THEY were the Mormon version of the Von Trapps and, thanks to bags of vocal talent and a squeaky clean boy next door image, they sold more than 100 million records worldwide.
It's no surprise then that this excellent new musical, based on the story of The Osmonds, comes with more than a hint of hysteria from the audience.
It's a shame though that the overenthusiastic fans close to us felt that we'd rather hear their out-of-tune warblings than the uniformly exceptional performances from the talented cast.
READ MORE: Spongebob The Musical UK premiere tour to launch in Southampton in 2023
They had the crowd, Osmonds fans or otherwise, swooning and swaying and singing too loud.
All the classics from the band's 70s heyday are here, including superb renditions of Love Me for a Reason, Puppy Love and Crazy Horses.
It was written by middle brother Jay Osmond who is possibly a bit too close to the action to be an impartial commentator.
The Osmonds: A New Musical tells the story of a family obsession from a childhood barbershop quartet to their first big break in showbiz, which was followed by global superstardom and hit after hit.
From their star residency on The Andy Williams Show, to the arrival of Donny and Marie, we see the tale of their chart-topping albums, selling out arenas worldwide and making record-breaking TV shows until a bad business decision saw it all come crashing down.
It's a brilliant concert show, but barely scratches the surface in terms of family tensions and trauma. Father George, for example, gets off very lightly for his military rod of iron approach to parenting which saw the talented young Osmonds forced to get up at 4.30am to practise.
There's barely a cross word until possible bankruptcy is discussed.
By now, we're desperate for a dance and everyone is on their feet for a rousing finale featuring many of the family's biggest hits.
If you are an Osmonds fan, you will be reminded that you do love them for a reason.
The Osmonds: A New Musical runs until Saturday. Tickets from mayflower.org.uk or 023 8071 1811.
A message from the Editor
Thank you for reading this article - we appreciate your support in reading the Daily Echo.
Subscribing to the Echo means you have unrestricted access to the latest news, features and Saints coverage - all with an advertising-light website.
You will also have full access to Saintsplus, your new home for Southampton FC tactical analysis, features and much, much more.
Don't just take my word for it - subscribe today.
Follow the latest breaking news in the Southampton area by searching Southampton News - Breaking News and Incidents on Facebook
Follow the latest court and crime news on our dedicated group by searching Hampshire Court and Crime News on Facebook
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel