42nd STREET

This was an ambitious piece for the Company’s 48th Production and they certainly rose up to the challenge and maintained the high standard they had achieved in the past. The Director coped well with the large number on stage, everyone wanting to be part of this exciting and popular production. It was evident that hours and hours of rehearsal had been put into the production, as the piece is notable for the difficult choreography and tap numbers, which the disciplined Company accomplished.

The performance I witnessed saw Emma Breese in the role of Peggy Sawyer, the dancer hoping to make a name for herself in the new show ‘Pretty Lady’. This performance was a superb effort by Emma and she demonstrated her talents in all aspects of the role. Sharing the role of Peggy Sawyer was Amber Deacon, who I am sure rose up to the challenge in this role and must be congratulated on her entertaining choreography, particularly with the Sequin Tappers and the Money Tappers. I loved Chris Clarke’s interpretation of the ageing star, Dorothy Brock, this was an admirable performance and Chris took full advantage of this opportunity to bring out the character of this flamboyant, spoilt, over the top star who demanded attention in any circumstance. Poignant moments from Dorothy in the 2nd Act when she visits Peggy in the dressing room and acknowledges her as a star.

Andrew Bond gave us a typical portrayal of the experienced director and nervous entrepreneur, Julian Marsh, who lived on a knife edge throughout the show. Gaenor James and Gareth McMurdo matched up well as the writers of Pretty Lady, Maggie Jones and Bert Barry respectively, thoroughly enjoying the tasks they were set. Lovely performance from Oliver Jones as Billy Lawlor, he seems to improve each time I see him on stage, and he really should be very proud of his performance. Taking Peggy under their wings were chorus leads ‘Anytime Annie’ – Karen McMurdo, Phyllis – Josephine Bowen, Lorraine – Sinead Hegarty and Gladys (alternating with Emma Breese as Peggy) Amber Deacon. Polished performances from Mike Clarke as Pat Denning and Dave Robinson as Abner Dillon, together with Lex Urry as dance director - Andy Lee, Elliott Hopkins - Rhett and Alex Oakley – Mac. Invaluable contribution from MD Greg Jenkins tinkling the ivories on stage with other minor roles, too numerous to mention, but each one confidently played.

Choreography was innovative and well-rehearsed with popular numbers 42nd Street, Lullaby of Broadway and Shuffle Off to Buffalo being the show stoppers. Most importantly, the chorus fully supported the cast of Principles and they must be congratulated. Stage crew carried out their duties without a hitch, and the change of scenery flowed. Much detail was paid to the many costumes and I must complement the Wardrobe Team on the swift costume changes. This was a demanding show for all areas of the Company and they must be congratulated the way each section jelled to bring us a real taste of 1930’s Broadway.

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