Barbara

Another great report and I am really starting to feel I'm missing out on it all. I've never been a panto fan to be honest, but they do sound as though they've got better over last few years. It's good that Gareth takes the time to come out to see people after the show. He must know that some people have travelled far and wide to see him in the show.

Loving seeing all these clips from over the years. I like all of them!

These are brilliant reviews. Sounds like a really good cast this year and its lovely to read such positive reviews.

What a lovely report to read and fabulous photos. I thought my husband has been good at coming to shows etc to see Gareth, but even I think your husband deserves a medal to drive so far at this time of the year. You sound as though you packed in a lot of things in your time in Manchester though.

Only just had chance to watch this clip tonight. Gareth knows how to do this, but agree, how he had to to work hard for it on the night! Bless him.

Nice to read this report Lindajan about lights switch on and also that it's the best switch on Altrincham have had. Pity you didn't get chance to speak to Gareth on this occasion. Haven't had time to listen to snippets yet, but will later today.

I don't like any of the suits he's been wearing lately. I think they all look silly, especially the trousers. I also don't like the way he wears his shirts open. It reminds me of the 70s!

I too am hoping Gareth goes back into musicals again next year although I suppose he can't please everyone all the time. Gareth seems to be busier than ever which is really great for him and even though I don't like the bingo or nightclub gigs either myself at least he's "not carrying all his eggs in one basket" so to speak!! From a selfish point of view, I was disappointed when he said in his message to us that he had turned down two musicals for this year. At the time I understood his reasons behind it, but looking at his busy schedule this year I can't see how he can be achieving what he said he wanted from his decision. However, for him I suppose he is trying to appeal to a wider audience as well and it's very good for him that he is still popular and getting plenty of work. He does seem to have got his head screwed on though diversifying into business at the same time as entertaining his fans too. It's always good to have a back up plan! I last saw Gareth in Footloose for the second time in Bridlington last October and doubt very much now that I will see him again until he decides to return to do a theatre gig or musical again, if ever.

Really enjoyed reading your detailed report and could picture the evening you described. Thanks x

Another good report with lovely photos. Nice to hear snippets of singing too.

Lovely detailed report as always and lots of good photos you got there too. Glad you had a good time x

I really enjoyed reading your detailed report Doris and could almost imagine I was there! It sounds like you have had such a fantastic time and I was pleased to read that Gareth and Pete chatted to you during the day too. He really does go over and above what other artists would do. I also think there was a very good mix of songs he sang as there was something for everyone. The photos are very good and I also too think I will be reading your report again!

Lovely to read all this Dorral. I bet it was nice for Gareth to see a familiar face too! Looking forward to reading your report later too.

That's fantastic. Lucky you! I wondered if anyone off here would be on the cruise. Hope you have a brilliant time. Looking forward to reading your report.

Loved reading your report Linda. Saw Footloose in Bridlington at the start of 2016 and me and my husband enjoyed it so much. I have seen clips of the new touring version and can spot a few changes. So glad it is doing well and getting such good reviews.

What a fabulous report from the last performance. I saw one of the first shows in Bridlington and really enjoyed that performance, but this sounded like a brilliant finale. Like you I'm looking forward to what next year brings for us all.

It sounds like you all had a good time on Wednesday. Agree with others the photo of Maria and Gareth is a very good one. I would have liked to come along but only just returned from holiday. Loved reading the reports.

These are very good reviews and very well deserved in my opinion. Gareth certainly merits a special mention in his role in Footloose. He certainly seems to be earning very good comments from the reviewers and there seems to be surprise at how good he is. I have to say I think he may have found his niche appearing in the theatre. I think he's certainly showcasing his versatility.

Enjoyed your report Elaine as usual. Lovely photos too. I'm going in a few weeks to see this, but disappointed he isn't singing Empty chairs. According to press review I read recently many of the songs in the show are from little known musicals. Did you think that? Also don't like beard so hope it's not going to be permanent!!

Only just noticed this. Didn't see it this morning on Twitter. What's it all about??

Glad you had the chance to see Luke Baker in the leading role Val as we thought he was very good, but both my husband and I thought that it was Gareth's appearance during the first half that lifted the whole thing. I don't think we've seen Gareth in this type of role before and I think he's surprised quite a few people. Seems ages since we saw it in its first week in Bridlington now. Good to hear your husband enjoyed it too!

What a good review and I agreed with it all!! Gareth is perfect as Willard and it's nice to see him in a completely different type of role. I do hope he does more musical theatre in the future.

Lovely report Elaine as always. Agree with you the best part is where Willard is taught to dance. The timing was perfect and very funny. Very disappointing that Gareth didn't appear at the stage door for you and all those people who probably won't be seeing it again. I know you will be going again so it will be interesting to see if he comes out next time. Looking forward to that report! All in all reviews seem very complimentary of Gareth in Footloose.

No Elaine, we didn't go to stage door as we needed to get back for our dog. I did have a quick look around the back of the theatre and wasn't sure where the stage door actually was. Apart from Les Mis, Osmonds tour and Momentous musicals, none of the stuff Gareth has been in is my husband's thing so I am very grateful when he does go with me and he usually finishes up enjoying it!

ValR, I definitely think we should have watched the film before we went. Although I think this production is different, it would have helped us with the start of the show. I think you both will enjoy it though as we were both surprised with Gareth's talent.