Preview: The Magic of Motown, Playhouse

IN 1964 Motown crossed the Atlantic to become a musical phenomenon on these shores.

The Magic of Motown. Pic: Comp

The Motown Revue, starring Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, the Temptations, Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, (Little) Stevie Wonder and Diana Ross and the Supremes, paved the way for Motown’s chart-storming success in the UK. Celebrating 50 years of UK number one hit singles, the Magic of Motown brings its brand-new Reach Out tour to the Playhouse tomorrow.

“Songs like Dancing in the Street, Where Did Our Love Go, Baby Love rocketed Motown to the top of the singles charts in 1964,” says producer Michael Taylor.

“Incredibly, 100 more Motown No 1s followed worldwide. This tour boasts 36 of these chart toppers, back-to-back, in one production.”

Direct from the USA, The Magic of Motown promises to ‘authentically revive’ the style and sophistication of everyone’s favourite Tamla legends.

“This year we’re proud to announce that the show will include more No 1 hits than ever before,” says Taylor. Consequently classic hits from the Temptations, Four Tops, Jackson 5, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Lionel Richie and The Supremes are packed into the two-hour spectacular.

“As well as dazzling dance moves and glittering costumes galore, the elusive, authentic sound of Motown is recreated by our incredible Magic of Motown band,” he adds.

The group, especially put together for the show, celebrate their tenth year on this tour.

“In their capable hands, you can guarantee that the score will be, with a nod to the great Stevie Wonder, uptight. . . all right and out of sight,” promises Taylor.

The Magic of Motown, Playhouse, Greenside Place, Saturday, 7.30pm, £24.50-£27.40, 0844-871 3014