Year

September 2006 - Region 3 - Kevin Rawcliffe

STEPPING OUT

St Stephens Players

A highly amusing piece concerning a disparate, and sometimes desperate, bunch of Thursday night would-be tap dancers who eventually overcome their personal problems and uncoordinated lower limbs to put on a show. Well directed by Howard Rogers and with Rachel Rogers obviously putting in a mountain of work on the dance routines this was a most satisfactory production.

The variety of characters who frequent the dance school were well portrayed; the cast obviously having worked extremely hard not only on the characterisations, but also the initial uncoordinated and totally incompetent tap dancing which eventually turned itself into an excellent routine.
The sour-faced accompanist, with a nice line in well timed cryptic asides, Mrs Fraser, was amusing and well played by Dorothy Spencer whilst Rachel Rogers was excellent and the obvious choice as the harassed dance teacher Mavis.

Dawn Entwistle was a delight as the rather timid Dorothy whilst Joan Rogers made the most of the totally uncoordinated and immensely funny Silvia. Elaine Taberner was excellent as the rather snooty and fastidious Vera whilst Tracey Heywood (Lynne), Pam Litt (Andy), Fiona Thompson (Maxine) and Jean Beeston (Rose) all contributed with some finely tuned performances. As with all comedies the cast should allow a little time for the laughter to subside otherwise the thread of the storyline can be lost on the audience.

Kevin Rawcliffe as the lone male in the class (poor chap) was excellent and showed a fine turn of foot in the final dance routine.

Scenery was very good and attention to detail helped to create the rather dingy Church Hall setting whilst the wardrobe played its part with some excellent costumes.

The inter-relationships between the class members were well defined and this was a great evening's entertainment.

On behalf of Denise and myself may I take this opportunity to thank the society for its generous hospitality.

Glyn Neary

Time of My Life

Blackburn Arts Club

Produced by; Geoff Baron

This was a charismatic comedy from the master himself, Alan Ayckbourn. The story unfolds and is told in such a captivating way; we see the past, we see the present and we see the future in this well written script. This play was so well cast and all the characters gelled, delivering a marvellous cocktail of dramatic excellence.

Gerry Stratton, the Father, was played by a confident David Lloyd who gave a first class performance getting every ounce of empathy from this character working well with Laura, the Mother, played by Adrienne Lloyd, a great husband and wife team. Adrienne played this character with so much depth that we all saw this scheming mum trying to keep her family together, sorting out their problems but having one big one of her own. These characters don’t just happen, they have to be created and worked on and it was clear that the producer Geoff Baron was not going to settle for anything less.

Glynn was played by Gennaro Lamberti who gave a natural relaxed delivery of his script, very understanding and bonding well with Stephanie who was played by Tracey Hartley, who gave another first class performance. Adam the younger son was played by Daniel McLaney who gave a good account of himself. I believe that this was a first for him on stage with this Society but what an impact he created, well done. He was teamed up with Maureen played by Sarah Nolan with some fantastic renditions of script and excellent comedy timing. Sarah acted so well and gave the character the edge that you expected and we saw a very clear change in her character as the story unfolded.

One thing that was prevalent throughout this production was that the laughs came naturally without being forced or overacted.

David Pilkington should have been given both a medal and oxygen for his excellent performances as Calvinu, and Tuto,and Aggi, and Dinka, and Bengie with only David’s experienced comedy timing could each role be so believable, well done.

The tension of the plot grew nicely between Gerry and Laura with eventually the secret of her affair coming out. The play was well complemented with good lighting and the cast was well costumed and  in keeping with the period.

This was a complex play to stage but once again this excellent society pulled it off. I look forward to my next visit, congratulations.

A Chorus of Disapproval

Blackburn Drama Club

Directed by;  Dorothy Perkins
Musical Direction by;  Brian Whittaker

This was a comedy from the pen of Alan Ayckbourn. This play gave us a fly-on-the-wall documentary about a production within an amateur theatre company and tells us the story of the relationships, and the twists and turns that take place within rehearsals for The Beggars Opera. The cast was larger than normal for a play. However, they all worked well on stage. The opening scene was well executed with good use of music and singers as well. The set looked great, simple but effective. I liked the way that the show finished at the beginning and then the story unfolded like rewinding a tape.

The part of Guy was played by Joe Connor who delivered a first class performance creating a shy character at the beginning and then changing into this male lead principle playboy, great light and shade.

Dafydd, the director was portrayed by Jeff Moxham who gave a wonderful polished performance with a lovely Welsh Accent that never dropped. The delivery of dialogue was superb and the light and shade of emotions, although sometimes a sad performance, that you gave this character was great - and what a loud infectious laugh! . I loved the scene between Dafydd, Guy and Hannah, well executed. The director became a dictator with great empathy to the character - well done.

I liked Mr Ames who was played by Brian Whittaker, a good account was given. Jarvis was competently played by Terry Barber. Fay was played well by Jacqui Mooney who was every inch the vamp clearly after Guy as the new boy. Ian was played by Rob Trethewey who gave a good account of himself as the husband of Fay with a lovely scene opening of act two with a confused Guy at cross purposes. Rebecca was played by the experienced Carol-Anne Connolly who once again gave this character life and, as you would expect, attention to detail with the bottles in the bag clanking around, a good performance with a somewhat tender character.

The members of the cast were all considerate of each other and I saw no blocking or masking or cutting of lines; well done. Enid played by Muriel Eccles was excellent and gave a lovely touch to the end of the pub scene with Bridget. Hannah was played by Anita Shaw who gave a good characterisation of this role being the lonely wife who fell in love with Guy and portrayed some super moments of reflection with lots of empathy. I could see the chemistry unfolding during the scene between Hannah and Guy - well done. Ted played by Brian Healy gave a good account of this role. Crispen was played by Steven Derbyshire and gave us a good strong performance with a nasty streak to his character. He made a great team with Bridget played by Heidi Needham who also gave a strong performance. Sam was played by David Batterby who carried this role well. Linda was well portrayed by Leanne Sambrook.

All the performers worked well together and it would not be fair to single anyone out, but just to say that this play was a great team effort from you.  The cast extracted every ounce of comedy from this script. The one thing that impressed me was the clarity of dialogue, I could her every word from the cast. During the Pub scene, however, I would have liked to have heard some background noise.

The costumes and wigs looked great and set the period.

The Musical Director worked the numbers in well and the cast sang with good voices. It was clear to see that the director had worked so hard on this production giving a first class piece of theatre - well done.

My Fair Lady

Blackburn Musical Theatre Company

Directed by;   Tony Fry and Gary H. Worthy
Musical Director;  Patricia Tarrant Gaunt
Choreographed by;  Jill Robinson & Ali Wearden

The 13 piece orchestra under the skilful baton of Patricia Tarrant Gaunt was just right, not too loud and worked like a finely tuned machine, with a wonderful overture. The opening scene was excellent with great sound effects and attention to detail but I would have liked to have seen stage flats to create more depth to the stage.

Professor Higgins was  played with great ease by Robin Knipe - a tasking role  delivered with ease and a good accent.  The only thing I would say is that I would have liked more projection during the first act. On the night I attended some of the cast had problems with their body mic's and this became a little distracting at times, or it could have been that they were catching on jackets, etc. "Why can’t the English" was a super opening number for Robin. Colonel Pickering played by Hewel W Williams had a good characterisation and gave an excellent account of the role.

The chorus enjoyed the opening and this came across; they sang and danced well. Gina Cole played Eliza Doolittle and she was superb in every way, a master class in both accent and song. I can’t wait to see more from this talented young lady who gave a West End performance, well done.

This Society has a good strong male chorus who could dance as well, a real credit. The dance routines were well thought out and flowed with everyone being able to cope with the moves.

Alfred P Doolittle was played by Roy Washington. As an audience member I felt, at times, he was not totally comfortable with this character - perhaps a little more depth of accent? I also expected more comedy from this role. I also noted that "With a Little Bit of Luck" was played very centrally positioned - but, nonetheless, it was a good performance. Julie Hopkinson played a textbook Mrs Pearce with just the correct amount of empathy from this character. Peter Norris gave an excellent account of himself as Freddy. His musical number "On the Street Where You Live" was delivered with style and note perfect and he made this song his own; the accent was in keeping with this character - an excellent tenor.

Kathleen Watkins played, with her usual grace, Mrs Higgins. Kathleen always lights up a stage with her presence and she was well cast for this role delivering clear dialogue in the correct accent, well done.

Other parts were played by Janet Holden (Mrs Eynsford-Hill), Scott Green (Harry), Kris Wlodarczyk (Jamie),and Andrew F. Bell (Zoltan Karpathy) - well done to you all, good cameo roles.

I liked the use of the servants in the auditorium - this gave another interesting dimension to the production.

"The Rain In Spain" was a fab number with pace and structure. The Ascot Gavot number was superb with a stunning looking chorus in the most fantastic costumes I have ever seen in an amateur production - the highlight of the show. I still felt at times that the stage needed more depth or that the stage was not being used fully; people seemed to be more to the back leaving a void at the front. The Embassy Waltz to close Act one was lovely with all looking as if they were actually dancing.

The set was well decorated and the properties were in keeping with the period. The costumes were fantastic under the control of Joan Simpson and Marion Legg with the wonderful gowns and the Ascot Gavot costumes, as mentioned earlier, were a credit.

This musical was well directed - a little light on set but musically, faultless - well done.

The Mikado

Burnley & District Gilbert & Sullivan Society

Produced by; Brian Townend
Musical Director; Geoff Balson

The audience enjoyed a wonderful opening overture kept to a strict tempo and an agreeable volume level under the guidance of Geoff Balson. Maybe it was only me but I felt like I was travelling back in time to a traditional music hall watching the traditional Mikado. T his was because of the beautiful surroundings of The Pendle Hippodrome Theatre, Colne, a new venue for this group.

There was a wonderful opening frieze with great scenery in both Act 1 & 2. The costumes were good being of the period. However, some of the head attire of the men left something to be desired - you wouldn’t see me wearing that at Ascot!

The opening number of Gentleman of Japan was well executed by a strong men’s chorus.

Nanki-Poo was played by Damian Trafford who performed a lovely rendition of "A Wand'ring Minstrel I". Damian had a lovely voice and gave a nice relaxed delivery of what, sometimes, can be a weak role, well done. Pish-Tush was played by Dean Viner who gave a very good account of himself within this role. Pooh-Bah (The Lord High Everything Else) was played by the exceptional Mick Dawson with both great diction and a fantastic singing voice and with great use of facial expressions. Mick nailed this character showing us all the eccentricities linked with this role. I have seen Mick in a number of different roles now and you can see how much work he has puts into creating a different character on each occasion - what a talent! Well done.

Ko-Ko was wonderfully played by Roger Nuttall who gave us a gusto entrance on a scooter. Right from the start he nailed this role using both body, face and diction to create a very believable character who won over the audience. This performance by far was one of the best I have seen and his rendition of "I’ve Got a Little List" and "Tit Willow" will remain with me as great comedy moments: a talented young person with so much to offer - hank goodness you’re in region 3 - a superb performance that stole the show. I loved the trio,"I Am So Proud"; this worked well.

Pitti-Sing was played by Janie Vita and Peep-Bo was played by Susan Land. Bboth delivered solid characterisation and sang well especially in "Three Little Maids From School."

Yum-Yum was beautifully portrayed by Elizabeth Dixon creating a wonderful waif-like character who sang with the most fantastic soprano voice I have heard for a while. The duets with Damian worked well with both voices complementing each other and "The Sun and I" was terrific. This young individual has so much more to offer. Although at first I felt you seemed a little nervous you soon changed that and gave a class performance. I hope to see you in other roles like this - well done.

Katisha was played to perfection by Heather Nicholas who gave us a solid performance with a strong character who worked well with Ko-Ko especially during their solo at the end "Beauty in the Bellow", and sang an excellent "Alone and Yet Alive."

The ladies chorus sang and moved well.

The costumes were colourful and the beautiful wigs from Joan Preston were just in keeping with the period. The whole show was great giving first class harmonies and good movement - a credit to both the Director and MD. Well done.

 

Finian’s Rainbow

Greenbrook Methodist Church AOS

Director; Brian J.Townend
Musical Director: Janet Gilbert

This was a very safe, nicely presented, lovely evening’s entertainment. A good rousing chorus opened the show with the number "This Time of Year." I could hear every word of dialogue from every character even with the strong accents.

Finian was played well by Alan Woodworth who put everything into this performance, a great accent and a relaxed delivery with good comedy and a solid character - well done.

It was great to see new young principals being given a chance to perform and they did a wonderful job in the parts of:-

  • Sharon Mc Lonergan, Finian’s Daughter played by Katie Hargreaves who gave a super account of herself singing memorable tunes such as "How Are Things in Glocca Morra?" and "Look to the Rainbow" - a lovely performance but just required a little more direction in some scenes.
  • Woody was confidently played by Jake Vaughan who gave a strong performance singing well and looking very relaxed on stage with a great stage presence. I liked your rendition of "Old Devil Moon". however, once again I thought that with more direction the character would have come over much stronger but well done.
  • Og was played with great gusto by Martyn Green who gave us a funny, lovable character with great stage presence. A great young actor who was well received by the audience.

Other characters were played were Senator Rawkins by Brian Fagan, Susan Mahoney by Leanna Akhbar who gave a wonderful solo dance routine, Sheriff by Alan Marsden, Buzz Collins by Jeff Pilkington, Maude by Pauline Woodworth who gave a wonderful solo rendition "The Great Come-and-Get It Day", and also Louis Yates, Glen P Hawthorne, Ian Wrigley, Jason Morris,Les Wilkinson, who all gave a good account of themselves. The Gospellers played by Les Bland, Barry Robinson, Les Wilkinson delivered a great fun number with the Senator.

The projection of voices from cast and company was extremely well done. However, I thought that the choreography was a little predictable. The choral work was a credit to Janet and the Company with wonderful harmonies. The chorus moved well around a smaller than average stage and the routines worked well.

Costumes were excellent under the control of Sandra Catterall and Margaret Perry and team and scene changes worked well under the stage management of Ernie Redmond.

Technically this show ran without a hitch - a great night’s entertainment: well done.

Inspector Drake & the Perfekt Crime

Oswaldtwistle Players

Directed by; Paul McGowan

This was a fantastic comedy by the pen of David Tristram charting a traditional who-dunnit set in a country retreat in the 1930s.

I knew from the start that I and the audience were in for a great night’s entertainment when the play opened up behind the house curtain. The set was well designed and suited the period with only one exception, the sofa was too modern. The properties complemented the set design. Lighting and sound effects had been meticulously thought out.

Sergeant Plod was played by Michael New being visually funny, and his accent and acting were great.  He played the fool to perfection and his comedy timing was impeccable, well done.

John Kirby played Inspector Drake and this was the best all round performance that I have seen since starting with my current role. John took this part and made it his own. The comedy was quick-fire and I especially liked it when John fell off the stage - intentionally I might add! John’s quick delivery of script and concise diction gave a masterclass in comedy acting; thank you.

The banter between Inspector Drake and Sergeant Plod worked well, what a superb team. Doctor Short was played by Derek Partlin, a perfect straight man with a strong accent and solid characterisation. Miss Short, played by Clare Highton, created a super character with lots of empathy and a great delivery of dialogue, she also was entangled in the love triangle.

Sabrina Short played by Stephanie Clark was good. However, I would have liked more projection from her on stage but, nonetheless, a good strong character with stage presence,  she won the heart of the Inspector but turned out to be a con artist! The cameo role of Victoria Short, in the form of dialogue only, was played by Victoria Short.

This play went with gusto from the curtain up, it was fast and pacey, one of the best plays I have had the pleasure to see this season. Thank you for such an enjoyable first visit. Well done.

The Pirates of Penzance

Rossendale Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society

Producer / Choreographer; Cheryl Watkinson
Musical Director; Don Clarkson

This was one of the best shows that I have seen this season. The small but perfect 5 piece orchestra created a wonderful sound that was both complementary to both the performers and audience, under the skilled baton of Don Clarkson. Cheryl’s direction of the show was fantastic. It was a great credit to her, as I understand this is her first production; she could teach many of us a thing or two, well done.

The costumes were colourful and suited the period.

Now onto the cast:-

  • David Slater played Major General Stanley - a text book performance with wonderful characterisations of voice and stature.  This is the first time I have seen David perform: what a talented individual! I could have listened to "I Am the Very Model of a Modern Major-General" time and time, again - great work.
  • The swashbuckling Pirate King was played by Pete Astbury who gave a wonderful account of himself and really made the audience believe in the character with great singing and such clear diction.
  • Samuel and James were confidently played by Trevor Robins and Connal O’Reilly who both gave good performances injecting humour into the show and worked well as a team.
  • Ruth was played with ease by Penny Hood who sang and acted well.
  • Edith, Kate, Isabel, were well cast and played by Eileen Melling, Jenny May Connolly and Anne King.
  • Desmond Mulderrig made a model Sergeant of the Police and the character was spot on with a great rendition of "When the Foeman Bares His Steel" - great.
  • Mabel and Frederic were played respectively by Deborah McGough and Paul Halsted, a great partnership that worked well together. Both had fantastic voices with Deborah having the best soprano voice I have heard for some time. They both gave a great performance.

The male chorus was fantastic and, let’s face it, who has seen an 11 strong singing and experienced acting men’s chorus on stage in any show lately? Well that’s what this show had, a great men’s chorus that sang the roof off, well done.

The lady’s chorus gave fantastic harmonies and moved well around the stage.

The scenery changes and stage management went without a flaw under the capable hands of Tricia Dewhurst.

This was a wonderful show that was kept tight and had some great highlights. Well done, Rossendale AODS and thank you for your hospitality I look forward to my next visit.

Copacabana

Todmorden Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society

Directed by; Michael Keegan
Musical Director; Paul Nicholls
Choreographer; Janet Thiel

'Music and Passion were always the fashion', as the 12 piece orchestra under the control of Paul notched its way through the overture. An excellent team, well done, although some musical numbers were a little loud.

The opening of the show was a little slow for me with basic use of the stage. However, this picked up with a good opening number even though there was little animation on stage during this. I loved the musical number "Just Arrived"; this was colourful and well choreographed. The hair styles and costumes were just right.

Samantha was played by Alexandra Scott who was wonderful. Her voice was excellent and she most certainly stole the show for me with fabulous dancing and singing: a controlled and polished performance.  "Man Wanted", with great use of the piano, was delivered to a tee - well done.

Stephen was played with style by Grant Bromley who gave a relaxed yet sharp performance with good dance routines and his singing was a treat. He created an empathy with the audience from the start. Gladys Murphy was played by Gilly Walker. I felt that this character’s accent should have been far stronger with more depth, maybe a little grittier? Also during her number with Sam Havana most of the song was lost and I could not hear a word. This didn’t help the audience to keep up with the story.

Sam Silver was played by Ian Wilson who gave a first class account of himself though maybe a little strong on the accent.  However, I do believe that this is his first principal role: I hope to see more of him - well done. Once again during his song with Gladys I could not hear a word.

Rico was played by Mike Lawless who gave a good account of himself. However, during the song he dropped the accent, something to watch out for. Conchita was played with confidence by Jodie Ratcliffe who had a lovely accent and moved well, however, be aware of walking forward and backwards too much during dialogue.

The chorus sung well a;though they seemed a little inanimate. I would have liked to have seen better use of the full stage by both principals and chorus. The costumes were so colourful and the choreography was slick.

I loved the scene changes, they were quick, and the set was simple but effective and gave great depth and colour to the show. The set had been designed by the extremely talented late John L. Thomas who will be sadly missed. He is a great loss to local theatre.

All in all this was a great, colourful show.

Mr Wonderful

The Rossendale Players

Directed by; Christine Durkin

This was the story of a mother/daughter relationship and the problems that can be encountered when a third party comes into their lives. Once again my visit to Waterfoot proved to be a cracker. The set was well thought out with a split stage that worked for both the cast and audience. A great entrance by Norma Green, the mother’s daughter, played by Amanda Pierce. She commanded the audience and had wonderful stage presence with excellent facial expressions. The accent she chose was just right and the delivery of dialogue was both controlled and had the right intonation, a great performance.

Geoffrey Jackson played Eric Box, he took on a great character delivering enough comedy without going over the top, also giving a very suggestive detail to his role with mannerisms and great monologues, giving an excellent account of himself in this role. Geoff and Amanda worked well during Act 1 scene 1.

Maureen Jackson played with charismatic style, Phoebe Green the mother. You really nailed this character giving both wonderful comedy moments and sometimes very unhappy moments with daughter Amanda. You also brought this character to life giving a terrific empathy to this role, well done. Geoff was played well by Paul Higginbottom great accent used and a relaxed performance - loved the scene in the pub.

Other characters worked well and were played by Richard Blease, Drunk and Waiter and Tony McDonagh who played Lop Wink.

There was an excellent set home made again by the Society and good use of personal props, great lighting, too. Sometimes a split stage carries all sorts of technical problems but not on this occasion.

The pace was fast moving with no hitches. The music between scenes worked well. Once again this Society’s attention to detail was great using sound effects to create a seamless performance.

The direction from Christine was excellent. You caught the ethos of the whole range of performers and gave me one of the most solid plays of this season great work. With faultless performances this play was just right. Thank you for an enjoyable evening - well done.

Much Ado about Nothing

The Rossendale Players

Directed by; Paul Patrick

This play was written, for those of you who don’t know, by the great William Shakespeare. It tells the story of unrequited love between families, but has a twist at the end.

I loved the proscenium arch and stage, it was a fantastic; a credit to Ian Griffiths and crew, all in white it looked great, well done. The lighting was excellent right throughout the show and once again sound effects were good. The costumes were modern and this worked for me giving a lift to what could be a very trying script. Mick Dawson was the musical director and the choice of musical numbers throughout was wonderful. Mick opened the show with 'As Time Goes By'.

Leonato was played by Ian Pickup who gave a good performance. However, he should be aware that some masking occurred and he also seemed to be a little too quick on some lines. Benedick was played by Salvatore Vita who created a good strong character. I could hear every word and he gave a strong performance delivering excellent monologues working into the audience. It’s never an easy thing, however, Salvatore had the audience eating out of his hand and connected well.

The characters of Benedick and Beatrice stole the show for me giving some wonderful scenes and building the relationship and chemistry between them to a crescendo.

Amanda Pierce played Beatrice to a treat. She has great stage presence and gave her all. Amanda’s face lights up on stage and she gave a wonderful performance especially complementing Salvatore with some wonderful scenes. The only thing that I would say, that I didn’t like about Amanda’s performance, was that some dialogue was too played to the audience but this may have been due to the direction given. Claudio played by Matthew Pickup gave an encouraging performance with a good accent - a great young actor. Mick Dawson once again looked very comfortable with his role and gave a confident delivery.

Don Pedro was played by Stuart Marshall but again some of his dialogue was lost due to being too quick on the delivery. He needed to slow down as this caused the intonation to be lost. He required more light and shade for this character. Borachio was played by Tony McDonagh and Balthasar was played by Keegan Curran who both gave a good solid account of themselves. Keegan, try to project your voice more and when you played Verges, the Birmingham accent didn’t work for me as we lost some of the script.

Don John Andrew Greenwood gave a good account of the role appearing very sinister. I loved the attitude but the dialogue was once again delivered too quickly and we lost a lot of the story. Victoria Charmer gave a good performance as Hero and came into her own during Act 2.

Other characters were played by the following:-  Conrade Michael Whewell, good characterisation; Kirstie Marshall played Margaret; Christine Durkin played Ursula; Robert Cowan, Daniel Marshall and Giles Pierce all played watchmen and gave a good performance. Tom Pickup gave a super performance as Friar Francis and Sexton, a great accent and good stage presence. Dave Finney played a good Dogberry giving an excellent performance with a good accent.

This was a nice production and we saw good use of a smaller than average stage with a large cast on it.

Many of the principles seemed to stand centre stage on delivery of dialogue and this caused masking on many occasions, I would have liked more use of DSR and DSL but I did like the use of the auditorium during the play. During the scene in the garden I thought there should have been some sound effects.

This was certainly Shakespeare brought up to date as this version was set in the 1940s I loved the final number sung by the whole cast, 'Let’s Fall in Love'. Thank you once again for your hospitality and a lovely evening’s entertainment - well done.

YANOMAMO

Todmorden Hippodrome Youth Theatre:

Production Team: Helen Clarkson, Rachel Rogers, Alex Scott, Emily Rawlinson & Janet Spooner

This magical rainforest adventure, as described in the programme, was a musical journey following the plight of the Yanomamo Indian tribe – the oldest known tribe living in the Amazonian rainforest.  Through music, dance and specially written narration, we follow the destruction of the rainforest to allow commercial business to grow – destroying the finely balanced eco-system and devastating tribes throughout the land, bringing diseases and greed to this once simple landscape.

Clever use of rostra staging allowed a visual narrative to portray the lands being destroyed, almost imperceptibly at first, but then you start to see what was once a beautiful, lush landscape, turn into a barren, bleak wasteland – almost as if it had been razed to the ground by fire. Slick lighting added to this effect, and excellent use of the cyclorama being lit with vibrant reds and blues really created the illusion of the different scenes within this challenging production.

Simple but effective costumes added to the forward moving momentum of this show, and again, good attention to detail was paid in the colour schemes used – vibrant colours to start with, but as the rainforest was being destroyed and cut down by developers, the colours changed from bright yellows and reds, to dark greens and blacks.

One of the most impressive features of this production was the singing by the Youth Theatre members – good harmony work and tremendous solo numbers really gave this show a polished feel, and Helen Clarkson, who is used to working with a live orchestra, really tackled the challenge of working with a recorded backing track head on, and produced some excellent performances. It is difficult to pick out individual members of the cast for congratulation, but special mention must go to soloists: Corey Beardsmore, Augusta Walsh, Chelsea Harris, James Harper (also an excellent gymnast!) and Cara Heys.

In addition to the excellent musical abilities displayed in the show, there were some excellent ensemble and company dance routines choreographed by Rachel Rogers and Alex Scott.  Effective use of both contemporary and classical dancing captivated the feel of the show and the Saturday night audience, and I am sure the rounds of applause certainly highlighted the audience’s appreciation of the routines to the cast.

Witty and cleverly constructed narration, by Emily Rawlinson and Janet Spooner, kept the audience involved with the story line, and highly engaging performances, which were tightly directed, and took the audience on a musical adventure, an adventure that was most definitely appreciated by the people who saw the production … some of whom were still in a deep depression over the loss of England in the football earlier that afternoon!

All in all this was a highly polished show, with some stunning individual and group performances – well done to the production team who presented a slick show - and well done to the cast who did them proud.

Matthew Chambers

48th Todmorden Gang Show

Todmorden Gang Show

Produced by; Rowena Goldthorpe

Musical Director; Emma Winslow

The Todmorden Gang Show brings together many different groups of Scouts, Rainbows, Brownies, Guides and friends. Approximately 75 performers produced a wonderful team spirit and performance that both the audience and performers enjoy .

This is what it’s all about, teamwork, remember there is no "I" in team and it’s a pity more societies can’t take a leaf out of this group’s book and look at the team effort rather than what’s in it for them as an individual.

The opening number was 'Wilkommen' and that is most certainly what the audience experienced on this wonderful night of celebration of youth. Each number was well choreographed and the performers sang with gusto and enjoyed themselves, young people from the age of 7 sang their hearts out.

We heard music from 'Follow the Band' to the Beatles to comedy sketches. 'Join the Circus' had the most wonderful costumes and I loved the number 'Let It Be', and the 'Cell Block Tango' was well executed and add a touch of glamour. 'Smile' was an excellent ending number and I loved the Ringmaster’s role - well done. 'Follow the Band' was pacey and looked great.

The costumes were both colourful and were complemented by good lighting and sound on stage. The MD worked well and everyone knew their words and sang well. We did of course finish with "We’re Riding Along On the Crest Of a wave" and it was great.

To have the privilege to attend such a wonderful spectacle of young people performing, enjoying, and working as a team was a wonderful experience for both myself and Michelle and made us proud that this was taking place in NODA North West Region 3. To encourage youth is a wonderful thing and societies in the area take note, these are our future performers and principals: encourage and mentor them, don’t discount them.

I hope to attend the 49th Todmorden Gang Show and we thank you for your kind hospitality. Well done to you all, keep up the good work.

On Monday Next

Burnley Garrick Club

Directed by; Derek Harmer-Morris

This was one of the plays written by Philip King and was set in 1948. The play was wonderfully directed by Derek and had some lovely touches, but seemed to lack pace during the first act. The set looked good and the properties in keeping.

Giles William took on the role of Harry Blacker the producer and dominated the play. He became a dictator not a director and Giles gave it his mark with some wonderful characterisation and a good strong ability to connect with the audience. His first entrance was from the auditorium and his soliloquy at the beginning was excellent, a very believable character - well done. George was played by David Baxter and he gave a good account of himself with excellent comedy timing.

Maud was played beautifully by Cynthia M. Sanderson who delivered wonderfully clear dialogue with some very touching moments during her performance. Richard Sanderson played Jerry Winterton. In my opinion I felt that Richard played this character too over the top. This could have been due to the way he accentuated his stance and this distracted from the eye and of course the other performers on stage.

The Author played by Andrew Husband was excellent he looked like Captain Mainwaring and his delivery of dialogue was great. He really nailed this character, very simplistic, using mannerisms and moving around the stage with ease, well done.

Daphne Wray was played by Anne Allan who gave a good account of herself. However, I would have liked to have seen a real poodle used. Avis Clarke played by Barbara A Cilgram created a good, sound, believable character. Jackson was played confidently by Martin Chadwick who gave an extremely good characterisation being so cynical with the other performers. Mary was played by Tracey Heywood who, I believe, stepped in at the last moment. She was great and nailed this character with some very funny dialogue, well done.

Sandra Layton was played by the experienced Anne E. Chadwick who gave a first class delivery of her role with control and ease. She glided through the plot giving both empathy and strength to this character. She was partnered by Norwood played by Leslie Crick who again gave a wonderful characterisation and was well cast giving a strong performance.

I did find that all the upper crust accents from the ladies seemed to be the same at one point - it needed some light and shade.

The comedy was a little laboured and should have been more quickfire. Act One, although slow, seemed to settle down to a better pace but during Act Two I found that the comedy was being played for and this detracted.

I liked the director’s use of the auditorium. The sound was great. The costumes and wigs were in keeping of the period. This play was really good but I feel it just required a little more pace.

The King and I

BYTES Royal Court Theatre, Bacup

This is one of my favourite shows and I was delighted to be asked to review it. Any doubts that I had about the suitability of The King and I for a Youth Society were dispelled within the first few minutes. Lots of girls can be involved, as can children of all ages. The love scenes were played simply and sensitively, and the death of the King was very moving without being morbidly sentimental.

I was surprised to hear that the set had been "cobbled together" at the last minute, because it certainly didn't look that way. It looked fresh, stylish, colourful and atmospheric, with the drapes, steps and levels all used to good effect. Some careful set dressing and good lighting really brought it to life. Well done Jim, Geoff, Regina and Peter!

The Royal Wives and the Royal Children all looked fabulous in their vibrant, jewel-coloured, silk costumes, which were shown off beautifully in the "March of the Siamese Children". There were some lovely smiley little ones among the Princes and Princesses. The children's singing grew stronger as the show went on, helped greatly by John and Dave's efforts on Sound. I had no problem hearing songs or dialogue. The players were well supported by the small orchestra under the baton of Graham Helm.

Sophie Lord, who played Anna, took charge of her role from the start, with a lovely mix of delicate English Rose and a steely determination, and she sang with warmth and expression. Lucy Marshall's Lady Thiang was a nice contrast, as she played a woman from quite a different background, eager to learn but still valuing the old ways.

Lawrence Giltrow-Shaw's portrayal of the King grew in stature as the show progressed, and we saw his depth of character. He certainly won the audience over to his side. He has a strong expressive voice, and his accent did not drop once. Well done!

All the minor principals performed convincingly and sang well. I will single out Suzannah Haigh and Oliver Marshall as Tuptin and Lun Tha, which are not easy parts to get your teeth into, but which they did well. Oliver has a beautiful treble voice, and the couple pulled off "We Kiss in the Shadows" with aplomb.

I think performing the "Small House of Uncle Thomas" to a sound track was a good idea as it is difficult to sing, and it allowed the audience to concentrate on the intricate choreography and follow the story. Eliza is a great part to play and was beautifully danced by Caitlin Davies.
So congratulations to the Direction Team of Stella Kelsall, Regina Arkwright, Paula Giltrow-Shaw and David Rhodes. There were over 50 young people on stage, and all were well directed and used effectively, with some very nicely moved scenes. I thought "Getting to know you" worked particularly well and was charming.

And well done kids! I'm sure you worked very hard for the weeks before the show, but it certainly paid off. Great show!
Dot Haken

Sweet Revenge

Burnley Garrick Club

I had been humming "Straighten Up And Fly Right" by Robbie Williams as I parked my car. Imagine my surprise when this was used as the curtain music to Burnley Garrick's revival of Francis Durbridge's, Sweet Revenge. A good choice, I thought.

The Garrick enjoys an enviable reputation for the quality of its sets; Nigel Catterall's kept up the high standard. The river, just glimpsed through the French windows, looked good enough to hold a regatta on!.

Thrillers depend for their success on the quality of the plot, and the clarity with which the actors put over the many surprises and nuances. Lesley Haworth and Neil Tranmer hit the ground running with two confident assured performances. Neil's drunken scene in the second half, while funny, avoided slipping into caricature. Lynne Atkinson gave us a chic Marian while David Kendrick impressed with his worldly portrayal of the ebullient Bill Yorke. Angela Foulds played Fay with a charming blend of guilt and viviaciousnes, while Kenneth Entwistle introduced a note of earnest gravitas into the character of Sam Kennedy.

If I had met the Julian Kane in real life that David McKinlay conjured up I suspect, like most of the audience present on the night I saw the show, would have been delighted he got his rightful comeuppance. The nastiness of his sneer when he humiliated poor Alan was malevolence personified. Chief Inspector Sanders, a role arguably underwritten by the author, was played to perfection by Stephen Dixon who managed to create a believable character out of little to work with. Yet it is Ross who is the pivotal character in this tangled web of intrigue. Brian Haworth gave us a stylish, laid-back yet thoughtful portrayal around which all the other players revolved.

A special mention for the costumes!. The cast had obviously taken great care to ensure that as time passed they had changed their dress or their tie, etc., and did they look smart! This attention to detail is to be commended. To have the Inspector appear in a brown suit in direct contrast to everyone else was a masterly device and added to the "insider", "outsider" effect. Director, Barbara Simpson, moved her players well making effective use of the large stage with particularly clever use of the upstage area. She ensured that every aspect of the complex plot was conveyed with precision.

The front of house personnel were on top form too, Martin Chadwick and Geoffrey Pratt making genial hosts. It is so important to create the feeling that you are entering another world the moment you step into the theatre. This was admirably achieved. I returned to my car now humming a medley of the swing classics that had introduced each scene taking with me pleasant memories of a thrilling evening.

Paul Mason