[Ad-gifted] Last night I was at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre to watch none other than The Fleetwood Mac Songbook perform the magic of Fleetwood Mac at the fully packed theatre and what a show it was. The band certainly knows how to entertain and get the crowd all riled up, on their feet dancing without a care in the world!
Walking into the Victorian theatre, I could already feel the crowd buzzing with anticipation. We ordered our drinks and quickly took our seats in anticipation. The Fleetwood Mag Songbook is a six-piece ensemble with two female vocalists, a lead guitarist and vocalist, a bassist, a keyboardist and a drummer. The line up for the night included Aimi P channelling Stevie Nicks, Claire Thomas representing Christine McVie, while Dean evoking Mick Fleetwood, Richard Castle channelling various singers from Lindsey Buckingham to Peter Green, Rob Male playing as John McVie and finally Percy Giles doing his magic on keys, backing vocals & tech.
So keep on reading to find out more about the show and if it is worth booking tickets for their next show.
What did I think of the show?
I grew up listening to Fleewood Mac and have so many fond memories of the songs and memories that bring me back to a certain place or time. So it was wonderful to be transported back in time through the magic of music.
The chemistry between the band members is so evident, I love the entertainment value, the little smile, nod and eye contact which they give each other and this proves even more wonderfully when they start singing. The harmonies, particularly three‑part vocals, were strong; these are tricky to get right live, but they nailed many of the signature moments from The Chain to Songbird.
I love how interactive the show was, the with backdrop showcasing various photos and newspaper clips which showed the evolution of Fleetwood Mac over time. Both Aimi and Claire often gave a little introduction or real life inspiration behind the song they sang, which made the song even more meaningful. They gave beautiful rendition to the pieces and I love Claire‘s bubbly personality which shone brighter every time she picked the maracas or tambourine.
Although I was not familiar with the songs from Peter Green’s era, there were lots of other songs I recognised from the golden 70s as well as the 80s such as Gypsy, Rhiannon, Little Lies and Go Your Own Way. I also loved how Richard channelled Lindsey Buckingham with not just the notes, but the attitude and some of the technical flourishes.
The first half of the show started off with the slower ballads and the second half was packed with energetic numbers even including a rock song from Stevie Nicks‘s debut solo album, Edge of Seventeen. The band invited the audience to the front to dance and it was wonderful to see such a fun dancy atmosphere. I felt the time passed too quickly and there was lots more songs which I wanted to hear.
Personally, I think The Fleetwood Mac Songbook is one of the best tribute bands I have seen live, as their attention to detail was “on point” and it was not just about playing the notes or singing the songs but to evoke the emotions and be true to Fleetwood Mac by connecting with the audience.
It was certainly a night to remember!
Band Members
Aimi P Vocals
Claire Thomas (Foxy) Vocals and Keys
Richard Castle Vocals and Guitar
Rob Male Bass
Dean Drums
Percy Giles Keys, Backing Vocals & Tech
How long is the show for and what are the timings?
The show was only performed for one night at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, but the band is on a UK tour until February 2027. So o check their website to find out more about their upcoming concerts and where they will be performing next.
Where is Stafford Gatehouse Theatre?
Stafford Gatehouse is an old Victorian theatre for professional and amateur shows, including Shakespeare and children’s plays. In 2007, the Borough Hall was reopened as Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, by his Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester. The Borough Hall was originally opened on 20 June 1877 and the building once housed Stafford Borough Council.
Stafford Gatehouse Theatre
Eastgate Street
Stafford
ST16 2LT
Tel: 01785 619080
Where to park?
Stafford Gatehouse Theatre is in the heart of Stafford, just seconds from the main shopping centre and central tourist attractions. It is less than 10 minutes drive from Junctions 13 and 14 of the M6 and can be found by following the theatre mask symbols on routes into the town centre. There are ample parking facilities a short walk away from the theatre and cycle racks are available outside the building. The nearest public parking is on North Walls ST163AD and a map of public car parks in Stafford can be found here. We recommend parking at the Civic Centre ST16 3AQ or the Waterfront Car Park ST16 2HQ.
You may want to read this:
Review: Stafford Shakespeare’s HAMLET at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre
Review: The Shires – (Two of Us) Acoustic Tour at Stafford Gatehouse Theatre
That’ll Be The Day, Stafford Gatehouse Theatre Review
Photo credit: Stafford Gatehouse Theatre/The Fleetwood Mac Songbook
24 comments
I would love to watch it live one day, the show seems amazing…Although I haven’t listened to Fleewood Mac in a while, I’ve always loved their songs. To watch them live is a whole different level.
I keep hearing their songs on the radio, even today, it brings me back to the concert night somehow
I’m a HUGE Fleetwood Mac fan, so I am immediately skeptical when I see something like this. I’m glad to know they’re doing my favorite band justice! I’d go see it for sure.
Agree, especially when its such famous songs, you want the tribute band to do justice and I am so glad they did
I am not a fan of Fleetwood, but my mom is an avid fan. I will share this with her. I’m sure she will love it.
Yes I bet she will love hearing about the tribute band and how unfortunate that you are not a fan
It’s great to hear that the band really jelled well with each other. I think that’s so needed in tribute acts.
Agree, and it is nice to see the members getting along well with each other
The Fleetwood Mac show sounds very interesting. Got to watch it live one day.
Yes you must catch the tribute band in action
This sounds like so much fun. I’d love to go with my friend. Fleetwood Mac have done so many great songs we’d both enjoy hearing. Claire sounds like she is a great performer!!
They have so many good songs, and although the band performed for a good one and a half hour, felt like there was so much more songs I wanted to hear
Ooo now this is a bit of me for sure. I love to watch a good show especially when there is music involved with a storyline also. Fleetwood Mac tunes live sounds like a plan to me thanks hun xx
You are so welcome and i am sure you would have loved the show as well
This sounds like such a fun night. Fleetwood Mac’s music just has a way of bringing people together. I can see that the band captured both the energy and the emotion of their songs.
I had a good time, the tribute band did justice to the original band’s songs
I love listening to live music and I’m familiar with several of Fleetwood Mac’s songs. Looks like a fun performance!
Yes such a fabulous and entertaining night
When I was on my cruise last year I went to show called rumours where the album was played in full and the cast were incredible, it made me realise how much I liked Fleetwood Mac. So I bet I’d love this too, it looks so good x
How amazing that must have been! It is my favourite album off theirs as well
I love fleetwood mac , would love to go and see something like this , not far from me too
How lovely to hear that Kira, such a good tribute band
sounds like such an amazing experience! Love that they not only nailed the music but also captured the vibe and emotions of Fleetwood Mac, it really makes the show feel special and memorable.
Thank you Lavanda, we totally loved watching the concert