“It don’t mean a thing if it aint got that swing”
Perhaps the younger generation haven’t heard of Glenn Miller but for the oldies he defined the music of the Second World War, big band swing. Glenn Miller’s music is instantly recognisable, with its leading clarinet over the saxophone section.
‘Chattonoga Choo Choo’ was the first ever gold record selling 1.2 million copies, his ‘In the Mood’ was top of the Billboard charts for 13 weeks in 1939. Glenn Miller was as big as it gets.
Tommy Steele, the 16 piece orchestra, the whole cast did Glenn Miller proud last night at the Theatre Royal, receiving a well deserved standing ovation. Abigail Jaye playing Glenn’s wife Helen was captivating, I really enjoyed her solo’s ‘Midnight Serenade’ and ‘At last’, a lovely mellow contralto, her acting was warm and witty.
The evening ended with a sing-a-long which the audience and I believe the performers, Tommy included thoroughly enjoyed.
Yes, it was an evening of nostalgia with Tommy Steele approaching his 80th year and Glenn Miller’s music over 70 years old; even so, it was an evening full of verve and the joy of life.
The Glenn Miller Story is on until Saturday 17th ticket prices start from as little as £15.
Available Here.
Review by Ann Taylor
