John Barrowman at Weston Playhouse
The exuberant performer is currently on a new UK tour
The ever flamboyant John Barrowman, is currently out on a UK tour, which this week called in at the Weston Playhouse.
Barrowman is an entertainer whose natural affability with an audience creates a fabulous evening’s entertainment.
His Laid Bare show brings together funny stories, anecdotes, Q&As and song. Three solid hours of fun flew by, which included two separate standing ovations.
He also spoke about his role in LGBTQ+ campaigning and the issue of coming out whilst working in an industry marketed towards straight audiences. Particularly thinking back to the 90s big blockbuster musicals. Homophobia in theatre audiences then and now is still an issue to be considered. It’s even been hitting the tour of Dolly Parton musical Here You Come Again this very month.
It’s worth remembering that in the UK, Civil Partnerships did not come into effect until 2005 and the first same-sex marriages would take place from March 2014. Barrowman, however, managed to get married three times – including at Gretna Green.
He explained his reasoning behind choosing each song from his repertoire.
There were big show numbers that included an adaptation of Wicked songs to reflect on his time as the sci-fi icon Captain Jack Harkness of Torchwood and Doctor Who.
And heartfelt numbers when talking about family, returning to his Scottish heritage with a beautiful rendition of Loch Lomand.
The show has been cleverly constructed so it never drops pace as it moves between each facet.
Barrowman’s singing ability is glorious. He’s accompanied on the piano by musical director Ben Papworth. The pair together creating an intimate cabaret vibe.
Towards the end, Barrowman talked candidly about the effects on both his mental health and career that came in the wake of a resurfaced Doctor Who fan convention panel video. He meets the elephant head on with spoken word and song, receiving an in-performance standing ovation.
One thing that has spanned his career and indeed his performance in Weston Super Mare, is his honest and authentic approach to the highs and lows of his career. This was reflected in his big finish with Don’t Rain On My Parade and I Am What I Am.
“At least I didn’t fake it” he sings. And Barrowman is back.
For more information about tour dates, visit: https://www.johnbarrowman.com/
Home: https://backstagebristol.com/
Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/chopsybristol.bsky.social
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@chopsybristoltt
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/backstagebristol
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/chopsybaby
