42nd Street

This production had almost everything, strong actors, excellent ensemble, brilliant dancing, so why did I feel something was missing?  Then I realised that, despite the programme listing a range of different locations for the action, the scenery did not actually change that much.  The unrelenting ‘black’, the back drop for much of the show, did nothing to light up the talent that was on display from the whole company.  I could not identify, from the programme, if the scenery was hired in.  If so then it was not up to standard, if the company constructed the scenery themselves then they must take credit for a good job of construction.  I just wish it had more pizzazz!

Having said that I must compliment all the performers for their performances, especially the featured dancers, they really were ‘dancing feet’ and the talent on display in the company is outstanding.  The ensemble produced some excellent singing (and dancing!) and really gave the show some life.

Hana Cox, playing the chorus girl turned star Peggy Sawyer, displayed her versatility in this role which was a complete opposite to the previous role that she played for the company.  Paul Smith reprised his role as Julian Marsh, the producer, with great style.  Stephanie Wilson, as ‘aging’ star Dorothy Brock, had some excellent lines to deliver and she did so with great style and panache.  The rest of the principals all gave strong performances, Lianne Larth (Maggie) was hilarious and Kane Davies (Andy Lee) showed us just how good a good tapper can be.

Costumes were excellent and very well styled, lighting and sound were appropriate and the band was well balanced to the performers.

If the scenery had just been a bit brighter and varied………. however I did enjoy the show and, like many in the audience, came away humming the songs and that’s always a sure sign of success!

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