2 Become 1 was a sell-out last year and it’s not difficult to see why.
Jess (Natasha Granger) has just broken up with her boyfriend, but never fear; the girls are here to pick her up with a night of speed dating. The story feels as though it has been created just to use the lyrics of 90s songs; Britney, Shania, B*Witched, they’re all there. Natasha Granger and Kerrie Thomason write and direct as well as star in the production. The team of four work well together and the best moments come from the choreographed movement and four part harmonies. Their voices blend in harmony and the comical choreography is very sharp. The writing sags a little in places but the real fun comes with the lead up to each of the songs; in particular the opening All Saints number.
The Wine Bar at Gilded Balloon is perhaps not the right space for the action. A lot of it gets lost past the front row as there is no rake to the seating. Perhaps the direction could have been stronger and better suited to the space. The sound mix is also an issue. It’s difficult to hear any speaking over the loud backing tracks and sometimes the solos are lost. These concerns are easily forgotten the minute the four start to sing together.
Each performer is very funny, but Jessica Brady as Amanda really steals the show. Her reaction to the crowd and interaction (with one chap in particular) was hilarious. She certainly knows how to work an audience and really shines.
Despite its weaknesses, 2 Become 1 was a sell-out last year and it’s not difficult to see why. It’s an enjoyable hour and good fun, especially if you enjoy reliving your youth through the lyrics of The Spice Girls.
