David Hasselhoff Makes A Welcome Return To Wimbledon

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Review: 'Last Night A DJ Saved My Life'

If you're of a certain age and are prepared to let your guard drop slightly, then head down to New Wimbledon Theatre to see 'Last Night A DJ Saved My Life'.

David Hasselhoff is the 'big name' in this show, which includes some hilarious parodies of both Knight Rider and Baywatch. But the rest of the cast make this far from a one-man performance which will get everyone dancing in the aisles.

The story centres on 17-year-old Penny's trip to Ibiza to see her estranged father Ross (played by Hasselhoff), who runs a nightclub on the island.

Music takes centre stage as the show unfolds, with hits from the 1980s featuring from the off - including 'Never Gonna Give You Up', 'I Think We're Alone Now' and 'Papa Don't Preach'.

But the scenery also adds to the atmosphere, with videos above the stage reinforcing the moment. It helps the audience become convinced they really did travel from Luton Airport to Ibiza, then onto a nightclub, a town square and the beach.

Behind all that there is a tale to tell, as DJ Ross has to realise not only that Penny is getting older, but Ibiza's visitors are increasingly interested in acid house music as well as the associated illegal temptations on offer.

Twinkle-eyed Shane Richie Junior is Penny's suitor, as well as master of the latest form of music. One of the highlights of the evening is when Ebenezer, played by Barry Bloxham, sings an electrifying version of 'Ebenezer Goode'. He's the bad boy of the show and the audience are soon 'boo-ing' as he hands out ecstasy pills in the club.

There is a predictable end to the story, but it's not without some surprises. I have to admit that the brief segment of audience participation was the funniest part of the evening (thanks to Claire, who was sitting in the cheery row behind me). But other memorable moments included Ross harking back to the opening sequence of Baywatch and the performance of Spanish barman Jose, which harked back to Fawlty Towers' Manuel.

Last Night A DJ Saved My Life, which runs at New Wimbledon Theatre until Saturday (February 6) is simply a great night out. If you're happy to let yourself go and fancy a trip down memory lane, then try not to miss it.

By Sue Choularton

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February 3, 2016