Singalona at the Prince Charles Cinema
Various attempts to become a pop star have been thwarted by a number of factors in the past - Simon Cowell and the Pop Idol team being one - but the realistic understanding that I have a voice like a screaming child is the real reason for my failure for chart success. But never let such indiscretions put you off, as London has a plethora of options for you to showcase that undoubted hidden musical talent.
One of the best is the Singalonga event at the Prince Charles Cinema in London's Leicester Square. Not quite your usual knees up round a piano sing off (but plenty of those about in London), but a series of organised cinema events designed to titillate, stimulate and make you participate in the action you see on the big screen. This is all about singing along to some of your favourite musical films of all time.
In terms of locations, the Prince Charles Cinema (rated as one of the best by Quentin Tarantino) is second to none in terms of pure cinematic delight. Tucked away in the dark corners of the movie premiere square, the PCC is a venue like no other. A film geek's paradise, it shuns the mainstream to feature the films you want to see and the films no-one wanted to see but feel you simply have to see (so bad it is good). Dark decor with a downstairs bar, the cinema is in the style of an old theater, with seats looking up at the stage instead of down and being remarkably comfortable - therefore suiting any age, shape and size. Popcorn? Sure, but leave the jumbo soft drink outside and sample a fresh beer instead.
The beer, in hand, goes ever so well with what the Singalonga team have to offer. This was my 2nd trip to the PCC for a singing event, having chirped along to Grease only 1 year before. This time, is was all about donning the spandex, high heels and leather belts for a rip roaring showing of the quite simply bizarre fantasy epic that is the Rocky Horror Picture Show.
30 minutes before the show, we are summoned away from the bar and into our seat as we are greeted by our 'hostess', a rather sumptuous girl dressed in her finest suspenders (this is part of the act - and to fit in with the show - with Grease we were greeted by a T-Bird....get it?) and matching attire. We are then handed goody bags, in which each item (including tissues and rubber gloves) we are told is to be used as a prop during the screening. Yes, yes, it all fits....Shouting out that brad is an ARSEHOLE and Janet a SLUT the most enduring lesson we must learn when each name is mentioned on screen. The props are all part of the show, as well as the mandatory fancy dress parade when the bravest head up on stage and take applause to gather who wins the token prize. Even before the screening, the audience (consisting of mainly Hen Parties and dating couples) are well entertained and encouraged to get on their feet as much as possible - this is not a show for those wanted a quiet night out...
If you have seen Rocky Horror, you know what to expect. Those who haven't, just don't take it too seriously. The next hour and a half (with a 15 minute interval break for refreshments) is standard cinema viewing with a small twist - words to every song are on the screen and if you don't sing along you will not hear a thing!
A simply brilliant night of entertainment. The PPC is a must for any serious film fan, whilst the sing along event is great for groups, couples and those with an active imagination. Of course, fancy dress is optional, but do you feel you are taking part if you are not dressed up?
http://www.princecharlescinema.com/
http://www.singalonga.net/