42nd Street

I really thought that this production had almost everything anyone could ask for in a great show with well cast performers, excellent ensemble, and outstanding tap dancing. The overture set the mood making it obvious that the orchestra were not to be overlooked.  They played every number brilliantly but at no time did they detract from the featured dancers with their wonderful ‘dancing feet’ and the great singing from both principals and chorus.  They supported the cast from start to finish. From the moment the curtain opened it was very clear that we were in for a great evening with entertainment full on in its truest form. The ensemble produced some excellent singing and really gave the show some life. Caroline Bennett, playing the chorus girl turned star Peggy Sawyer, displayed her versatility in this role which was very different to the previous roles that she played for the company. Her singing, dancing and acting were in a league of their own. Mark Roberts, as Julian Marsh, performed with great style throughout and completely proved himself when leading the company in his great rendition of “42 Street”.  Julie Waite, as ‘aging’ star Dorothy Brock, had some great lines to deliver and she did so with style and panache and her singing, as always, was excellent..  The rest of the principals all gave strong performances, Tracy Clayton (Maggie) was hilarious and Wezley (Andy Lee) showed us just how good a good tapper can be. Richard Millen as Billy, Wezley and Adam Collins set the stage alight with “Dames” and “We’re in the Money” with a team of the best tappers I have had the privilege of seeing on an amateur stage. The Costumes and Wigs were excellent and very well styled, the lighting and sound were appropriate and the back stage crew deserve a big mention as the scenery was very special. I don’t know how they managed to move it around so quickly and quietly and I take my hat off to Jamie Kluckers for his Stage Management. Like many in the audience we came away humming the songs and that’s always a sure sign of success

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