STOS Theatre Company’s The Band – 11 November 2025, Lyceum Theatre
Review by Ellie Needham.
I went to see STOS Theatre Company perform ‘The Band’, a musical by Tim Firth, featuring the music of Take That. What a fantastic opening night it was! The energy, emotion and enthusiasm were clear from the start.
Musical Director, Dominic Ridler, deserves huge credit for the way the music underscored the show so perfectly. The sound levels were spot on throughout, meaning every lyric and every line could be heard clearly. Having the band on stage gave the production an extra sparkle. Dominic has obviously worked extremely hard to ensure the voices of the whole company blend well.
The story follows a group of girls who were obsessed with a boy band in their youth and reunite years later, bound by music and memories. The chemistry between the women: Gina Holmes, Louise Walker, Kate Parkin and Suzanne Peach, and their younger counterparts: Ellie Hudson, Lucy Mulvihill, Charlotte Waxman, Ruthie Lee and Shelby Foster, was completely believable. Each pairing mirrored one another beautifully; little gestures and quirks were carried across the years, making their journeys so authentic. It’s clear that STOS has assembled some of Sheffield’s finest am-dram talent here.
The boys in the band: Marcus Kamsika, Andrew Stanley, Declan Saxton, James Hadabora and Gabriel Lima, absolutely nailed the 90s boyband vibe. Their voices and harmonies sounded great and they moved with real confidence. It felt like we’d been transported back to the 90s!
A special mention must go to Andrew Stanley, whose rendition of ‘A Million Love Songs’ was an absolute standout moment. Beautifully sung – a real highlight of the night.
Andy Green (as Jeff, doubling up hilariously as bus driver Dave) brought brilliant comedic timing and warmth to his role. The whole ensemble supported the leads perfectly.
Katie Granger’s choreography was lively and perfectly matched the era. The lighting captured the 90s concert feel and the colours used across the costumes and props (from the women and girls to the boyband’s outfits and those iconic wristbands) cleverly tied the story together. A particular highlight was the use of bubbles to create the water fountain scene.
The recurring use of balloons to represent the women’s lost friend was a beautiful symbol throughout. Then, when giant white balloons were released into the audience during the finale, it turned into a moment of joy, which was the perfect blend of emotion, nostalgia and celebration. It lifted the mood completely and had everyone smiling and singing.
Speaking of the finale — what a way to finish! High energy and great choreography. The audience were clapping, singing and clearly having as much fun as the cast were on stage. You couldn’t help but leave the theatre feeling good, humming those classic Take That tunes all the way home.
Director Jill Beckett and Assistant Director Keeley Kilby have crafted a heart warming, funny and nostalgic show that balances laughter and loss. Everything worked together seamlessly, which was a testament to their clear vision.
Hats off to the designer of the brilliant programme that was created exactly like a 90s teen magazine.
In short, STOS Theatre Company’s ‘The Band’ is a feel-good, memory-filled night out that’s performed with heart and humour. The cast, crew and creative team should be incredibly proud as Sheffield audiences are in for a real treat this week.
