January 1994

Region 11 - Edith Yates

THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE

Heysham Parish O.S.

This society already has a good reputation for accomplished Gilbert & Sullivan productions and this was yet another to add to its list of successes.

A first class, twenty strong orchestra, under MD Stephen Schofield, and a forty strong chorus assured us of a musical feast.

The scenery and special effects were impressive, especially the ruined Gothic chapel scene of Act II.

My only criticism of the production is that I felt that more use could have been made of the stage extensions so as to ease overcrowding in one or two big chorus numbers.

The chorus singing was superb and out of a strong line-up of principals Jean Miller as Ruth was outstanding - as was the work of chorus master Ian Entwistle. Not only the "fly's footfall" but every note and syllable could be "distinctly heard."

This was a show of which producer Marlene Haydock can be justly proud.
(J.S.)

BUGSY MALONE (Alan Parker)

Walney Junior AOS

This was a delightful production by David Marcus, with an excellent orchestra under the direction of Paul Bryden setting the atmosphere. Kevin Sharrock's hard work on the pedal driven cars paid off and they were staged to great effect.

There were good performances by Ben Montague (Bugsy Malone) and Stephen Hughes (Fat Sam). For me, Karen Shaw (Blousey Brown) and Camille Maalawy (Tallulah) excelled and were just perfect for the parts. All the other small parts were well played with great enthusiasm.

The production was a little marred by poor lighting which caused a loss of some of the magic of the presentation..

This show was a credit to the society.
(Mike Halford)