Review: Evita at Leeds Grand Theatre

Former Wet, Wet, Wet frontman Marti Pellow captured the spirit of revolutionaries as Che, piling scorn on the woman many had believed would truly change their lives.

Nic Gibney brought a little light relief as arrogant performer Magaldi during On This Night of a Thousand Stars and Eva Beware of the City, while Mark Heenehen’s Peron was presented with just the right mix of hunger for power and admiration for his wife.

One of the highlights of the whole show was Sarah McNicholas’ heartbreaking rendition of Another Suitcase in Another Hall was one of the highlights, but the star of the show was undoubtedly Madalena Alberto as Eva.

Her superb performance balanced the steely determination and charm that took Eva into the nation’s hearts with the frailty and disappointment of her final days.

Complementing the leads were performers from Young Showstoppers in Heckmondwike and a chorus whose tight vocals and slick choreography added real force to this slick production.

Special mention must also go to the orchestra and conductor Matthew Loughran, which 
added great depth to the musical numbers.

• The show is at Leeds Grand Theatre until Saturday.