Cher is nothing short of a legend. An Icon. A Diva. She is someone that has transcended decades and is still the goddess of pop that we know and love. The Cher Show is a musical that takes us on the wild and often rocky rollercoaster that is Cher's life. From the modest upbringing in California to her whirlwind romances, this show packs over seven decades worth of history into a 2hr 30min show that has more sequins, glitter, and wigs than an episode of RuPaul's Drag Race. 

Embarking on a tour before testing the waters in the West End can sometimes be a fall at the first hurdle, but the waves of positive reviews of this show left me eager to believe that it could be something wonderful. And as it hit the Mayflower Theatre stage, it most certainly was nothing short of spectacular.

As previously mentioned, this show charts the highs, lows, and iconic comebacks that the legend that is Cher has experienced in her life. Through the voices of three stand-out powerhouses, you are introduced to Cher from across the decades as we reflect on what an incredible life she has truly had. As you meet these representations of Cher throughout the years, you are introduced to those that had a lasting impact on her life, for both good and bad reasons. 

You are introduced to Babe (Millie O'Connell) who represents Cher in her earlier years, up to and including the iconic Sonny and Cher moments. Then along comes Lady (Danielle Steers), who's strength to leave Sonny and make it on her own is nothing short of inspiring. And finally you meet Star (Debbie Kurup) who represents a more modern Cher who is the true goddess we know and love her to be. As these iconic representations weave through the story, you can't but help be impressed with not only their brilliant impressions of Cher, but also how they truly embody her to create this magical trio on stage who you honestly can't keep your eyes off. 

Supporting these three powerhouses are Lucas Rush who plays Sonny, Jake Mitchell who plays Bob Mackie, Sam Ferriday who played multiple characters including Phil Spector, and Tori Scott who plays Georgia. Each of these supporting characters absolutely tied the show together and gave the perfect balance of humour alongside the sadness. I adored the over the top show tune numbers with Bob Mackie and felt that Lucas portrayed the perfect Sonny to each of his Cher's throughout time. 

The show includes a multitude of iconic numbers that have been chopped, mixed together, and changed slightly to fit the show. This in itself is a miracle, as with a back catalogue charting six decades, it's hard to narrow it down to a small amount. Adding the songs to choreography by Oti Mabuse and direction from Arlene Phillips, you know you are in for a treat. And to add the icing on the cake, the staging is loud, bold, glittery, and puts a huge smile on your face. I loved the way that throughout the show, you were introduced to the year through props and costumes to really help the story flow. 

If I could turn back time, you can believe that I would see this show again and again! It left me laughing, feeling emotional, and wanting to dance in my seat. It's a high energy show that gives you a whistle stop tour of Cher's life and is one of the best types of jukebox musical. With brilliant staging, choreography, and singing, I can see The Cher Show being a complete success throughout the rest of its tour and hopefully in a West End transfer. It's hard to fit this legendary superstar's life into a show, but I can assure you that this was a perfect show. 

The Cher Show is showing at the Mayflower Theatre, Southampton until 7th Jan before continuing on a UK tour. For more information and to buy tickets: The Cher Show UK Tour