January 2003 - Region 2 - Keith Painter
RATTLE OF A SIMPLE MAN & A NIGHT IN NOVEMBER
ARNOLD SCHOOL
Two plays in one evening! the first, Rattle of a Simple Man, with just two characters was very good. The two actors, Ben Hynes and Gwyneth Owen-Pullin are both experienced and will surely go on to great things.
The play is about a shy man who meets up with a lady of the night. His mates bet he won't spend the night with her but uncharacteristically for him he does.
She takes him back to her basement flat and tries her best to seduce him. She tells him tales of her rich family and exciting life, which he believes. But after hearing his story of loneliness and boring job, she relents and tells the truth.
He does eventually take off his overcoat but nothing else. After they spend the night talking, he puts his coat back on and leaves!
The second play had just one character, Kenneth McAllister, an Irish goverment officail who had gone to a football match with his father-in-law.
He was shocked to find the football fans anger and bigotry against the opposition and began to doubt his own motives.
Ben Hynes played all the various characters in the play from his wife and father-in-law to the neighbour and a child.
During the second act he throws caution to the wind and travels to America for the World Cup match where he finally realises he is indeed an Irishman. It was gratifying to see this very accomplished performance from Ben. Thank you.
THE SOUND OF MUSIC
Arnold School
This musical is not really a show for children to put on. Although some of the principals sang beautifully it was not one of Arnold School's better productions.
I did enjoy the evening but felt some of the smaller parts weren't up to the job. However, at least everyone had a go and hopefully will persevere to make the next performance a better one.
THE CHALK GARDEN
Arnold School
Directed by Colin Snell this play tells the story of an unruly child and the applicants for a job to look after her. The lady who eventually gets the position isn't too keen on little girls so, of course, the girl plays her up all the more.
All the characters in the play did a good job and the set was nice and simple.
MY FAIR LADY
Blackpool & Fylde Light Opera Company
This show was produced by John Shedwick and what a wonderful job he made of it.
I would like to thank Glyn Lloyd as musical director for the excellent orchestra.
Roger Lloyd Jones as Higgins gave us an inspired interpretation of the classic part. Colonel Pickering ably assisted him and Eliza was delightful and had a magnificent singing voice. She was just as good in both roles - as the shop girl and a lady.
Alfred Doolittle did an excellent job as the father of Eliza. His comic timing was spot on. All the other supporting roles were good - I didn't really notice any weak parts in the whole production.
Singing and dancing were lively and the Ascot scene, as always, looked a picture. Everyone in the show looked as though they were enjoying it. I hope they were because we in the audience certainly did!
SHOWSTOPPERS 2002
Blackpool and Fylde Light Opera Company
A nice selection from popular shows and including some not so familiar. Lovely singing and dancing including an appearance by the Dance Palace Dancers.
The second act gave us the big band sound with special guests Blackpool Area Schools Symphony Orchestra.
Great foot tapping numbers by George Gershwin and Rogers and Hammerstein had us all jumping in our seats.
The evening ended with a great rendition of "My Way" and the society certainly did it "Their Way"
Congratulations to all concerned.
MOVING
Blackpool Theatre Company
This was a very good play. All the nightmares associated with moving house are in this play including an interfering sister who pretends to be an enthusiastic buyer whenever someone comes to view the house.
The couple selling have their own marital problems and their children add to the chaos. The arrival of the local handyman, Jimmy, provided some light relief. I am sure the audience could sympathise with Frank and Sarah in their battle to sell the house.
I liked the final scene when the removal men came on and took all the furniture away. The play finished with the Gladwins shutting the front door for the last time.
Everyone in this experienced cast played their parts well.
The set looked good and props to match. I'm sure everyone is glad to see Doug Hudson back after his recent mishap.
TWELVE ANGRY MEN
Fylde Coast Players
The first thing of note about this play was that it was played in the round. it was the first time I had seen a play like this at the Lowther and I am undecided whether it was a success or not.
Although I felt part of the action, I found it difficult to hear some of the characters and as the play is based on arguments between the twelve jurors, I felt like I could have missed out on something important.
Talking in the bar at the interval I spoke to other members of the audience who had the same problem. Having said that, the play itself was very good. The story of a boy who has murdered his bullying father and the deliberations of the jury who must agree twelve to one either way is absorbing.
I had not seen the famous film before so I didn't know the outcome although most of the audience appeared to.
Glyn Morton was always convincing in his convictions and Keith Cartmell as the one juror who suggests the youth may be innocent gave a credible argument.
I enjoyed it but found some of the heated argument hard to follow at times.
THE LIVER BIRDS
Fylde Coast Players
This famous story of two Liverpudlian girls by Carla Lane and John Chapman was bright and lively. It is always a bit of a gamble to stage a play that has been so popular on the television as one can't help but compare the two. In this case the gamble just about paid off.
The girls and all their problems with boyfriends, the vicar and Desmond the caretaker were very funny.
The set, as always, looked good with props to match. Lighting and sound were also up to the usual high standards.
Altogether another great evening.
HAYFEVER
Fylde Coast Players
The first thing I must say about this production was what a wonderful set. Designed and built by members of the Fylde Coast Players it was a credit to them.
But I'm afraid this play was not for me. Perhaps I missed the point but to me I found the dialogue to be all on one level and I felt the play never really got going.
Other people I have spoken to enjoyed it though so perhaps it was just a bad evening when I attended.
Props, costumes and sound were all up to the usual high standard.
PENDRAGON
Lytham Academy of Theatre Arts
This young and vibrant society made a good job of Pendragon. A nice set which worked well with hanging pieces being pushed on and off by the cast.
Costumes were plain but effective and the music interesting. I had not seen this show before and I suspect not many of the audience had. It is refreshing to see something new once in a while.
The story is of King Arthur's father, Pendragon, and the events leading up to the famous Excalibur scene. I would recommend this show to any youth societies who fancy something a bit different.
SOUTH PACIFIC
Lytham Operatic
This show was very colourful with a set that worked well on a small stage. With props, lighting and costumes it all added up to a most enjoyable evening.
Julie Brayne was excellent as Nellie Forbush in this tomboyish part, Steve Mather as Emile retaining the character thoughout.
Lynda Clarkson as Bloody Mary was outstanding and she was well supported by Luther Billis and all the other sailors.
The ladies have not got a lot to do but looked good and sang well.
Thank you to Cable and Liat they were the right age and they looked good.
Thank you to everybody in the society for all their hard work that
made a wonderful evening.
J. M.
RUDDIGORE
Marton Operatic Society
Ruddigore is not one of Gilbert & Sullivan's most popular operettas, but with more productions of this standard, that could all change.
From the opening note of the overture, to the finale of act two, this was an excellent show. The company are the only ones doing G & S in the area, and have not strayed into anything else. Consequently, they do it to a very high standard.
This whole production, ladies chorus, mens chorus and principals were excellent. The singing was just simply wonderful.
This company are blessed with a line up of principals they can call on, which all adds to the enjoyment.
The transfomation scene, in act two, where the picture gallery came to life, had the best blackout I have ever seen.
Congratulations to Geoff Helme and his crew, also to Tony Fowler, the scenic artiste, his portraits were unbelievebly accurate.
Jacqui Cookson, Jacqui Veazey, Tara Dempsey, David Chars, John Darrell, Phillip Walsh and George Bland were this year's main principals.
The production was by Ken Dagger, the musical direction by Tim Dagger, costumes by Perceptions of Rochdale.
This was a wonderful evening out.
Ken Robinson
HAPPY AND GLORIOUS
Nogal Pear Tree Players
Written and produced by Sue Gallagher MBE. This was a show written specially for the Jubilee. Set in a small villiage with all the local characters deciding to put on a show for the Jubilee. They started in January by forming a committee and planning rehearsals.
The first act dealt mainly with the preparations for the show including their rehearsals and all the trials and tribulations that go with arranging and putting on a show.
One of the best scenes was "Comedy Tonight" when
everyone dressed as famous comedians from the last fifty years: Max Wall, Ken Dodd and Charlie Chaplin to name a few.
The second act was the show itself. It started with a film shown of the Coronation and then the show itself. A good set comprising an enormous set of steps the width of the stage and painted gold, of course!
Tributes to the Rock and Roll years and the Beatles followed and finishing with musical numbers from fifty years. A wonderful finale "Everythings Coming up Roses" rounded off a very enjoyable evening.
I did think I recognised one or two members on the committee from somewhere!
THE GONDOLIERS
Preston Gilbert and Sullivan
A good simple set that worked well. It was designed to travel as this society play more than one venue, and they achieved this with ease.
A nice openning, well sung by the ladies chorus, which set the pace for the rest of the show. The Duke and Duchess played their parts well, commanding the stage throughout. There is no substitute for experience and they have plenty.
Don Alhambra took a good part with his forceful personality and strong voice. Luis and Cassilda sang nicely together. The two Gondoliers and their wives made the most of their characters.
Altogether another very pleasant evening.
MANON
Preston Opera
Fabulous production - congratulations to Marilyn Taylor. This company is building beautifully and going from strength to strength.
Manon was superb, singing from everyone, principals and chorus. You will not hear better. This production was on a very high level in all areas, the sets being particularly effective.
I loved the kind of miminalism of the boudoir scene, contrasted to the exuberance of the casino. Costumes were excellent as usual.
The principals, on the night that I attended Damien Trafford, Dianne Mackley in the title role, Barrie Wright, Geoff Hitchen, Joan Aitchson, Beth Furnell, Pat Winters and Kevin Shepherd who gave an outstanding performance as Morfontaine, a thoroughly debauched rogue.
The orchestra was wonderfully supportive under the baton of Mr David Sutton.
I look forward to more nights at the opera, next production Norma April
2003.
Ken Robinson.
MAGIC FLUTE
Preston Opera
A good production with well thought out scenes. I liked the set but thought the steps were too steep as some of the ladies seemed to have difficulty walking up and down.
The chorus were well rehearsed and sang well. I liked the two leads very much. The rest of the principals supported them well. The experience of some of the "older" members steadied things down a bit at times when the young cast got a bit carried away.
The costumes enhanced the production and the orchestra under the control of David Sutton were well balanced and not too loud.
The show was produced by Barbara Butcher and Geoff Horton and they made a good job of it.
GOLDEN GREATS
Preston Musical Comedy
This was a musical journey through the Jubilee years. It was a very entertaining evening with everyone taking a good part.
In this production we were taken through the fifties with favourites like "Three Coins in the Fountain" and "Secret Love", the sixties "Summer Holiday" and "Hello Dolly". The seventies and eighties and up to date with "Love Changes everything" from the nineties.
A very enjoyable evening for us all. Thankyou to everyone for all your hard work.
SECOND FROM LAST IN THE SACK RACE
Schoolhouse
Any play based on a novel by David Nobbs has to be a winner and this was no exception. With a cast of five playing all 34 characters between them and no fewer than 30 scenes this was a lively evening.
The play tells the story of Henry Pratt and his life through the '30s, '40s and '50s in Northern England to his eighteenth birthday and into the army.
I liked the programme discriptions of the characters such as "Uncle Teddy, Henry's uncle, Doris's shifty husband" and "Aunty Doris, Henry's Aunty, Ada's snobby sister". This can be a great help to the NODA rep when writing a review.
A very entertaining evening and a refreshing change to see a play I didn't know anything about.
CAROUSEL
St Annes Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society
This was an excellent presentation of a classic musical. Paul Dobie was superb as Billy and even though a rougue, it was hard not to feel sorry for him.
He was wonderfully supported by Alison Chard as Julie - her rendition of "What's the use of wonderin"' was lovely.
The Comedians, Jeanette and Leo Appleton as Carrie and Mr Snow, were hilarious and kept a smile on the audience's faces. I especially enjoyed the "When the children are asleep" number.
It was also a pleasure to see daughter, Sarah, take her first adult role as Billy's daughter Louise.
The rest of the cast were more than capable and together with the hard-working chorus and orchestra, made this a terrific production.
Congratulations to Producer, Rosie Withers and Musical Director Peter Weston for an excellent evening.
IRENE
The Parish Church of St Anne Operatic Society
This was a most spectacular show with the outstanding thing being the lighting. From the person who designed it, to the person installing and the person running the board at Lowther it was quite an achievement.
Simple sets with props to match all helped the continunity of the show. The orchestra was well balanced and not too loud, led by Nic Parker.
Irene and Donald made a perfect couple and sang very well together. Their dialogue was very nicely spoken - you could hear every word.
There were some excellent chorus numbers and nice dancing.
Good support from the other characters notably Madame Lucy and the excellent Mrs O'Dare.
The whole show kept up a good pace from beginning to end. This show was perhaps the Parish's finest hour. Well done everyone.
MURDER BY MISADVENTURE
St Bernadette's Players
When playwrite Harold Kent's partner Paul Riggs comes up with a plot for their next project together, he is not impressed and declares his intention to go solo.
When Riggs threatens to let out a few secrets unless Harold remains his partner, Harold uses the basis of Pauls plot to hatch his own scheme to get rid of his partner once and for all - by murdering him.
However, as in all good thrillers there is the odd twist in the tale and things don't quite go to plan.
I really enjoyed this dramatic play - very similar to another play called A Twist in the Tale which also involves writers and re-enacting a suggested plot.
Keith Crudent was excellent as Harold - his very natural presence on stage allowed him to make his character very convincing.
Andrew Dutton was quite chilling as Harold's alcohol-loving partner Paul Riggs. Harold's wife, Emma, was well played by Claire Wright and it was a shame that the role was rather blandly scripted and difficult to get into.
Full marks must go to Phillip Higginbottom for his role as Inspector Egan. Some of his stock moves as the Inspector were very reminiscent of a Michael Green stereotype but this was soon disproved as his character was actually revealed to be an actor friend of Riggs.
A good set added to the attraction of this play and all involved should
be congratulated.
Tommy Warburton.
MURDERED TO DEATH
St Bernadette's Players
A very nice and well thought out set with props to match. The play was set in a country manor house in 1935.
An exciting thriller with all the classic ingredients - murder, a butler and lots of laughs. I think by the end of the evening at least half of the cast had been shot.
One point to note, although the play was meant to be funny, a gun that doesn't work is not. The constable had to be shot four times before he eventually expired.
There were some excellent character parts including the butler and housekeeper while Colonel Charles and his wife kept the play moving along nicely.
Everyone gave a good performance and the audience showed their appreciation. Thank you all.
EMOTIONS IN MOTION
Thornton Cleveleys Operatic Society
Once again this society took us on a magical journey through song and dance from many shows. I was suprised how many of the selection I either didn't know or didn't realise which show they were out of.
I did hear one or two people pass comment that they couldn't sing along, as they didn't know the words but perhaps that isn't a bad thing.
As always the pace of the show was lively with "everyone having a go".
The dancing was nice and the chorus sang particularly well. The lighting was excellent and made a big impact on the overall look on the stage. Thank you all.
BUGSY MALONE
Thornton Clevelys Youth Theatre
A very good show for a youth theatre to do with everyone having a part to play. The scenery was simple and effective with good scene changes. The chorus singing and the dance numbers came over very well.
Bugsy's gang, led of course by Bugsy, put their hearts and souls into it. At times I felt the accents were a bit too strong as I missed a lot of dialogue.
Acted without the benefit of experience from the adults this was a credit to the youth of Cleveleys.
WHEN SATURDAY COMES
Thornton and Cleveleys Youth Theatre
The play takes place in a park just around the corner from you. This year, next year, whenever! It is about five gangs who try to rule the park. Including the girls' gang who spend their time trying to pick up boys.
The Lemmings dressed in school uniform, The Crewcuts, trying to keep the peace, Judd's gang, the rough lot. None of them can agree how to sort out their differences until the wrinklies arrive.
They try to educate the other gangs and decide to have a football match for which they will be the trainers. They also have a fancy for some of the lads! Excellent parts throughout from all ended happily ever after and we all went home quite content after another sparkling evening's entertainment.
This was the Northern Premiere Production of this show and I suspect it won't be the last time it is seen here.
OLIVER!
Thornton Cleveleys Operatic
This was a nice simple set with two of the scenes set off stage at either side. An idea that worked well. The kids did a good job led by Oliver and Dodger.
Mr and Mrs Sowerberry and Mr Bumble gave us some good character parts and later in the show Bill Sykes - what a horrible man he was - aaaaargh! Of course his other half Nancy was delightful though we all felt sorry for her.
There were some great chorus numbers and singing but the star of the show was Fagin who gave us a faultless performance. Thankyou all for a good evening.
HOW THE OTHER HALF LIVES
Trinity Theatre Group
A very clever play, nicely written and well-performed.
A trio of suburban married couples are drawn together through an affair between two parties. Frank Foster is a Department Manager in a local firm and is unaware that his wife, Fiona is having an affair with one of his employees, Bob Phillips.
Bob and his wife, Terry, seem quite a happy pair but he is disgruntled at his wife's failure to keep the house in order. To disguise his affair with Fiona he drags an oblivious new colleague, William Featherstone into the plot.
As in all good farces, William thinks his wife is having an affair with Bob - Terry thinks William's wife, Mary, is having an affair with Frank. I think you get the picture.
This play, by Alan Ayckbourn, uses the trick of running two different scenes simultaneously - switching from one to the other as befits the mood. This sometimes causes a problem for the cast but Trinity's members seemed perfectly at ease with the situation.
Stuart Dixon was super as the ploddingly naive Frank and his real wife, June, was equally adept as the sly adultress Fiona. Gareth Hughes was excellent as the conniving Bob and was well matched with Jeni Caldicott as his downtrodden wife, Terry. Bob Sanderson and Chris Caldicott were very funny as the bewilderd Featherstones and all contributed well to a very cleverly worked play.
Well done to all.
Tommy Warburton
YOURE ONLY YOUNG TWICE
The Windmill Players
This was a very funny play by Ron Aldridge. The action takes place in the lounge/dinning room of Richard and Sue and concerns the antics of their young and handsome biker friend and his mates.
They have a party and what a motley crew they turn out to be. As with most parties they all fall out but by the end they are all friends again.
Everyone played his or her parts well as usual. With the vast experience of the actors, this play was always going to be good.
The set was designed and built by the members and was very well thought out. Props and costumes were just right.
I must say a special thank you to Brookie for his young and debonair perfromance - ha,ah! (Keith)