David Parkes

Alderley & Wilmslow A.O.S.

Director: Ryan Ellershaw
Musical Director: Brian Goodwin
Choreographer: Sally-Ann Fitzgerald

Well experienced in the drama world, this was the first production of a musical undertaken by Ryan Ellershaw and he brought a high degree of vitality to a show which can tend to be "wordy" if the tempo is allowed to lag — but with a rousing "Another Op'nin' Another Show" from Tina Llyn as Hattie there was no danger of this show falling into that category.

Phil Mason and All Davenport were well matched in the leading roles of Petruchio and Katherine (Kate) each giving good all-round performances. Further talented performances came from Gemma Moss as Lois Lane/Bianca and Micheal Daws as Bill Calhoun/Lucentio in well designed song and dance routines.

The scene stealing gangsters are always a highlight in this show and Bob Chaloner and Jim Wakeford were no exception especially when appearing in Shakespearean costume and of course in "Brush Up Your Shakespeare".
The remaining characters were all well cast and well performed. The chorus and dancing routines were bright and well choreographed. The show was brilliantly costumed by Northern Costume Hire and the sets from Clifford & Brown were excellent with good lighting plots.

Cole Porter's excellent lyrics were given magnificent backing from the Wilmslow Theatre Orchestra under the baton of Brian Goodwin.

The programme notes comment "Don't worry about the plot — just sit back and enjoy the singing, dancing and acting". This we did in no small measure!