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Show Reports for District 1
Shows reviewed by Lyn Emmerson unless otherwise stated.
AMLWCH SHOWSTOPPERS
This pantomime was yet another piece written by Mark Bateman a past member of the company, and there was plenty for everyone to do. Based on the legend of Robin Hood the production got off to an excellent start with Narrator, Marcus Peachey setting the scene with his four groupies. The delivery of his score between each scene was very well received, accompanying himself, professionally on the Mandolin. BUTTINGTON MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY
Rogers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma first performed in New York’s St James’ Theatre in 1943, one of their finest collaborations which brought new freshness and vitality that it changed the direction of musical comedy forever.
CHILDREN OF BENLLECH PANTOMIME GROUP
Another triumph for the local young director, Katie Coomber. A lot of thought had gone into sets and costumes, the opening being bright and cheerful making us sit up and take note. I particulaly liked the Cave Scene which was beautifully lit and the colourful Abanazar's Palace in Act 2. CIVIC HALL AMATEUR PLAYERS (C.H.A.P.S)
One doesn't see this pantomime very often and it was a breath of fresh air to see something a bit unusual. A good mix of adults and youngsters brought this story to life, which intertwined with a circus theme COLWYN ABBEY PLAYERS
Written during a stay at Portmeirion in 1941 this piece took Noel Coward just seven days to write. A good choice superbly directed, the play brought out brilliant characterizations from the experienced cast.
COLWYN ABBEY PLAYERS – YOUTH SECTION
The tragedy of the Hillsborough disaster twenty years ago unfolded with this production by the youth section. The story, set around two Liverpool fans, Dan Grice and his forgetful friend Barry, played by Tom Morris and Chris Harvey respectively gave much food for thought
LLANDUDNO MUSICAL PRODUCTIONS This
boisterous and fast moving show was a delight to watch as well as to listen
to. The
enthusiastic
cast of young and older members of the company worked very well together
to keep the
pace and energy needed for this type of show. It was a compilation of songs from
musicals arranged, unusually, in the order of when the shows were set, with
everything from Jacob and
Sons (BC) to Mamma Mia (1980s). To add
interest and variety, Lara and David had added snippets of dialogue and some
contemporary pop recordings to link items and this also
helped to cover some difficult entrances and exits on this small
platform-style stage.
The show
kept our attention, with the cast obviously enjoying themselves and reacting
well to each other.
Costumes, by Marian Griffith, were well though out and gave each item a
sense of period
and style. Chris
Atherton used his cast well, with some excellent chorus work in contrasting
styles and a good balance of solos. Mention should be made of the
show-stopping “Confrontations"
(Jekyll and Hyde); the moody "As Long as He Needs Me" (Oliver); "What I Did for
Love" (Chorus Line) and the menacing "My Name" (Oliver), all sung superbly
amongst a host of excellent solo material. But this was a company show and we
were treated to some rousing chorus presentations, like "At the End of the Day"
"Tradition" and "Once a Year Day". Lara's choreography was brisk and lively,
with good use of the stage and the areas surrounding it. The stage
itself could have done with a little decorating to take away the plainness of
its surroundings. Lighting and sound were appropriate and added to the
performance, although a little more ambience in the hall would have added to the
success of this show. Well done to
all involved, on and off stage. As an enjoyable and exhilarating evening's
entertainment this was second to none! LLANDUDNO SHOWPLAYERS
Llandudno Showplayers have been entertaining hundreds of visitors and locals for the past twelve years with pieces from musicals, old and new, some familiar, some not no familiar but each one performed to a very high standard. LLANDUDNO YOUTH MUSIC THEATRE
I always think that January is a most depressing month, particularly this year with so much snow and bad weather. Nevertheless, my spirits were raised on the last Saturday of the month with my visit to LYMTs concert. The Company wowed the audience with a mixed bag of first class entertainment consisting of solos, duets, trios and full company numbers. LLANGOLLEN & DISTRICT AMATEUR OPERATIC & DRAMATIC SOCIETY
The plight of hundreds of homeless, abused and neglected children was brought to life in this first piece ever to be written by Tim Rice & Andrew Lloyd Webber. The Company thoroughly researched the work culminating in another feather in the cap of this multifaceted Company. It was a joy to sit and watch the tear-jerking story unfold how Thomas Barnardo fought for children's rights to become recognised citizens and bring them out of poverty in London's East End. MELODY MAKERS
Congratulations and very well done to Caroline Ward and Val Bamber on their first attempt at producing with this intriguing musical. I do hope that this will be the first of many successes for the two of you. A wonderful story portrayed on such a small area to work with was a real triumph. NEWTOWN MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY
A new team of young directors – Karen McMurdo and Bev Southall fully deserved the accolade they received with their first efforts of directing a musical. It is great to see young people taking the helm and delivering such excellent entertainment. This piece is not a pantomime in the true sense of the word; it is a romantic musical with magical score, transporting one for a short time to fantasy land.
NEWTOWN MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY
This show was a new experience for me as it was the first time I had seen the stage show. All the problems of a society wedding come to the fore as morning dawns on the day prior to the wedding. Socialite Tracy Samantha Lord is marrying ambitious George Kittredge. Sian Esselmont carried off the role of Tracy, fully justifying her casting and giving an excellent portrayal of the spoilt bride to be. Singing was spot on and Sian took full advantage of the champagne situation the night before the wedding. Gareth McMurdo was more than 'at home' in the role of Tracy's former husband C K Dexter Haven. Gareth was a natural in this role and his confident manner in script and score was just perfect,'Just One of Those Things' and of course the lovely duet with Tracy, 'True Love' being very well received. RHYL MUSICAL THEATRE COMPANY
What a super piece of Musical Theatre this show is! A true combination of drama, comedy based on the Tevye Stories by Sholom Aleichem. From their drab existance in Anatevka emerges Tevye, a poor milkman, his wife Golde and their five daughters, steeped in the ‘Traditions’ of the Jewish faith. A hugh challenge for any actor to take on the role of Tevye but no worries with experienced actor Mark Gairrusso whose characterisation was nothing less than faultless. His conversations with God were so believable and every aspect of his portrayal was true. The role of his organising wife, Golde was in the capable hands of Anne Burgan who kept her accent throughout and was a fine foil for Tevye, their heart-warming ‘Do You Love Me’ was excellent. The trio of elder daughters, Tzeitel – Susie Todd, Hodel – Zoe Butterworth and Chava- Laura Ellis-Williams gave us an enchanting ‘ Matchmaker Matchmaker’, each one wondering who the Matchmaker will chose for them, little realising they would marry against their parents’ wishes. Sprintze and Bielke, Jessica Williams and Mairead Ruane were both well cast and one could hear every word. Energising performance from James Pagett as the agitated, excitable Motel the Tailor, I loved ‘Wonder of Wonders’. Mike Wooster was perfectly cast as Perchick the Student with his new ideas and Ashley McAllister did all that was required as Fyedka. Denis Murtha gave us a very convincing ‘Yente’ the Matchmaker whilst Steve Claybrook took the role of Lazer Wolf the Butcher with ease. All the minor roles were well cast but I must mention the contribution of Carol Willams as Grandma Tzeitel and Angela Griffiths as Fruma-Sarah in the Dream – both spellbinding and superbly cast. The large chorus were well disciplined and drilled to the hilt, everyone knowing exactly what was expected of them and carrying out their tasks. Costumes pertinent to the period, a convincing set and clever lighting added to what was a performance of a very high standard.
RUTHIN MUSICAL THEATRE
One is always very interested when a new musical hits the stage and I was really looking forward to this production. Set in Celebrity Sanctuary, a debt ridden Rehab clinic, there are just two clients, the D-listed celebrity Melanie, vivaciously played by Rowena Owen and the middle aged nymphomaniac, Angela, excellently portrayed by Sioned Foulkes. The role of Valerie, the owner, was in the capable hands of Denise Murtha who I have seen on stage many times previously, and who for me held the show together throughout. Linda Cox gave us a competent portrayal of Valerie's loyal assistant, Pat. No electricity and no water prompts the arrival of the clients from the nearby Old Peoples Home ushered in by the proprietor, Mrs Hewitt played convincingly by Anna Mortimer-Harvey. STARLIGHT PLAYERS
A real triumph for Director Paul Dunn who also wrote the script and with a solid production team this pantomime really took off.
We hope you enjoy the site.
THE LEGEND OF ROBBIE NUD
Producer/ Musical Director: Ruth Purton
This was a huge cast - too big to mention each role, but Helen Mai Hughes stunned everyone with her portrayal of the Sheriff, basking in her welsh accent, scary make-up and outlandish clothes. Her sidekick Hobnob got all the Boo s she deserved. Zoe Crimlis enjoyed her role as Robbie partnering Naomi Evans as Babs. Energetic performance from Helen Parry as Mutch who eventually ended up with Dame Beth Wale played by Tim Morris. The elderly role of Marion was well played by Eirlys Walker opposite the Old Man, Sam Morris whilst good cameo role from Ruth Purton as Jester. Chorus was well grouped and attentive. Costumes and scenery were sufficient for the plot but script could have been quicker at times. Rap music was to the fore with the late Michael Jackson evident in one number.
Many thanks for you efforts and thank you once again for your invitation.
OKLAHOMA
Producer: Pat Edwards Musical Director: Joyce Gape
This society’s offering commenced with the unmistakeable ‘Oh What a Beautiful Morning’ sung by a confident ‘Curly’, played by Doug Skilton as he entered the auditorium. Linda Skilton immediately took the reins of her task as ‘Laurey’ as soon as she made her first entrance and blended well with Curly in all musical numbers. Julie Prince was very convincing with her characterisation of ‘Aunt Eller’ imposing her authority at the correct moments and portraying both a natural tenderness and sympathy towards Laurey – an excellent performance. Full marks to Les Skilton as Jud Fry, his ‘Lonely Room’ being a highlight. I did however think there was no need to bring the men’s chorus on in ‘Poor Jud’; I felt it took something away from Curly and Jud. Tina Lawson kept her accent throughout as ‘Ado Annie Carnes’ and was partnered by John Parkinson as Will Parker. Phil Watkin had all the answers as ‘Ali Hakim’ and fully justifled his selection. There were many minor roles which were well cast. Sarah Young and Sol Batoctoy danced well as Laurey and Curly in the Dream Ballet, which was rather short. The chorus supported the principles on all fronts, particularly the men’s chorus in ‘Trapped Tricked with Ali Hakim, however I did miss the dancing in some of the big numbers.
Your performance and enthusiasm compensated a long trip in bad weather. Congratulations and thank you all so much for your invitation. I look forward to your next production.
ALADDIN
Director: Katie Coomber Musical Director: Eunice Parry
Choreographers: Debbie Jones & Olivia Knight
Ceri Jones was a very creditable Aladdin with a pleasing range to her singing voice. Sophie Bebb and Suzanne Bleakley were the comedy duo, Constable Chop and Sergent Suey whilst Sacha Jones carried off the role of Madam Twankey with confidence, Aladdin and Wishee Washee's mother, with aplomb - fantastic finale costume!! Nice contribution from Sian Thomas as Su-shi and a little more volume from Emily Slater as Princess Jasmine would have given her more self-assurance. Regal performances from Emperor and Empress, Freddie Heney and Jamie Bleakley whilst Lora Jones as Genie and Michales Booker as Slave of the Ring justified their selection. Superb performance from RebeccaWilliams as Abanazer, one could see she enjoyed playing this role.
A few more smiles from the enthusiastic chorus wouldn't have gone amiss and at times groupings on stage could have been better. Nevertheless, always a superb start to the run up for Xmas. Congratulations and thank you all so much.
GOLDILOCKS and THE THREE BEARS
Diector: Kathy Roberts Musical Director: Janis Hopkins
All the characters were well cast and deserved the accolade they received, including Sadie Spangle played by the timeless Nigel Cooper, Joey Whizzbang, the clown portayed by Geoff Skelhorn. Jenha Roberts gave us a perfect Goldilocks whilst full marks to Vicky Ford who played Ronnie the Ringmaster, the hero of the piece, who was articulate in both dialogue and musical numbers. Benjamin Black, the out and out villain was brilliantly played by David Jennings whilst The Three bears, John Winson, Sue Hughes and Edmund Robinson did all that was necessary. Costumes were, of course, spot on from this magnificent team, and the set and lighting were delightful. Thank you so much for your invitation.
BLITHE SPIRIT
Director; David Huxley
The wordy script moved with pace from the onset with sarcastic banter from author Charles Condomine - Derek Owen and his domineering wife Ruth, played by Andrea Higgins. An eccentric clairvoyant, Madam Arcarti - Joan Smith, reintroduced the author's former wife who had passed over seven years earlier - Elvira - Sue Buckley back to the mansion. Good support from Dr Bradman - Geoff Edkins and Mrs Bradman - Judith Roberts. Excellent cameo performance from Shirley Betts as Edith, the maid and latent medium.
Set and costumes were of the period with props changed appropriately during the 3 Acts. The menage a trois which unfolded brought much laughter from the receptive audience and an accolade which the company richly deserved.
THEIR SCARVES WERE RED
Director: Sam Highcock Musical Director: Sam Miles
Lauren Price gave a convincing performance as Chloe who never lost her character throughout as the Goth whose home life wasn’t too rosy so she left and teamed up with the boys.
Sam Highcock and Emily Highcock took the roles of Mr & Mrs Grice, Dan’s parents whilst T Scott Edwards as Steward threw his stage experience behind the Company supporting them in all scenes but blending in with all situations.
The Chorus of youngsters together with the Girl Band were well discplined throughout.
Unfortunately, the night I attended the sound was very distorted at times and we lost quite a sizeable amount of script and the contribution from the Girl Band, but I trust this was sorted out for the remaining performances. One or two more rehearsals would not have gone amiss but nevertheless a good presentation of a most sensitive issue.
Thank you all for your enthusiasm and thanks once again for your invitation. I look forward to your next production.
MUSICAL TIMES
Musical Director Chris Atherton Direction Lara Boland and David Crawford
Reviewed
by Mike Barnes for Lyn Emmerson
SHOWTIME 2009
The show opened with ‘It’s a Grand Night for Singing’ from Sate Fair, and it certainly was a grand night. There were excerpts from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Wicked and an Andrew Lloyd Webber selection.
The second half gave us Gershwin, Boublil & Schonberg, together with a handpicked film selection which brought back mamy memories. It was evident this was a well-drilled and well-rehearsed group with harmonies being apparent throughout, and each member contributing full to the success of the evening.
The Ladies, resplendent in long dresses topped with sequined snugs and the Gentlemen with black trousers, waistcoats and bow ties. The evening went so quickly, time to finish came all too soon. Thank you all for such a professional evening and I look forward to Showtime 2010.
MUSICAL MADNESS & MORE
Directed & Choreographed by the Members Themselves
The first half included Cabaret, the lovely, Could We Start Again' and 'Superstar' from J.C., a comical 'Chu-Chi Face' and 'Lollipop' from the Boys, ending with the Company's 'The Impossible Dream' The second half opened with 'We Are The Champions' and other popular numbers including a rousing ' Farmer and the Cowman' 'Timewarp' and an excellent dance routine by three youngsters, 'Maniac'. Each number was well thought out and the whole evening was truly a team effort. There were two numbers from 'The Likes of Us', 'My time' and a terrific finale with 'Another Cup of Tea' - just what we needed. May I thank you all for your contribution and I look forward to your forthcoming production of 'Billy Elliot' (part of the national Billy Elliot project) in July at Venue Cymru Arena.
THE LIKES OF US
Artistic Director: Chrissie Ashworth - Musical Director: Greg Williams
John Gay was a natural choice as the Narrator, accurately setting the scenes for us. His voice put everything into perspective, being responsible for the smooth flow of the piece. John Whitfield portrayed the devout Thomas Barnardo with both austerity and pathos, demonstrating his versatility in all musical numbers.
Nia Evans gave a sympathetic performance as 'Syrie Elmslie', who supported Thomas in his plight and who he eventually married. Tracey Rawlinson was perfectly cast as the bawdy 'Rose' who led the chorus well in both Acts in a manner befitting her role. Lovely contribution from 'Johnny' and 'Jenny' played by the young Morgan Thomas and Molly Bourne respectively- I loved their duet 'Love is Here'. There were of course many interjections from minor roles but I must mention Tony Jones as the jocular Auctioneer, keeping control of the chorus in this difficult number. Jim Allen gave a wonderful cameo performance as Lord Shaftesbury; a small role nevertheless played with expertise.
The seven Barnardo Children were just perfect and sang their hearts out receiving the accolade they deserved for their efforts- well done! Much thought had been put into set construction which worked well and costumes which together gave the right atmosphere, adding to a remarkable production.
Thank you all once again - it is a real joy to visit you all in Llangollen
FIDDLER ON THE ROOF
Producers/Directors: Caroline Ward Val Bamber
Musical Director/Accompanist Joy Millar
The opening was well directed and everyone knew 'who he was and what the directors wanted them to do'. Lovely touch to open and close with Caroline Ward demonstrating her expertise with the violin on stage as the Fiddler. The individual groups, Papas, Mamas, Sons and Daughters put their mark on the Tradition number from the onset. Kevin Corcoran took on the challenge of 'Tevye' with a strict but sympathetic manner. His conversations with God were outstanding and he delivered many comic aspects of the script to the delight of the audience. He was proficient in all musical numbers and thoroughly enjoyed himself in 'To Life'. Kevin was never out of character in any section of the piece and he played the scenes with his daughters with both pathos and understanding. A superb performance. Val Bamber took the role of Golde with ease, exercising her authority with the family, and was accomplished in all vocal numbers, blending well with Tevye in 'Do You Love Me'. Full marks to Tevye's daughters, Tzeitel - Juliet Jefferies, Hodel - Ami Ward and Chava - Suzanna Blakeley who showed true professionalism particularly during the last three weeks of rehearsals when changes were made due to illness - well done. Nice contributions from the two younger daughters - Yasmin Innes and Ellie Jones as Sprintze and Bielke respectively. I enjoyed the strong performance from Mike Ward as Lazer Wolf making the most of this lucrative role, maintaining his accent throughout. David Lupton was most impressive as Motel the Tailor, delivering this wonderful number 'Wonder of Wonder' so full of joy and sincerity, yet never forgetting the nervous nature of the character he was portraying - superb. Of course there is always the Matchmaker and Carol Brown was well suited to the role of Yente. Geraint Roberts again notched up another success as Perchick the Student whilst Steven Blankley perfectly portrayed the role of the young Russian, Fyedka.
There are many minor roles in this piece, each one important to the plot and each one was well cast, but I must just mention Christine Peters as Grandma Tzeitel and Karen Roberts as Fruma-Sarah.They both gave hair-raising performances bringing alive the Dream Sequence, and together with the chorus, some fabulous make-up, gave us one of the best Dream Scenes I have ever seen. Chorus contribution outstanding even though small in number. Congratulations and many thanks once again Melody Makers - a truly memorable evening.
Rogers & Hammerstein’s
CINDERELLA
Directors: Karen McMurdo & Bev Southall
Musical Director: Emma Breese
Choreography: Joanna Western
Following her portrayal of Nancy in Oliver, Hannah Wilson coped well with the change of character and was just right for the title role of Cinderella – lovely rendering of ‘In My Own Little Corner’. Julie Breakwell gave us an authorative Stepmother whilst her quarreling daughters, Joy and Portia played by Teresa Fawcett and Freya Rowlands respectively, pulled out all the stops giving Cinderella a hard time. Their ‘Stepsisters’ Lament’ in Act 11 was memorable. Mike Clarke took regal command as The King and Gaenor James as his Queen, gave the production a right royal flavour, whilst Richard Jones was well cast as Prince Charming. Chris Clarke never fails to please and she was perfect in her portrayal of Godmother. Her rapport and duets with Cinderella – ‘Impossible’ and later ‘It’s Possible’ were well received. I particularly liked the Transformation Scene towards the end of Act 1 and also the Ballroom Scene in Act 11 where costumes blended beautifully. A happy ending? of course, which is just what we need in this day and age. Thank you so much for your most generous hospitality and I look forward to this enterprising company’s High Society and the world premiere of the musical Lorna Doone in 2010.
High Society
Director: Marjorie Meredith: Musical Director: Kat Bond
Fine perfomances from the versatile Andrew Bond as Reporter Mike Connor and Bev Southall as Liz Imbrie. As well as their well known 'Who Wants To Be A Millionaire', both solo numbers -'You're Sensational' and 'He's a Right Guy' hit the right note. Vivica Flynn portrayed Tracy's glamourous mother, Margaret Lord, with precision and Phil Evans just revelled in the role of alcoholic Uncle Willie. The performance I saw had Tracy's young sister Dinah ably played by Katy Collins, sharing this role with Jodie Breakwell, both youngsters fully demonstrating their talents. Nice contribution from Dylan Francis as Seth Lord, Tracy's wayward father and suitor Jonathan Davies as George Kittredge who loses Tracy in the final moments.
Costumes were very much of the period and I must complement stage staff on their swift and silent scene changes. Chorus numbers were well presented but I thought the stage became rather crowded with twenty six maids and servants together with Lord's Household Staff, I could have done with a few of them myself! Thank you all once again for your most generous hospitality and I look forward to your world premiere of the musical Lorna Doone in October 2010.
FIDDLER ON THE ROOF
Director:Barbara Meakin Musical Director: Tricia Gaskell Choreographer: Gail Astell
Thank you all once again for your invitation and hospitality and I look forward to Beauty and the Beast in 2010.
ACT YOUR AGE
Director: Mary Glaze Musical Director: Beth Attwell
There is scope for a large cast in this piece, and Ruthin fully utilised the Company. Various characters, too many to mention, emerge following the arrival of a heavily disguised 'Mrs Smith' - Sandra Williams, which leads to mistaken identities and skullduggery. Musical numbers were adequately performed but the score tended to be rather repetetive. Unfortunately at times, the comedy aspect of the script did not filter through to the audience, due to the timing not being 'spot on' which is esssential in a farce. The authentic set consisted of three doors across the back of the stage through which there was plenty of comings and goings. Nevertheless, a real challenge for this Society and one which has certainly broadened their repetoire.
Thank you all once again.
ALADDIN
Director: Paul Dunn Musical Director: Melissa Minnice
The large cast of adults and children was headed by Nest Jones in the title role with experienced Jeremy Davies as the most wicked Abanazer I have ever seen - fabulous make-up. Steve Clayton was a real hit as Widow Twankey- the audience just loved him with Gethin Roberts as Wishee Washee, Aladdin's brother. Peter Weston and Julie Roberts impressed as Emperor and Empress respectively whilst Ffion Vaughan-Williams carried out her duties as Grand Vizier. There were many supporting roles each one fully justifying their selection. Creative dance routines from The Gaynor Owen Dancers supported by an enthusiastic chorus added to the success. The show was beautifully dressed with full marks to the costume department but I felt scenery was rather sparse and the stage could have been dressed with more props. Nevertheless a most enjoyable performance.
Thank you all so much once again.
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