Get Up, Stand Up! The Bob Marley Musical Reviews

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Average customer review: 4.5 star rating (4.3 Stars)

Number of reviews: 73

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5.0 star rating Annie Eggleton from London, England

HIS LIFE

Great show had us all standing and dancing the last half hour never seen anything like this in the theatre x

5.0 star rating Patricia Higgs from Kent England

DON’T MISS THIS

How could this musical fail when every song is by Bob Marley. The show has stellar performances and is raw, powerful and very moving.

5.0 star rating Dawn Edwards from London, England

EXCELLENT....SO MUCH TALENT

Went to see the show last night.WOW!...So much talent on that stage.It was electrifying. The whole audience were singing.You just wanted to get,stand up, on your feet and dance (which we did at the end).He had such an amazing life(albeit too short) and has touched so many people.His music will always live on through many generations. Would I see it again? With this fantastic cast YES YES YES ! Go see it.Have your heart opened up with love and peace...you will come away smiling and singing and not "worrying about a thing"

5.0 star rating Charles B from London, England

ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC “LIVE!”

We attended the show on opening night and absolutely loved it! The cast were incredible and the show did a fantastic job of telling Bob Marlet’s life story, the highs (pun intended) and the lows. The cast had to handle a few first night tech mishaps and did it so well it flowed with the show (those in the theatre that night will understand the “Live!” reference in the subject line. During Redemption Song I looked up on stage and for more than a moment felt like I was watching Bob Marley performing live. It brought me to tears, which was not the only time during this incredible performance that this happened. There was excitement in the room and the audience struggled to figure out how to express it without disrupting the show (Clap? Sing? Dance?) . The show would do well to identify one or two spots where the audience is encouraged to participate (perhaps the songs performed like they are at a concert?) and the first act could use a bit of a pick up, but this 5 stars all the way!

5.0 star rating Stefanie D. from London, England

OUTSTANDING

I was a little worried about seeing this show as I didn’t think it was possible to do Bob Marley justice but how wrong was I!! Everything about this musical was electrifying, the singing, dancing and acting of everyone outstanding and yes, the production was simple but nothing else needed as this was Bobs life and less is sometimes more (to the person above… the “boxes” were a perfectly staged Soundsystem;) At one point it even felt as if I actually was at one of his big concerts… very cleverly done! Congratulations to the producer and the whole cast, I will be coming to see the show again!

5.0 star rating Linda from Cornwall

LOVED IT!

Brilliant night. Loved the music, the amazing voices, the atmosphere was absolutely amazing. It was both funny and sad. We were up dancing in our seats. Would definitely go again.

5.0 star rating Yamina Presto from London, England

ABSOLUTELY AMAZING

I cannot believe how much I enjoyed myself. All my senses were brought out in the light. Thank You to the cast for rendering such a legend’s life, his struggles and failures. And to also bring the whole political aspect into all of it, WOW just WOW… from the bottom of my heart Thank You, not sure anyone can top this !!!!

5.0 star rating Dara from London, England

ARINZE’ KENE & CAST DID JUSTICE TO A LEGEND

Within the time frame permitted (which was longer than any W.End performance I have seen) I felt the story, it almost seemed that Arinze’ had stepped into Bob Marley’s spirit at times, instrumentals were fantastic, energy was so great you will want to join the party & thank this talented cast for understanding that so many people from all walks of life and various cultures related and always will throughout the decades to the struggle for every man & woman to have equal & just rights as every man, woman, child and animal are a part of Mother Nature as God is a living man Thank you for a wonderful evening. We want to see it again.

5.0 star rating Debra from Cotswolds England

AMAZING

Went for a friends 60th birthday treat. Grew up in the 70's listening to Bob Marley. Was an amazing show great cast and singing. We danced at the end as did the whole theatre. Took us back to our teens. Great night highly recommend.

5.0 star rating Elaine Pope from London, England

OUTSTANDING

Saw the first week Sat Matinee. Bob was played by Michael Duke and his performance couldn't have been bettered and he looked the part. His powerful rendition of Redemption Song saw him in tears and many of the audience along with him. Gabrielle Brookes as Rita has a superb voice. Strong performances all round, Craig Blake and Daniel Bailey especially. Not to be missed if you like Marley's music. If he had only listened to his doctor when first diagnosed. This show will run for a long time.

5.0 star rating from London, England

GREAT! BRILLIANT!

Brilliant from start to finish

5.0 star rating Rae Rae from London, England

ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT !!

Honestly enjoyed this show so so much ! Booked these tickets last year as an Xmas gift for my mum. And it was well worth the wait. Excellent From start to finish!! Amazing performance ! Great singing from all involved and played his life out very well ! Audience was very involved and loved it ! Big round of applause to all the cast and crew. Smashed it. Would even go and watch it again ❤️

5.0 star rating SG from Kent

BRILLIANT

Thoroughly enjoyed it. Was great from start to finish .

5.0 star rating Helen Lewis from London, England

JAMMIN ALL THE WAY!

Loved the show, strong quality vocals, Rita Martley stunning on "No woman no cry" An abridged version of his life, helps to have a bit of background. Accents a little tricky in the first half. Felt the audience actually wanted to join in singing, perhaps the cast could encourage a bit of participation. We were on our feet in the second half. Great show! Matinee showing, then off to Chinatown for dinner.

5.0 star rating Laura Deekes from London, England

AS GOOD AS THE REAL THING

Simply the best theatre show I have seen. The quality of each actors performance simply makes you forget they are actors and you can easily believe you are watching the Real stars. Bob Marley was so well researched. Special effects were fantastic!! Every move Bob made was so convincing. Breathtaking voices that sing to your hearts not your ears. Would highly recommend. Theatre clean and staff welcoming.

5.0 star rating Helen from London, England

EXCELLENT

Brilliant. Moving. Emotional. Talent. Exceeded expectations

5.0 star rating from London, England

ABSOLUTELY AMAZING

A must see show. Vest west end musical you’ll ever see!!

5.0 star rating Louise from London, England

THE BEST MUSICAL EVER

I didn't expect that anyone could do Bob Marley justice, thankfully how wrong I was. Everyone clapping dancing singing, atmosphere was electric. Well done to the cast, amazing!!!!!

5.0 star rating C Cadogan from London, England

GO SEE DONT MISS THIS

Went with my son to see this last night. Absolutely blown away. Certain stages thought I was at a Bob Marley concert. It has enlightened me on his life and what a poet this man was. Brilliant performance by the cast. First rate production. Go see before it finishes you will not be disappointed.

5.0 star rating Niall McCluskey from Edinburgh, Scotland

I THOUGHT BOB MARLEY HAD RISEN FROM THE DEAD!!!

Electrifying show that documents the life of the legendary Bob Marley!!! Incredible musicianship. Wonderful ensemble cast. As good as anything I have ever seen in the theatre.

5.0 star rating Jane from Buckinghamshire, England

BRILLIANT!

Went to see this last night. The whole cast were excellent but stand outs for me were Bob & Rita. Loved the deep base of the music and the rollercoaster of emotions on the journey of Bob's story. Redemption Song and 3 Little Birds will have a deeper meaning to me when I hear them from now on.

5.0 star rating Steve Howard from Devon , England

FANTASTIC

From the minute we sat down in the Theatre , listening to some great Jamaican ska/ Reggae in the background, till the end of the show when everybody was dancing and singing in their seats, i loved every second. A great story of a true legend , the cast made the whole place come alive, had a lump in my throat and a tear in my eye. I could watch the whole show again tomorrow. This is a do not miss show.

5.0 star rating Loraine Lindsay from Bristol, England

FANTASTIC!

The musical brought light, inspiration and enlightenment to a very harsh few years! I was blown away by the magic of the play, the truth, the accurate accounts of the struggle. It wasn’t diluted and to those willing to learn it gave a story of the harsh world experienced by his generation, through bobs eyes. It’s a history lessons an inspiration and I can only praise all involved from start to finish. From the singing to the story it was fantastic. Thank you for bringing me to your show and helping me heal from life and my own experiences. Loved it and will come back again! Keep up the good work and be sure to take this show on your to many cities!

5.0 star rating Ketchi from London, England

SEE THE SHOW!!!!

Absolutely Fantastic show, such and amazing cast, such an interesting story of a Man taken so young, great insight to his life, we got immersed in the music and sang along to many songs and to top it off, the whole theatre stood and danced to the final song, the cast received a well deserved standing ovation ***** 5 Stars !!!!

5.0 star rating Mike from Southampton, England

WEDNESDAY MATINéE

Cannot fault the show, the performers or the venue. Absolutely great show. The Lyric felt small at first on taking our seats but the clever use of the stage depth & height made it perfect plus it felt more a personal performance somehow. It was the highlight of a few days in the capital and "Ritas" performance edged "Bobs". Just can't recommend it enough..

5.0 star rating Asiah from London, England

FANTASTIC

WE ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT! What a brilliant night. Loved every minute of this amazing play, the cast members, the talent WOW, the music, the energy, the voices are spectacular, bloody outstanding, the atmosphere was electric, absolutely amazing. It was funny sad (had my friend and I in tears for parts) it's educational, it's informative, I learnt so much about Bob Marleys life, his struggles, his fight, his challenges and his triumphs. We were singing and dancing in our seats. I high recommend you go and see this amazing play. I will definitely be going again. The lovely lady we sat next to was addicted, she has been 6 times so far and not stopping there😄❤💙❤

5.0 star rating Glenn ross from Dorset UK

GET UP STAND UP

Please go and see this production !! The delivery of Bob Marley’s songs were very convincing and the stage set felt very real. The show not only reminded us of Marley’s great musical talent but highlighted the struggles that Black people have had to endure and still do. It will make you laugh and cry but you will leave the theatre full of hope and “One Love “ for all.

5.0 star rating Carol from Leicester

AMAZING SHOW

This was a birthday treat for my partner who is a huge bob marley fan, and what a treat it was. This show is amazing, from the cast and all of their amazing voices and performances. The whole theatre was up dancing. The atmosphere brilliant. No woman no cry was worth the ticket price on its own. Go and see this show you won't be disappointed

5.0 star rating Revvie from Warrington

ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC

This show is amazing . It’s a small theatre but i think it works for this musical . The music is fantastic and the story of Bob Marleys life is portrayed beautifully. I actually cried when they sang “ no woman , no cry !! Everyone up dancing at the end and 2 standing ovations well deserved . Loved every minute.

5.0 star rating Kelley (the lady with the black hat) from London, England

THE BEST SHOW EVER

Prior to this show Hamilton was my favourite show in the West end. Get up stand up is just OUTSTANDING!!! I've now seen it 3 times in less than a month. Downloaded a last minute theatre app so I can see it anytime. The actress playing Rita remains the most talented female singer I've heard for a long time, but then I can say this about every female singer on stage. The simple set is used to maximum effect and the authenticity of the mood of the show from beginning to end was beautifully created.I cannot over emphasise how immersive it was, from the moment it started to the end I didn't stop moving, singing, having to stop myself from standing up to dance...couldn't help it in the end. When We Jammin started, I was gone. My goodness No woman no cry performance was extraordinary and so emotional that I was transported to another time and space. The main man Bob..OMG no words..talented and fit..those legs :). Edutainment and simply phenomenal. Booking my 4th visit soon and can't wait!

5.0 star rating Jane Dunleavy from London, England

NOT TO BE MISSED!

A really great show! All his best songs- the singers did bob proud! And energy and enthusiasm levels were high. The theatre was vibrating and the audience couldn’t resist getting up to dance at the end.

5.0 star rating Cheryl Burey from Milton Keynes, England

AMAZING SHOW

I can honestly say this has to be one of the best shows I have seen. Obviously, the music would be fantastic, but the way the story was relayed was also so well done. It was very moving at the end. It deserved to to the standing ovation. All the actors were fabulous. I would encourage anyone to go and see this show. It was amazing!

5.0 star rating Kathleen Bailey from London, England

BOB MARLEY GET UP STAND UP PERFORMANCE

Fabulous Show and Brilliant Performance. This is the first time we have been able to go to a Show since 'Lock-down' - well worth the long wait. Certainly enjoyed dancing to the Reggae music and singing along with our friends. Definitely recommend going to see this Show.

5.0 star rating Brendan from Leicester , England

FANTASTIC SHOW BOB MARLEY LONDON

Went to see the bob marley show in London on Saturday night it was amazing the lyric theatre was full to the brim

5.0 star rating Linda Moore from London, England

GET UP STAND UP

This was one of the most ANAZING shows I have ever been to! Having seen Bob Marley in concert twice when he was alive, this was an excellent portrayal of his life! The acting and the singing was absolutely fantastic and I cannot praise it enough! So much so that I will be going again!

5.0 star rating John Fisher from Leeds, England

WONDERFUL MUSICAL STORY

The was the best musical show I have seen. The songsters were fantastic all of the but particularly Rita of whom another show could be made. The musicians were great keeping to the reggae beat and driving the show with power. A truly great night out and one to be strongly recommended

5.0 star rating Daniel goddard from London, England

OUTSTANDING!

Went with my daughter for the matinee. The band were brilliant, and the cast were fabulous! Loved the way the story was told . Obviously the music is the main event and that will always live on. Special mention to Rita singing no woman no cry which was very emotional. Bob Marley was faultless, both the voice and movements. Well done everybody!

5.0 star rating Phil Ray from Sussex England

BLOWN AWAY

Words cannot express this show cast and crew are outstanding Best show I have seen for along time deserve many awards 👏

5.0 star rating Sharon from London, England

OH WHAT A NITE!

This show was epic. I knew it would be good but the way it’s put together & the outstanding talent was just unreal. Everybody was invited to get up & join in dancing at the end …This is a must for any Bob Marley fan

5.0 star rating AK from London, England

INCREDIBLE SHOW

Wasn't expecting it to be this good! The cast were seriously incredible, super talented and amazing singers. The story of Bob was always going to be difficult to show from start to finish (especially with the time they had) but I feel they managed to showcase his life very well - both ups and downs. The entire theatre was dancing at the end. Special moment. What a night!

5.0 star rating Paige from London, England

BEST SHOW I’VE SEEN!

We watched the show yesterday and it was brilliant. The main character was absolutely spot on and it was so emotional! Would definitely recommend and would watch again and again!

5.0 star rating Hilary Gardner from Bristol,England

GET UP STAND UP

Michael Duke as Bob Marley was mesmerising I loved every minute of the show What a great production Hope it goes on tour

5.0 star rating Sunny Pearce from London, England

INCREDIBLE!

We watched the 7pm show on 6.3.2022. absolutely brilliant show, very interesting story alot of which I wasn't aware of. Every single performer was amazing but for us Rita Marley made the show, honestly no words for her...her voice is out of this world!! Really felt the emotions and locked in with each character throughout the whole show. Would highly recommend to anyone. Lovely theatre & staff. Great to stand up and dance as other shows we have attended recently have very tight rules and restrictions still which slightly dampened our experiences.

5.0 star rating Deirdre Frankis from London, England

JUST BRILLIANT

Loved, loved, loved it. If you like Marley you’ll love the show. Singing was great and political focus was both historical and current. Would recommend to take teenagers not sure about younger children. Went to the Ivy beforehand for a treat but felt like they really rushed us and for the money was not worth it. Would defiantly recommend it if looking for a show in London.

5.0 star rating Wendy Chappell from West Sussex

AMAZING

My husband and I were blown away by this production. It had us laughing and crying. The cast are all amazing, especially Bob and Rita. I need to see it again and again.

5.0 star rating Diane from London, England

ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!!!

Fantastic from beginning to end. I grew up listening to Bob Marley loving his music. Wonderful night, fantastic singing and acting. I recommend to everyone, you won't be disappointed.

5.0 star rating Sharon grosvenor from London, England

BRILLIANT

Omg this was amazing. The whole cast were brilliant. Their voices unreal. Loved it

4.0 star rating Adam from London, England

VERY VERY GOOD.

Overall the show is great. As a jukebox journey the the life of the legendary Bob Marley- it’s enthralling. The musical arrangements to now familiar world-renowned songs were refreshing at took nothing away from the originals which remained well-honoured. If there are shortcomings there to be found in the choreography and characterisation. The movement of some of the cast seemed unnatural and not at one with the spirit of the music or its makers. This was only occasionally jarring, sparingly ridiculous. Rita Marley (played excellently) stole the show and would seem in keeping with more contemporary view of Bob Marley’s personal legacy that her own musicality recognised and dignity portrayed so sympathetically. Apart from the trauma of being sent away to live with older relatives at a tender age and then again during his cancer diagnosis we see his trauma but not who he is. As the show wore and his locks grew longer his reputation professional grew but his persona and anything interesting about him withered. I’m being being picky. It is MUST SEE show for any Bob Marley admirer! 4/5

4.0 star rating Paul Harris from Hackney - London, England

WE GOT UP AND STOOD UP ...

The life story of an international icon from very humble beginnings ... great music of course, and even better acting ... I thought I was watching Bob back in the 70's and Rita's voice was a dream. We went on one of the first nights and the sound could have been better, especially when Bob speaks, but sure they will fix that soon. Overall a very powerful and enjoyable show ... well done to all the production team and cast :)

4.0 star rating Chris from London, England

GREAT BUT NOT LOUD ENOUGH

What I really liked about the show was how it freshened up so many songs that have, despite their brilliance, become over-familiar. The lyrics really make more sense in the context of his life and times. My only gripe is that although the stage was made to look like a giant soundsystem, the music wasn’t really loud enough. Then again, I might be a bit spoiled after dancing in front of so many for so long.

4.0 star rating Lisa from London, England

ON THE EDGE OF GREATNESS BUT NOT QUITE THERE YET!

Really loved this show the music and vocals were truly wonderful. I was dancing at the end and in awe of the talent on the stage. This is early days so will not put me off going back or recommending it but the only thing that was lacking as that the story was lost at times. The connection between scenes could have been stronger. All in all those definitely recommend.

4.0 star rating Dino from London, England

YOU WILL WANT TO STAND UP AND DANCE

Great performance by the whole cast. His story and political situations were so complex that at point it was a bit fragmented, but his songs were the main narrative and kept the whole show together. Everyone was standing up and dancing at the end.

4.0 star rating Marilyn from London, England

GOOD SHOW, GREAT PERFORMANCES.

Interesting use of the songs it's a really made you listen carefully to the lyrics. I would like to have seen more live music but the music track was powerful anyway.

4.0 star rating Joycarl from London, England

GREAT TO HAVE A BLACK MUSICAL

Great music, storyline was very negative, showing Bob Marley and Wailers as aggressive, it could have concentrated on the good things Bob Marley did with his life through his music. Dancing by the cast made you want to forget those around you and just sing a long and dance. I feel the writer needed to know the main character better. Aggression / violence need not be added to every black person life. Needed to be more black not an English version of his life. I am glad I went to see it.

4.0 star rating Adrian scott from Brighton England

BOB MARLEY MUSICAL

It was my 50 birthday prezzy. My birthday was on the 6 February. Same day as Bob also married one the same day in Ocho Rios Jamaica 🇯🇲. Great fan of Bob. & his music. Jah bless. Adrian scott

4.0 star rating Paul from London, England

BRILLIANT PRODUCTION & EVENING

Spoilt a bit by over zealous staff within the theatre who seemed to go out of their way to go against the spirit of the show. Left a bit of a sour taste tbh which is a shame

3.0 star rating Gill from London, England

GET UP STAND UP

Enjoyed the music. Seemed like a budget production as just old woodrn boxes made up the set for every scene. Singers were very good. Few technical problems, but it was opening night. Feel a lot of the story was missed out and was inconclusive as didn't find out what happened after his diagnosis. But most disappointing of all was.....why were 3 of his most famous songs - Buffalo Soldier, Sun Is Shining and One Love - not included in the show?! Think everyone was waiting for these. And yet Jammin and Stand Up For Your Rights were performed twice each! A lot of disappointed people in the audience.

3.0 star rating Tony Clark from London, England

FACT AND FICTION

I first got into Bob Marley and his music back in 1970, listening to songs such ‘Duppy Conqueror’, ‘My Cup, ‘Soul Rebel’ etc. Fast forward a few years and I was at the famous Lyceum gig in 1975. I got to see Bob a total of five times in London during The Seventies. I was into reggae generally but I could feel that this man was bringing something else to it. His performances were trance-like, almost Spiritual. I read everything I could about him, and watched every documentary about him. During several trips to Jamaica I visited 56 Hope Road and went up to Nine Miles a couple of times. The second time I was up there at the mausoleum Stephen Marley (one of Bob’s sons) was there with Bob’s mum Cedella! I chatted to them and she kindly gave me permission to take a couple of photos of her. A treasured memory. So on Sunday I came to The Lyric Theatre with expectations riding high. I wasn’t disappointed, the vibe in the theatre was one of unity, we were all there for Bob. The performances were all excellent, the musicianship and vocal performances were so good I was filled with a positivity I haven’t felt for some time. It was an emotional experience for me, and the cast are all to be commended 100%. For acting, singing, music and musicianship, choreography, costumes, sets and lighting I would give 5/5. BUT. What for me let the side down was some of the writing. Mostly after the intermission. The dialogue was clearly written by somebody with no concept of the Rastafarian mind set. Some of the dialogue jarred so much that I felt that a dream was being turned into a nightmare. I guess it could be argued that a musical doesn’t necessarily have to be factual but there was a portrayal of a highly unlikely incident too which I won’t give any publicity to here, suffice to say that I think the Marley family should take issue! It’s such a shame that a brilliant cast are let down by the playwriting.

3.0 star rating Moscool from London, England

THOUGHTFUL, EXCELLENT, PACE PROBLEMS

I booked this on the strength on the Guardian's interview with the director Clint Dyer. He has done a fine job of giving the piece a proper narrative instead of yet another greatest hits job. Pretty much everyone is fabulous with a special mention for 'Rita Marley'. The writing also acts as a break and the audience never gets a change to properly 'warm up' except at the very end. If the intention was to write a political play, then more space should have been given to albums like Survival. Otherwise let the music flow more freely. Congratulations to the author for extracting a lot more from the lyrics than we are used to (including 'role reversals). So altogether a harsh 3 or a soft 4. Thoroughly enjoyable evening nonethelsess. Recommended.

3.0 star rating Ann from London, England

FANTASTIC SHOW BUT NO AUDIENCE INTERACTION ALLOWED

We visited London with a group of friends to see the ironically titled 'Get up stand up' (you are not allowed to stand up) we are all huge fans of Bob Marley and his music. The actors, script, stage set up, costumes, songs were all 5 star but how can you expect an audience full of Bob Marley fans not to get up and dance to these classics. We were in the balcony, on the side with no one seated behind us. We were in a restricted view area, so could not actually see the stage unless we stood up or leant over the balcony. We stood up to dance when the songs were being performed, causing no obstruction to anyone and sat back down during the monologue. During the first part of the show no one seemed concerned with us enjoying ourselves. Then in the second half of the show, we had a member of staff standing directly behind us and we were told that the producers had told her that no one in the audience could stand up, dance or clap along. We found it baffling, surely the actors want to see people enjoying their show (at appropriate times of course.) The audience were like robots, not allowed to show any emotion, very strange and not something we are used to at other theatres in the north of england and America. Regardless, the show was fantastic but our experience was dampened by not being able to express our enjoyment. First experience at a London Theatre and unfortunately due to the level of etiquette will probably be our last. Come on guys theatres should welcome audience participation don't penalise people for enjoying the show.

3.0 star rating Jon from London, England

DRAMATICALLY INERT

I was left cold by this perfunctory telling of Bob Marley's life. Dramatically, this theatrical production did not hit the high notes and was saved by workmanlike renditions of Marley's songs. Watching the real Marley on YouTube makes it clear what a musical powerhouse he really was. It's a shame this jukebox musical fails to effectively distill what drove him and made him tick.

3.0 star rating Sue from London, England

DISAPPOINTING

Great music just not enough of it. The dialect which was of course authentic made it so difficult to understand what was being said. Theatres in general need to clamp down on people in the audience who have no respect for those around them. I paid to see and listen to the show not to listen to the people in the row behind sing along even to the quieter songs. If you want to do that go to a concert and if you want to stuff a family mega size bag of crisps into your mouth stay at home and do it, nobody wants to listen to you !

3.0 star rating Garsham Robertson from Newmarket, Suffolk

GOOD BUT DISAPPOINTING

The show was usual West End high standard of performance, very well done. However...... we are big Bob Marley fans and felt disappointed to be leaving the theatre without the 'feel good factor' which we expected. The theme was very political and pulled us down, rather than the upbeat positivity and drive which he is known for. The same messages could have been delivered in a much more positive way

3.0 star rating Tony Glazier from London, England

ANY BOB MARLEY MUSIC CAN NEVER FAIL.

This was always going to be a big success because of the popularity of his music and particularly with those who were alive during his time. Enhanced during the early years of the London Carnival where there was so much live West Indian music. I did initially find it rather slow and disjointed but I came to expect and understand it. For a Sunday evening the audience were very quiet and hardly singing or even swaying to the music at all. I came to the conclusion that they were not very serious music enthusiasts. I intended to dance there but as no one else was so I did not. Only one of the Ushers was dancing as far as I could see. I did not see anyone telling anyone not to dance, it is just that no one started. I am really a live music enthusiast but almost all the music was pre recorded although they did have a drummer, two guitarists, a trumpet and trombone who only played with a very few of the songs. I had hoped and expected they would have had live accompaniment with all the songs and hopefully a saxophone as well for many songs. So it is a nice story and done well but for me rather fails as a music concert compared with how it could have been. The theatre is a little older and smaller than the Hackney Empire but is well maintained and the toilets are kept clean including during the show. Outside at entry time before the show was a bit of complete confusion and not helped by the requirement to show a code on a smart phone which could not be printed on paper for anyone who did not carry one. ( Not just told not to print it, but it was blocked from being printed! ) Help was available at the ticket office though. It took us about 12 minutes to eventually get through. Although confusion reigned they were mostly quite friendly though. The ticket front page did not include the Lyric street number and as "she" knew where it was, we went to the other end before having to come back!

3.0 star rating Lyn from London, England

REALLY DISAPPOINTED

Being Bob Marley fans we were really excited and looking forward to seeing the show, however, were both left very disappointed. We were surprised that 'Bob' introduced each member of the cast at the beginning of the show. Not sure this made for a good start. It felt like we were watching a 'budget' show as the set was extremely basic. It didnt help that not only was the theatre incredibly hot but the sound system broke down in the first half. It was extremely difficult to understand the accents at times, which left us feeling bored. At one point three people around me were asleep! (This could be attributed to the unbearable heat). At half time we debated about leaving but decided to stay until the end - I will say that it was an improvement on the first half, having some audience participation. Rita Marley was their saving grace, she sang beautifully. Overall, the play came across as rushed and all stories lacking in depth. This is not the fault of the cast, but does result in a show that is lacking in many areas.

3.0 star rating Nic from London, England

LACKED THE FEEL GOOD FACTOR

Was really looking forward to this musical as have always loved Bob’s music and what he stood for. I don’t think I’ve ever listened to his songs and not had a smile on my face. However, despite some great acting and fantastic singing I couldn’t help come out of the theatre with a bit of a bad taste in my mouth. One part of the show see’s Bob’s character embrace his audience with a speech before he sings Redemtion Song. It made me feel quite uncomfortable and clearly has undertones of a current political movement. Bob Marley was not political and although stood against poverty & oppression, his way was non violent, through music and love and people of all races and religions coming together. Redemtion song has a clear message in it, not as it was portrayed. It made me quite angry this legendary figure has been hijacked to push a current agenda. Also some obvious songs missing. Particularly One Love(in my opinion would have been nice for the show to end on this one. Bobs main message). Fabulous singing and acting but might not quite be what you are expecting.

3.0 star rating Isaac from London, England

DISAPPOINTING

This musical lacks the story because it's not clear what's the original intention of the director looking to reflect the whole life of Bob Marley or the political turmoil of Jamaica in these times that's is not really clear for the public. The ambiance is quite dark and very poor in terms of visual diversity, it means very monotonous in the scenography and the music selection is not the best. I think the lack of light, good ambientation of the scenes and a lack of a good traducción of these language very different to the English spoken original made this musical quite boring. Some people in the public talk in between the acting what's make even more difficult to understand what the actors try to say. The main actor makes a very good acting performance and is definitely the best in the show. An effort from the director should be made to make this musical even more attractive to the audience. The theater lacks a good air conditioning system, it's definitely a strong issue for a show of two hours.

2.0 star rating Richard Stableford from London, England

GREAT SONGS : POORLY STAGING

Bob Marley songs are great , and they are well performed in this show. However the story is a confused one .. is it a love story ? A biography ? A political play ? A social comment ? .. I was confused and ended up not caring. The audience seemed to enjoy the songs (many songs begin in a lower more soulful tempo for dramatic effect) .

2.0 star rating Jane Mcpherson from London, England

TERRIBLE .. NOT ENJOYABLE...

From the start it was so rushed.. his life went in a flash... could not understand the accents and quite boring at times.. at times it was easy to understand... we left at the interval....

1.0 star rating Sarah from Kent

BORING

I was so excited for this show but found it flat and boring a d when some music was decent we were told we couldn’t clap! Rubbish

1.0 star rating Sky Caesar from London, England

DISRESPECT OF THE RASTAFARIAN FAITH

Song renditions and cast talents aside, the Bob Marley Musical was an unacceptable mockery of the Rastafarian Faith. It created a frivolous, unhumble image of a drug-head, sex-addict black Rasta man and perpetuated harmful stereotypes through its "humour" - we laughed At them, not With them, there's a difference. It is clear that its white-British Writer and Nigerian-British Director, made no attempt to research a faith and way of life not of their own, and while watching this play I wondered how I was the only one who saw this uncomfortable reality and disrespect; the entire experience can be summarised with the dreadlock wig that appears to be slapped onto Bob Marley's non-rasta, 'baldheaded'(quote: Bob Marley) actor. 'Get Up Stand Up!' claims to be a piece contributing towards cultural representation, but the only representing it did was that of ignorance. - Sky, 22

1.0 star rating Anna from London, England

A DISAPPOINTING EXPERIENCE

The experience was so bad we left before the end. From our seats we could not se anything on the stage, there was no story line to the play and the accent was hard to understand. We will seek to get a refund.

1.0 star rating Jay Freeman from London, England

DEAFENING SOUND LEVEL. ACCENTS INCOMPRESSIBLE

We held our ears at the opening and several times later. Accents harder to understand. Left at intermission

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