Packed with humour, heart, HERE & NOW – THE STEPS MUSICAL is a lively, nostalgic jukebox show that will delight long-time Steps fans and win over newcomers.
With a career spanning 25 years, over 22 million records sold, and one of pop’s strongest back catalogues, it’s surprising it has taken two decades for a musical based on the songs of British group Steps to reach the stage.
But fans need wait no longer, as HERE & NOW – THE STEPS MUSICAL finally begins its UK tour, opening at Manchester’s Opera House after a record-breaking premiere at The Alexandra in Birmingham.
HERE & NOW tells the story of four employees who work at seaside superstore Better Best Bargains. Caz, Vel, Neeta, and Robbie make a pact to enjoy a summer of love before Caz turns 50. But their world slowly begins to unravel when Caz’s husband Gareth betrays her, a tangle of lies emerges involving supervisor Patricia, and the supermarket faces possible closure.
Completing the main ensemble, Blake Patrick Anderson brings warmth as Robbie, Rosie Singha is fun and likeable as Neeta, and Jacqui Dubois delivers a comedy masterclass as Vel.
Other highlights include River Medway’s dazzling drag performance of CHAIN REACTION on glittering washing machines, Lauren Woolf’s sharp comic timing as Tracey, and Ben Darcy’s sweet portrayal of Neeta’s love interest, Ben.
But the real star of the show is the music. With more than 22 iconic Steps hits, including 5, 6, 7, 8, BETTER BEST FORGOTTEN, ONE FOR SORROW, TRAGEDY, and LAST THING ON MY MIND, the show bursts with energy, made even more enjoyable by Matt Cole’s lively choreography which makes inventive use of props like shopping trolleys and beach inflatables.
While Shaun Kitchener’s book is witty and warm, the story attempts to bend around the songs, which at some points, feels a little forced and flimsy. Even so, the characters are likeable, and Rachel Kavanaugh’s fast-paced direction keeps the show fun and ensures it never takes itself too seriously, which is largely why it works.
HERE & NOW is a jubilant, nostalgic tribute to one of Britain’s best-loved pop groups. Long-time Steps fans will relish the feel-good atmosphere, while newcomers will be won over by the joy and humour of it all.
HERE & NOW – THE STEPS MUSICAL runs at the Opera House, Manchester, until 13 September 2025.
Donna is the Founder and Editor of Frankly, My Dear UK. By day, she works as a digital marketing specialist, by night she reviews film, theatre and music for a wide range of publications including WhatsonStage and The Reviews Hub. Loves Formula 1, prosecco and life.
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