WHEN Emily Leeland sings Piaf in this warts and all portrayal of the iconic French star my top lip quivered with emotion and my insides turned to jelly.

More than once.

Leeland is also every inch the diva in Pam Gems’ captivating play, not holding back when it comes to getting exactly what Piaf wants. Top of Piaf’s list are a career and a man, a man who can live up to her exacting demands. She gives a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘high maintenance.’

What makes Piaf’s story so captivating is it’s a story of success against all odds, how a young girl abandoned by her mother and raised in a brothel ended up having an audience with a US President. 

For me, there were echoes of Evita, reminding us that yes, it’s still possible to triumph in the face of adversity.

You should feel very jealous of anyone lucky enough to have a ticket for this, because director Charlie Tomlinson and his creative team serve up a theatrical treat here. The production is just over two hours long and it feels like you’ve been in the theatre no more than around 20 minutes.

But Leeland’s performance is by no means the only one to enjoy here. Olivia Riley is seriously funny as Piaf’s long suffering and loyal friend Tonie, with the two actresses establishing an effortless camaraderie from the start. The velvety-voiced Steven Finney is excellent as the plain speaking nightclub owner Louis Leplee and I can’t wait for the next production in which he has a bigger singing part. Sam Evans is sure to have you swooning as the silky smooth French singer Charles Aznavour.

This is a production that simply must be experienced. A joy and a major triumph for all concerned.

Tickets are available from 0161 928 1677 or www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk.

Good news - the Garrick is planning to put on a Saturday matinee to meet demand for tickets. Call the box office for details.

RICK BOWEN - StageStruck - 5 Star Review 

Photos - Martin Ogden