Review: JEST END, Waterloo East Theatre, 3 December 2016

Jest End has returned to London's Waterloo East Theatre one year on from its most recent run at the venue. Lovingly pointing the finger at the West End's latest shows, best-loved stars and recent hot topics, Jest End is London's answer to off-Broadway sensation Forbidden Broadway.

Written and directed by Garry Lake, Jest End is full on and in your face. There are some lyrics and scenarios which will hugely tickle those who are hugely passionate about theatre. The success of a show such as Jest End lies with the talent of its cast, and this year's company do not disappoint. Inevitably some jokes and songs work better than others, but ultimately Jest End provides an enjoyable experience for all.

Keeping up with the newest shows and latest revivals, there are some brilliant references to Hamilton as well as hilarious nods to Jesus Christ Superstar, Side Show and The Last Five Years. Of course old favourites such as Jersey Boys, Matilda and Les Miserables also make appearances.

Hot topics touched upon include celebrity casting and auditions; there's also a particularly brilliant tribute to John Barrowman with rewritten lyrics to "I Am What I Am". I caught Jest End in 2015, and it's nice to see the show feeling fresh. Last year it felt a little dated, whereas this time round there's plenty of new material.

The company of four fully commit; Jest End is a gruelling show but the cast show few signs of tiredness. Bronté Barbé in particular jumps from extreme to extreme in a heartbeat, particularly shining as a young Billy Elliot. Adam Bailey has endless energy, whilst it's a treat to hear Daniel Buckley's vocals soaring throughout.

Having recently starred in The Great American Trailer Park Musical at the Waterloo East, Jemma Alexander returns to the venue and shows the true extent of her versatile talents. Alexander is hysterical from start to finish - she has no limits and it seems there is nothing she cannot do. Alexander has vocals to die for; she sings sections of "I'm Still Hurting" from The Last Five Years and "With You" from Ghost The Musical to absolute vocal perfection. Alexander gives the performance of the night - she is someone worth keeping an eye on.

Barbé, Bailey, Buckley and Alexander all take to the stage with tremendous charm. The show is fast-paced but appears reasonably slick - I can't begin to imagine what goes on backstage with quick change after quick change.

Jest End provides some light-hearted fun for theatre lovers. It's not laugh-out-loud hysterical all night, but the show is consistently clever and witty. Jest End has become something of a theatrical tradition in London, and long may it continue.

Jest End at Waterloo East until 18 December

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