A fun-filled celebration of nostalgia

Naomi MacKay watched Here & Now at Milton Keynes Theatre, which runs until Saturday 4 April.

Here & Now is a glitter-soaked celebration of nostalgia, delivering an evening packed with infectious pop hits, high-energy choreography and unapologetic feel-good charm.

Built around the catalogue of 90s pop sensations Steps, the show follows a group of supermarket employees navigating love, friendship and second chances, weaving familiar songs into a light narrative framework. While the plot may not always be the main attraction, the production thrives on its sense of fun and communal joy.

To be honest, before heading into the auditorium I didn’t hold out high hopes for the show. Jukebox musicals can at best be pretty light on story, and at worse, utterly cringeworthy. So this production was a complete surprise.

Here & Now captures the euphoric spirit of 90s pop. The cast bring relentless energy to the stage, fully committing to the camp tone and upbeat choreography. The musical numbers are the clear highlight, with classics such as 5,6,7,8, and Heartbeat reimagined for the stage.

What it has in spades is fun – the script is surprisingly funny, with the type of one-liners Victoria Wood’s Dinnerladies was famous for – along with some laugh-out-loud visual gags (supermarket staff dressed as washing machines and scented loo roll anyone?).

Visually, the show leans into bright colours, bold costumes and slick choreography, creating a vibrant, almost cartoonish world. The staging – set largely in a supermarket – adds a quirky, distinctive backdrop.

As mentioned, the story itself is perhaps the production’s weakest element. While there are moments of warmth and sincerity, particularly in its themes of connection and self-discovery, the plot can feel secondary to the music. However, this is a minor drawback in a show that never pretends to be anything other than pure entertainment. Finished off with a mini concert that offers the audience a chance to sing and dance along, what’s not to like?

Here & Now is a joyful, nostalgic escape that celebrates pop music, friendship and optimism. Whether you’re a lifelong Steps fan or simply looking for a lively night at the theatre, the show offers a colourful, high-spirited experience that leaves you smiling long after the curtain falls.

Book tickets at www.atgtickets.com/shows/here-and-now-the-steps-musical/milton-keynes-theatre

Image credit: Pamela Raith