42nd Street

After seeing the show I came to the conclusion that with so much action,fast moving sets and lots to observe on stage I probably needed to have seen the show twice, to take it all in.

It was very impressive with the complexity of ever changing sets and scenes which were dazzling bright,as were the costumes of every design imaginable.

Adam Woodhouse directing did a fantastic take on the show with superb choreography,”tap” routines which were slick and fast,and with a company on top form to deliver.

Very clever use of props as well in the dance routines.

David Rutter as Julian Marsh the Impressario gave a strong feel to the part, and his singing was excellent.

All the principals were on good form from Joanna Daniels as Dorothy Brock, through to many Cameo roles which were essential in the storyline.

Barney Fritz as Billy Lawler gave a tremendously active and enthusiastic Billy. Barney just keeps getting better with every part he plays and his voice range and tone  was a delight.A great character well interpreted.

Sophie Pike playing Peggy Sawyer did it all,singing and dancing her way through the show,very enjoyable.

Leanne Fincham always gives more than 100% commitment to any role she plays and shone as the quirky Maggie Jones.and also was Assistant Director.

Graham Bowden as Bert Barry and Charlotte Butcher as Annie Reilly did justice to the amusing number”Shuffle off to Buffalo” and all the supporting cast were on good form from Michael Mundell-Poole,Dave King,Jonathan Davies,Sam Pilkington-the list goes on through to the chorus.

The ensemble work was very “together” especially the fast tap numbers,and I must compliment the ladies chorus for some of the best close harmony singing,especially in the dressing room scene, which was a winner in every way. A few more men would have added to the blend of voices and depth in some of the numbers and it would have balanced up against the ladies.

A compliment to Tom Saye for a well laid out programme with lots of information and interesting profiles of the cast.

The lighting was especially good in this production as was the sound and a great job from the wardrobe team, front of house, and everyone involved back stage who worked so hard for the production.

Lastly but by no means forgotten the terrific orchestra backing the show, with Maestro Neil Sommerville giving of his best with so many musical numbers delighting the audience.

Well done to everyone and thank you for a spendid evening’s entertainment.

Forward productions from both groups are looking good.

Thank you also for your hospitality and welcome

In view of the bad weather it was good to welcome the NODA East Councillor Don McKay and his wife attending having driven from St Ives to see the show.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.