Million Dollar Quartet Review

March 14, 2017 by Claire Cosgrove

My god, there was some talent residing at The Cliff’s Pavilion last night! In the current climate, it is not enough to be able to just sing, or just act, or just play an instrument. Oh no, now you are expected to do all three, and at legendary heights too!

Million Dollar Quartet, on at The Cliff’s in Southend this week, takes us through the story of the famous recording session that brought together rock ‘n’ roll icons Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis and Carl Perkins for the first and only time.

On December 4, 1956, these four star musicians gathered at Sun Records in Memphis for what would be one of the greatest jam sessions ever. Written by Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux, the stage show brings that legendary night to life.

And, they do it in spectacular style! The show is essentially a medley of timeless hits, with some neat dialogue piecing the story together. If you are a fan of the era, you will not be disappointed.

We have Jerry Lee Lewis (Ashley Carruthers) rocking out on the piano in a rather petulant fashion. Flamboyant & obnoxious, he had not yet hit the big time but is in no doubt that he will soon be a star.

Carl Perkins (Matthew Wycliffe) treats us to his epic guitar skills with an arrogant strut, still smarting that, despite writing and releasing the classic ‘Blue Suede Shoes’, it is Elvis who appears to be taking the credit.

Johnny Cash (Robbie Durham) shuffles modestly into the studio with his unique dulcet tone. Already a chart success by the time he chanced upon the impromptu jam session, he is portrayed as a rather modest man.

Elvis Presley (Ross William Wild) with his renowned hip swings and swagger, has already taken the spotlight, although there is a hint of vulnerability revealed in this iconic superstar.

All four artists completely embodied their hero. Hugely talented in their own right, they appear to be in their element. What an experience, hitting the stage every night to rock out to these iconic tunes. The bass is so strong that the auditorium reverberates and they perform to rock concert proportions. Not a bad way to earn a living although I am sure they are all capable of being legends in their own rights.

Oh yes, none of these guys are actually headlining the show. That accolade is reserved for Jason Donovan, who plays Sun Studio manager, Sam Phillips. To give Donovan credit, he is really rather good considering this is not the leading light in the show. A kind of anchor, he rather successfully introduces the lads to the audience and narrates the story of that fateful day. I’m just going to whisper… I was rather relieved that he didn’t actually sing. Against this level of talent, it could have been uncomfortable viewing. Shhh… don’t tell him I said that as I am bit of a fan… However, his natural gravitas really lends itself to the part and shows us what he does best.

The party really kicks off at the encore. The studio set transforms into a concert stage and the audience, for the first time, really starts to engage with the artists and the show. If you’re not out of your seat dancing, then you will be the only one.

If you are a fan of the era or just love to hear great, live rock n’ roll, this the show for you. A terrific night out. On at The Cliff’s until Saturday 18th March.