Here and Now: A Joyful 90s Musical Celebration

In the heart of Norwich’s Theatre Royal, a new musical sensation has taken the stage, capturing the essence of 90s nostalgia while delivering a thoroughly entertaining experience for audiences. “Here and Now,” penned by UEA alumnus Shaun Kitchener, transforms the iconic hits of pop group Steps into a vibrant theatrical production that leaves spectators tapping their feet and humming familiar tunes long after the final curtain falls. This jukebox musical embraces its genre with unabashed enthusiasm, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in a world of catchy melodies, flashy costumes, and heartwarming storytelling that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of 90s pop culture.

The production centers around Caz, a supermarket worker portrayed by Lara Denning, whose powerful vocal performances drive the narrative forward. While occasionally her delivery veers toward the overly forceful, Denning anchors the show with genuine heart and commitment. Surrounding her is a colorful ensemble of co-workers including the wise Vel (Jacqui Dubois), the determined Neeta (Rosie Singha), and the charming Robbie (Blake Patrick Anderson). Their intertwining stories of love, friendship, and personal growth unfold against the backdrop of Steps’ greatest hits, creating a narrative tapestry that, while predictably culminating in a happy ending, remains engaging throughout. The chemistry among the cast members brings authenticity to their relationships, allowing the audience to become invested in their journeys despite the show’s deliberately light-hearted approach.

What truly distinguishes “Here and Now” is its masterful integration of Steps’ catalog into the storyline. From the emotion-laden “Tragedy” to the upbeat “Better Best Forgotten” and the rhythmic “Deeper Shade of Blue,” the musical seamlessly weaves these familiar tracks into its narrative framework. The choreography pays homage to the original dance moves that made Steps a cultural phenomenon while adding contemporary flair that keeps the performances fresh and exciting. The production reaches its pinnacle during the final segment, when the fourth wall dissolves and audience members are encouraged to join in the celebration, creating a concert-like atmosphere that captures the communal joy of 90s pop fandom. This participatory element transforms what might otherwise be a passive theatrical experience into an interactive celebration of music that defined a generation.

The visual aspects of “Here and Now” deserve special mention for their contribution to the overall experience. The production design embraces the extravagance of 90s aesthetics with platform shoes, glittering accessories, and bold fashion choices that elicit both nostalgia and laughter. The stage transforms effortlessly between the mundane setting of a supermarket and more fantastical sequences that accompany the musical numbers. Pamela Raith’s vibrant photography captures these moments brilliantly, highlighting both the individual performances and the energetic group numbers that punctuate the production. The technical elements, from lighting to sound design, work in harmony to enhance the theatrical experience without overshadowing the performers or the music that remains at the heart of the show.

“Here and Now” makes no pretensions about its identity – it is, first and foremost, an evening of escapist entertainment designed to evoke joy and nostalgia in equal measure. The production doesn’t aim for profound theatrical innovation or deep social commentary; instead, it embraces its role as a vehicle for celebration and communal enjoyment. This self-awareness is part of its charm, as the show delivers exactly what it promises: a “poptastic, simply crazy night out” that transports audiences back to an era of simpler pleasures. The crisp one-liners scattered throughout the script provide genuine laughs, while the emotional moments, though sometimes predictable, are handled with enough sincerity to resonate with viewers. For those who lived through the 90s, the production offers a delightful trip down memory lane; for younger audiences, it provides an entertaining glimpse into the cultural touchstones of a defining musical era.

As “Here and Now” continues its UK tour beyond Norwich, it carries with it the potential to bring this joyful celebration to audiences across the country. The production serves as a reminder of theatre’s capacity to provide pure entertainment and communal pleasure, particularly valuable in times when such experiences feel increasingly precious. To fully appreciate what “Here and Now” offers, audiences are advised to come prepared: metaphorically don those platform trainers, grab an imaginary Smirnoff Ice, dust yourself with a bit of body glitter, and surrender to the unabashed fun of it all. While the show may not revolutionize musical theatre, it succeeds brilliantly in its mission to entertain, uplift, and remind us of the simple joy found in singing along to a beloved pop song with a room full of kindred spirits. In the landscape of contemporary theatre, sometimes that’s exactly the experience we need – a chance to be here, now, and completely immersed in celebration.