Camp chaos reigns at the Grand Opera House York this week – as Here & Now – The Steps Musical turns the theatre into a joyous pop-fuelled party.
Set in a supermarket by the sea, this larger-than-life production follows four co-workers who promise leading lady Caz a summer of love; an irresistible premise as Valentine’s Day approaches.
Of course, no great summer ever runs smoothly: tangled relationships, heartbreak, and the looming threat of change soon bubble to the surface, all whilst the best of Steps ricochets across each aisle.
Is the plot a little thin? Perhaps. Are some of the characters deliciously stereotypical? Absolutely. But is it enormous fun? Without question. This is theatre as pure escapism – colourful, carefree, and gloriously cheesy, and it knows it.
From the opening tableau, the audience is introduced to a vivid cast of characters whose stories gradually step into the spotlight. Lara Denning leads the company spectacularly as Caz, delivering powerful vocals time and time again with a seamless blend of rich belt and softer, more tender moments. Her rendition of ‘One for Sorrow’ is a particular standout, providing a pocket of bittersweet calm amid the surrounding sparkle and chaos.
Jacqui Dubois brings warmth and quiet authority to Vel, contrasting beautifully with Rosie Singha’s shy and endearing Neeta, who tentatively attempts to express her feelings for co-worker Ben. And Ben Darcy proves there is no such thing as a small role, making every appearance memorable with an easy charisma, earning well-deserved laughter from spectators.
Completing the central quartet is Blake Patrick Anderson’s Robbie, a character whose painful backstory only deepens our affection for him as the story unfolds. His journey intertwines with local drag queen Amanda Smooch or Jem, who is played superbly by RuPaul’s Drag Race UK favourite River Medway. The show revels in its queer joy – and rightly so. There is a warmth and sincerity beneath the glitter that gives the production real heart. ‘I love gay’ proclaimed Jem; me too Jem, me too!
Musically, the show is relentless in the best possible way. Hit after hit arrives with barely a moment to catch your breath; yet the four leads handle the pace with remarkable stamina, delivering not only energy but beautifully blended harmonies that elevate the score beyond simple nostalgia. Under the direction of musical director Georgia Rawlins, the lively band brings every familiar tune to life, ensuring the audience feels every beat of that 90s magic.
And what magic it is. Classics including ‘Stomp’, ‘Tragedy’, and ‘Chain Reaction’ land to delighted laughter, cheers, and eventually a full-auditorium standing ovation and boogie by the finale. It’s impossible not to be swept along.
Matt Cole’s choreography is exuberant, inventive, and frankly exhausting just to watch, performed by an ensemble whose energy never falters. Whether navigating full-scale dance breaks or the brilliantly playful trolley and basket choreography, the company moves with infectious precision and joy.
Visually, the production embraces bold simplicity. Tom Rogers and Gabriella Slade’s set and costume design cleverly allow the music and performances to take centre stage, while still creating a vivid world – from bright pink aprons to perfectly packed supermarket shelves. The lighting design builds steadily throughout the evening, culminating in a final Megamix that feels every bit as large as life.
Special mention must go to Sally Ann Matthews as Patricia, the self-proclaimed Employee of the Month, whose intermittent appearances inject yet more mischief and mayhem into proceedings. Her sultry announcements and perfectly timed interruptions are a comic highlight, as is the unforgettable ‘half-price hoedown’ – a wonderfully ridiculous moment that finds a very creative way to deliver the iconic ‘5, 6, 7, 8’. One can only imagine the sheer fun the creative team, led by book writer Shaun Kitchener, must have had assembling this joyous whirlwind of a show.
Even the pre-show announcement, politely reminding shoppers to refrain from singing along until the finale, set the tone. And while the audience dutifully holds back, you are ready to burst and this etiquette is abandoned by the welcomed participation in the finale Megamix.
Here & Now is unapologetically big, bright, and bold, guaranteed to leave you smiling long after the curtain falls. On a cold February evening, there can be few better ways to escape reality for a couple of hours.
Grab your tickets here and now; this is one shopping trip you won’t regret.
Here & Now – The Steps Musical is at Grand Opera House York until Sunday 15 February. Tickets start from £15 and are available here.
