is the new STARLIGHT EXPRESS as good as the original? | ★★★★ review of the West End musical revival 

I may be a serious lover of musicals myself but it’s always good to have shows that are FUN and not necessarily serious in that matter!

I find it so strange listening to the OLC knowing that it's only about 2/3rds of the show. Once you know to listen out for it, you can hear the joins where massive great chunks have been skipped. I saw it on Wednesday, and it's so different from the show I fell in love with in 1999 that I couldn't really compare them, and didn't hate it. The set is cute(with a rising platform that looks inspired by the Japan tour set, watch the promotional documentary from 1990 if you haven't - yes, it's all in Japanese, but it's still riveting), though it really looks like they had much grander plans for it than they were ultimately able to realise. The platform barely lifts at all, it certainly can't serve as a race gate, and it could really do with a smaller circle in the middle as a trap so that Electra could enter the stage with some dignity. I'm also pretty sure that the model box had a stalls track for the races, which isn't there in the theatre, which really restricts what they can do with the races. Everything is very shiny and sparkly and colourful, to greater and lesser effect; the starfield that descends for the "Starlight Sequence" is just gorgeous, but the costumes are so overwhelmingly holographic that you can't really see them properly, which may be something of a mercy. It seems that a conscious effort has been made to not take human anatomy, or how to flatter it, into consideration. The irony is that the _Six_ costumes look like better _Starlight Express_ costumes than these ones do. Electra was always bisexual, why not nonbinary as well? Makes perfect sense to me. It strikes me though that it pretty much requires you to have in-depth knowledge of multiple prior versions across four decades to make sense of it, otherwise you might as well not bother. It's like a layered collage of stickers - they keep slapping new ones on top, sometimes they scrape bits of old ones off, but it's so disjointed and piecemeal, and full of load-bearing references back to things that are no longer there, that all you can expect most people to do is shrug off any attempt to parse out a story and just enjoy the sparkly costumes and flashing lights. This is sad, when it used to - and could still - have things to say. Johnie Pitts wrote an excellent article in the Guardian more or less to this effect that I recommend reading. It was far, far better than my worst fears. I still have a lot of problems with it, that I think could largely have been solved by getting a dramaturg in: It makes no sense for Momma to sing the "I Got Me" melody pre-race just because that's the girl tune, when she has nothing in common with the coaches who sing that song and one of them's not a girl anyway; "I Got Me" is in the wrong point of the show, it's very clearly a creative rewrite of "Rolling Stock: reprise" and not a replacement for "A Lotta Locomotion"(which is _not_ to be confused with "Whole Lotta Locomotion" which was seemingly written to fit the Las Vegas costumes) and if we're trying to elevate the women in the cast, how about putting back the number where the two less prominent coaches get to show off? Let us actually see what they're fed up with and refusing to stand for any more for more than 30 seconds before they proclaim that they're fed up and not going to stand for it any more. Also it doesn't introduce the coaches properly, we don't really know who they are from it; Can you use Jim Steinman's lyrics like that, just substituting a couple of words, in the middle of a song that does thematically match them, but to a tune so striking and evocative that it sticks out like a sore thumb that this is the only time we hear it? I assume it's a loving tribute to a deceased collaborator, but without weaving it into the score anywhere else it's a bizarre blip; Slick Oil, by not having Caboose's established arc - Nicest Guy you could ever hope to meet>comforting Dinah when she's down>volunteering to help Rusty when he's in a tight spot>heel turn oh my god he's a serial killer - does not earn "Wide Smile" because we have no reason to care about them proclaiming that actually they're bad and also they're not a brake van so the lyrics don't make sense; The other Freight really don't get to say to Rusty that they've been cheated by the system too when _they were the ones pouring oil on the track to derail him_ although that little bit of recit would recycle nicely into an alternate introduction to "Right Place, Right Time"; "There's Me" having been excised from the score with surgical precision explains why Caboose's "Just for me, I'm in it just for me, I'm in it just for me" in the prelude to the Downhill Final couldn't remain in its previous form, but there are other melodies in "Wide Smile" that could sub in. The absence of that vocal line sucks at the ears; Stars are made of hydrogen, Hydra allows Rusty to be powered by hydrogen, maybe in a show where he believes in something called the _Starlight_ Express we could connect these ideas together and actually _say_ that the power of the Starlight Express is the stuff from which stars are made; "But I Do" has a pretty introduction then is a dirge which needs at least a second draft of the lyrics, maybe some that are relevant to the characters singing them and the situation they're in and perhaps even rhyme; All the songs sung by women in roles that were originally male are hostile to their vocal ranges, forcing them to leap up and down the octaves and contort their vocal cords to try to fit, as if to deliberately signal that they shouldn't be playing those roles in the first place when they could have been accommodated instead, the songs transposed to where they're comfortable and actually allow the performers to take ownership of their material; Dinah still spells out "bastard" at the end of UNCOUPLED, are there no not specifically masculine insults that she could spell out instead?; Dinah still takes Greaseball back at the end despite the supposed message of female empowerment and while Greaseball's been toned down a _lot_ from the earliest incarnation("But he beats you all the time, he gives you hell/he two-times you and he likes to kiss and tell"), this still sits uncomfortably in a world where we know that abusers will play nice and grovel after an incident of abuse only to turn nasty again in the future. Greaseball is still emotionally abusive to her, even if not physically. That said, my goodness, the cast are amazing. I don't think it's fair that Al Knott has to leap up and down and all around the octaves to sing her songs, but bloody hell she has the pipes to do it. Eve Humphrey's performance of UNCOUPLED was quite possibly the funniest I've ever seen, in a good way, and I was not expecting that at all. Jeevan Braich(17, it makes one very aware) impressed me from the start, holding a single note while gliding down that terrifyingly steep slope on the side of the stage, and Kayna Montecillo is so adorable as Pearl(despite the costume that looks like she's wearing granny pants sticking out from under a leotard because her mum said "There's no way any daughter of mine is wearing a thong") that you almost take for granted how very talented she is. I'm sorry this was such a wall o'text. I get a bit fired up about this show.

I’ve been waiting for this video for 3 weeks 😂😂

After 40 years I was so excited to be revisiting the new version of the musical “Starlight Express” first time for me was at the original in 1984. As the original was a very long time ago I tried not to have any expectations and even though I was excited i kept an open mind, times have changed and I heard that it was quite different. The original for me was full of excitement , full of joy and I had many goosebump moments when the songs touched me deeply, I remember the incredible emotion of the singers and how the music was memorable and profound, the original build up to the races were thrilling. Definitely these factors are why the musical had such a large following as it still resides in many people hearts to this day On entering the venue at Wembley I found the whole experience underwhelming, soulless building, main reception area reminded me of some modern day bowling alley, felt the wrong vibe. I did however like the vibe of the auditorium and it is definitely designed for an immersive experience which is what I remember to be from the original production. I sat next to a lady of a similar age and when we spoke, it was clear she was looking for that same magical experience she had with the original years ago. Listening to people in the interval, I found that the younger audience enjoyed how different and up-to-date Starlight Express was, It was also evident that some adults in their 40s, 50s and 60s felt slightly disappointed in how woke the production was trying to be, how the spirit of the original wasn’t apparent and how underwhelming the rearranged songs and the singing was. The character “hydrogen” was a new addition, the characters song was repeated over and over and over again to the point of being very repetitive and annoying. The whole production I felt was lacking in the heartfelt moments of the original. The cast were very energetic and appear to enjoy performing this iconic musical. The last 10 minutes of the musical for me was the best, it was fast-paced and slightly resembled the excitement of the original. For me overall a Disappointment!

the family guy reference killed me omg i bet that was so satisfying

Oh, please give this the Cats treatment. Bottle of wine and roller skates, what could go wrong?

Sounds like a fun show! Must be a fun challenge to be part of. Any of the clips Ive seen are very intriguing.

I am so excited for this. When I tell people about this show, they don't believe me. But its just so fun and campy. I really hope this comes to Broadway. I'm a little sad CB isn't in it because his song is fun, but the new character sounds cool. Honestly I'm just happy the show is getting a second chance outside of Germany

We saw the production last weekend and we all loved it (Me, my wife, 2 teenage children and 2 younger children). he kids haven't stopped singing it since! I have seen many incarnations of the show starting back in the 80's with the original run. If I lived in London I would definitely love to see it again, maybe after a few months when the cast have really gained their confidence on the skates. Bravo Starlight Express - loved it!

I saw it last week, and the moment I heard the opening bars to Starlight Express I started welling up. By the time we got to the full song the nice man next to me had to comfort me I was such a mess crying! Its possible that I was more emotionally invested in seeing the show again than I realised. I loved it. I'll try to avoid too many spoilers. I was a bit worried before it started that it would have changed a lot, but I basically sung along to 90% despite not seeing it in 30 years. I've got zero issues with the gender swaps, they are trains at the end of the day and as an 8 year little girl I used to love singing 'Pumping iron' and wishing I could be an engine. So it's nice that kids can do that now and not worry about if it is for girls or boys. I thought the various changes made sense for the modern world. I was surprised by how many of the cast were having their professional debuts. They did a fantastic job. If I was being really picky then some voices were a little weak but I think they will get stronger very quickly as they get more used to the material and the skating. I was sat on the raised seating to the side. You are right next to the action (high fives at the end) and you can see the whole track, but I would pick a seat facing straight on towards the stage next time. And there's only one entrance to a row and hardly any room to squeeze past, so there was a lot of getting up and coming out of the row to let other people in. As a funny side note. I was delayed getting to the theatre because of trespassers on the line. I only appreciated the irony later.

The uncoupled song is a reference to a famous Tammy Wynette country song called D-I-V-O-R-C-E , that’s why there’s the genre shift into country.

Great review MickeyJo. You really know the show inside out and you go into a lot of detail. I agree with nearly all of your points but not all. I am an obsessed Starlight Express fan and have been since a child and have seen it multiple times from the original in the Apollo to touring. I went to Wembley on 22/6/24 to see the long anticipated latest version along with my sister's and we were dressed as retro Rusty, Electra and Greaseball which attracted a bit of attention! But this meant we had a few encounters with several people and got to share opinions with those new to Starlight Express and hardcover fans who had seen it as children. The newbies absolutely loved it. The established fans including myself were a lot more critical. It had to change but changes are sometimes hard to accept. I have read a lot of the comments and reviews about the show and some of them are very very harsh. Starlight is deeply nostalgic for me and a lot of people but we were not going to get an exact replica of our childhood dreams. We have to remember a lot of the actors are very young and making their debut and they will be reading the feedback. They have very big shoes to fill. Starlight Express is an extremely demanding show to be in as an actor. It could not remain as it was. It had to be made more appealing to the widest possible audience and attract and connect with young people new to theatre. It also had to be safer, too many injuries had been sustained in previous versions. Some things were better and done beautifully. Some aspects were not right or diluted too much. Starlight Express is a musical, a stunt show and a sporting event with races all rolled into one. It is entirely unique. I wonder what the impact will be on the German version in Bochum? It is on my bucket list to visit. I sense there is a bit of worry there from reading comments. I am currently checking out transport options to get there asap. I had to get over my youthful memories and look forwards. Was it still magical? Yes Did I cry my eyes out when the Starlight Express arrived? Yes Have I been thinking about it none stop for the last 10 days? Yes Did I stand up and clap at the end with everyone else? Yes Would I go again? Yes

I've been waiting for this video. I'm doing to see it next week, so excited! I've only seen it on tour where the races were on screen, can't wait to see the races live.

We went to London from America specifically to see this show. We caught the preview on 20 June, and bought tickets for the 22 June show at the interval, because we wanted to see it again. I never saw the original in London, and I've never seen the Bochum version. So my only experience was the Vegas version in '96 and the US tour in '03, along with the original cast recording. In short -- I loved it. The updates fix some (not all) of the problems with the show. I missed A Lotta Locomotion and He Whistled at Me, but I understand why they were cut. Crazy is a catchy "new" song that fits well. I struggle with the Pearl character. She's another ALW helpless female character who can't think for herself (like Christine). And if the sexual/romantic motivations are removed (or at least de-emphasized), she doesn't really have any motivation to race at all. In general, the coaches are much more two-dimensional in this version. And if you interpret it as still being sexual, that raises another problem. I like Hydro. As you mentioned, it fixes the science stuff. But "it's not a matter of if, it's a matter of when" is problematic if the attractions between the locomotives and coaches are sexual, because then he becomes a gay predator. I feel like Mama should die after her race, and her spirit motivates Rusty in the second act. It's ambiguous, but she DOES show up for LATEOTH, so she must still be alive. The blues song has always been one of my favourites, and I'm thrilled that they kept it in despite having no real purpose. The guy sitting next to me also loved the show, but was a bit disappointed in how much they scaled back the skating. They really don't do tricks like they used to; the skating is all pretty basic. That will hopefully cut down on injuries, but it's less exciting for the audience. I'll also note that this cast is ADORABLE. We stage doored both times, and talked to about 2/3 of the cast. They're all new to this, and they're not used to talking to fans. They're so enthuiastic about the show and just feeling so grateful to be doing this. Their enthusiasm is contagious.

Great summary. I saw the original west end production and although I don’t recall all the details, I thought the skating had been faster. The new show did feel more family orientated, but the fun factor remained. I loved the new set and particularly enjoyed the intimacy of the smaller space. Had a great time.

I still have huge nostalgia for the "New" Starlight Express show that I saw in 2000 when I was 12. It's the only show I've seen on the West End as an American. I've always found it odd that "A Lotta Locomotion" is not on that version's album, but a line of it is sung in the Megamix. I still love the blues and father figure of Poppa, the Elvis type for Greaseball from The U.S. of A., and Rusty proving himself by teaming up with the other outcast Dustin the Big Hopper, so overcoming fat shaming. If this newer version comes to Broadway I'm not sure I'll see it.

big respect for posting this so so fast!!!

Listening to this while I’m in the tube. 🙌

The original production relied heavily on archetypes - every character, major or minor, had a strong recognisable type. Flat-top, for example, is a cheeky punk kid finding something to rebel against. Greaseball used to be "Rock'n'Roll Bad Boy", the sum of all toxic masculinity, so his numbers were heavy on the rock'n'roll. The new production almost entirely removes any use of archetypes, in characterisation or in costume. This is what divorces the musical styles from the characters, gives us costumes that are bright and shiny but quite hard to tell apart, gives us characters who all seem very similar in personality. I can understand not wanting to fall into harmful stereotypes, for sure, but Starlight is not a book heavy show with plenty of room to develop well rounded personalities that defy types. We used to meet three Boxers- muscle heads tackling life one punch at a time, a cheeky punk kid, the shy overweight guy, and the creepily smiling guy who's too keen to be friends. Now we meet the red one, the blue one, the yellow one and the green one. the others don't like the green one. Overall I'm just confused by most of the artistic choices. Why lean so heavily into the Space theme INSTEAD of toy trainset... why deny the retro cool 1980s vibe... Why cut so much choreography... I love experimenting with new ideas but I hate change for changes' sake. If it's not better than the old version, don't take it?

It’s a shame that Starlight has lost its verticality. Multiple levels are a massive gap in set, story and energy. As is the bridge structure connecting the levels, the stage and the spectacle of character arrivals, race starts and changing track configuration is sadly missing and holds back what were the thrilling highlight of the original show which exposes the uneven weaknesses in the score.

ALW shows aren't usually about plot. They are about spectacle. A recent revival tour of Cats left us cold, because what had been a spectacle was reduced, seriously, to something I'd expect from the local dinner theater (I love my local dinner theater, but they don't charge Broadway prices.) If they deliver spectacle for S.E., then I may just cross the ocean (again) to see it.

"No bo dy can do it like a steeeeeeeam traaaaa-" wait. This is a commercial. Can Starlight Express be the next drag ball production except this one is hosted in a leather bar so the costumes totally work?

Nice, rounded review, thanks. I have tickets for October but having seen the photos and some snippets I'm not sure if I will be going. As a new production for a new generation I get that I am not their target audience. I love the rock 'n' roll, heavy industrial, massive set combo of the previous productions. The more poppy, clubby version (like the mid-2010s Bochum rewrite) doesn't float my boat and the Manga vibes I'm not digging. It also feels like a reduced-budget version which is trying really hard not to offend anyone and as a result strips so much of the character and humour from the show. I'll try to keep an open mind, go and try and enjoy it as its own thing and if it gets too much I'll close my eyes and remember the Apollo Victoria!

Loved it want them the release a new cd version of the musical

After booking I read about the changes and was worried as I loved the original! But it was fun and so different that I could accept and enjoy it. Just a pity about the moving seats we booked for that hasn’t happened! Quite annoying!

I watched the new show back in show and loved it! I just wish they release a recording of all the cast singing. I struggle to listen to older show recordings because it's so different.

My sisters and I have been avid Starlght fans since being little children. Overall we still thought there was a lot of magic in last Saturday's show, despite not having the amazing choreography & jaw dropping stunts of the previous version. We thought the child's dream scene gave clarity to the whole show, and we really loved the softening prescence of Mama thoughtout - a very positive change. But we were incredibly disappointed with the cartoon costumes and the space settings - we felt they confused the story and didn't enhance the train theme. We also felt the continual interruption of the child to be distracting - this spolit the flow of the show, and we felt it was too much pressure on a little child, we would strongly suggest aftet the dream scene the child does not appear again. But we really liked the introduction of Hydra & the technological projections, bringing the show up to date!

Fun fact: U.N.C.O.U.P.L.E.D is based on the song D.I.V.O.R.C.E by Tammy Wynette. It's probably common knowledge but when i found out it makes Dinah's southern personality and outfit so much sense. I'm kind of sad about the loss of her accent! It made her unique :(

I saw while I was London and I absolutely loved it!. I thought the cast many of whom where making their professional debut where amazing. I really loved their voices. I would love a cast album from this run. I only knew what it was about, never heard the music, and I was really surprised how much I enjoyed it. I can see the valid point that I've heard online that as far as the skating goes, compared to what is on Germany is not at the same level, but I still thought it was great. And what I got out of the space vibe, was that it was transporting the action into a dream state/ inside the control's imagination.

I saw it Saturday I am proper obsessed with the musical now since seeing it I really want to see it in Bochum

My wife and I saw S.E. in London, in 1987. We were actually in the dress circle, but there were no "high fives". Thick plastic barriers (as in a hockey rink) locked into place before the races. I don't know if those were there for the entire run.

Awesome video! You're right on track with your train puns! I *really* really want to go and see this production, but due to multiple factors (including living in america) I probably won't ever get to, so I really appreciate your descriptions of what's changed! I wouldn't mind it if you spoiled the plot some more XD As someone who's been an intense fan of Starlight Express for only a few years, I tend to prefer what I've seen of the older versions, but I don't really have any nostalgia for them. I have mixed feelings about this new production, but overall I'm super glad it exists! From what you've said, it seems like it's accomplishing what it set out to do. This show already gets changed so much every time it's put on, none of these changes really seem that wild to me in comparison. Electra being nonbinary isn't even a new concept, it's just more explicit and specific in this version than it has been before. I also really love your comparison to Steven Universe to explain how pairing up for races has romantic connotations, even if it isn't always *necessarily* romantic. I've been watching pretty much every recording of the Megamix on youtube and all the actors' voices sound incredible. It's a shame this new Megamix has fewer songs than it used to, because I'd really love to see One Rock n Roll Too Many show up in it.

Such a satisfying review!! 😊

I was sad that Dinah wasn't a Southern American Dolly Parton-esque. Uncoupled sounded so weird in a British accent to me, but that is purely my opinion. I also found Greaseball's singing quite jarring, it felt like a bit bad Alanis Morisette karaoke, despite the fact the actor was incredibly talented. Maybe I just have a soft spot for the tape I had on repeat as a kid. I did absolutely love it though. Although I will say, being 8 months pregnant and knowing the toilets were off limits was a struggle, but that's a me problem 😂😂

9:00 “nobody can do it like a steam train” is still a “that went over my head c. 2000” line.

Saw Starlight Express yesterday, want a recording sooo baddddd I want “I do” yesterday.

Pearl: “Ain’t gonna smoke, ain’t gonna drink…” Other coaches: “What are you gonna do?” Pearl: “Waddaya think?” *silliest synth glissando ever* I really loved the original Starlight Express, and someone really needs to stop Sir Andy from tinkering with his shows!! Ok, I have too many thoughts. So I’m going to rant about one of them, and leave the rest for the next Starlight Express comment. IT WAS BETTER WHEN IT WAS SEXY. Trains are sexy - they hook up, it’s literally called coupling! And some of the best songs in the original were about sex or relationships: A Lotta Locomotion, AC/DC, He Whistled At Me, U.N.C.O.U.P.L.E.D., that one about keeping it going all night. Trains come in two types: pullers, and the pulled; the pulled come in two types as well: freight, and passenger. Making it a sex (as opposed to gender) thing makes sense, and is an easy way to get more variety of songs and stories. But it was never *just* a sex thing, as all the engines also regularly pulled “male” freight cars. What it was, was fun! Before it became self-consciously camp in the last “new & improved” version, it was silly, camp, ostentatious spectacle. The songs were great, with lots of innuendo and silly jokes, the suggestion of assorted positive messages, and a good time had by all. Also the only song from the show I’ve ever heard in another context is There’s Me. Justice for CB.

Fun fact: The thing in front of a train is called a cowcatcher. A cowcatcher is the device mounted at the front of a locomotive to deflect obstacles on the track that might otherwise damage or derail it or the train.

I saw starlight last week and I saw it in back in 99 in the west end from 10 quid standing tickets I preferred this version, at the interval we were saying that we could see this get lots of technical noms at awards next year but definitely nothing for its book 😂 ie it looks great but plot what plot I've still got the hydrogen song stuck in my head 5 days later

Woaa, I love the rainbow effects around the edge, how did you do it?

I’m REALLY looking forward to his review of Great Comet! I just saw it was announced for its UK premiere.

Oh my god Hey! I have seen this show, I never saw the 1980s version but have always loved the soundtrack, I did see the 90s touring version and enjoyed that very much. Did I enjoy it? Well by the time of the interval I had already decided I wanted to come back and as soon as act 2 finished I rebooked , I will be back for more. I had a platform seat so I did feel immersed somewhat in the action, but to back up, before entering the theatre I loved the foyer experience, the huge campness of the mirror ball ceiling and the disco instrumental versions of past Starlight Express songs (Including the much missed Next Time You Fall in Love) just added to the excitement and created such a buzz. Highlight for me, 2 moments, firstly the performance of I DO, I love this song, a fabulous addition and one that I have been excited to see included in a production. The other highlight and a total wow moment was the Starlight Sequence. Love the addition of Hydra, embraced the gender switch up from Poppa to Mamma and Greaseball is certainly a standout character. This show for me was fun, escapism, entertainment. What more could I have wanted. Is this still Starlight Express? I'm gonna say yes.

I’m flying over to England in Sept and seeing Starlight Express on the 4th. I can’t wait

We call the front of the train a 'cowcatcher'. I guess it's really known as a 'pilot'. I found out train people don't want us to call it a 'cowcatcher'. In the UK, it might be called life-guards, rail gruards, or guard irons. I've never heard those terms used.

The "come and bite my burgers" line was Buffy (the buffet car) who tbh was always pretty similar to Dinah (the dining car).

Was I expecting Mickey Jo's take on Salt N Pepa? No. Am I mad? No lol Have tickets in a few weeks and I can't wait. I first heard about Starlight Express from The Babysitters Club many many years ago. Since i've been in a position to indulge and experience my live theater obsession, it is one of those shows i've always been sad I missed it in its heyday.

I listened to this on the podcast, commenting here to feed the algorithm.

I saw it last week and I’m still not sure what I think. It was the most bonkers thing I’ve ever seen and although it was definitely a spectacle I’m not sure I feel like it was a particularly good show. Although will say I still have “it’s not a matter of if, it’s a matter of when, for Hydro-gen” stuck in my head days later so repeating it a million times worked.

I never saw the original Broadway production, but my older sister did, and she dressed as one of the characters for Halloween that year.

My biggest gripe with what I've seen from the show is the costumes really don't exactly represent trains... Like I am so confused and couldn't pick any specific characters out. Also, the megamix just seems... really jumpy? Like the Bochum production's megamix just flows so well, unlike this new London production.

I really enjoyed the show saw it last week. Never saw the original but knew the original music. Curious to hear your thoughts about the replacement of the love song with Rusty and Pearl as I really liked ‘Next time you fall in love’ and of course this has been replaced.

LOVE the nod to Family Guy😂

My TikTok algorithm is sure starlight express is my next obsession… and I fear it is correct.

I saw it last Friday & was blown away. Very immersive & lots of fun. I did see the original at Apollo Victoria. I think the races are not quite as thrilling in this update due to the smaller space.

Hello Mickey Joe. Starlight Expressed closed in London's West End 22 years ago. I saw it several times in a proper theatre (Apollo Victoria), not in an old TV studio with no atmosphere. OK I have not seen this new show, only seen several posted YT videos of the finale. What strikes me is the lighting is very TV, No feeling to it at all. If I pay £100 to see a show, I want to see it in a theatre and get a full theatrical experience. This show looks to be designed towards people who watch a lot of TV. I can't see it paying for itself.

i laughed so much at your description of how you felt about the previous steam conversion in the original story because honestly same, like we get it! the starlight is god and steam's "Second Coming" definitely doesn't have Evangelical vibes to it at all, no sirree, (/sarcasm) so it's nice to hear that vibe is... Less now lmao (edit: re the hard lean onto space visually, i wonder if this this also their attempt to shy away from the vague xtian connotations mentioned above because god knows a lot of people have commented on this over the years, and being very explicit that hey! the starlight is inspired by the kids love of space would certainly do that?))

I saw it when it was just out side of london Victoria thats going back nearly 30 years ago .

#1) I have an enormous amount of respect that you obviously spend a lot of time and effort to make these videos which obviously are intended to benefit, inform &/or better folks, other than yourself. So if I make a negative comment, it has absolutely nothing to do with you. So if a remark I make seems crabby: Pleas know it really has to do with you #2) I want that shirt!!! Not yours, but I love the simplicity of it. I actually had a tshirt from the Apollo Victoria that I miss grwatly😢😢... It was black and simply had StEx in😢the original artwork font (however the the letters were striped in yellow and red, similar to a candy cane!.. One of the sleeves that the locomotive constellation in red and yellow. Simple. But to the point!

Huge fan of the original (93 and 01) so excited it’s back. Thought I was gonna have to go to Bochum (2025 trip for that) Excited and kinda nervous as I have read about changes, songs dropped etc Birthday treat was a ticket from a fried for last week) Apprehensive I ventured to Wembley Park. Trackside 1-FF-24 was my ticket. Great view although ticket stated restricted view. Not so Sadly seat 24 is at the end of the row and not the best leg room for a big old bear. Sitting fave on was so uncomfortable Thankfully the two seats next to me were a no show so was able to take middle seat and man spread. Will have to check other seats for next visit but despite the space it was a great view. Missed the National trains, the helmets of trains, I get it that it’s a new version Costumes were better up close and loved the Irn Bru train 😅 News songs are good Absolutely love I Am Me (been singing it ever since, well what I remember) Missed some of the old familiar songs though. Found myself comparing them would get lost in the new and the moment ! It was an absolute delight and so glad it’s back It was always a bit camp and gay. I was the G of LGB before all the other letters were added I get it, we move on. Touted for children but go kids need to have lesbian trains or non gender fluid carriages? I don’t think so Greaseball was a male engine (although new incarnation didn’t do a bad job) Momma instead of Poppa worked, she has a belter of a voice. Lots of plot add ons and I kinda lost the plot at few points Sounded amazing Looked amazing Cast were brilliant Will go back (different seats) Great music Great humour Absolutely loved it But some changes not needed but that’s my opinion. There was space to keep older songs National trains missed Helmets missed Too many new gender stuff added Miss the smiling car and Rocky (1,2 and 3) Disappointed with my seat, not sure who would have fitted in there, but great view No programmes T shirts don’t cater for larger sizes, an XL am not! Sadly they lost about £100 on merch that day No cast soundtrack, an opportunity missed, hopefully that will follow soon. Maybe a dvd (certainly would have loved one of the original) On the whole 🌟🌟🌟🌟

If this doesn't come to Broadway I'm gonna be upset!!

Just got back from NY PRIDE. You and Aeron have to experience this at some point in time.

I would 100% go see "My Fair Lady" on skate. It might be the only way I'd go see it again.

We just saw the show in one of its final preview performances. It was fun. The kids loved it, and everyone had a good time. But I don't think it holds up to the original. Like you said, I also thought the space theme was odd and disconnected from the material. And details like the original intention of using country and rock themes for the US engine were lost. It didn't feel cohesive. But, the biggest disappointment was how Pearl's character feels in this version. I think they did that character wrong. In this version, her character seems ditzy and mean, and the "love story" with Rusty feels unearned. Lyric updates were definitely needed. I listened to the old version, and it's a bit surprising to see what they got away with in the lyrics. The performers were wonderful. Loved seeing all the new talent.

Justice for Hydra! The nerve pearl had getting on that podium with Rusty 😡 🛼

I’m all behind Big Steam lol

Thoughts on any of the character’s real life influences in either the older versions or this modern version? i.e. Greaseball was very Elvis but perhaps not now? In this production Pearl was so Ariana Grande, I like how you threw in that Electra gave off some Lady Gaga energy, and Hydra reminded me of YungBlud

The Newsies mention!!!!!

Do you know what the reason that the 'first class carriage' seating doesn't revolve.... This was promised at the time we booked the tickets (with a warning that when they revolved you wouldn't be able to leave your seat)... Could they not get that to work. That was a fantastic part of Bad Cinderella in my view... Thanks.

You aren't old enough to remember the original production!

10:59 You can become Mickey Jo Trains if you do a crossover episode with a transit RU-vidr!

'My Fair Lady' The On Wheels Tour coming soon to a live theater near you!

I saw wicked the night after the matinee of the drowsy chaperone, wicked was tainted as superficial and green fluff whereas drowsy was about loneliness and fear of communication. Probably would have enjoyed wicked on a different occasion. I think this is the same as starlight and next to normal

I am German and visited a few Musicals here. Starlight express in Bochum was no exception. It was never my favorite MUST SEE Musical. I saw it first 2014 and I kinda liked it. As I was again there almost 10 Years later in January this year, I hated it. I didn't care that Rusty winned. The Costumes are boring, I loved the Colourful more, 2014. And the Song Ich bin Ich (I am me) does not fit in this Musical because. One moment they want to be strong Woman alone, but in the next they are going after the Locomotives, because they can't go anywhere without them. Its so dumb. Starlight Express is sadly another case of the superficial wokeness we see in Hollwood Movies nowadays.

Can anyone advise what time the show ends? I'm getting super nervous as I'm coming from Bournemouth on a Friday and if I don't catch the 10:35 it's going to be a looooong night...

Can anyone suggest the best place to sit?! 🙏🙏

It was really cool and great but it was also about anthropomorphic trains 😬

the space element is about dreams i think..the dreams of the boy

Don't wanna be too pedantic - but having seen (I guess) all of your videos about Starlight as well as the ones about your trip to Hamburg, I wonder if you really can't pronounce Bochum (they way we would) or if it actually is pronounced "Bockum" in English? I guess you know how to pronounce Lock (as in Loch Ness) - the Scottish/UK way, not the US way (which would be Lock Ness, I guess) - then just think Lochum and change the L for a B😉 And then you need to come and see Starlight here!!! Just been again with my nephews last winter (almost exactly 10 years after I'd taken them to see Starlight for the 1st time) - and still had a great time. BoCHum itself is boring - but Cologne (my home town - with a German and thus rather weird version of Moulin Rouge...) and Düsseldorf are nearby!

I really want to see it but I'm struggling to justify the ticket prices and I get that is must be astronomically expensive to put on. But a decent seat, is difficult in their current pricing

You saw the transfer of Next To Normal? Are you going to review it?

The original pearl lyric was.. My names Pearl Im the brand new girl, My springs still bounce my fans still whirl. Aint gonna smoke, aint gonna drink What are you gonna do? Whatdya think! Yup... the 80s

is pumping iron still in it? Also is the duet I am the starlight still in?

I can’t recall you mentioning it but is “Rolling Stock” still in the show ?

Hi Mickey, what are your thoughts on many followspot operator positions being replaced by the technology which tracks the costumes? Seems like a case of AI/technology replacing human jobs, but there doesn’t seem to be anywhere near the backlash there has been against AI art/voice acting etc.

I saw Cats in the early 80's on Broadway. After that there was no way in hell I was going to see an ALW musical about trains.....

Never seen this show but have always wanted to. My mum saw the original 5 times. But, every time someone explains the plot by brain just switches off as it always sounds different from person to person. The music is nice though.

MickeyJoeTheatre may not be MickeyJoeTrains.. But he sure is on his way to be 😂❤

Rusty has some great music for a tenor technically, would be great to show off skills, but the lyrics, lol. I think a problem with Starlight is there is no song like Memory to sell it.

Did you see Burlesque 👀

Where is the best place to sit?

I believe Trevor Nunn referred to Starlight as having the intellectual content of a peanut and he’s not wrong but there’s plenty of space in theatre land for your Starlight’s and Cats and your Sondheims and Next to Normals etc

Yas family guy reference!

Hello Mickey (or anyone who seen the show, I have a small question about the show and I would be very thankful if you could answer it. So my family are going to travel to London and I thought that starlight express is a great option for west end theater, since is mega musical and not a story driven show, because my family dosent speak English very well. so we are from a small town and sadly homophobia is a big thing, my question is: is Dinah’s and greaseball relationship “visually romantic”(kissing/holding hands etc) or is it like in the original version where all the romance is in dialogue and innuendos, because the more homophobic people of my family don’t speak English so they would get the dialogue anyway. It feels bad having to ask this is pride month, but sadly it is a real concern of mine. Anyways I would also like to say I’m a huge fan and that you’re my favorite theater critic thank you for your work!

Will you do another review for NTN🥹

What annoys me about the costumes, except not looking like trains, is how they massacred the cool fits and colours when they updated Bochum, then they turn around and punch us in the face with these garish things. Which one is it to be? People say the costumes make sense because they are supposed to be toy trains, but they don't even match the actual toy trains in Control's room

My Fair Lady on hoverboards coming to broadway in 2025 😂

STARLIGHT.. EXPRESS… Starlight Express… … Starlight Express…

A steam train can definitely be powered by hydrogen. A steam train can run on anything that produces heat -- technically, nuclear power is steam power. Pardon my pedantry, I'll see myself out......

I think the “Starlight Express” was always thought of as a celestial/spiritual being/body/entity so the link to stars and planets is in my opinion not such a far reaching concept.

Isn’t it Lord Lloyd Webber not Sir Andrew….