Ali Baba and the Fortyish Thieves

Ali Baba opened the show, perfectly portrayed by Tamara Scherwitzel as the naive youth whose only aim in life is to buy his girlfriend Morgiana, out of slavery to the Sultana. Tamara’s energy and perfect diction kept the storyline moving while Morgiana, nicely handled by Carys Moncrieff was the perfect foil for Ali. But over to the dark side and Alakazam (Andrew Dart) in the role of baddie was suitably gravel-voiced and evil. His hapless cohorts in crime, Mustapha Laugh (Tim Roberts), Mustapha Pee (Lewis Maitland) and Mustapha Screwloose (Liz Forrest) though useless criminals certainly succeeded in bringing lots of humour to the performance. Widow Baba (Ali’s mum) played with endless vitality by Garry Brindley provided an abundance of sauciness to the delight of the audience. The sudden arrival of her shady brother-in-law, Cassim Baba (performed with suitable charm) by Murray Lawson, seduces Ali with tales of gold and gems hidden in a secret cave. The Song Off between Widow Baba, Cassim and the chorus is definitely a highlight. As was the cleverly choreographed Jobs. Throughout the performance there were some charming dances by the talented young dancers and the chorus including Pieman (Bill Williamson) provided able support for the principals. But Cassim plays the ultimate price price when Alakazim discovers he’s been in his cave and chops him up!!! After a failed attack to overthrow the Sultana regally portrayed by Freda Adams, Alakazim is brought to his knees. And all is not lost for Cassim as Tarook the Tailor in a lively performance from Joshua Horsfall – is able to sew him back together. A hard working company complemented by enthusiastic singing and effective choreography kept the audience entertained throughout. Well done Ury Players.

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