Over the decades Stage West has consistently offered quality shows to Calgary audiences. One thing they have definitely mastered over the years is the musical revue. When it comes to bringing music that we love to life on stage, Stage West wins every time.

Such is the case with Love Train: The Soul of Motown. It seems like an odd choice, Calgary isn’t exactly an R&B hotbed, and many of the artists featured never played here in person. Coming just 2 years after Motown Gold, it also seemed a little soon to revisit the genre again. But with a long list of classic songs and a talented ensemble putting it together, it works out to an impressive evening of music.

There are some familiar faces in the show. Lee Siegel is a 6 show veteran whose voice is always a show stealer. Katrina Reynolds has appeared in 5 Stage West shows and stands out in this production, especially with an outstanding Tina Turner impression and a spot-on Single Ladies. Rob James, who has barely aged since McMaster & James hit the scene in 2000, takes the one head scratcher in the show Blurred Lines and makes it work. It is always a pleasure seeing these folks on stage and their enthusiasm was infectious. In fact despite being well into the run, nobody in the cast phoned it in and it was clear they were having a lot of fun, which carried to the audience. The cast is rounded out by Troy Adams, Tafari Anthony, Andrew Broderick, Starr Domingue, Cavelle-Nell Romeo, Jeremiah Sparks, and Aurianna Angelique. While all talented, it is Angelique who brings the house down with a stunning rendition of Whitney Houston’s I Will Always Love You - it will give you goose bumps.

My companion for the evening didn’t recognize a lot of the song titles while perusing the program, but once the music started, one quickly recalled classics like Maybelline and Soul Man. While many of the group numbers worked, what most stood out was when the show stripped down or added character. Bringing the band front and centre around a piano to create a blues club for Etta James’ At Last (Reynolds) and Ray Charles’ Georgia On My Mind (Sparks) were very memorable for letting the singers voices shine. While recreations of Destiny’s Child, Adele and Bruno Mars offered a stronger portrayal of the artist and not just the songs, Troy Adams’ Prince strutting around in purple performing Kiss was another highlight.

So despite reservations about another R&B show, from start to finish Love Train: The Soul of Motown hits on all counts as another stellar revue from Stage West. Those that have seen similar shows in the past and are a fan will have a blast, and those new to seeing this style will enjoy it. There is something for everyone. I am already looking forward to the next revue, and crossing my fingers for a sequel to Canadian Explosion.