January 2006 - Region 10 - Peter Hendren
WEST END TO THE WEST COAST
Workington Am Musical Society
This was a most entertaining concert from the Juniors of this society, who have re-named their section "The Next Generation". Their programme was a memorable mixture of up-to-date shows sung and danced with great gusto and panache. It was heartening to see over 30 youngsters relishing the words of favourite shows.
Choreographer Louise Ray had schooled everyone to give a vigorous and vivacious show. MD Steve Whetton had worked for weeks on the music and the slick presentation reflected this to his credit. Both of these two were exemplary in their leadership to instil into the young cast the desire to present an excellent, polished show. Well done!
WEST SIDE STORY
Workington A.O.S.
A strong show from a strong Society! I felt justified in inviting
our Regional Councillor, Ken Webb and Mrs Webb to this show.
The New York version of Romeo and Juliet was excellently realised
by director Ed McGee. The aggression of the Jets and Sharks was contrasted
by the tender scenes of the lovers and all was done with great panache.
The cast revelled in the principal numbers, 'America', 'Tonight' and 'I feel Pretty', showing great teamwork.
Graham Hawley was an appealing Tony, especially in his solo, 'Maria'. Against him, playing Maria, was Keri Farish who enchanted with her singing and acting, most notably in the Finale scenes.
Chiding her was Rachael Clarke as Anita, her friend and adviser. Rachael played this part superbly in all departments, and I had no hesitation in awarding her the Fan Wise Trophy for the best performance of the night.
A grand show, superbly carried off by all! Well done!!
AN INSPECTOR CALLS
Rosehill Players
A finely judged, taut performance of this piece. Director Chris Clayson
had moulded her cast surely to keep the tension going.
As the Inspector, the experienced Joe Blackadder revelled in the role,
now quietly interjecting, now acerbic in tongue, to give an excellent
performance.
Judith Henderson also played her part as the mother, (Sybil Birling) quite brilliantly, always deeply into the role.
The revelations from all the other family members were well handled individually. The set was most pleasing and established the mood and tone very well.
Excellent entertainment throughout.
ANYONE FOR BREAKFAST
Whitehaven Theatre Group
A convoluted comedy plot of secret meetings and assignations. It needed fast moving lines and total familiarity with the words. Unfortunately the prompt lady was much in evidence, and the pace fell, although the lapses were occasionally carried off with laughter.
An interesting evening for Ripley Steele's directorial debut, but regrettably, not a memorable one.