Bulging biceps, taut washboard stomachs and half a dozen Beautiful Hides caught the attention of many an admiring audience member as Seven Brides for Seven Brothers yee-haaed its way into Manchester this week.
The 1954 MGM classic has made a smooth transition from the big screen to the stage bringing with it a riot of colour, country music and quality dancing thanks to award-winning choreographer Patti Colombo.
The musical tells the story of Adam Pontipee, the eldest of the brothers, living in a secluded cabin in 1850’s Oregon who ventures into a nearby town to find himself a wife.
In a whirlwind 3-hour courtship Adam persuades feisty bar maid Milly to marry him the very same day… failing to mention he has six brothers all living under the same roof.
It may seem a ludicrous premise but the audience can understand why she immediately said yes as soon as Sam Attwater, wearing a suede fringed jacket, Stetson and brandishing a rifle, sauntered on stage.
His chiselled good looks certainly fitted the part, especially alongside Helena Blackman, however he was a little weaker vocally and often fought to be heard above his vocal powerhouse co-star.
It seems attractive genes run in this theatrical family as the six brothers share Attwater’s brooding good looks.
Vast swathes of the audience issuing a collective sigh as they ripped off their shirts before launching into the classic number Goin’ Courtin’.
But it wasn’t just a case of looking good as each consistently delivered great vocal, dance and jaw-dropping acrobatic feats.
The actresses tackling the seven brides were suitably matched to each of the brothers and sang and danced beautifully.
If you’re looking for a thigh-slappingly good time at a country howdown in the heart of Manchester then this is one show not to miss.
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