starring 1990s popstar The One and Only' Chesney Hawkes in the lead role to be cheesy. But Can't Smile Without You is mozzarella with extra parmesan. It follows a band who go to New York to make it big. But the record producer only wants singer Tony. He gives up his chance of fame to go back to gigs in Grimsby with the boys - but not before meeting a girl called Mandy of course. Then an attack leaves Tony unable to remember anything about himself - all he can recall is music. Manilow hits like Could it be Magic are woven into the plot as he tries to find himself - and his girl - again. Hawkes has the voice and charisma to win over the Manilow fans. Plus, with Siobhan Dillon, and Francesca Jackson, a runner-up in BBC's Nancy contest, the show proves that though it is heavy on cheese, it's big on charm. King's Theatre until Saturday. Call 0870 060 6648 or visit www.kings-glasgow.co.uk Publication date 14/10/08

Message From Fran

Hi Guys

Just received a message from Fran to pass on to everyone especially those of you who gave me messages to pass on to her.

I just want to say how AMAZING all of the presents were and especially the messages so many people left me!!!! made me cry when i opened it all in the car on way home!

please please say the biggest thankyou to everyone for me!!!! It really takes my breath away that people actually care that much!!

I think you can all see how overwhelmed Fran was but as we all know she deserves all the support she gets and much much more. I did say the intention wasn't to make her cry.

Keep the support coming and any more messages let me have them as I will hopefully be seeing Fran again at the end of the month.

Jessie News

Huge Congratulations must go to Jessie on landing her first London role, looks like all the girls are doing well since the show.  For full details of Jessie's great news be sure to check out her blog.

Roles So Far

Fran - Staring in No 1 Tour of Can't Smile Without You 

Rachel - We Will Rock You - London's West End - Meat - Scaramouch for Nov 3rd to 15th

Sarah - Several recent or upcoming events followed by Oliver ensemble and 1st Cover Nancy

Sam - Sally in Cabaret Tour

Jessie - Just been announced in A Little Night Music as Anne

Amy - After all Bob's Women went into Sound of Music

Niamh - Only the Brave at Edinburgh Fringe, Will be doing Panto in Eastbourne (Snow White)

Keisha - Scholarship to postgrad MT course at Mountview

Tara - Narrator in Joseph Tour

Jodie - Ensemble in Les Mis whilst waiting on Oliver Rehersals

Cleo - Ensemble for Dirty Dancing 

That Leaves Ashley - If anyone knows let me know and I'll update

Congratulations to all the girls and I'm sure this is the start of a wonderful journey and career for them all

Poll Time Again

Decided it was high time we had a new poll on the site to try and gage the current site usage, to work out which Fans are visiting the site.

It will also be interesting to see for how long some fans have been following Fran.

Get voting.

Another Great Fan Review - Manchester

‘Me, my mum and my nana arrived at the Palace Theatre at 1:30, an hour before the show, so after having a picture in front of one of the many posters outside and sitting in the bar we took to our seats and awaited the lifting of the curtains. I was sooooo nervous and I know this might sound silly but it was in case I didn’t get Fran’s autograph lol.

 

            Anyway, the show started and I sat impatiently waiting for Fran to appear. Suddenly my mum started nudging me and pointing over at the left hand side of the stage and then I realised Fran was on stage but in disguise… I stifled a little scream. When Fran came on as Lucy, she blew me away with her singing, acting, everything! Her chemistry with ‘Scott’ was brilliant. She totally showed what she could do in this show, but I already knew that anyway! Her voice is so strong and captivating, I’m sure she looked at me during a song and smiled back at me, but I’ve a feeling she might not have been able to see anyway because of the lights, but I was only on the third row in the Stalls lol, who knows! Most of the time she was situated on the left on side of the stage (as you look at it), right in front of where I was! The show had its equal balance of seriousness and humour, an example of which would be ‘Copacabana’ which had the whole audience in stitches, including me; one of the only teenagers in the audience, if not the only one. I love Fran’s outfit/costume in Copacabana, it brings back memories of ‘I’d Do Anything’ and I’m so glad she took part!

This review would not be full without a mention of Howard Samuels; he is amazingly funny and makes the part of Jeff his own, just like the rest of the cast, though especially during Copacabana. Also, Siobhan Dillon is amazing, her singing and acting are brilliant and the rest of the cast and ensemble work really well together and are also brilliant, the show would not be complete without them! Humour was also added by reference to certain song titles and the ‘bus’ scene which was hilarious! Now, I have to admit to not being a huge fan of Barry Manilow, having only been to see the musical because of Fran, but those journeys home from school on the bus listening to his music persuaded my mind that he is actually quite good. ‘Can’t Smile Without You’ obviously played a bigger part in twisting me to like his music, sung by amazing singers and actors/actresses in the show!

            The audience participated a lot throughout, many of them being avid Chesney fans and this added to the enjoyment of the evening. After two standing ovations, it finished L.

We made our way to the stage door and waited. Chesney came out first, I asked for a picture and an autograph- blue pen on the blue front cover of the programme… Then Edward came out (plays Scott) and I had a picture with him. After about 20 minutes Fran came out and I didn’t realise at first. I screamed and she said hello, quite shocked at my reaction I think. I asked if for a picture with her and she did, she is so nice! I actually had a full conversation with her, she signed my programme in my other black pen on the page with her ‘credits’ included it reads, “To Emily, Millions of love Francesca Jackson xxxxx”!!! It’s going to go in a frame alongside my Lee Mead autograph, who cropped into the conversation and Fran agreed he is good-looking! We talked about various things, singing lessons, auditions and Can’t Smile Without You, but we let her go so she could presumably have her tea before the next show at half 7, the last show in Manchester. She wished me good luck with my future (hopefully musical theatre) and we wished her good luck and said we would look out for her in the future!

She is so pretty and amazing and such a genuine person! I mean, she didn’t have to stay and talk or say good luck to me but she did. Because she’s phenomenal and I will always remember it!

Emily xxxxx’

Many thanks to Emily for the great review and lovely picture. 

Win More Tickets for CSWY

For all of those up in Scotland or near the border it's your chance to try and win tickets to see Fran and Co

Check out the link below and Good Luck


Win CSWY Tickets Glasgow

Some Fun Pics From Bristol

When I was waiting to speak to Fran in Bristol on Saturday She was asked if she would mind having her photo taken with a small rubber duck, to which she showed no hesitation. After having her photo taken she did actually ask why?

It turns out that Brian the Duck Travels all over the world and had been photographed with numerous famous people and in some great locations, these pictures can be seen on Brian's very own facebook page.


Thanks to Michelle Plowman and Elizabeth Banks the 2 photographers, here are the pictures of Fran posing with Brian.





Michelle's Pic



Elizabeth's Pic

As you can see Fran looks like she's enjoying posing with Brian. So if anyone else has any other ideas get out there and try it - Siobhan and Chesney were also good sports and posed with Brian Check out his facebook page below for those pictures.

Brian The Duck's Facebook Page

Natasha's Fan Review of CSWY - Bristol Sat 27th Sept

I arrived in Bristol with my family at about six, so incredibly excited about seeing Fran live for the first time. When I saw the theatre with its huge ‘Can’t Smile Without You’ sign I was even more so, and that was pretty excessive excitement! It was then that I discovered my camera wouldn’t work. Determined not let it ruin my evening, I smiled and attempted to suppress my frustration. After a few minutes, however, I realised the joy of mobile phones, and then I could relax – if I did get the opportunity for photos I wouldn’t have to miss it. As it had taken us nearly two hours to get to Bristol we had packed sandwiches and ate them sat on benches just across the road from the theatre. I was so excited I gobbled mine down in about 10 seconds and then had to wait for everyone else to finish eating. Eventually, when they had finished, we walked around the block to find the stage door so we would know where to go later...
The show itself was absolutely amazing! Whenever Fran was on stage I couldn’t take my eyes off of her – she has such stage-presence and of course that amazing voice! Fran’s part as Lucy has quite a wide variety of roles to fulfil and she coped with these very well. There was quite a surprise when she appeared in a very ‘Viva Las Vegas’ (for all those avid IDA fans) style costume for the Copacabana, which was thoroughly enjoyed by the entire audience! The rest of the cast were also truly excellent, and I was very impressed by the ensemble performers. Chesney Hawkes rose well to the challenge of musical theatre and you could definitely see the chemistry between Scott (Edward Handoll) and Lucy (Fran!).



When the show finished we were out of our seats very speedily and rushed to the stage door to hopefully meet the lady herself. It was my first stage-door ever, and I was so nervous. Armed with my frequent-stage-doorer friend’s lucky Sharpie I managed to get the best spot – right opposite the door. Chesney came out first and was very friendly, signing programmes and having photos taken. I waited in anticipation from Fran to come out. However when she did I almost froze and just stood there. Luckily my mum nudged me hard in the back and got me going. I was the first to speak to her and she was so incredibly lovely to me... I was so happy! It wasn’t until a bit later that I managed to pluck up the courage to ask her for a photo and she realised I had been waiting all that time and was so apologetic, even though it was by no means her fault!
I was so impressed by Fran’s incredible talent and of course her wonderful kindness to her fans and, miraculously, she managed to surpass both my unbelievably high expectations of her, and my even higher hopes! Wow!



Many thanks for sharing your experience's and photos with everyone Natasha. And for anyone else who would like to contribute please feel free to email me.

Other News

Be Sure to check out the other Blogs for exciting News with regards to Sarah and Rachel things really seem to be happening for many of the girls now and I'm sure it wont be long before there's Jessie news as well.

Stay Tuned

I know things have been a little quite just recently but please don't abandon us here at Frans Blog, there is a new Fan review on its way, (hopefully 2) also there are some other things in the pipeline so please stay tuned and keep checking back, Fran really does appreciate all the support that everyone is giving her.

Also to keep you all going I've managed to find a few other pictures of Fran.

Mr Clooney, Fran, Rachel Tucker, Sarah Lark & Tara Bethan at the Red Carpet Premier of George's new film Leatherheads.

Fran and Sarah Lark backstage during I'd Do Anything

The Girls at Press Night for All Bob's Women

The Girls taking direction during  I'd Do Anything - Possibly From Fran????

Frans Last FM Page

Be sure to check out Frans new last FM Page below and feel free to add any tracks etc

Frans Last FM Page

Manchester Review

The following Link will take you to the review posted in the Manchester Whats On Stage.

Manchester What's On Stage Review

Catch Up From The Last Week

Sorry It's been a week but was not able to get online very easily whilst I was away but please see below some reviews for Can't Smile Without You that came out whilst I was away.

Many Thanks To David Lamour and Natasha Douglas for letting me have the links.


Broadway World Review

Croydon Today Review

Wirral News Review

Also Congratulations to Rachel Tucker on starting her first West End Role in We Will Rock You this week long may her success continue.

Exclusive - Fan Interview With Fran

After World Premier and first 10 days of the national UK tour of The Barry Manilow musical of Can't Smile Without You in Bromley, decided it was time we heard from Fran again as to how things were going so far and what her expectations were in respect of the rest of the tour.

Hows the first week of the tour been?

Fran: It’s been exhausting! We’ve been rehearsing every day since we opened, but great fun at the same time!! The audiences in Bromley have been fab as well!

What's it like working with the rest of the cast?

Fran: It’s brilliant! Everyone is so lovely! It’s also a very small cast, which makes it really easy for everyone to get to know each other really well! They’re great!

What do you expect from the rest of the tour?

Fran: To carry on having loads of fun and hope the audiences stay as enthusiastic as they have been in Bromley!

You mentioned previously that It's been an ambition of yours to create a role in an original cast has this opportunity been everything you dreamed it would be?

Fran: Yes it's great! It’s just really rewarding to be able to create something from scratch!

Any promotional interviews for the rest of the tour lined up - not really seen any reviews or promotion about?

Fran:  I’m not sure actually! I think our main press night is Liverpool but we will get reviewed by local papers in each venue! I think I’m doing an interview with Swansea Bay radio while we're at Bristol.

Have you seen or spoken to many of the other Nancy or Oliver contestants since the show - have any of them been or got plans to come and see you?

Fran: I speak with Samantha all the time; She’s a really great friend!! And we're both trying to watch each other’s matinees when we're close enough to do so on tour!

And Amy came to watch the show this week, which was such a lovely surprise!! She’s having an amazing time on The Sound of Music! It was so so lovely to catch up with her!

Have there been any funny incidents on or off stage so far that you can tell us about?

Fran: Well I think the funniest moments on stage for me are when we have loads of Chesney fans in and I get booed for cheating on Tony ( Chesney ) I find it very hard not to corpse at these moments! 

How much are you enjoying being back on stage? 

Fran: More than ever!! I'm just so so grateful and lucky to be working and to adore every minute of my job!

Whats your favourite song from the show and why?

Fran:Ooo, well favorite Barry Manilow song is Weekend in New England and Chesney sings it so beautifully! But in the show I just love singing my duet with Siobhan (Old Songs/If I Should Love Again), it's just a really lovely arrangement of the two songs!

When the tour hits Bristol will you still be doing the Saturday night show as your performing in Cardiff on Sunday night in the Three Phantoms Concert?

Fran: Yes absolutely!!!

Can you give us a hint as to what you might be performing in Cardiff?

Fran: To be honest nothings been confirmed yet but I will let you know as soon as I know

Are you involved at all in ALW 60th Birthday concert?

Fran: No sadly I’m not :(

When you’re not working or on a day off what do you like to do to relax? 

Fran: Watch all my recorded episodes of Coronation Street, Eastenders and the Simpsons! 

I'd like to take this opportunity to thank Fran for her time in answering these questions and wish her all the best for the rest of the tour and hope we hear further updates as and when she has the time, as the rest of the tour schedule looks incredibly busy.

Theatre World Review of CSWY

CHURCHILL THEATRE

BROMLEY

BOX OFFICE: 020 8460 6677

Can't Smile Without You

Book by Timothy Prager

Now playing at The Churchill Theatre, Bromley, until Saturday, September 6th, 2008.

It's been a long time since I have felt anticipation such as this, an excitement within the atmosphere of a Theatre. It's been a long time since I have seen the Churchill with it's HOUSE FULL sign proudly on show.

The reason? The combination of Bill Kenwright and an idea he had to produce a musical show featuring the music of Barry Manilow. It was always going to be good, and the delayed start on this opening night simply added to the charged atmosphere.

I had, prior to this, never heard of Chesney Hawkes. With a name like that, he should be in old tyme music hall, I thought. When I saw him, he didn't resemble star quality - more like the young fellah who fixed my computer a few weeks ago from PC World...

But what an inspired bit of casting. He actually sounds like Manilow on a lot of the songs and I really was quite impressed. He plays Tony, leader of a band who goes off to NY to take part - or they at least think they will take part - in a musical reality TV show. But they arrive too late, somehow manage to impress Jeff at the studio, but Jeff only wants solo singers, Tony of course. Jeff is played by Howard Samuels who gives better support than the Dartford Bridge. Wonderful stuff.

The music of Manilow flows through this show like gold plasma....I can't think of any song of his omitted. It's a Miracle, I Don't Want To Walk Without You, Could it Be Magic, Somewhere in the Night...they're all here.

Due to the delayed start, a certain Bill Kenwright addressed the audience and said Manilow's music had got him through so much "emotional stuff". True for a lot of us, I'm sure. Trouble is, hearing all these amazing songs just brings it all back. Mandy, Let's Hang On, Weekend in New England, (by this time I was blowing my nose) Looks Like We Made It, Tryin' to Get the Feeling Again, I Write the Songs.

Ok, so there were lots of arm waving BM fans not interested in the story line but it's strong enough and as a bonus has two of the most gorgeous and capable ladies you could possibly imagine - lets start with Mandy. Siobhan Dillon from How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria? and more recently, her West End debut in Grease, plays Tony's true love. She is sensational. Wonderful voice amongst other things...! But she is pipped - just - by her rival in love, Francesca Jackson as Lucy. Francesca plays Tony's fiancee' but she doesn't really love him and instead falls for Scott, Tony's best mate, played by Edward Handoll.

Francesca was an unlucky finalist recently in BBC's I'd Do Anything - and to think I voted for Jessie..!! She just stood out for me with her confident poise and smashing voice.

When tragedy strikes, Tony loses his memory and can't even remember who Lucy is (idiot)! let alone the mysterious Mandy from across the pond. But slowly Tony starts to remember and piece things together. By this time Manilow mania has us twisted into the story like a snake around it's prey. We have Copacabana, the very apt Ready to Take a Chance Again, This One's For You, Who Needs To Dream (this is such a good song) and of course, Can't Smile Without You, whose lyric writer was in the audience, too.

As I said, this was the opening night of this Churchill Bromley Production but it will be some time before it plays for the final time. Yes, there were one or two minor technical hitches but come Press Night and the tour ahead, this company will be buzzing like a swarm of bees, producing sweet honey wherever they go.

As for Chesney, apparently a one hit wonder from 17 years ago, I want to know where he's been hiding himself. He's no Laurence Olivier but he has a voice to die for and a clean cut personality that is refreshing enough to suggest more musical theatre if he so wishes.

At the end of the show, a massive bouquet was brought onto the stage and a message was read out from the sender - "Thank you for keeping my music alive, Love, Barry Manilow. Neither Manilow or Kenwright need to worry - best not put that "House Full" sign back in store just yet.



Reviews by Geoffrey Billingsley for Theatreworld Internet Magazine

Competition Time

All Fran fans in the Liverpool area it's your chance to win tickets to see can't smile without you,

See the following article to be in with your magical chance to win one of 3 pairs of tickets



Liverpool Empire Ticket Competition for CSWY Tickets

Fan Pictures

Fran being a star and giving an autograph

Fran with Emma Jane Smith outside Dartford Theater 

Can't Smile Without You Tour Monday 8th Sept 2008

Thanks Emma for allowing me to post these pictures. Anyone else who has any pictures from meetings with Fran that they wish to donate for everyone to enjoy contact me.

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Review of Dartford First Night Performance

REVIEW How Manilow fans warmed to Chesney Hawkes

Chesney Hawkes

Can't Smile Without You.Orchard Theatre, Dartford, until September 13Box Office 01322 220000

It would be fair to say that Barry Manilow fans do have a certain image and many of them had made their way to Dartford’s Orchard Theatre last night (September 8). They were accompanied by husbands who looked resigned to the fact that they had been dragged along to yet another concert.However, this time they were not actually going to see their hero in the flesh but a musical constructed from his well known hits.Can’t Smile Without You is a production which started its life at Bromley’s Churchill Theatre. The star of the show is former pop star Chesney Hawkes, who I have to say does have a passing resemblance to the great big nosed musical legend.

He was supported by a young cast that included two former stars of recent Andrew Lloyd Webber TV talent quest shows. Siobhan Dillon, from BBC1’s How Do You Solve a problem like Maria?, played the main love interest and Francesca Jackson, from the Beeb’s follow up talent scout show I’d Do Anything, played the other woman in the love triangle.

On the face of it would seem that Manilow’s back catalogue is fertile ground from which to create a musical. However, the success of the show depends on whether it can appeal to a wider audience than the dedicated Manilow fan. The plot of the show is convoluted, but it has to be to fit in all of Manilow’s well known hits into the narrative. I know that plots in musicals are rarely sophisticated but this was a weak point. It’s a boy meets girl, boy loses girl, boy also loses his memory and former fiancée, has massive pop success and then finds girl again tale. (I said it was complicated.)

The performances from the cast were excellent. They had to be good all rounders for the show that required many of them to play instruments as well as sing. Chesney Hawkes’ more laid back pop singer style made an interesting contrast compared to the belt them out approach of his two female co-stars.

Siobhan Dillon does have a fantastic voice and Manilow’s songs gave her a chance to show it off to its full potential. All of the hits were in the show even Coco Cabana which added some up tempo glitz to the proceedings. Although the cast could not be faulted on their performances, I think this production did highlight the problems that come with this kind of musical.

The script lacked enough decent jokes and because they feel obliged to put in every well known Manilow song at times it felt that we were just ticking them off a list. However, if you are a Manilow fan, I am sure you will love it. The audience was swaying away to the tunes by the end and there is plenty to attract you, even if you are not a fan.It’s just a shame that at the moment, it seems that genuine new musicals, written just for that purpose are few and far between.

On the horizon is a David Essex musical. Who is next on the list-Nick Kershaw?Can’t Smile Without You is at The Orchard Theatre until September 13 for more info go to www.orchardtheatre.co.uk

First Official Review - The Stage

Can't Smile Without You

Published Monday 8 September 2008 at 13:25 by James Green
Billed as the Barry Manilow musical, this is a Mamma Mia!-type show lacking Manilow and his life story, but jam-packed with all the veteran pop star’s hits. To be exact - 27 of them. I Write The Songs indeed.

Chesney Hawkes as Tony in Can't Smile Without You Photo: Keith Pattison
So it’s a must for Manilow’s fans and an entertaining night for others. More than that, if, as hoped, it transfers into the West End, it is an assured career boost for Chesney Hawkes who with The One And Only (no pun intended) has appeared something of a one hit wonder.
The story concerns a five-piece band from London arriving at a New York audition seeking fame, a contract and fortune. Hawkes as Tony is the lead singer about to marry Lucy, but having his doubts. She is played by Francesca Jackson, owner of a really belting voice, who also wants out as she has fallen for Scott, the band’s No 2. That’s Edward Handell, another powerful singer who has played Buddy Holly.
Blonde No 2 is Siobhan Dillon, a New York PR named Mandy, of course, who is romantically drawn towards Tony. On her stiletto heels, she has the figure and face to win any man, and a voice that carried her into the final week of BBC1’s How Do You Solve a Problem Like Maria? contest, plus a Lloyd Webber record contract.
With plenty of songs and complications along the way, the framework is there for a switch of love partners. Cue for It’s A Miracle.
While the quartet are sorting themselves out, Howard Samuels as a cheapskate American showbiz manager/agent/whatever-pays-the dollar windbag is putting on a show-stealing performance. Whether singing, dancing, or dispensing one-liners, he is a natural joy - a rogue with an eye for the main chance and a percentage.
In keeping with an essentially musical production, there is a first class band, nine strong at times, under the command of keyboard player John Maher.
It helps that Chesney Hawkes, Manilow-style and looking not unlike him, can sing to his own piano accompaniment. With as many script lines as lyrics, he is making demands on his vocal chords. But with a break like this hopefully his voice will hold out.

Production information

By: book by Tim Prager
Management: Bill Kenwright and Churchill Bromley
Cast: Chesney Hawkes, Siobhan Dillon, Francesca Jackson
Director: Keith Strachan and Bill Kenwright
Design: Andy Walmsley
Lighting: Ben Cracknell
Choreography: Carole Todd
Musical direction: John Maher

Production information can change over the run of the show.
Run sheet

Churchill Bromley August 28-September 6
Orchard Dartford September 8-13
Empire Liverpool September 15-20
Hippodrome Bristol September 22-27
Palace Manchester September 29-October 4
New Hull October 6-11
King's Glasgow October 13-18
Festival Edinburgh October 20-25
Theatre Royal Nottingham November 3- 8
Derngate, Royal & Derngate Northampton November 10-15
Regent Stoke-On-Trent November 17-22
Civic Darlington November 24-29

Wales Evening Post Article

Smiling Fran's Musical Delight

Posted on: Sunday, 7 September 2008, 00:00 CDT

Former Tv hopeful Francesca Jackson has landed a starring role in the new Barry Manilow musical.

She shares the stage with 1990s pop heart-throb Chesney Hawkes in Can't Smile Without You.

The show, about a reality TV contestant who loses his memory, is the first major role Ystalyfera-raised Francesca has bagged since featuring on BBC show I'd Do Anything.

Francesca's mum Mel is more than proud, and can't wait to see her daughter, who has previously appeared in the West End, back in the limelight.

She said: "It's a great opportunity for her. The show opened on August 28, and Fran has really been enjoying performing.

"It's a shame it isn't coming to Wales, but I will be travelling to Bristol to see her perform. There will be a party of us going in a minibus."

Can't Smile Without You, produced by Blood Brothers Bill Kenwright, runs until Saturday, November 29, and takes in 11 UK venues.

Weblink

www.kenwright.com

(c) 2008 South Wales Evening Post. Provided by ProQuest LLC. All rights Reserved.

Source: South Wales Evening Post