Set in 1982 at the United States Naval Aviation training facility, Florida. Zack Mayo (James Wilkinson-Jones), and Sid Worley ( Paul French) are entering a  gruelling 12 week Naval training program to become officers.

They meet local factory girls Paula Pokrifki (Georgia Lennon) and Lynette Pomeroy (Julia Jones) – who both have differing ambitions when it comes to life.

This an intensely emotional musical tackling subjects of the time, and whereas some of the storylines may seem dated, it is worth remembering that this is social history.

The factory girls work hard, for little money. Paulas’s ambition is to become a nurse, but life and money keeps getting in the way whilst Lynette – who was bought up on a trailer park – feels the only way out is on the arm of a qualifying Officer. However, the officers are warned to avoid the factory girls.

This is a tearjerker and Worley gives a standout performance as Sid, who charms Lynette with his honourability and commitment to do the right thing.

But it is Wilkinson-Jones and Lennon who forge a beautiful intense performance as their relationship grows.

Although Juke box musicals aren’t always favoured, the interpretations of 80s classics in this performance was phenomenal. The show kicks of with the dark but powerful In the army now – which sets up for the gruelling 12-week journey ahead of the candidates.

This is a Mans’s, mans world pulls out all the stops with Melanie Mason as Esther Polrifiski, leading this powerhouse ballad. The energy of the show seemed to double by Act 2 and a rousing version of Living on a prayer made it near impossible to sit still.

At times there were some faltering with the acoustics of the speech which wasn’t always clear, but the music came out loud and strong.

The making of a good musical is always a strong ensemble. The talent, vocals and slick choreography of the team was outstanding. Although the show was dealing with serious issues there was an element of fun, comedy, and a little bit of mayhem which this ensemble provided.

Due to the adult nature of the show it isn’t one for the family, but it is certainly recommended for a night out and the music will have you dancing in your seats. Musical theatre and fans of the original film will love this version which will definitely ‘ Lift you up!’

4 stars

An Officer and a Gentleman is at The Regent Theatre in Hanley until Saturday 11 May. For tickets please visit – https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/an-officer-and-a-gentleman-the-musical/regent-theatre/