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Dreamboats and Petticoats celebrates rock'n'roll classics at Orchard Theatre, Dartford

You probably own at least one of the albums... and you will certainly know the songs.

The brand is well established, and has inspired several musical spin-offs and a series of albums.

Dreamboats and Petticoats the musical, named after the first CD released 10 years ago, features electric dance routines and spot-on comic timing, making for a fun night all-round.

Dreamboats and Petticoats is currently playing in Dartford
Dreamboats and Petticoats is currently playing in Dartford

The jukebox musical, set in 1961, is a story of unrequited teenage love within a group of youth club members.

Fiercely competitive musicians Norman and Bobby go head-to-head in a national songwriting competition to impress and win over the notorious flirt, Sue, with a rock'n'roll hit.

Meanwhile, mild-mannered Laura helps Bobby write his song, in the hope that he will notice her.

The cast of Dreamboats and Petticoats were very strong
The cast of Dreamboats and Petticoats were very strong

The feel-good show is true to the era, with slick costumes featuring plenty of polka-dots and leather jackets.

The set is simple but iconic, featuring massive posters of sixties pin-ups covering the whole stage, and the fairground scene with real dodgem cars was particularly eye-catching.

Alastair Hill as Norman in Dreamboats and Petticoats
Alastair Hill as Norman in Dreamboats and Petticoats

Not a single member of the cast is weak, and it was impressive to see the performers juggle playing instruments alongside dance routines.

Stand out vocals came from the three leading men; David Luke as Laura's brother Ray, Alistair Higgins as Bobby and Alastair Hill as Norman.

The show, which was Olivier-nominated, includes hits such as Bobby’s Girl, Runaround Sue, and Let’s Twist Again.

David Luke in the Dreamboats and Petticoats 2017 UK Tour
David Luke in the Dreamboats and Petticoats 2017 UK Tour

It is true to say that the show resonates with people who were teenagers in love at the time, and it certainly has its target audience pinned down.

Another classic from producer Bill Kenwright, it is innocent at its heart, with a plethora of well-placed innuendo. While it doesn't cover hard-hitting issues, it's a welcome change to everyday routine, transporting you back to simpler times.

Dreamboats and Petticoats is at the Orchard Theatre in Dartford until Saturday, March 11. For tickets at £20.50 call 01322 220000 or go to orchardtheatre.co.uk

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