KROOKED TONGUE: Cardiff Tiny Rebel 2026, 30th January 2026. *MUSIC REVIEW* *GIG REVIEW*

Krooked Tongue live : (i) (L-R) Dan Smith, Harry Pritchard and Oli Rainsford
(ii) Oli Rainsford
Photos: Kathryn M. Bartlett

Krooked Tongue delivered an amazing triumphant Cardiff gig on Friday 30th January at Tiny Rebel Cardiff as part of a wider tour for Independent Venue Week 2026.

A jam-packed, charismatic eclectic set saw this already-stellar but-still-rising Bristol-based 3-piece (consisting of Oli Rainsford (lead vocals & bass), Harry Pritchard (drums) and Dan Smith (guitar and vocals)) showcasing prime cuts of their extensive, enticing back-catalogue from the past few years, alongside more recent electric releases such as 'Drugstore Cowboy' 'Marigold' & 'Let 'Em Loose'; and also exciting new single 'Blood Shark' - out now! (released 13th February), *** LISTEN HERE! *** , in advance of their hotly-anticipated debut album, 'I Know A Place', out April 24th.

Faultless and accomplished whilst fully energised, free-flowing and wholly captivating, this was a high-octane, engaging, fantastic show, that had every member of the assembled throng dancing and thoroughly rocking.

A gig not to be missed - and with a tour to support the April album release, scheduled in May - here's on to the band's next exciting chapters.  Definitely ones to watch!

FIND OUT MORE & FOLLOW KROOKED TONGUE, HERE:  

Krooked Tongue Spotify

Krooked Tongue Instagram   

Krooked Tongue Facebook 

Krooked Tongue TikTok

Krooked Tongue YouTube

Krooked Tongue at Tiny Rebel Cardiff
Photo: Kathryn M. Bartlett

Krooked Tongue: Oli Rainsford Lead vocals & bass guitar
Photo: Kathryn M. Bartlett

Krooked Tongue: Dan Smith, guitar & vocals
Photo: Kathryn M. Bartlett

Krooked Tongue: Harry Pritchard, drums
Photo: Kathryn M. Bartlett

*For more photographs, follow:

 KathrynMBartlettPhotography Instagram

Cinderella: Theatre Royal Plymouth, 21st December 2015. *THEATRE REVIEW*

* * * * *

Qdos Entertainment's Cinderella at the Theatre Royal Plymouth is a wondrous, fantastical and funny production- incorporating every rich element of a classic, seasonal pantomime that you would hope for and expect- and more.

Sweeping, majestic sets, coupled with colourful, atmospheric lighting, create the perfectly indulgent and exciting setting for the lovable characters of this familiar magical tale.

Affable underdog-hero, Buttons; poor hard-done-by Cinders, herself; the Fairy godmother; Prince Charming and aide Dandini; and the infamous 'bad-eggs' of the show- the Ugly Sisters (boo, hiss!), take the audience on a magical ride of the well-loved fairytale of love, friendship and a fantastical royal ball, amid much mirth, merriment and heart-warming splendour. It is an engaging, wonderful and energised production with plenty of laughs, that has all ages rooting for the characters and their plight; dusted in plenty of welcome sparkles, glitter, and perfect pizazz.



Cinderella, Buttons & Sam (Robyn Mellor & Paul Zerdin)
Photo credit: Alastair Muir
 

This time, 'our hero', Buttons, is played by ventriloquist extraordinaire -Paul Zerdin- now, not only the popular British entertainment industry stalwart, but also the acclaimed recent winner of this year's 'America's Got Talent'. Paul's exceptional ventriloquism and comic-timing, incorporating his puppet-characters: 'Sam', 'Baby' and some other unsuspecting guests (!), is faultless and hilarious; whilst his own warmth and genuine, contagious charm builds an instant, easy rapport with the crowd- who are at once in the palm of his hand; and he ably commands the stage throughout.

 

The fairy godmother, now aptly renamed the 'Fairy Gokmother' , is performed by UK television presenter, designer, stylist, celebrity cook, author and all-round 'national treasure' Gok Wan, - whose entrances to the stage suspended on shiny, sparkly moon or in puffs of smoke and glitter are a lovely smile-inducing wonderful thing. During the course of the show Gok's performance is thoroughly entertaining, and his sparkling personality is perhaps only outshone by his utterly 'fab-u-lous' costumes!

The Fairy Gokmother (Gok Wan) & ensemble cast
Photo credit: Alastair Muir

 

Cinderella / Princess Starlight (Robyn Mellor - most recently seen on London's West End stage in 'American Idiot') is endearing as the pantomime's title character and plays her with warmth, wit sweetness and grace; and has excellent vocals to boot.   

Cinderella - Prince Charming & Cinderella (Ashley Day & Robyn Mellor)
Photo credit:Alastair Muir

Costumes in the whole production are sparkling, detailed and dazzling (and often outrageous!), but it is the beautiful dresses belonging to Cinderella/ Princess Starlight that epitomise the image of a princess that probably every little girl in the audience has ever dreamed of.

The lead performers, together with a supporting cast of handsome Prince Charming (Ashley Day) and aide Dandini (Matthew Malthouse); the Ugly Sisters (Alexander Delamere & Mark Dugdale); and a fantastic singing, and well-choreographed dancing ensemble of eight; along with ten children from 'The Theatre Royal Babes' - who play mini-people and animal dancers- execute each scene superbly; and whether softer, touching moments, amusing perfectly-timed comic interludes, or high-octane, outright slapstick-comedy or big, dazzling routines; every second is highly entertaining and spectacular.

Prince Charming, Cinderella & Buttons (Ashley Day, Robyn Mellor & Paul Zerdin)
Photo credit: Alastair Muir

Singing, on the whole, is all high quality and a catchy original score melds flawlessly with crowd-pleasing popular chart-hits.

 

Mesmerising, superior special FX and stunning pyrotechnics add an impressive 'wow-factor'.
In particular the including the truly magical transformation of a small humble pumpkin to a large, glittering, flying coach, magically suspended and floating over the auditorium at the end of the first half, is a wondrous spectacular.

Cinderella/ Princess Starlight (Robyn Mellor) in her magnificent pumpkin-coach



Sound quality is crisp and clear, and accompaniment to proceedings from an amazing, live orchestra - under the direction of Mark Crossland- (who even join-in on some of the comedy!) is well-balanced with the onstage dialogue, and compliments and adds to the show's wholly electric atmosphere.



Ugly Sisters (Alexander Delamere & Mark Dugdale)
Photo credit: Alastair Muir

Witty scripts operating on many levels for all ages to enjoy,- with lots of local geographical references and topical puns thrown-in, -are executed and delivered with a seemingly natural fluidity and believability that only adds to the thoroughly enjoyable style of the performance that fully involves and appreciates the audience; whilst lots of 'pantomime-obligatory' audience-participation - including a vintage-style sing-a-long song with a giant song-sheet, is seen in a fresh light, and is high-energy and fun.


Buttons & Cinderella (Paul Zerdin & Robyn Mellor)
Photo credit: Alastair Muir

 

 

 

From start to finish, Cinderella is a classy, classic & funny show - for all the family.

A fantastic night out that you will want to bring everyone along to, that you'll want to see again and again.
Billed as 'The greatest pantomime of them all' - with this production, you won't doubt it!


Cinderella runs until Saturday 16th January 2016 at the Theatre Royal Plymouth- for more information and to purchase tickets, please visit:Theatre Royal Plymouth



For information on this, and other Qdos Entertainment productions, please visit: Qdos Entertainment



 

Wicked: Theatre Royal Plymouth, 21st January 2015. *THEATRE REVIEW*

Wicked is a magical, fantastical show with twists and turns that will have you on the edge of your seat, close to tears, holding your breath and squealing with joy and laughter; often at the same time!

Based on the characters from L.Frank Baum's The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’, this story is that of an unlikely but profound friendship between two sorcery students and their extraordinary, exciting roller-coaster of adventures in Oz.

Immediately upon entering the theatre, even before the curtain rises, the audience's attention is grabbed by an intriguing, sparkly map featuring the Emerald City and a giant mechanical dragon looming above-head, framed by an assortment of peculiar clockwork components; and the scene is set for the spellbinding show that awaits.

A couple of technical glitches and some early sound issues on the night did not hinder nor detract from the overall feeling of sheer wonder and amazement, where certainly by the second or third scene, the audience had blissfully suspended any 'real-world' disbelief, and were indeed bewitched, and fully immersed into everything mystical and OZ.

Each cast member sang and acted superbly - demonstrating wide-ranging vocal ability that was not only mostly pitch-perfect, but also pleasant on the ear in tone and execution. They were all fantastic: from Ashleigh Gray as the kind but mostly 'misunderstood' chracter of Elphaba (who becomes the 'Wicked Witch of the West'), her best-friend/ 'arch nemesis', 'in the cool-clique' G(a)linda (Emily Tierney), and their charming love-interest Fiyero (Samuel Edwards); to the strong character of Elphaba's sister, Nessarose (Carina Gillespie) and cute, sweet munchkin, Boq (Richard Vincent).

Not forgetting the 'Wonderful Wizard' himself, and kindly animal-professor Doctor Dillamond played equally brilliantly, and diversely, by Steven Pinder, and sorcery teacher Madame Morrible (Marilyn Cutts).

Each lead-character portrayal was believable and compelling, and the audience watched their entrancing tales unfold with bated breath.

The joyous ensemble were a formidable supporting cast and consummately played any character from scary monkeys, to students and palace guards; to extravagant denizens of the Emerald City, and other citizens of Oz.

The story, despite partly all-glittery, light and fluffy, full of zing and zap; also covers relatable social themes, and delves into the deeper, darker and 'bad' undercurrents of Oz that run beneath the shallow, glossy exterior.

However, whether sparkly, glitzy, lively dance routines or more sombre, subdued, or poignant moments of dialogue, the audience's attention hung on every second of the action, and the show displayed throughout that it is full of real heart.

Each inch of a vast, fantastic, complicated and multi-layered set was well-used by the actors, who were dressed in sumptuous quirky costumes. Extra sorcery was created with freaky, imposing animatronics and ethereal lighting and special effects, and lots of extra on-stage surprises conjured even more enjoyable mystique.

A magnificent music score and lyrics created a lasting impression- whether in the well-known, if not iconic, empowering Defying Gravity, to perhaps lesser-known but still familiar numbers - Popular and The Wizard and I;- through to songs that were possibly previously unknown outside of the perimeters of the show, but became instant classics: - such as the very funny and catchy,- rhythmic What is this Feeling, and the touching song that probably every female can relate to- I'm Not That Girl.

This show is indulgent escapism; a delightful mix of dark and emotive moments alongside endearing and heartwarming scenes with plenty of rire-some, sweet parts interspersed that will have the audience welling-up for both happy and sad moments. Many congratulotions to the whole production!

A brilliant, captivating Ozmapolitan show- those lucky enough to watch Wicked will undoubtedly fall in love with it and want to see it again and again.

Elf: Theatre Royal Plymouth, 11th December 2014. *THEATRE REVIEW*

Photo credit: Alastair Muir



"I'm siiiiiingiiiiing!" My heart is full, and "I'm siiiiiingiiiiing!"
From start to finish Elf the musical is an utterly wonderful, brilliant, heartwarming, electric, endearing, joyously glittery show, -'with bells on'! A glorious explosion of tinsel, twinkle and Christmas magic.

   Based on the 2003, now 'Christmas classic' film, Elf, Michael Rose and U-Live in association with Bord Gáis Energy Theatre, present a faultless Theatre Royal Plymouth production, and European premiere of the Broadway musical; a wondrous spectacular to behold.

Photo credit: Alastair Muir

Every single aspect of this production is outstanding and every attention to detail has been paid.

As we follow Buddy's life-changing journey from his home with Santa in 'Christmas Town' to his adventures in New York where he meets his real father, Walter, & love-of-his-life, Jovie; we are treated to many grand, yet intricate, majestic sets married against an atmospheric and impressive digital-screen backdrop, that swiftly and seamlessly transition into a multitude of environments - creating a wonderfully indulgent, immersive filmic quality. 

Photo credit: Alastair Muir

Beautiful costumes compliment the stunning scenes, whilst a magnificent live orchestra belt out toe-tapping, beaming-smile-inducing 'big-band era' musical accompaniment with finesse.



Photo credit: Alastair Muir

Choreography is incredible and whether ensemble pieces to the big numbers reminiscent of resplendent historic MGM musicals, or individual, sometimes quirky, pieces; it is executed by the cast with exact timing, natural flow and plenty of style.


Sound quality for dialogue, song or musical piece in this production is superb - warm, rounded and with exceptional clarity. Lighting is for the show is aptly atmospheric and magical, and engulfs you into the delightful snow-globe splendour that is Buddy's reality.

Photo credit: Alastair Muir

Direction and stage direction is interesting and exciting, and in every part of this show- whether in actual physicality, or in mood/ambience, - there is a constant multitude of stimuli that captivate and charm.



Photo credit: Alastair Muir

The whole cast all deserve the highest accolades. Fantastic, professional and polished, yet completely genuine and believable performances, are delivered by each and every member, from the entertaining ensemble elves, to jolly Santa himself (Mark McKerracher); vivacious office manager Deb (Jennie Dale) to grumpy 'store manager' (Graham Lappin); to Buddy's winsome New Yorker new family, - dad Walter (Joe McGann), his wife Emily (Jessica Martin), & their son Michael (played by local-boy, Bailey Cameron, on this occasion), and Buddy's, -at first disenchanted, but soon happy- girlfriend, Jovie (Aoibhinn McGinnity).



Photo credit: Tim Goodchild

In an entire company where there are no weak links, and each member of the cast genuinely shines, special mention and applaud must still be bestowed upon the wonderful, incomparable Ben Forster, who takes the lead role in Elf. He assumes the lively, physical portrayal and contagiously endearing and amusing role of Buddy with such natural aplomb and magnetic energy that one immediately forgets about Will Ferrell's previous onscreen incarnation of the seasonal character, and Buddy is no-one but Ben. 

 

Previously onstage in other productions, as Brad in The Rocky Horror Show, and Jesus in Andrew Lloyd Weber's rock opera Jesus Christ Superstar, to name but a few, Ben Forster yet again demonstrates his versatility, infinite talent and stellar prowess, as he consummately sings, dances (and skates!) his way through the show that is the epitome of all things 'Sparklejollytwinklejingly' and cements his standing as one of this country's best performers. Outstanding vocals, an infectious cheeky personality and genuine loveability make for a perfect portrayal of the adorable eponymous character, whose wide-eyed optimism and good humour is inspiration to us all.

Photo credit: Alastair Muir

One cannot speak highly enough of this flawless piece. A wonderful and truly magical, wholly beautiful, sparkly-Christmassy, complete, fantastic show, that definitely appeals to all ages and will undoubtedly become a must on every Christmas wish-list for many years to come.



Book: Thomas Meehan & Bob Martin

Music: Matthew Skylar

Lyrics: Chad Beguelin

Lighting Design: Tim Lutkin                      Video Design: Ian William Galloway

Sound Design: Clement Rawling                Wig & Hair Design: Richard Mawbey

Production Design: Tim Goodchild            Director & Choreographer: Morgan Young

Please visit Theatre Royal Plymouth or Elf the musical (UK) - official website for more information

Review originally written for The Public Reviews 

30 Seconds To Mars: Plymouth Pavilions, 22nd November 2013. *MUSIC GIG REVIEW*

Gig review





Photo: Kathryn M. Bartlett

Photo: Kathryn M. Bartlett
 

Sometimes too often these days, the word, 'epic', is somewhat over- or mis- used: however, when describing 30 Seconds To Mars' sublime,
forever-memorable show at Plymouth Pavilions last Friday; it is not.

 



Photo: Kathryn M. Bartlett

Support band You Me At Six, magnificently opened with an audience-rousing set, that in an enjoyable, energised 45mins included well-known crowd-pleasing singles 'Stay With Me','Bite My Tongue', and the pogo-tastic 'Underdog'; leaving the assembled masses suitably amped for the headliners.    


Photo: Kathryn M. Bartlett

As Jared, Shannon & Tomo aka 30 Seconds To Mars commandingly took to the stage, the crowd went wild. The atmosphere: simply electric.

Photo: Kathryn M. Bartlett

The impressive punchy set-list, was a mixture of tracks from recent album Love Lust Faith & Dreams with a few classics peppered inbetween. 

Photo: Kathryn M. Bartlett

A ridiculously amazing, cohesive set, that included 'Do Or Die', 'Closer To The Edge', 'Kings And Queens' and a special bonus on this night just for Plymouth: 'Vox Populi' (A Call To Arms), kept the senses wired and alert throughout; and was edgy, mesmerising and without doubt, rockin'.

Brilliant lighting effects, captivating artistic video-screen footage, giant multi-coloured balloons, and confetti-cannons added a myriad of extra excitement to the already fun, frenzied flavour.



Photo: Kathryn M. Bartlett

30STM as a whole were outstanding. Cool, aloof, Tomo provided unassuming, exact bass & keys, whilst Shannon's amazing accomplished drumming

Photo: Kathryn M. Bartlett

was a show in itself; but it was
charismatic frontman Jared that had everyone in the palm of his hand, and rightly so. His enigmatic beautiful soulful personality, genuine showmanship and limitless talent was wholly engulfing and entrancing- not least in his solo-acoustic section where, laid-bare, he exuded raw ability in the majestic 'From Yesterday', and transcendental anthem 'The Kill'.




Photo: Sarah L. Bartlett

Photo: Kathryn M. Bartlett

Photo: Kathryn M. Bartlett

Photo: Kathryn M. Bartlett

In an electrifying night where Jared fully engaged with the lively crowd, the encouraged audience-participation was much more than just that- it was a chance to be part of it all- part of the experience; part of the band; part of the Echelon family.



Photo: Kathryn M. Bartlett

Links: 30 Seconds To Mars , jaredleto.com , You Me At Six , Plymouth Pavilions