Discover what is being said about the new musical featuring the music of pop group Steps.
The Stage: **** “Frothy, camp jukebox musical that delivers just what its audience wants.”
All That Dazzles: ***** “Here & Now could have easily been a tragedy, and I’m sure some expected it to be. However, this feel good, fun and fabulous show is full of so much joy, I found it impossible to not smile all the way through. This steptacular musical may well have broken my star system as I truly feel it deserves more than five stars – it deserves 5, 6, 7, 8 of them.”
Suzie Speaks: ***** “While Here & Now occasionally leans on nostalgia, it doesn’t feel overwrought. Instead, it strikes a balance, celebrating Steps’ enduring appeal while introducing their magic to a new generation. Long-time fans of the iconic quintet will revel in the feel-good atmosphere, while newcomers might find themselves converted by the sheer joy and hilarity of it all.”
Fairy Powered Productions: ***** “Whether or not you are a diehard Steps fan, there is something for everyone. Funny, often heartbreaking and unashamedly camp escapism all wrapped up with a fantastic soundtrack and an outstanding cast.”
Theatre & Tonic: ***** “In short, this is a joyous celebration of both music and life from start to finish. Of all the feel-good experiences out there, this will be the most rompin’ stompin’ fun you’ll have all year. Even if you are somehow not a huge Steps fan, you’ll be hard pressed to not crack a smile or even a cheeky dance move – this will be one fiesta you’ll always remember.”
WhatsOnLive: ***** “The script is brilliant. It’s camp, silly, tongue-in-cheek, and simply hilarious.”
Musical Theatre Review: **** “An example of how to do jukebox musicals the right way, Here & Now is one of the most fun nights out you can have right now. So much better than it logically has any right to be, this is a show that drew initial snarks at its announcement, which have now been replaced by belly laughs and a damn good time. Picky critics will want more of a story, and there’s certainly room to tighten up and flesh the narrative out, but the ‘Steptacular’ sense of fun and clever weaving of Steps’ undeniably great songs make Here & Now a great new addition to the jukebox scene.”
The Reviews Hub: ***** “For a joyous club night-turned-musical with shocking twists, touching moments, impeccable choreography, and undeniably fantastic music brought together by a crew, band, and cast at the top of their game, don’t miss Here & Now.“
London Theatre 1: ***** “If you’re a Steps fan, you really don’t want to miss this. It’s got all the classic hits you’d expect, but with a story that feels fresh and relatable. And even if you’re not familiar with the band (though honestly, who doesn’t know 5, 6, 7, 8?), it’s just a thoroughly entertaining show with a great cast and a lot of heart. My daughter came out of the theatre saying she wants to add a few Steps songs to her playlist, which was a bit of a proud moment for me!”
West End Best Friend: **** “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 continues to play at The Alexandra until the 30th November, ahead of a tour next year.