AIM Theatre (AIM) will present a brand-new cabaret celebrating the songs of composer Charles Miller, for two shows only at the Union Theatre. Charlie’s Girls will feature a trio of familiar West End faces singing some of the most iconic compositions by one of the UK’s top musical theatre composers.
AIM Theatre takes the best of Charles Miller’s music and gives it a new platform to be performed alongside some witty, funny, and sincere anecdotes.
Charles Miller’s most recent credits include The Pleasance Garden, which won the Best Musical in the 2022 Off West End Awards, and The Return of the Soldier, which played at Jermyn Street Theatre and the Hope Mill Theatre, garnering critical acclaim and earning him several nominations for best new musical.
I got to talk to cast member Emma Odell about the show and to find out what is it about Charlie Miller's music that she loves.
What is Charlie’s Girls about?
Charles Miller has been writing amazing music for decades! This show is an opportunity to sing our favourites and tell you a bit about them. With a little emphasis on being a W.O.M.A.N!
How would you describe Charles Miller's music and style? and what is it about Charlie's music that you love?
I think it would be hard to describe Charles in one style. He writes across so many! Think of the high school 60’s bop from Brenda Bly and then the beautiful, lyrical and epic(!) Return of the Soldier. I think Charles writes at the piano (I might be wrong!) – he’s a brilliant pianist and I that shows in the depth of his accompaniments. You can often hear the orchestra in his writing, even if it’s just a piano and voice. He has such incredible knowledge of music – from
classical to pop – and it shows.
Charles is known for “cross-genre melodies” As a performer how do you tackle a piece of music like Charlies?
Like any piece of music really – try to learn it carefully and thoroughly then let go and let the words and the music do the work.
How do you think people who haven’t heard Charles’ music before will react?
With rapturous applause.
What is your favourite Charles Miller work?
Ooooooh, that’s too hard! I love Return of the Soldier – I’m singing a song called No Man’s Land from it. But Hope is special too. And RSVP, and Brenda Bly…..
What do you like about performing cabaret style shows?
Anyone who knows me will know that I love a chat! I also really enjoy the audience being a part of the performance in a more immediate way.
Do you have any pre show rituals you do before going on stage?
A cup of tea and a deep breath!
What are you most looking forward to within the show?
Some big singing with 2 other glorious singers. Mel and I have worked together before on Kinky Boots and I know Lucyelle from auditioning with her for years. The opportunity for us all to sing our faces off together is a rare one and I can’t wait!
Do you have any tips to share with any budding performers out there?
Mark Rylance said once “you are enough”. It’s a tough industry but you must back yourself. Which isn’t always easy! On a practical note, take every and any opportunity to perform in public.
Describe the show in one sentence.
A great night out!
Director Fenton Gray says, It's great to be compiling and directing a programme of the wonderful songs of Charles Miller. It promises to be an entertaining and eclectic evening, and I'm thrilled to working with three stunning performers, all of whom have been closely involved with Charles's music for many years.
Charlie's girls plays at The Union Theatre, on the 27th of August - see below for important show info.
IMPORTANT SHOW INFO
Charlie’s Girls
27th August 2023, - 5:00pm & 7.30pm
The Union Theatre.
1 hour and 30 minutes, including an interval
Age Guide - Suitable for all ages.
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