The Drifters Girl

The story of The Drifters, or perhaps more accurately, of their Manager Faye Treadwell, the "Drifters Girl" and her husband George. The Drifters are more of an idea than a band as their members change even though the songs and group name remain the same. Originally formed in 1953 there have been over 60 members, many simply low-paid singers brought in to keep the group going. Some of these, such as Ben E King, have gone on to successful independent careers but many have simply disappeared from public view. Fascinating.

For those of us who lived through those heady years of the late 50s and 60s (most of the audience as far as I could see!) what we remember is the songs and the precision dance routines, unlike anything that the UK had come up with. That slick presentation was slightly lacking last night as the six members of the cast drove their way through the show - there is a lot to get through and the pace is unrelenting so I can understand that. The four men play all of the parts, except for Faye herself and "Girl" who helps the story along when periods and events have to be explained to the audience, a feat of endurance and versatility indeed.

A good night out if you like the music but slightly unsatisfactory if you were interested in the story which is handled somewhat superficially.