THE Mods, with their scooters and Fred Perry shirts, invaded Wolverhampton last night for the opening of the All Or Nothing musical at the Grand Theatre.

I have to admit that I'm a big fan of musical theatre productions telling the stories of the pop icons of my youth.

The fact that there have been a whole series of them recently is testament to their popularity and success.

I've seen Jersey Boys, Sunny Afternoon and Buddy (all at the Grand) over the past year or so, enjoying them all.

All Or Nothing, telling the story behind 60s Mod group The Small Faces, is the Grand's latest offering in this genre and every bit as enjoyable as the others.

Written, produced and directed by the award-winning actress Carol Harrison, All Or Nothing tells the bittersweet tale of four East London lads; Kenney Jones, Ian McLagan, Ronnie Lane and Steve Marriott.

Dudley News:

They became The Small Faces and were rocketed into the big time, only to discover the path to pop success is paved with exploitation, betrayal and tragedy.

It is, however, the music that makes shows like this one and All Or Nothing doesn't disappoint.

This production celebrates the unique sound of the iconic Mod era in impressive fashion.

The show is packed full of all the timeless hits, including the brilliant Whatcha Gonna Do About It, Tin Soldier, Lazy Sunday, Here Comes the Nice, Itchycoo Park and, of course, All or Nothing.

It's not only the music that provides 60s nostalgia - the Mod style is brilliantly reproduced by the costumes and hairstyles.

One scene even features a beautiful Lambretta festooned with the obligatory myriad of headlamps.

In an emotional final scene, Chis Simmons (excellent in the role of the older Steve Marriott, the show's narrator) and Carol Harrison (playing his mother) provide a powerful piece of drama, something not usually associated with pop musicals.

All Or Nothing is thoroughly recommended for a night of Mod nostalgia.

You will need to hurry though because it's only on a short run at the Grand until Saturday, June 24.

Ready, steady, GO!

GKH