42nd Street at Theatre Royal, Drury Lane

This was more than just singing higher or lower notes than normal. It was like she was singing completely different songs at times. I didn't dislike it, particularly, but in a world where the performers are always drilled to sing to the score it is an unusual departure.

I thought her acting was fine, yes, it's not going to win awards but this role can get away with it. I saw her at stage door after and she was raving at how much she was enjoying it.

Clare her usual shining star. Flawless.

Emsemble incredible. Never put a step wrong. I did miss a couple of the standout ensemble boys who have left.

I liked Ashley but there was something missing for me. Phillip just had that extra special something that made him stand out.

First time watching the show from upstairs, am usually in the front row. Loved the new perspective and saw lots I don't normally see. The staircase unravelling from up high is pretty damn spectacular.

I'm in agreement with all of this - except I saw it from the front row, and was just blown away with the show. Without question, the hardest working ensemble in the West End, and certainly the hardest working leading lady, which isn't Lulu, no matter what they try and do with the curtain call! I've never experienced a situation where the applause and cheers have been louder for the person not being presented last in the curtain call. The sound level actually (to my ears on the front row) audibly dipped as Lulu came on for her bows (she sure does milk them, doesn't she?)!

I have a horrible theory that the Oliviers didn't pick Clare, in part because her own show doesn't declare her to be their leading lady at curtain call time! Clare is spectacular in the role, thoroughly deserves all the praise already said on this thread, and really should have been elevated to be give the final bow at curtain call time. At least the encore gives her the rightful front and centre position as the curtain falls.

As for the Lulu controversy, I'm afraid I have to agree with the detractors. She doesn't ever attempt to style her performance - singing or acting - to the requirements of the role. It's Lulu singing, never ever Dorothy, and there's only a couple of songs that even suit her vocal abilities, the rest are just poor versions of what the songs should be. I'd have liked to see Sheena in the role, and am hopeful that the replacement will be a good pick, not just some stunt casting - which Lulu clearly is, on the evidence of the show I saw. I know the show is coming on tour, and I'm certain Clare won't be on it, but I think I'd like to see it again, just to see the role of Dorothy Brock done decently! I'd also like to see a Dorothy who's not tottering around the stage on 5 inch platform heels, in an attempt to make herself look a bit taller! What were they thinking letting her wear those shoes?!

Saying all that, it's the ensemble pieces that are the real triumph of this show, and I was suitably impressed. It is an incredible spectacle, with just joyful dancing and incredible choreography. I could watch that opening, with the utter thrill of just the tapping feet visible, over and over again! 

Looking forward to seeing Matthew Goodgame as Julian tonight

What a night,fantastic performance by Matthew Goodgame as Julian Marsh, you could tell it was his first time playing the role but he was outstanding, my second favourite Julian Marsh behind Norman Bowman like them both better than Tom Lister, the rest of the cast wonderful , strong ensemble ( a relief to see that they have achieve the level that the original cast had. Lulu was a disaster , doesnt respect the songs

Couldn't agree more!

Considering what happened with the previous cast members that got in trouble for announcing their dates on I hope he doesnt get in any trouble.
Lots of people knew about the extension though from October to February.
Matthew was great, very different take on Julian back I liked it

He's deleted the tweet.
Probably had a telling off too but I am so thankful to performers who keep tweeting so their fans can see when they are on and go and support.

His next scheduled shows are May 28th- 2nd June but subject to change.

Just realise he is indeed deleted the tweet ,it does not surprise me so upset I did not screenshot it can only remember his December dates from the 20 to the 22nd

May 28th- 2nd June
Aug 2-11th
October 22-3rd November
December 22-23

Matthew is off on holiday now so understudy Pat Denning will be on.

He also has his own cabaret night

I don't know what it is about him, but there is something really, really sexy about Matthew Goodgame. Like, really sexy.

I hope I get to see him as Julian.