42nd Street

Thanks for the kind invitation to review the latest production from Youth of Banbury Operatic Society (YOBOS) the ever popular 42nd Street. It’s always a pleasure to visit this thriving youth group. I often wonder if there is something in the water in the Banbury area which helps to create such a wealth of young talent and enthusiasm for ‘live’ theatre. Then I realise it’s the dedication and commitment of the ‘older’ theatre lovers who inspire and encourage the amazing youth in the area.

YOBOS has produced some wonderful shows in my time as Regional Representative and this production continued in the same vein. What an uplifting and wonderful experience it was and thank you for giving me the opportunity to see this fantastic production.   With some finely observed direction this was as slick a show as you would see anywhere in any professional theatre. The characters were well drawn and the action flowed seamlessly in this complicated, multi-scene musical. The relatively small stage was complimented by using side and front areas in which to perform which worked perfectly. The pace never faltered and the energy and enthusiasm flowing from the stage was palpable. As well as the many touching moments I like the touches of humour for example the whole cast looked as one to the audience on the line ‘Kids can do anything’. Cracking stuff! As well as being a great story there is much humour which was brought out to good effect. The musical direction was absolutely spot on. The ensemble singing was excellent with some good harmony work while the principal vocalists really shone in this production. The band in spite of being heavily weighted to the brass section provided excellent backing to the company singing and never over-shadowed the principals’ vocals. The band played with skill and really added to the overall atmosphere of the production.

Being a dancing show the choreography is a fundamental part of the show and I was completely mesmerized by the choreography.  There were many great routines and the company dancers were very proficient in all of them with some impressive synchronised tap sequences in which all the company were able to participate. The timing and musical interpretations were of a high standard. I liked all of the company dancing but one sequence that particularly struck me was the transition Go Into Your Dance number as the ‘company’ dancers moved into the café scene. Another memorable sequence was the mirror routine in Dames which looked amazing with some excellent precision movement. The choreography was splendid throughout the show and certainly principals and ensemble had been thoroughly rehearsed without a (noticeable) foot wrong!

With excellent costumes, make-up, lighting and sound reproduction this was a thoroughly splendid performance. Well done to everyone concerned!

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