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YORKSHIRE EVENING POST
14th October 2004

Live and kicking!

FAME
LEEDS GRAND THEATRE

The cast of this high-octane show hit the stage on opening night with enough energy to light up the whole city for a week.

Inspired by the popularity of Fame! the television series in 1980s when leotards and leg-warmers were fashion must-haves, this incredibly energetic show features jaw-dropping dance sequences and top-notch vocal performances as we follow the fortunes of students at New York's High School for the Performing Arts - with not a lip-sync in sight.

The triumphs and tragedies of the group, the love matches and the rivalries are played out in a full-on theatrical experience as they focus on a glittering future in the entertainment industry.

Actors, dancers and musicians hone their skills encouraged and sometimes humbled by their teachers over a four-year period at the famous academy as some shining stars emerge and others fade.

Leila Benn Harris as troubled Carmen Diaz richly-deserved the audience's appreciation for her note-perfect singing while Craig Stein, played vulnerable student Tyrone Jackson with a sure touch.

The love story between Serena (Rachel hale) and Nick (Michael Howell) was poignantly portrayed and the company's final graduation scene was heart-stopping.

BY PAULINE COOPER

* Fame is at the Grand Theatre until Saturday 16 October.

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