All Shook Up

I think it would be fair to say that this production of ‘All Shook Up’ by the Bohemians might be described in one word - Spectacular.

The story revolves around Roustabout Chad, a guitar player who sweeps into a somewhat straight laced town where nothing much happens. When Chad brings an old juke box back to life, the community also finds a new lease of life with the townspeople finding themselves in many love tangles which fortunately are all teased out with all couples eventually finding true love.

This fabulous, light hearted, fun, Juke Box Musical which takes us back to the swinging 50’s has some wonderful arrangements of Elvis numbers and these were delivered without exception with style and panache by the main characters and the entire company. Colourful 50’s style costumes also brought the production to life.

A full throttle opening ‘Jail House Rock’ oozed an infectious energy which was maintained throughout this high energy, vibrant and pacey production. The creative choreography was mind blowing and was delivered with such ease and precision by all on stage. Imaginative direction, as well as incorporating dynamic movement, had most effective moments of stillness and tranquillity.

The ensemble singing throughout was most impressive with some wonderful harmonies coming through strongly perhaps no more so than in the Act 1 finale ‘Can’t Help Falling In Love’ with the principal characters on stage and the ensemble lining the auditorium. This was one of the highlights of the evening which was emotional and spine chilling .

All of the main characters gave outstanding performances, comfortable and confident in both vocals and dialogue which was crisp and well timed so that the comedy was never lost.

Every character was extremely well defined. Colin Sutherland was perfectly cast as Chad. His good looks, swagger, swivelling hips and wonderful voice certainly captured the spirit of the era. It was no wonder he had the ladies swooning at his feet. All of his many musical numbers were sung with aplomb and assurance.

Chad is a real thorn in the flesh of the Major of the town who rules this somewhat conservative town in such a way that the residents are bullied against the pleasures of life. However the Major herself wasn’t afraid to let her guard down when she received a proposal of marriage! Felicity Halfpenny created a fabulous caricature with wonderful comedic timing and facial expressions. She and Neil Lavin, the ‘silent’ sheriff, were a formidable pairing and really went to town in their number ‘Devil in Disguise.’ Although the sheriff has virtually nothing to say, Neil had a real stage presence in this cameo role and deserved the applause received when he was eventually permitted to speak.

Linzi Devers gave a vivacious, uplifting performance both vocally and in her characterisation of Natalie who dreams of love. ‘Love Me Tender’ was indeed tender. In order to gain Chad’s attention she disguises herself as a boy, Ed. Her change of voice and mannerisms from girl to boy were very well done.

Jim, Natalie’s caring dad. was played with great warmth and assurance by Sean Quinn. His transition from the somewhat depressed widower to the cool, rocking dad was fabulous.

The overprotective, bossy cafe owner Sylvia was played to perfection by Cathy Geddie. Behind her often austere exterior, she portrayed a vulnerability in her support and feelings for Jim which were conveyed in the heart wrenching ’There’s Always Me'. It was heart warming to see the relationship between Jim and Sylvia unfold.

Tara McCullough was absolutely charming as Sylvia’s daughter Lorraine who just wants some fun and romance in her life. She eventually does find love with Dean, the Majors son. Dean McAvoy was most convincing as the naive, love struck Dean who wants to break away from his mother and is afraid to do so but eventually finds the strength to follow his heart. A delightful young couple.

Fraser Jamieson gave a perfect performance as the lovable, insecure Dennis, a loser in love, desperate to tell Natalie that he loves her but too shy to do so. He certainly gained the support and sympathy of the audience with his first class comic timing and his timid, endearing body language. ‘It Hurts Me’ certainly pulled at the heart strings. Dennis does eventually find unexpected love with Sandra, the glamorous, sexy museum owner. Christine Mills was a most effervescent Sandra. Energetic with a powerful singing voice and striking personality she absolutely commanded the stage and nailed the part.

This really was a brilliant production which was engaging from start to finish. Outstanding principals, impressive ensemble singing, brilliant choreography, fabulous orchestra, strong direction, excellent lighting, staging and costumes. What more can I say ?

A flawless, exciting production which captivated the audience and was well deserving of the standing ovations. ‘Burning Love’ really had the audience buzzing

The Bohemians may be an amateur company but this production could undoubtedly rival any professional production. Huge congratulations to everyone involved. It was brilliant.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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