42nd Street

Having previously visited this society in my former role as Regional Representative for district five it was a pleasure to be invited to Studley Operatic Society as Regional Councillor for the West Midlands. In addition, it was a delight to welcome the current NODA President, Gordon Richardson, to the performance.

Studley Operatic Society were scheduled to perform Guys and Dolls in 2020 but we all know why this production never happened. Therefore, two years later the show 42nd Street reached the stage.

There are times when as soon as the band starts one just knows you are in line for a superb production – this was one of those moments. From the very start the performance was excellent in everything one could wish for, but the sheer quality of the tap dancing stood out from the overture to the finale. Even before the main tabs were fully opened the standard of tap dancing was amazing and only a taste of what was about to be presented. A massive well done to everyone who learnt to tap dance from scratch at the start of the rehearsal period under the direction of Alison and Kevin Hirons and choreographer Cassie Rivett.

However, it was not only the tap dancing which stood out there was also the vocals and especially the harmonies under the leadership of musical director Edward Caine. The combination of dance and vocals brought about numerous highlights with this production but ‘We’re in the Money’ and ‘Broadway Melody’ were both outstanding.

With such a strong cast it is difficult to name everyone let alone the ensemble however a few actors must be mentioned individually.

Kelly-Louise Mitchell gave a totally convincing performance as Dorothy Brock the prima donna character who always expected the leading role only to sustain an accident making way for Peggy Sawyer played by Laura Woodall to take the limelight. Laura was excellent in her role.  

Richard Smith as Julian Marsh, was ideal for the role with great stage presence playing this superb role with an amazing singing voice.

Paul Mitchell Jnr never disappoints and once again gave a performance to be proud of with amazing dancing.

Good performances came from Jessica Horabin (Maggie), Jeremy Dobbins (Bert Barry), Sophie Hill (Anytime Annie) Matthew Bridgewater (Pat Denning), Penny Hoy (Lorraine Fleming), Ryan Allen- Rose (Andy Lee), Kim Knight (Phyliss Dale), Steve Lengden (Abner Dilton), Debbie Mitchell (Gladys), Cassie Rivett (Diane Lorimer) and Tom Bowes (Mac).

The set was effective and a special well done to all involved with wardrobe for ensuring costumes and wigs were suitable for the period and the characters concerned.

In conclusion, congratulations to everyone involved in 42nd Street whether as a principal or ensemble or backstage. It was most certainly a delight to see the return to the stage by Studley Operatic Society.

Onwards now to 2023 and Kinky Boots. I for one look forward to seeing this production as the Regional Councillor for the West Midlands.

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