Show Reports for District 3  

Shows reviewed by Dee Mc Ilroy unless otherwise stated.  

Abergavenny Light Opera Co

King’s Rhapsody

Producer – Colin Lewis Musical Director – Stephen David

In October a beautiful staging of Ivor Novello’s King’s Rhapsody, at the Borough Theatre, Abergavenny, and a rare opportunity to revel in the lovely melodies and Ruratarian escapism that crowned Novello King of musical theatre. Inspired by the romance between King Carol of Rumania and the actress Magda Lupescu, his final operetta tells of the romance between King Nicki of Murania and actress Marta Karillos. Nicki, exiled to Paris because of his affair, returns to his homeland – together with Marta – to succeed his deceased father and is required to marry Princess Christiane of Norseland. In a fine performance, Stephen Clarke portrayed with ease and presence, the reluctant King and reformer Nicki, and Ann Collins superbly sang and played Christiane, progressing from Ice Princess to popular, loved Queen. Her confidant and companion Countess Vera, was a well-timed and poised performance by Liz O’Brien, and Deborah Harrington was vivacious and elegant as the devoted Marta - both with voices which were a joy to hear. Linda Evans impressed as the devious dominant Queen Elena, with Colin Lewis, colluding as the scheming Prime Minister, Vanescu. Mike Holland was in good voice as Count Egon, and joined with Christiane and Vera to make Gates of Paradise one of the many musical highlights of the evening. Nia Hawyes and Sian Harrington, were delightful as the young dancing princesses Kirsten and Hulda, with Jenny Morrison, firm but kindly as their Dancing Mistress. Cameo support roles were securely played by John Games (King Peter), Frank Walsh (Jules) and Suzanne Meates (Countess Olga). Cast and company performed to a high and polished standard under musical director Stephen David, and a fine sounding orchestra which captured well the style and rich melodies in Novello’s score. Colin Lewis achieved a production which brought out the romance, pathos and drama and was a rich feast for the eye with a stunning and lavish wardrobe by ACE, and handsome staging by Sound Base UK. A charming and lovely revival of a Novello classic.

ABERGAVENNY AMATEUR OPERATIC & DRAMATIC SOCIETY JUNIORS

MOBY DICK THE MUSICAL

DIRECTOR/CHOREOGRAPHER JACI BRICKLEY-CLARKE MUSICAL DIRECTOR SARAH FOWLER ACCOMPANIST JACK PINKETT

A slick, sound and polished performance of the satirical romp 'Moby Dick the Musical' was given by the Noda award winning AAODS Juniors at the Borough Theatre in November. This company showed that whatever production they are given they will excel, and their high aims were essential for this obscure yet popular when seen show!
The almost unknown book Moby Dick, A Whale of a Tale was written in 1983 by American Robert Longdon, and then the musical by Robert Longdon/Hereward Kaye. The show has had varied success in the past, staged by fringe theatre and colleges mainly. It ran for a few months at the Piccadilly Theatre when Cameron Macintosh took it to the West end in 1992. Now youth companies enjoy this fun, wacky show, and their fresh enthusiasm brings success.
There is something compelling about it, adult tongue in cheek goofy humour and plenty of innuendoes surprise, and the music is terrific!! These youngsters gave us a first class performance and with their skilful stagecraft also swiftly moved the set as they worked on stage.
Important sound, sound effects, set, lighting and costumes by Footlights Tonyrefail were very good, and the upbeat musical numbers skilfully paced.
Talented Andrew Fowler made an immediate impact as the camp Headmistress of St. Godley's in the style of St. Trinian's, facing its wayward pupils with news of a closure crisis, leading to the school staging a Moby Dick musical for survival.
Perfect casting of talented Andrew Fowler for the two challenging parts of this and the big role of Ahab, both extremely well done!
One to watch, Laura Sidney as Ishmael lifted every scene, perfect diction, a super voice and a performer who shone. A brilliant role by Tom Mogford as Pip, and Chelsea Viveash as a swashbuckling Starbuck was a singing showstopper!
Another demanding role Ahab's wife Esta, was played so well by Sian Roche. She gave maturity and class to blues number 'A Man Happens'. Aimee Mogford as Quee- Queg once more proved her versatility she was excellent in this part. Harry Jones gave a strong Elijah and Amy Price as Mini Quee-Queg was such a smart little performer. Elaine Goodfellow as Stubb and Ellie Mc Donaugh as Tashtigo, a confident duo with star quality. All the supporting roles, Jack Wheatley (Coffin) Molly Brickley-Clark (Flask) Joe Cox ( Gardiner) and Isaac Pritchard (Mapple) and ensemble work were super, enhanced by well choreographed numbers, and some marvellous team work creating the whale Moby Dick which led to the spectacular finale.
Congratulations Director Jaci, MD Sarah all the cast and team.
Many thanks for your warm welcome and kind hospitality, and every success for the amazing Beauty and the Beast in November 2010

Abertillery Amateur Dramatic & Musical Society

HERE COMES CHRISTMAS!

Producer Colin Lewis Musical Director Stephen David

This special evening filled with all our favourite songs was presented at the Metropole Centre in December and brought the Christmas spirit and a fantastic start to the festive season. Success was well deserved for this hard working enthusiastic cast who gave their all.
An opening I really enjoyed, had a well chosen musical selection and coordinated excellent choreography of this large cast. This lively society, show their enjoyment of this night even the Musical Director wears a Christmas hat!!
Focused, Nia Hawyes a special performer excelled singing and dancing all her numbers, Debbie Harrington shone throughout and gave a lovely rendition of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas. Rob Beyton moved us all with his well delivered, poignant Stop the Cavalry supported by the company.
Kevin Smith was on great form with On the Street Where You Live from My Fair lady.
This is an evening when all members can shine and Alan Jones showed his skills as he recited Abuo Ben Adhem Only Seven and the Party Hats Sketch showed the cast once more having fun and games at school! Experienced Val Rosser gave us a good Albert and the Lion.
The hard work needed to present this Christmas revue is well worth all the effort when the popularity shows, tickets are sold out and the audience reaction is seen and heard especially when the finale of community carols raises the roof!!
Well done Producer Colin Lewis MD Stephen David and all the cast and team of Abertillery ADMS thank you for a warm welcome and long may you bring us this enjoyable, happy start to Christmas!

Abertillery Amateur Dramatic & Musical Society

Fiddler on the Roof

Director - Ken Caswell Musical Director - Sarah Fowler Choreographer - James Quarterman

Anatevka came to Abergavenny in an impressive revival at the Borough Theatre, in April, of one of the best written and emotive of musicals, Fiddler on the Roof. The poignant story tells of the harsh realities faced by a small community struggling to exist in dire times and poverty in Tsarist Russia. Their strength and acceptance of life is told with humour, joy, sadness and love that intermingle into a heart-rending, heart-warming musical with a rich, familiar score.
In a riveting performance of depth and emotion Rob Jenkins, as the gentle, kindly milkman Tevye, fighting to retain his faith and traditions in a hostile changing world, played with charismatic warmth and a dry humour in his cosy familiarity with his God. His wife and true matriarch of the family, Golde, was a performance of maternal sensitivity and tolerance and their duet 'Do You Love Me', was a touching and tender moment revealing the strength of their marriage.
The main reasons for Tevye's anguish - his three eldest daughters - were delightful performances by Alicea Woods, a sparkling assured Tzeitel, Chelsea Viveash with cheeky radiance as Hodel and Rhiannon Munro, touching and emotional in parental rejection. Good individual performances and, together, charming as sisters. To complete Tevye's 'five blessings', Mollie Crombie and Amy Price were just right as the younger daughters Shprintze and Bielke. As the suitors for Tevye's eldest girls, Patrick Callaghan, as the timorous tailor Motel, proved a 'perfect match', with fine performances by Andrew fowler as the scholarly revolutionary Perchik and Tom Mogford, the gentle Russian soldier.
John Bannon was suitably cantankerous and offended as disappointed butcher Lazar Wolf, with an amusing cameo by Brenda Maloney as the meddlesome matchmaker Yente.
An imposing, stern presence by John Benjamin as the Constable. A fearful and chilling Fruma-Sarah (Lesley Grubb), a bewildered Rabbi (Barrie Jackson), with Daniel O'Connor as his son Mendel. Opportunist innkeeper Mordcha (Peter Winter), Avram the bookseller (Tony Reynolds), Grandma Tzeitel (Margaret Morris) - and the list goes on - were some of the rich colourful characters who populated the doomed village to make this an all round secure cast and company which sounded great.
The stage was filled with excitement and movement in big production numbers under the expert and innovative direction by Ken Caswell, interesting and polished choreography by James Quaterman, and backed by a fine sounding orchestra directed by Sarah Fowler.
Costumes (Ace/Meryl Herbert) looked authentic with the right air of poverty for the location and era.
A superb set designed and painted by Chris House swept away the familiar revolve and house to create a more open and fluid stage. An amazing concept further enhanced with faultless lighting by Ioan Wynne and Andrew Jones.
I was delighted to deputise for Dee McIlroy, who was enjoying herself on stage and my thanks to Abergavenny AODS for their welcome, and congratulations on a memorable and atmospheric revival of a great musical.

ABERGAVENNY PANTOMIME COMPANY

TREASURE ISLAND

Producer Stephen Clark Musical Director /Choreographer Jaci Brickley-Clark

Perfect for a cold and snowy February in Abergavenny a visit to a tropical island in the sun in the Borough theatre with A. P. C's fun packed audience pleaser pantomime Treasure Island. This is a commendable local charity fund raiser production with stable ticket prices for 5 years!
Written by Tony Bradford and Tina Webster and permission given by Noda this pantomime is very well scripted so the pace flows and it has many interesting characters. Excitement mounts, panto novelties are waved with cheers for the spectacular light show.
Experienced Ken Jones as Ma Hawkins gave us great comedy and his rich voice led the ensemble in some lively numbers. Peter Holder gave a super characterisation of Squire Trelawney, and Andrea Marfell played a good part as Captain Corker'Un and surprised us all with a burlesque fun strip!
Every scene was set alight by this enthusiastic cast who kept the action moving.
Molly Brickley Clark as the cute parrot Polly, used all her stagecraft skills to advantage. Snowy Clark and Andrew Fowler as Brass and Knuckles amused us all and interacted well with the participating audience, and little stars who came up on stage!
New and talented faces appeared this year, hopeful for the future of A.P.C.
Natural performer Aimee Mogford played a good Jim Hawkins and with golden voiced Chelsea Viveash who was excellent as Felicity, their duets were special.
Confident new performer Zach Clee with clear diction as Robinson Crusoe excelled, Honey Mc Kenna gave us a lively Martha, and a comedy cameo was given by scene stealer Emma Davis as the Beard Seller.
An excellent baddy Long John Silver by the gravelly voiced Len Lane with great stamina for one leg walking! What an authentic fabulous costume! Jane Gilbert, Good Fairy on her mobile, this young lady one to watch, certainly has talent.
Every pantomime has to have some outrageous characters and Ken Watkins Captain/ Mermaid with infectious humour and presence, and teamed with Phil Butcher/ Mermaid made a 'stunning' duo!!
Congratulations to Stephen/ Snowy Producer Jaci MD/Choreographer and all the 'Family' of Abergavenny Pantomime Company, well done!
The outstanding Linda Butcher, their Wardrobe Mistress must be congratulated for all her endless work for this production
Thank you for your welcome and a fun night that warmed everyone's heart!

ABERTILLERY YOUTH DRAMA & MUSICAL SOCIETY

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

Director Gareth Phillips Assistant Director Jan Harris Musical Director John Harris Choreographer Alison Davies

Abertillery Youth D & M S brought this very popular musical Little Shop of Horrors to the Metropole in February to a very appreciative audience. It was a sell out success and no wonder.
What an opening! Outstanding precision work and choreography in this scene and every one throughout the show, I am amazed by what these young people achieve! Thought was put in to every move, and positioning of this cast on stage was excellent.
The riveting Ronettes were all fabulous, singing, dancing and acting and created an interesting back up to the scenes with dialogue, lifting every scene in their colourful 1950's costumes. Talented Matthew Spurr made Seymour his own, a very strong and competent performer with a powerful rich singing voice and Hannah Webley as the fragile Audrey played her so well. Matthew Davies as Mr Mushnick made this man real! Fantastic!
We all cringe at Audrey's boyfriend, the sadistic Orin the Dentist, a super performance by Matthew Westcott who was enough to put us all off visiting the dentist for ever!! The star of this show is of course Tom Phillips as Audrey 2 The Plant, and this plant was just unbelievable and such a performer! Diving in to the plant was very well done by all that it devoured!! Change of scenes was skilful and silent, credit to backstage in this difficult show. True to era set, costumes and very good lighting by Steve Baker.
Congratulations to all the cast, Director Gareth Phillips, MD John Harris and Choreographer Alison Davies and all the hard working team A fabulous finale as members of the cast each carried a young 'plant' was a great ending to a super show.
Thank you so much for your kind invitation.
Congratulations on your 25th anniversary year and all the very best for the future.

BLACKWOOD MUSICAL THEATRE SOCIETY

THE WIZARD OF OZ

DIRECTOR NEIL ELSTONE MUSICAL DIRECTOR DERRICK PETTITT ACCOMPANIST PATRICIA EVANS

Blackwood Musical Theatre Society brought the Andrew Lloyd Webber famous favourite of the year The Wizard of Oz to the Blackwood Miners Institute in April.
Opening in Kansas on the farm we meet all the wonderful characters Robert Evans Hickory, Anita George Alimira Gultch, Peter Williams Zeke, Ruth Thompson Aunt Em, John Hughs Uncle Henry, Lee Jones Hunk, and they did not need to find a Dorothy they had two talented ones of their own! Looking for her dog Toto in the creek is Dorothy Gale played very well by two talented young ladies Emily May Larson and Natasha Jerwood on alternate performances, these were real shining stars for the secure future of Blackwood.
Black clouds gathering, as the scene is set for the twister, and was it some twister!
Blackwood made the biggest and the longest, the theatre shook and seats moved! I really thought I would end up in Kansas!! Brilliant graphics made the scene realistic and I liked the rainbow colours of the lighting and most was made of the different set levels!
We all enjoy the Munchkins coming out and these were just adorable, sweetly singing they melted all hearts. Energised Anita George as The Wicked Witch literally flew on to the stage and was an excellent and truly terrifying witch! A brilliant performance!
Dorothy met a Scarecrow on her way to the Emerald City a super part played by Lee Jones, I am sure he had came back to life from the MGM film he was so good and Robert Evans with the golden voice as the Tin Man and to complete the trio Peter Williams showed his comedy skills as the Cowardly Lion.
The Yellow Brick Road was cleverly constructed up and down steps which the four managed well as they danced along .
The Lullaby League, Lollipop Guild, Jitterbugs and the big Crows were all very good and a superb male Jitterbug dancer stood out, Callum Wannell, one to watch!.
Glinda a lovely role from Wendy Evans, clear diction and a super voice.
Doug Lewis Prof Marvel/Wizard of Oz gave a good characterisation and transposed well!
Everyone loves this show and never tires of the musical numbers, it really does have the feel good factor, confirmed by all the smiling faces leaving the theatre on their way home. All the best for your next production Guys and Dolls, thank you for your invitations to the show and Annual Dinner. Congratulations Producer Neil Elstone and MD Derrick Pettitt all the cast and team and every success for the future!

BLAENAU GWENT YOUNG STARS

RENT

Director/MD Craig James assisted by Scott Thomas Choreographer Leah Robbins

An outstanding open set, brilliantly lit by Mike Williams, with space for the rock musicians, created a dramatic scene entering the theatre for this hard hitting challenging production at The Beaufort Theatre in February.
Originally a success on Broadway, music, book and lyrics were written by American Jonathan Larson in 1992 who died on January 24th 1996 the night before it opened on Broadway. He posthumously won several awards.
Based on Puccini's La Boheme although the tuberculosis of then, relates to modern day AIDS in today's world so the musical revolves around the lives affected by Bohemian drug culture and this horrendous disease Every young person on stage was involved totally, obviously focused in the moment and gaining from playing these powerful roles. We as observers found the raw scenes both interesting and moving for these were the lives they led and there is no easy way to relate these harsh realities.
What was astounding was the rock band of brilliant musicians creating the essential atmosphere and the choreography by the talented Leah Robbins.
Kristian Morse as Roger Davies shone and was a force to be reckoned with, he and his co actors Scott Thomas as Mark Cohen and welcome back to Lewis Hodson as Tom Collins, gave such good honest portrayals and sang from the heart, in fact this whole production was just that, honest, real, we were almost intrusive the cast were so immersed in their roles, acting and singing. At times diction was inaudible, inevitable when a rock band is the only answer for this type of production. Craig Legg skilfully jumping in his high heels as Angel did very well, Golden voiced Laura Quantik brought intense pathos as the tragic Mimi, Audrey Evans as Maureen, Megan Dee as Joanne and Thomas Hier as Bennie all gave very good performances. A special characterisation of Mrs Cohen was given by Emily Nicholas.
Theatre does not just entertain, it moves an audience and this BGYS production did just that, well done to you all, production team, Director/MD Craig James assisted by Scott Thomas and Choreographer Leah Robbins , cast and all involved.

Thank you for your welcome and hospitality. All the best for 'Our House'

BLAENAU GWENT YOUNG STARS

BUGSY MALONE

PRODUCER DAVID JONES MUSICAL DIRECTOR ROBERT WADE CHOREOGRAPHER LEAH ROBBINS

Most youngsters would love to take part in this musical, playing gangsters with splurge guns, custard pies and 1920’s swiftly paced musical numbers. BGYS Juniors, bubbling with enthusiasm showed just how much they were enjoying being on stage at the Beaufort Theatre in October the second this show started. .

A very well designed open set greeted us as we entered the theatre with creative lighting and the smooth as silk overture played so well by the effective orchestra under the expert baton of MD Robert Wade setting the scene.

The splurge guns were soon in action to show who was boss, as Fat Sam a very strong performance by Jake Thomas is threatened by a cool Dandy Dann(Gareth Price). All the gangsters were well played, and Dominic Sidoli as the lead, Bugsy Malone did very well, word perfect, with loads of stage presence. A nice confident performance of Blousey Brown was given by Morgan Leyland, with a lovely strong singing voice. Lauren Elias gave Tallulah plenty of pizzazz and the famous Tallulah number came over well.

The lovely part of Fizzy was given sensitivity by Tegan Carey-White.
There were so many parts well done, all put their hearts into everything they did to make this a successful show.
Well thought out scenes with effective choreography and all on set seen to advantage.
The finale number really showed the skills these young people had learnt with their slick and smart routines.
Very well done Producer David Jones MD Robert Wade Choreographer Leah Robbins, all the team and cast.
What is achieved by all your hard work and inspiration is remarkable and appreciated.

Every future success to David Jones for his M.A.studies. Thank you for your kind hospitality.

All the best to BGYS for Rent in 2010

BRYNMAWR AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY

SINGIN'IN THE RAIN

Director John Roberts Assistant Director Jennifer Aylett Musical Director Tudor Williams Choreographer Gina Roberts

We all know and love the world famous musical, Singin' in the Rain and this successful debut for Director John Roberts brought a super show to the Market Hall Brynmawr in March and delighted audiences. Full of memorable numbers, hilarious comedy and great scenes of the first days of the talkies and the one and only showstopper real splashing rain scene, Here I must mention Ian Powell who did well in this scene taking the role of the famous most puzzled policeman of all time!! Excellent lead Tim Richards as Don Lockwood made this role his own. Tim Richards takes on diverse roles with ease, a super performer with a great singing voice and in this show all four leads are very important and they worked so well together.
Adam Carver as Cosmo Brown danced brilliantly, Lucy Phillips with her golden voice as Kathy Seldon and Anna Roberts as Lina Lamont were fantastic. Talented Anna took on this demanding part of contrasts and made it special.
What's Wrong with Me from Anna Roberts as Lina was comedy so well done and the amazing voice of Lucy Phillips as Kathy Seldon was a joy to hear.
The Good Morning number with Ruth Fouracre as Dora Bailey was also fantastic All scenes worked very well including All I Do Is Dream Of You and Moses Supposes.
Good supporting roles by Chris Richards /Roscoe Dexter, Stephen Clark/R.F.Simpson, and Laura Roper /Zelda Zanders.
A good cameo with Adam/ Cosmo and Tim/Don from Colin Lewis as the tap dancing Diction Coach, and good stage work from Elis Herridge/Young Don and James Watkins/ Young Cosmo.
Chorus numbers including Broadway Melody and Singin' in the Rain all had the WOW factor, enhanced by the superb orchestra under MD Tudor Williams baton and energised choreography by Gina Roberts.
Excellent costumes by Ace Costumiers, lighting and sound were spot on and crisp and unobtrusive crew made sure the many scene changes worked well.
Well done Brymawr and many thanks for your warm welcome and hospitality.
All the best for the future.

CRICKHOWELL & DISTRICT PLAYERS

THE WIZARD OF OZ

Directors Tanya Dudson & Suzie Keylock MD Jane Spiers Choreographer Diane Davies

The ever popular Wizard of Oz came to the Clarence Hall Crickhowell in March, and Crickhowell Players came through quite a journey to stage their enchanting production. Cancelled rehearsals due to snow and changes of cast and crew, yet all persevered and the show went on at last and was a great success.
Simple and very effective staging was a credit to the production team, and the creative and stylish costumes thoughtfully designed by Tanya Dudson and Suzie Keylock,
Katie Grenfell as Dorothy, was perfect for the part with good clear diction and easy stage presence. She worked superbly well with Scarecrow, Megan Purvis Lion, Anya Fryer and Tin Man, Judith Pingel who all reacted, danced and sang their energised way very well down the Yellow Brick Road and thrilled the audience, we always wish this well loved scene went on and on, every one knows it and we never tire of it!
The famous Witch of the West was played brilliantly with clearest diction by Maya Fryer.
Good chorus work enhanced every scene, the adorable Munchkins with original Munchkin costumes and their Munchkin Land, was given an effective kaleidoscope colour effect.
Elin Lewis The Mayor, and Pat Williams, Nice Witch of the North both gave pleasing characterisations.

Andrew Fryer brought plenty of humour to his role of Guardian of the Gates well supported by his well drilled soldiers.
The Showstoppers were the Three Malicious Monkeys!!
Judith D'Anna as Glinda gave a nice cameo and Tony D'Anna playing the coveted star role as the Wizard of Oz gave the role everything- and he had super transformation with flashing red eyes, so simple and effective!
Bringing this production to the stage created true community theatre.
The future is secure for this loyal company with enthusiastic youngsters and loyal members, thank you for your warm welcome. Long may you have the success that you fully deserve.

TOPPERS SCHOOL OF DANCE & DRAMA

20 YEAR ANNIVERSARY PRODUCTION - THE ARISTOCATS

DIRECTOR RACHEL WILLIAMS CHOREOGRAPHER EMMA DAVIES

C'est magnifique Toppers!! Celebrating 20 years, Toppers took us to France in the Beaufort Theatre in April.
Edith Piaf singing, spring flowers around the proscenium arch and all things French for this well produced and performed 20 year production of The Aristocats.
Young people who love to perform made this a lively show and they are all given every opportunity to give their best and they all did so well.
This is a very imaginative show with plenty of parts and of course who does not like being a cat?
Very creative costumes by ACE and Toppers gave good cat characters and their characterisations were gorgeous! Emily Blanchard was smart as Edgar the Butler, a lovely performance.
Tammy Jones as Thomas O' Malley and the five cool Alley Cats Taylor Lewis, Lois Williams, Kira Gunter, Lucy Williams and Cariad Williams were very good and gave contrast to scenes along with Kate Clayden lovely as the Aristocat Duchess and really outstanding were the three Kitten Aristocats Jade Hall Toulouze, Lucy Evans Berlioz, Erin Norris Marie, these youngsters had amazing confidence enjoying their parts, in fact everyone on stage excelled.
Skilful dancing on the small stage by all the dancers and ensemble was made special by original choreography by Emma Davies. Many Congratulations to Director Rachel Williams and to Emma Davies.
Great to see you all again Toppers. Congratulations on your 20 years of success giving all your young people every encouragement to do well in dance and drama.
Thank you for your kind welcome. All the best for the future, reach for the stars! !

TREDEGAR AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY

CINDERELLA

Director/Choreographer Elaine Hardwick- Moseley Musical Director Matthew Hunt

Snow and cold January yet here in Tredegar Little Theatre a magical world is behind the doors of this well hidden tiny special theatre with the amazing atmosphere. If you were here you would hardly believe what is achieved. There is nothing to compare with this unique pantomime it is just outstanding. All possible because this special band of hard working people love what they are doing, that is amateur theatre!!
An excellent script, fabulous costumes, well chosen music and choreography completed their success, so essential for any pantomime and all tickets sell out. Golden voiced Kristian Morse a super Buttons, relaxed and friendly, he held the audience in the palm of his hand.
Rachel Williams charmed us all in her beautiful gold costume as the Fairy Godmother.
Natalie Taylor a lovely actress, perfect as Cinderella, and Louise Preece as her Prince Charming was also outstanding, well supported by Kate Evans as Dandini.
All the principals had clear diction and very good characterisations.
Cal Evans and Andrew Moseley as Trinny and Susannah, well…absolutely fabulous, they took the stage by storm in their multi costumes, wigs and waspy humour! Jason Price and Adam Carver, hilarious as Bill and Ben were scene stealers throughout and with their down the wine cellar routine!! The Chorus, The Dancers and The Ah Factor Children lit up every scene.
Peter Musto Baron Stoneybroke, Clive Preece Lord Chamberlain, Raymond Taylor Major Domo, Jackie Price Bows/Fox all gave very good support.
Thank you for your warm hospitality and welcome.
Congratulations and well done!

TREDEGAR AMATEUR OPERATIC SOCIETY

SUMMER HOLIDAY

DIRECTOR/CHOREOGRAPHER ELAINE HARDWICK-MOSELEY MUSICAL DIRECTOR MATTHEW HUNT

Tredegar Operatic Society brought the feel good factor to the Beaufort Theatre in September with Summer Holiday the musical from the 1950’s film starring legend Cliff Richard. There was a great atmosphere in the theatre for this musical full of numbers many know and enjoy, and under the baton of Matthew Hunt a superb overture was played by the swing band and the pace took off.

A rain soaked London and customers rush into an authentic typical shabby café. Always reliable Andrew Moseley as Wilf the owner, gave a good characterisation and led the ensemble. Enhancing this scene a fabulous troupe of dancers on the extended stage gave a stunning routine dressed in rain macs using twirling umbrellas. A musical with many scenes,continuity is important and here the stage crew rose to it, swift and silent work.

We all await the red route master and the fabulous four young men and they did not disappoint, the route master was stunning and those guys had it all, cool costumed and immaculate as they would have been, all giving personality to each role.

Excellent Jason Price stepped in at the last minute to take the lead as Don, well done! His relaxed stage presence giving a professional approach. All four energised the scenes and Kristian Morse as Steve used his rich voice to give numbers kick, what a star! James Dyer as Edwin and Adam Carver as Cyril were also excellent and very well cast. Then the simply gorgeous girls arrived in their pink car! Rachel Williams as Mimsie, Natalie Taylor stepping in as Angie well done, and Stephanie Waters as Alma. Good performances from all the girls. Louise Preece was a showstopper as the American Pop Star, golden voiced with crystal clear diction. Playing Stella her Mother Alyson Matthews seized this role and gave it everything it needed to make it outstanding. She was fortunate to have as her co star Cal Evans as Jerry, great comedy, so well done!!

Spectacular scenes throughout as we travelled through different countries with two talented men Clive Preece and Raymond Taylor playing the officials, brilliant!!
Usually a youth orientated show, Tredegar incorporated members into most scenes to good realistic effect. Costumes by ACE were special, lighting Michael Williams and congratulations go to all the production team and hardworking cast. The red route master masterpiece was well designed and created by Peter Musto. Thank you for a great night.

Tredegar took us on a holiday to remember the buzz in the theatre said it all. Nothing compares with an audience singing Summer Holiday on the way out… magic!!

derek@noda-western.org.uk

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