January 2000 - Region 6 - Colin Magenty
The Sound of Music
Adlington Music and Arts Society
Director and Choreographer: Marilyn Brandwood-Spencer
Musical Director: Brian Lawson
This society has a very restrictive stage but still manages to come up with super productions, partially helped by one of the best scenic artists I have seen and a back stage crew which worked as a team with excellent results. In a show that requires many quick, efficient scene changes they were up to the job. This was a lovely production from the "Nuns' Chorus" until the mountains were climbed. Like all shows it had its highs and lows but, as you would expect, the stars were the children and I name them - not necessarily in order. Liesl (Karen Lunt), Friedrich (Desmond O'Malley), Louisa (Hayley Davies), Kurt (Daniel Whitehead), Brigitta (Toni Alien), Marta (Nicola West) and, last but not least, I dare not forget an enchanting Gretl (Ria Wane).
There were some fine performances from the adults too. Carole Slater made a good job of Maria. This role is always difficult as Julie Andrews made the part her own, and one can't help that comparison creeping in. But, in this case, Carole's sincere playing of the part came through. Eddie Smith played Von Trapp, not quite as I would have hoped. The bearing of an ex-navel officer was not there. His costume did not help in that respect. Having said that, there were some nice moments in his performance with both Maria and the children .
The split personality of Sharon Morris was well done as she managed very well the dual roles of Frau Schmidt and Sister Margaretta. I should like to congratulate the Nuns' Chorus as a whole as they sang extremely well.
For me two performances stood out. I must mention the superb acting we witnessed from Kathleen Watkins and her partner in crime, Philip May. They played Elsa and Max with aplomb. Their stage presence was a joy and shows just how much can be expressed with just one look.
In all an extremely enjoyable show my: congratulations to the company and my thanks to the society for its hospitality.
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers
The Birkdale Orpheus Society
Producer; Les Gomersall
Musical Director; Ceri Williams
Choreographer; Karen Edge
My notes said, "nice start." I was right! The music was wonderful under the baton of Ceri Williams and the opening song by Paul Edge set the tone for what was to come. The thing that everyone remembers about this show is the dance numbers. First you need the men - and then a choreographer to add the magic. This was done by a very talented Karan Edge who, not only gave us some wonderful routines, but also gave a nice cameo as one of the brides. Les Gomersall's production was excellent with performances to remember from all the cast, but,in particular, the magnificent seven, sorry , I mean fourteen. Alice and Gideon (Hayley Doyle and David Seibert) who both gave moments to savour; Frank and Sarah (Dave Moreland Smith and Rachael Jones), Martha and Ephraim (Anne Powell and Scott Graham), Daniel and Liza (Gary Foulds and the effervescent Heather Lewis), Ruth and Caleb (Karen Edge and Ian Ashcroft), Dorcus and Benjamin (Sue Lawson and an athletic John Hardiker).
That leaves only the two people who carry the show and hold it together. If one is not on stage the other is. This show was in good hands with Paul Edge, whose singing improves each time I hear him and who gave us a memorable Adam, and Liz Clarke who was a revelation as Milly. One scene in particular came across the footlights and showed that not only has Liz Clarke a lovely voice but also the intensity of feeling from both her and the rest of the cast. when she sang "Glad That You Were Born" was just one of the memories that I took with me from a production I shall not forget. My sincere thanks.
Waiting in the Wings
Chorley Little Theatre
Director: Bobbie Day
This is not one of the plays of the Master that we see that often. As it is his centenary it is fitting that a Noel Coward play should be done. And what a chance for all the ladies who never get on boards because of the lack of parts. Not in this play! No fewer than fourteen ladies are required for this funny, loving look at theatrical ladies in retirement. It may not be one of Coward's best plays but there are some lovely theatrical moments to savour. Under the circumstances I thought the director had done very well. The casting of some of the ladies and men I would query but, on the whole, it was a good production and with some notable performances.
The central characters played by Caty Cross as Lotta Bainbridge and Joan Adaway as May Davenport gave us some touching moments and wonderful projection. Wyn Tootle, who was Maudie Melrose, deserves a mention for her piano playing and singing and although she didn't actually play the piano she gave a splendid imitation of doing so. Margaret Miller's Bonita was a very nice cameo. But the performance that really caught my eye was that of Trish Pemberton. She stole the show with her portrayal of Sarita Myrtle .
Thank you for your hospitality and for a very entertaining evening.
Anything Goes
Hindley & Wigan Amateur Operatic Society
Producer: Brian Podmore
Musical Director: Joan Bond
Choreographer: Jane Quinlan
This production moved well, pace was there, the choreography was good and the orchestra did justice to the Cole Porter score. But, like all societies (well, 90% of them) the company is short of men. The result was that the cast was not balanced and some characters were also miscast. Having said that, the society members gave an entertaining performance and showed into the bargain that if only they can hold on to the young members the future of the society is safe.
The set was adequate and worked well.
Of the men, John Clinton's Moonface Martin was very good and so too was his sidekick Hazel Gould who played Erma. Her rendering of "Body Beware" was a high spot of the show.
Christopher Jackson as Billy Crocker and Adele Lomax as Hope Harcourt worked well together. Christopher is improving with experience and Adele showed she is not a bad dancer either.
We had a good all round performances from Christine Armstrong who gave the role of Reno Sweeny substance and drive. Although he was too young, and it showed, the performance of Peter Boon as Lord Evelyn was good enough to tell me to watch out for him in the future. For here we have someone whose timing was good and so was his characterisation. This is a name to look for in the future - stay with it, young man, and learn your art. And he was not the only talented youngster in this young cast either showing thr benefit of having a youth section!
Well done and thank you for an entertaining evening.
The Dracula Spectacula Show
Hindley and Wigan AOS Youth Group
Produced by Ellen Fitton
Musical Director: Joan Bond
Choreographer: Brian Bithell
One way societies can perpetuate their future is by having a youth section and, by bringing them through into the adult section, it ensures the society will be there when the present membership is not. Well done, to this society for going down that path and congratulations to those involved in giving children, what for many will be, their first taste of theatre .
The venue was not ideal but we had a well staged and choreographed show. Most of all we had enthusiasm and several nice little performances. Dracula (Ryan McLoughlin), Genghis (Andrew Yates), Dr. Nick (Lee Sillary) and Hans and Gretel played by Robert Delaney and Abby Kendrick all gave of their best as did everyone involved. Keep up the good work - and hang on to the next generation!
West Side Story
Knowsley Music Theatre
Directed by Stephen Titchmarsh & Claire Morris
Musical Director: Peter Thirsk
After this group's last production I looked forward to seeing a wonderful show - and I was not disappointed. We had 36 acting members on stage, and I emphasise "acting" for everyone was involved - there were no passengers. The staging was very good, lighting adequate and the many scene changes handled with finesse. My congratulations to the production team. "America " and "Officer Krupke" blew my socks off. Although we had total commitment from these, in the main, young people I particularly enjoyed the performance of Graeme Baxter as Doc, one of the adults. In the Sharks Paul Whitehouse's Bernardo and his girl Anita (Sheree Pilsbury) showed excellent acting ability as did Maria played by Kelly McNulty who gave us some lovely, touching moments. . The Jets Big Deal (Steve Hart), A-rab (Andy Costain), Action (Peter Corrigan) and Riff (Allan McHugh) stood out in a very talented cast but it would be remiss if I did not mention one actress who never stopped giving 100% all evening. That was Charlotte Tran as Anybody's.
I have seen this show on several occasions but in this production was the best performance I have seen of Tony. His acting and singing were out of the top drawer and a pure joy. Thank you Derren Dolphin.
Take the above talent, add a choreography team that has something special and you get what we received, a wonderful night at the theatre.
BRIGADOON
Maghull Amateur Operatic Society
Director & Choreographer: Jack Donnelly
Musical Director: Edna Lally
This show had a novel opening. The idea was good but for me it required more voice as the opening words of the song "Once In the Highlands" sets the scene. However, once everyone had arrived in MacConnachy Square the show was back on track and for the rest of the evening I sat back and watched one of the best productions I have seen this society do.
It had pace and a cast that brought it alive. You could tell that Jack Donnelly had been working hard for the dancing in the show was of a very high standard as was the direction I have come to expect from this talented man.
The set, lighting, sound and costumes were all good. This is not an easy show to dress but the results were very pleasing to the eye.
Tommy Albright (Tony Kelly) and Jeff Douglas (Les Hampson) contrasted well and Tony came across as a character in his own right with no help from the script. On the other hand, Jeff has some lovely one-liners and Les Hampson didn't miss one. This was a super performance
The performance of Pamela Ashcroft as Meg mirrored that of Les and together they brought out the comedy of the piece.
But there's more! Ex-chairman, Dave Cox showed that he too has a voice more than adequate to do justice to the role of Charlie Cameron. He can wear the tartan too! The love of his life, Bonnnie Jean was played demurely by Elaine Connell and came across well.
The singing by the principals in the show was excellent, no more so than that of the very attractive Jenny Morris who, on her debut for the society, made her mark as Fiona and showed that she can dance as well as sing. The villain of the piece, Harry Richie was impressively played by another newcomer, Simon Foster.
Three of the supporting roles are worthy of note. First of all we had a demonstration of solo dancing from a talented young lady, Sarah Culshaw, who played Maggie. Then we had two cameo pieces from Jacquie Padden as Jane Ashton and Eric Rimmer who played Frank, the bartender. Here was a good example of saying that there are no small parts, etc...
This is my favourite Lerner and Loewe Musical and I thank this company for its interpretation of this classic and for the memories I took away with me.
20 Years of "Song" - A celebration
Southport Operatic New Generation - The Youth of Southport Amateur Operatic Society
Director: Clive Morris
Musical Directors: Dave Thomson, Nick Dixon, James Stafford
Choreographer: Sharn Whittaker
For the last 20 years "SONG" have been entertaining the people of Southport. But more importantly they have been giving the young people an outlet to show their talent and at the same time giving them confidence to face the future whether on stage or just in life. Stars from the West End, and television came back on the last night to say thank you for the opportunity they received when they put their first foot on the ladder.
What I saw were the stars of tomorrow! What was on show means that Southport should have no fears for the future of its theatre with the talent available.
A celebration in song and dance that was a joy to watch. Well done, and here's to the next 20 years! Thank you for a wonderful evening.
Robin Hood and the Boys From Ruff Wood
Ormskirk Theatre Company
Direction; Gary Simpson & Andy Hawkes
Musical Director; Steve Caine
Choreography; Heather Furnivall
This was my first visit to this company and I hope it will not be my last. This was my first pantomime of the year (October) but one with a difference. It was written by the two directors and incorporated one or two very novel ideas which kept a full house entertained . This pantomime had every ingredient one would expect to find and if there was a criticism it would be that it was too long and would stand a little cutting.
There were some nice performances. One of the directors, Gary Simpson as Sir Guy Of Gormless, was very good as was The evil Sheriff of Wigan played by Don Ridland. And we must not to forget the goodies Fairy Nuff (Pat Baker) and the lovely voice of Laura Dalton who played Maid Marion and a thigh slapping Robin (Sue Morris).
This was an entertaining evening to remind everyone that Christmas is coming.
The Sound Of Their Music
An Evening with Rodgers and Hammerstein II
Orrell and District Operatic Society
Musical Director: Malcolm Fallows
This well attended concert took us through some of the songs of Rodgers and Hammerstein during their time together. I was a little surprised to find Fiddler On the Roof and Guys and Dolls in the programme as I would have thought that there was enough material available without going out side the remit of the title of the concert.
This society is very lucky to have such a talented musical director who not only is the MD but also is the principal male soloist. The choreography for the concert was well done and was at its best in selections from Oklahoma! and The Sound of Music with a nice rendering of "Goodbye" with the younger members of the society.
An entertainment which I shall not forget
Me and My Girl
Pilkington Amateur Operatic & Dramatic Society
Director: Norma J Houghton
Musical Director: Jill Hyde
Choreographer: Julie Chambers
It makes one feel good just to hear the overture of this show and Jill Hyde and her orchestra truly did it justice. The overture was followed by an opening which was original and, with the help of a gauze, made a lovely picture and transformation from the car to inside Hareford Hall. This was a good production and each member of the cast family played his or her part as individual characters. Charles the Butler was well played by John Dawson and we had an entertaining Parchester, thanks to John Draper.
Although they did not have any cushions in the 'settee scene', Bill Snibson (Simon Foster) and Lady Jaqueline (Alision Houghton) handled the scene well. Maria was played by Maureen Kinsey. Neil Butler gave us an acceptable Hon. Gerald Bolingbroke and Adrian Roberts was a charming Sir John. There are no such things as small roles. Such a true saying and one which was proved by Jean Aspinall whose portrayal of Mrs. Brown was a joy.
But, of course, this show has to have two good leads and here we had a wonderfully sincere performance from the lovely Diane Glover as Sally Smith and a super comedy performance from Simon Foster in the role of Bill Snibson.
This was an enjoyable evening at the Theatre Royal.
Trivial Pursuits
St. Ambrose Players
Director: Liz Proctor
The curtain went back to expose what I can only say is one of the best outdoor sets I have seen for some time. If you have a good set it gets that little extra out of the cast and the performance I saw was of a high standard.
It was a good play well performed. Lighting and stage props were good and the dressing of this set was part of the reason for it working so well; even down to the barbecue which was an important party to the plot. In the main the direction was good, making good use of the extended stage area. Only once did we have a character obliterated by the set. The pace was good and one had a feeling that these people were used to playing together for it was a team performance. For any amateur society which wishes to do a good comedy in which there can be a real feel for the characters this play is it. The plot is built round the announcement of a society's next show by the director - having consulted the Chairman, of course.
We had a strong cast, from Alan Almond who played Nick the director to the TV freak Eddie who only has a small part but it was handled extremely well by Lionel Glover. This role could have been played OTT but the temptation was resisted and in doing so made it into a lovely cameo. John Sangster as Teddy gave us a consistently camp performance and sustained the character well. Colin Woods as Derek was a gem. His drunken scene was extremely well done. We also had a sympathetic performance from his partner Deirdre played by Mary Peck. The central character of Roz (Jean Robinson) and wife to Director Nick gave her usual controlled performance and kept the pace going. Jessica, the would-be-star of the next show added glamour to the proceedings and showed that this character had two sides to her personality and was well played by Jackie Doherty. Gill Brown (Mona) and Jane McPhail (Joyce) were again both spot on in there interpretations. Pearl, the Treasurer of the society, on the other hand, was the healing light and a gentle portrayal was given by Kath Creer.
This was a play I had not seen before but one I should now like to see again. Thank you, St Ambrose for a most enjoyable presentation.
The Sound Of Music
St. Helen's Amateur Operatic Society
Director: David Charters
Musical Director: Charles Moss
First of all it's nice to see the Theatre Royal looking cared for again even if, at the moment, it's only the bar which has had a face lift. Long may the improvements continue but, at the same time, I hope the societies which use it are not forced out through higher costs.
This is the first time I have seen this group officially, but I have seen them on many occasions in the past. They have always been a very good singing society so I was somewhat surprised that the opening "Nuns' Chorus" was taped. This would have been all right except the company attempted to mime to it. It didn't ring true!
The costumes and set, in the main, were fine. I especially liked the gauze on the two occasions it was used but what a shame the french windows did not have a backing cloth. This fact made each exit and entry unbelievable as the garden was inside as well as out! Apart from that it was a good production.
As for the cast, well I have yet to see Michael Barrett give a bad performance even given a slight loss of memory at the beginning. He turned in yet another good performance as the Captain. Maria, I felt, was uncomfortable in the role and didn't quite get under the skin of the part although her singing was good even though she was suffering from a bad throat. Marion Quigley sang well as Elsa and George Rotherham played the loveable rouge Max. Rolf (Robert Hudson) and Liesl (Sarah Jones) were a delight. I hope they stay with the society. Young talent is in short supply and here are two gems. There were other young gems on view in the form of six young performers who now they have tasted live theatre will want more. The girls were sweet, the boys charming and the audience captivated. Well done Friedrick (Sam Baird), Louisa (Lucy Waterhouse), Kurt (Ben Stott), Brigitta (Lauren Nolan), Marta (Alexandra Keogh) and I could not forget Gretl (Grace Cardow). A nice acting performance by Mother Abbess (Maria Gleave) rounded up a very enjoyable evening. But I cannot finish without commenting on the beautiful voice of Janet McDonald as Sister Margaretta - a true gift from God!
No Sex Please We're British
St Paul's Amateur Players, Adlington
Produced and Directed By Kathleen & Barry Ashworth
As the producer states in the programme this is a farce and needs above all to go at a fast pace , which unfortunately it didn't at times. Also, the comedy and sincerity of lines was missing at the start but things improved as it went a long.
The set and lighting were adequate and we had two nice character parts. Barbara Taylor, who played Eleanor Hunter, and an excellent portrayal of Superintendent Paul by Barry Ashworth . Unfortunately, some lines were unwittingly lost and cues not picked up quickly enough. The play came to life from time to time and then we saw the level which should have been there throughout . Farce is not easy and on a small stage it does not help. This was a brave attempt that did not quite come off.
In Concert
The Three Towns Operatic Society
With every seat in the house sold out before the performance it speaks volumes for The Three Towns annual fund raising concert.
The varied programme encompassed a variety of numbers from a wide musical spectrum.Excellent harmonies by the full chorus set the tone in "Down By The Riverside" and memories of Simon and Garfunkel.
Musical highlights from Kiss Me Kate were ideal for the full chorus to display their talents while the Ladies shone with "Blow The Wind Southerley".
Soloist Lisa Murphy added to the evening with a beautiful "Maids of Cadiz" as did Derek Jones with "Today is Ours" and then joined by Elsie Millard for "All I Ask Of You".
The full chorus directed by MD Rod Dakin and accompanied by Maureen Roberts brought the first half to a close with a rousing chorus from Aida.
The full chorus opened the second half with "The Way You Looked Tonight" and continued in fine form with numbers from Oliver and Die Fledermaus (next year's production).
Colin Magenty added a touch of humour with an excellent take off of Norman Wisdom's "Dont Laugh At Me"(even looked like him!) A duet from Chess by Jill Bretherton and Kathryn Aldred and Wendy Henshaw's solo "On My Own" were the right mixture for the evening.
Joan Ashcroft was superb with "I'll Walk With God" and it was most fitting for her to lead the full chorus and audience in "Rule Britannia", "Land Of Hope and Glory" and "Jerusalem" for the penultiment item before the full chorus had the last word with a great "Rhythm Of Life".
A thoroughly entertaining evening enjoyed by the audience and company alike.
(J.M.
Owen)
AN OPERA SUPPER
Una Voce
Here was a concert of contrasts, with diverse songs and arias. They ranged from the traditional style With The Skye Boat Song sung as a duet by Clare Hyams and Pauline Barry to Verdi's aria Stride la vampa expressively performed by Maria Caravanas.
Before supper we were entertained with a selection of operatic pieces. Following a slightly faltering start with Three Little Maids we were treated to two arias from the Magic Flute sung by Phillip Wade. His performance brought the songs alive. Nick Hands, tenor, also gave fine performances including Your Tiny Hand Is Frozen. Amidst the arias it was a joy to listen to Tayo Aluko singing the Victorian ballad When the Ebb Tide Flows by Stanley Gordon. An abundance of good music is hidden away the volumes of eighteen century ballads. An evening of revived songs, or a similar idea, would have brought the evening more together. A theme or link would have been to the betterment of the event as a whole.
After a hearty Victorian supper we enjoyed a variety of songs and arias. Worthy of note was the The Laughing Song from Die Fledermaus sung by Rachel Ashton. In presenting the song Rachel added a feather boa - but it does need rehearsal to be effective.
Included in the after-supper-songs were several youthful interpretations. Full marks to Jane Clewett for her fresh approach to Scarborough Fair and to Elizabeth Costello who confidently gave us her individual style with On My Own from Les Misérables.
The singing of Ranee Severmatne gave a haunting quality especially to the unaccompanied The Eriskay Love Lilt. One of the highlights was The Patter Duet from The Magic Flute sung in sparkling style by Phillip Wade and Rachel Ashton. Nick Hardy's superb voice resounded around the room to the delight of everyone, although I was convinced he was singing just for me! This is the sign of a good communicator. His repertoire included Torna a Surriento and Nessun dorma which brought the evening to a dramatic conclusion.
Special mention must be made of the accompanist Maria Claire Gervasoni who played at short notice. A true professional who was very sensitive to the performers. Her exuberance radiated from the piano, sorry clavinova - where have all the pianos gone? Despite the disparity of the content, the evening was confidently brought together by the compère.
A super idea, 'An Opera Supper' but the performance could have been raised with a better sense of place, lighting to provide a focus perhaps, a softening of the staging. Also more attention to personal performances, gestures and smiles communicate so much.
As part of the audience I appreciated the musical quality of this group. With
evidence of excellent hospitality and organisation, plus sound musical ability,
Una Voce has a positive future.
(Barbara Worrall October 1999)
When We are Married
Waterloo and Crosby Theatre Company
Directed by Pamela Foy
This wonderfully crafted play is never dated always raises laughter, a play I am very fond of having done it myself on three occasions For me this classic of Priestley's has yet to be surpassed.
This was an excellent set, just right for the period, as was the superb costumes All that was needed was a cast to do the lines justice and they did . In order of appearance, Ruby Birtle played by Katy Bellis this girl was a ray of sunshine every time she came on stage. Gerald Forbes (Matthew Foy) played well with Nancy Holmes (Roxanne Plummer) in each of their sceneS. Mrs Northrop was well handled by Elspeth Fisher and Fred Dyson (Philip Moonan) not a large role but he didn't put a foot wrong. Two other lovely cameos were Lottie Grady (Nikki Burns) and The Rev. Mercer (Martin O'Boyle). The photographer Henry Ormonroyd, this lovable rogue was played to the hilt by Pete Slater. My only criticism would be that his waistcoat should have been badly stained instead of which it was nice and clean.
That leaves us with the three couples who think they are not married then find out that they really are. Ladies first: Maria Helliwell extremely well played by Joan Cook who put years on; Annie Parker showed her timing in her delightful scene with her husband (well done, Barbara Lawson); Clara Soppitt (Sandra Rimmer) and her partner Arthur Trill, who played Herbett Soppitt, handled well the scene where the worm turns!
The two remaining husbands I have left till last as they both gave performances of which they should be proud. My congratulations to both Brian Williams (Albert Parker) and Tony Waldron (Joe Helliwell). This was a most enjoyable evening, my thanks to all concerned.