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Sounds of the City kicks off with incredible performance from McFly
Kicking off the 2023 Sounds of the City, McFly took to the stage in Millennium square and wowed the people of Leeds with a nostalgic and energetic performance.
Kicking off the 2023 Sounds of the City, McFly took to the stage in Millennium square and wowed the people of Leeds with a nostalgic and energetic performance.
Doors opened to the first summer performance at 6pm sharp and people started pouring into the square to get those front spots. A sea of cowboy hats and band t-shirts, the energy from the get-go was just electric.
The huge outdoor venue saw a few minutes of rain but not enough to dampen the spirits of the evening to come.
Credit: Millenium Square
Ahead of the gig, a message flashed on the screen which read: “Raise your glowsticks and phone torches during Star Girl in memory of Kel.” Kel, a very well-known fan of the band passed away earlier this year and with her mum among the crowd this tribute was very heartfelt.
The first of the two support acts took to the stage as the eager crowd still poured into the venue. Skinny Living, a three-piece English indie soul band from Wakefield, were the perfect energy to start the evening. The velvety tones of lead singer Danny rang around the square harmonising beautifully with his fellow band mates.
Credit: skinnyliving.co.uk
Next up was the pop band New Hope Club which I think it would be fair to describe them as a 'mini McFly'. By that, I mean you can really see this band having the same success as the headliners, their music and stage presence matching the early days of McFly.
There was then a short break so we grabbed some food from one of The Hoot's favourites, Spud and Bros, and a drink from the bar. I have to say the prices were reasonable, less than £6 for a pint, which in this day and age, I can't knock.
Punctual as ever, McFly burst on the stage at 9pm sharp with the same energy they've kept up for the last two decades. I have to say it's very impressive, as someone who has watched these four lads since 2004 you always know what your getting and that's a sparkling performance.
Credit: Millenium Square
All eyes were on band member Dougie as he jumped onto the stage in baggy white dungarees and no top on underneath them. It’s fair to say you could hear the longing screams across Leeds, and that was just from me.
Credit: Millenium Square
They opened the show with a song from their brand new album 'Where did all the guitars go?' and even those in the crowd there for the classics loved it. From that point onwards it was all dancing, singing and synchronised hand clapping.
Making their way through the 14-song set list, the band had smiles on every face in the crowd as they jumped across the huge stage. While they included a few of their newer songs they kept us OG's happy with all the best classics. 'Obviously' had everyone with their hands in the air and singing along to the 20 year old tune (that makes me feel old).
They ended the set with my personal favourite song 'Star Girl' and of course the crowd absolutely loved it, leg kicking all over the place. The song was dedicated to super fan Kel who sadly passed away earlier this year, lead singer Tom Fletcher said a few kind words and the crowd held there glow-sticks high in the sky for Kel.
With a big thank you to everyone for coming, the four lads waved there goodbyes as a very grateful crowd clapped and cheered.
I know what you're thinking, no mention of everyone's favourite wedding song, there must be an encore. The band reappeared and the opening melody of 'All About You' sent gasps around the square.
To everyone's surprise and pure delight, the cheering continues as those famous lyrics echoed around the venue, 'She's got a lip ring and five colours in her hair'. There wasn't one person in that square not singing along to the iconic song that opened many a primary school discos.
And with that, the opening night of Sounds of the City came to an end. Although despite my best efforts my evening didn't end with Dougie and I sharing a takeaway pizza and reminiscing about the good old days, it was a really wonderful evening.
Bastille, The Wombats, Shed Seven, Morrissey, Blossoms and Kasabian will all be taking to the stage over the next fortnight at Millennium Square. While a couple of shows are sold out, you can still get your hands on tickets for others.
Feature Image - Millennium Square
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Legally Blonde at Leeds Grand Theatre – a powerful portrayal drenched in pink | Review
Nearly twenty years on, Legally Blonde still reminds audiences never to underestimate themselves.
There is something wonderfully refreshing about a musical that embraces joy without irony, and the 2026 touring production of Legally Blonde at the Leeds Grand Theatre & Opera House does exactly that.
This sparkling revival captures all the charm, humour, and heart that has made the show a modern musical theatre favourite, proving that Elle Woods' story has lost none of its appeal.
Adapted from the beloved 2001 film, Legally Blonde remains far more than a fluffy feel-good comedy. Nearly twenty years after its Broadway debut, its themes of self-worth, perseverance and refusing to be underestimated continue to resonate, making the show's message feel as relevant as ever.
Image: Supplied
From the opening strains of 'Omigod You Guys!', the production establishes an infectious energy that rarely lets up.
Much of its success lies in Leah Hill's exhilarating choreography, which is packed with vitality and executed with astonishing precision. The ensemble attacks every routine with unwavering commitment, and the athletic feat that is 'Whipped Into Shape' proves a particular highlight. I will forever question how nobody appears remotely out of breath in this number.
Images: Supplied
At the centre of it all is Amber Davies, who proves herself perfectly suited to the role of Elle Woods. Effortlessly capturing the character's optimism and determination, Davies delivers a performance that goes far beyond the familiar blonde stereotype.
She brings warmth, vulnerability and impeccable comic timing to the role, ensuring that Elle's transformation from heartbroken sorority president to accomplished law student feels both authentic and genuinely moving.
Image: Supplied
Vocally, Davies is superb. She tackles the demanding score with apparent ease, bringing emotional depth to the title number whilst delivering a thrilling rendition of 'So Much Better'. Her natural comic playfulness shines throughout, making both performer and character utterly irresistible.
Equally memorable is Karen Mavundukure's delightful turn as Paulette Bonafonté. Bringing warmth and comic flair in abundance, she proves herself as one of the evening's standout performers. Her heartfelt rendition of 'Ireland' beautifully captures the character's hopes and insecurities, while her scenes with Kyle provide some of the night's biggest laughs.
What makes Legally Blonde so enduring is its sincerity. Rather than making Elle Woods the punchline, the show celebrates kindness, female friendship and self-belief. In a world often quick to judge, there is something deeply appealing about a story that wears its optimism so proudly.
Legally Blonde is running until 13 June at Leeds Grand Theatre & Opera House and you can grab your tickets here.
Five of the best new openings in Leeds recently – from ice bath cafes to listening bars
Clementine Hall
It's been a brilliant couple of months for new openings in Leeds.
We don't know about you, but we think our city is really thriving with all it has to offer at the moment.
There's been a flurry of new spots opening up, and if you haven't visited them then we urge you to check them out.
But first, allow us to tell you all about them...
Domo
Tower works, 2 Globe Rd, Holbeck, LS11 5QG
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Introducing Domo, an independent restaurant born in Sheffield that is loved by many for its delicious food, inviting atmosphere and stellar service.
Run by Raffaele Busceddu and Sarah May Elliott, Domo serves a range of traditional Sardinian specialities that aren't often seen outside the island, all made entirely in-house.
Located right on the water's edge, we've got a feeling this is going to be our go-to spot this summer for long lunches fuelled by spritzes.
Also born in Sheffield, this one's for the matcha lovers and we know there's a lot of you. Think iced banana bread matcha, superfood smoothies and refreshing acai bowls served in a super cool setting.
Kontrast
84-86 Railway Street, Saxton Gardens, LS9 8HB
Images: The Hoot Leeds
After already making a big name for themselves over in Manchester, Kontrast has brought its popular sauna and ice bath cafe concept over to Leeds. Located under the railway arches, Kontrast features two traditional saunas, one infrared sauna, and four ice baths, each varying in temperature between three and 13 degrees. It's the perfect space to enjoy solo or with a group of like-minded wellness-loving people.
Scott and his partner have opened the coolest, 70's inspired record bar that is full of his massive record collection alongside a carefully curated cocktail menu with a twist. With the best view of Sunny Bank Mills, Pardon Me is just the most chilled out place to watch the world go by whilst sipping on a coffee or a glass of wine whilst hearing everything from hip hop and soul to deep house, and disco. We loved our visit and we know you will too.
We all know and bloody love Silver's Deli over in Bramley, but now they’ve branched out to Farsley and opened the wonderful their very own bakery which is already a sell-out.
The all-new neighbourhood bakehouse is slinging out the likes of homemade focaccia, buttermilk brownies, sausage rolls, cookies, tiramisu and, of course, the ever-so-famous sandos but this time in homemade, fluffy focaccia.
Abbie Bartlett -
7th July 2023 
