76th GANG SHOW

A big ask for the new Creative Team leaders, but I felt that with their own Gang Show backgrounds and the support of extensive and experienced backing teams, they were on point – and gave us another super Gang Show evening.  It never ceases to amaze me how well-drilled the cast of around 140 young people are, and the different ideas that come out of what must be many hours of research etc.

The sets were as good as ever – the building of the rocket and the backdrops all worked well.  Lighting was very well-imagined, but I felt the sound did not always come up to scratch – with late mic cues, and sound balance between stage and band sometimes weighted in favour of the band.  I appreciate the difficulties of getting it right in the EMC, but sometimes it spoiled a great moment.  I noticed the mid-tabs did not seem to close properly, which was not what you would expect in a professional theatre.

Costumes were as always excellent – I particularly liked the trains and all the associated costumes in the “Off the Rails” section – a mix of costume and scenery which looked so good.  The only small costume malfunction that I felt didn’t look right was the shiny waistcoats – I think it was a quick change, but they all looked ‘thrown on’ which is not a look I associate with Gang Show!

The opening with James Jewell on guitar was fun – a different show opening, which I felt went well, merging into very lively choreography from the cast.

The “What’s Your Job“ sketch was very well-presented and well-projected, lots of emphasis.

Mini Gang’s “Off the Rails” certainly gave them the chance to shine – George Senior and Martha Malloy as the lead engines, gave us plenty of meaning and expression – which the whole gang invested in, a very effective number. 

The “On the Road” section was led by Oscar York, who certainly made an impression, he was audience aware throughout, singing well and moving with authority.  Raf Baralt also sang his solo with expression.

The “Contemporary Dance” was colourful and well-executed, nicely achieved.

“On the Dock” gave several performers a solo line/number, which gave diversity of sound and mood to a good set.  Jonas Simpson as The Criminal was very spirited.

After the interval we came back with a bang – “Red Dress” using the Red Riding Hood story, gave several performers the chance to shine, which they took advantage of.  Charlotte Ramsay sang “Holding Out for a Hero” with assurance, which I enjoyed, and was followed by the eponymous tap number from the Lumberjack’s – what never ceases to amaze me is that these lads, most of whom will not have had formal tap training, manage to look as if they have, no flappy feet or faux shuffles, plenty of intent and obvious enjoyment, which translated to the ecstatic reception of the audience – well done lads – still a highlight for us all!

“I Want You Back” showed a new take in being a capella and acoustic in style, I was impressed, a good achievement.

The “On the UP” section started with a wonderful rendition of “Fly Me to the Moon” from Ralph Jones – such an accomplished rendition of a swing number, that I loved.  There was also a fantastic ‘band’ break in there, which I also enjoyed a lot.  The Moondance capes were very effective with a lovely duet from Ralph and Annabel Lee.  Again, a super ‘band’ break in “Moon of Love”, with excellent Aliens – good costume imagination.  An excellent dance number too.

The “Spies” sketch was very slick, nicely managed by the cast and very well-executed.

The final section “Do Re Me” was very charming and accomplished. 

I also thoroughly enjoyed the eighties dance, the team had obviously worked hard on it, and my notes say…. “plenty of energy and confidence” – well done!

We then had the finale, a chance for the cast and the audience to sing their hearts out – and looking at all those smiley faces on stage, giving their all, I can only feel that the audience left on a high, having seen a well put-together show, with some different musical challenges which were met with vigour and dance routines that again showed accomplishment.

My thanks for the Gang Show’s continued hospitality, our enjoyment and appreciation of the production that was presented to us, remains a highlight of our year.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.