Review- Midnight Train to Georgia

This show is a celebration of Gladys Knight, capturing her multi-award-winning essence through and through. Tonight, I saw it as it passed through The Alexandra Theatre Birmingham.

Gladys Knight was of the greatest female soul singers in history with 7 Grammy awards and a place along with The Pips in the prestigious Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to name only a couple of her achievements. This show celebrates all her songs and allows fans to relive their favourite tunes.

Hayley Ria Christian portrays her, bringing the true magic that Gladys provides onto the stage. She captivated the audience and throughout the show interacted with them. She remained in character during the entire show, and the transitions between songs were mostly seamless.

The show features songs including Baby Don’t Change Your Mind, Help Me Make It Through the Night, Try to Remember/The Way We Were, Part Time Love, Licence To Kill and of course her signature tune, Midnight Train To Georgia. The audience sang, clapped, and shined their torches along. I found the first half of the show a bit slow however the second half picked up with some more entertaining moments.

The set was simplistic but effective with long white drapes as a backdrop surrounding Gladys’ name in light. The band and backing vocalists stayed on stage the entire show. Hayley as Gladys commanded the show, and her stage presence was incredible. She got the audience laughing and singing along and there were even whispers of amazement as she sang.

I wouldn’t call this production a tribute, but a tasteful and faithful portrayal, paying homage to the Empress of Soul. I would encourage any fans of Gladys, Motown, or Northern Soul to come and see the show. Tickets are available for selected dates at the following link https://www.atgtickets.com/shows/midnight-train-to-georgia/