I love a good musical and it’s a very positive start as a group of ‘Pink Ladies’ gathers in The Court bar area.

As we all take our seats, the lights dim and the Court Jesters bound onto the stage. As is the modus operandi of these types of shows, the performers ask for a theme, a word around which they can build their musical.

I just can’t help myself. “Candy” I shout. “Dumplings” someone else tosses in. “Washcloth” another suggestion.

After a minute or so, the Jesters decide to go with “Candy.”

Well, here’s a how-de-do. I will be reviewing my own show.

Actually, nothing could be further from the truth. This tight band of talented improv performers make “Candy the Musical” their own and take the gleeful audience with them.

It’s fantastic watching an improv cast that is really in tune with each other, moulding a story, enjoying it more and more with the audience as the performance progresses.

Court veteran Jeff Clark has done an outstanding job crafting this crew, and he has a ton of talent to work with. Each performer brings something unique and essential to the stage. Vito Strati and Trubie Dylan-Smith are like energizer bunnies, particularly strong with their physical comedy. Bryony Jamison has a beautiful, sweet singing voice; Caitlin Penhey is a quick thinker and her London accent is perfect, and Ciarán Searle seems to be everywhere with a fresh innocence.

Musical director Criss Grueber plays keyboards throughout, and not once is he overpowering or unsuitable in his musical support. The partnership with the performers is perfect. Lighting operator Louise Topping doesn’t miss a beat, which must be challenging when it’s not entirely clear who will be doing what, where and when.

This is a fun evening out with many laugh-out-loud moments. It was opening night of “Candy the Musical,” and at the same time it was closing night. Every show is different and I can’t wait to go again.

Next time I will shut up.

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