Inspired by world boxing champion Joe Louis young entrepreneur Berry Gordy follows his dream that anything is possible borrowing $800 from his family he founded Motown Records.

Gordy was responsible for signing and grooming: Smokey Robinson and the Miracles, The Jackson 5, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Mary Wells, Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, Diana Ross and the Supremes; from 1961 - 1971 Motown had 110 US top ten hits.

This musical is not a jukebox of hit after hit by the artists there is a meaningful storyline of the challenges Gordy faced, the racial hatred and inequality in the 60's and 70's as popular music of all kinds became more synonymous with youth culture, the artists gained respect and social position.They became icons and role models for millions of young white fans.

Edward Baruwa is super cool as Gordy, his chemistry with Karis Anderson (Diana Ross) heartfelt.

Anderson, initially one of The Supremes before going solo was superb, during her rendition of Reach Out and Touch (Somebody's Hand) whilst in Las Vegas she picked two members from the audience to sing - a girl from Perth, Australia and Rachel a Bristol girl who did her home city proud.

Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye, a Young Michael Jackson were all terrific supported by a fabulous cast with their well rehearsed slick routines. This is how I remember Motown back in the day, like it was yesterday.

There is no better way to start 2019 by seeing this great show which runs until Saturday, 2 February at the Bristol Hippodrome.