80s pop icon Jason Donovan give's a 5 star Performance at The Anvil Basingstoke

Editor Stephen Hill 8th March 2025

When it comes to Pop royalty and nostalgia, there's nothing quite like belting out the words to the songs of your youth. 

Thanks to Jason Donovan, the enthusiastic audience at his sold out show at  The Anvil experienced this magic firsthand. 

Despite it being a school night, the atmosphere was electric. Longtime fans who have followed him since the late 80s filled the venue, proudly wearing T-shirts emblazoned with his face. 

The crowd was on their feet early, dancing and singing along to popular hits like "Nothing Can Divide Us," "Too Many Broken Hearts," and "Sealed With A Kiss."   

As footage of Donovan's early years played on the screens behind him, we saw the joy and excitement he inspired in countless fans, capturing the essence of his journey as a teenage heartthrob. 

Donovan,  who first appeared on screens as Scott Robinson in the hit show Neighbours was clearly born to entertain, he delivered a remarkable performance alongside his talented band and backing singer.   

A poignant moment arose when he performed a ‘duet’ of "I’ve Got You Under My Skin" with his father, Terence Donovan, using recorded footage from 1961. 

The setlist showcased songs from the musicals Donovan has starred in, including "Priscilla" and "Rocky Horror," culminating in the powerful "Any Dream Will Do" from "Joseph," which united everyone in song and spirit.   

Just when you thought the show had peaked, Donovan proved me wrong, returning with an energetic performance interspersed with reflections on his life and career. 

He even grabbed a skateboard to zoom around the stage, embodying pure joy. He celebrated the power of music and nostalgia, highlighting the incredible feeling of togetherness among the audience—sharing a memorable moment. With a few light-hearted jokes about the menopause, Donovan connected effortlessly with his audience, sharing snippets of his family life with his wife and three children.   

He left the stage without performing his biggest hit, but the audience fervently chanted for his return. And return he did, as everyone waved their phone lights in the air, singing along to "Especially For You," culminating in a playful moment when a fan tossed a bra on stage. It was truly a  wonderful night to remember, inspiring hope and happiness for every fan who has journeyed with Donovan from the very beginning. Truly magnificent.