All Shook Up

Well this production really took me back to some of my teenage years. Written by Joe Dipietro with songs from the fabulous Elvis Presley, and very loosely based on Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, what more could one ask for a successful musical. Taking me back to the mid 50’s, it was handbags in the centre circle girls and full skirts and swooshing petticoats. Director Sam Highcock must be well pleased with his efforts. He took full advantage of the space available on stage and particularly with the big chorus numbers, everyone could be seen and heard. All cast members kept their American accents throughout the performance and the voice projection of all on stage was perfect, with no pauses or prompts. The set was more than adequate with swift scene changes by the competent Stage Crew and all appropriate props sourced. Lighting and sound were spot on with no mishaps, and costumes were appropriate for the period.    

The peace at a sleepy Midwest town where community rules must be obeyed, was suddenly shattered by the arrival of Chad, a leather-jacketed guitar playing rebellious Roustabout who broke all the rules outlawing loud music, dancing and tight pants.!! 

Jamie Ash launched himself into the role of Chad and revelled in it throughout the production. It was obvious Jamie had thoroughly researched the character and pulled out all the stops on this one. He led the company in many of the popular Elvis numbers ‘Jailhouse Rock,’ ‘Teddy Bear/Hound Dog’ and ‘C’mon Everybody’ also full marks for delivering the quieter side with ‘Love Me Tender’, an excellent energetic performance. Alysia Dyke gave us another first-class performance in her portrayal as engine lover mechanic Natalie, dealing well with all her vocal tasks professionally and demonstrating versatility in the different roles she undertakes, Well Done!!. There is never a doubt when I see Landon Sweeney’s name in the cast, and as garage owner widower Jim Haller, I was not disappointed with his characterisation as Natalie’s dad, another feather in your cap Landon. Confident performance from Marie Lord as Sylvia owner of the Honky Tonk Café. The role of Dennis, Chad’s side-kick was in the capable hands of Tomos Giles, who joined Chad and raised the roof in the ever popular ‘Blue Suede Shoes’. I have seen Dani Lisa Buck in quite a few productions and as Miss Sandra, gave us a very creditable performance with her portrayal of The Town Museum’s Owner. The role of tight-lipped Mayor Matilda was played to perfection by  Davina Shone, whose paramount   mission was seeing the community kept the law.  Davina extracted many comedy moments from the script to the annoyance of the long-suffering Sheriff Earl played by Tristian Greenfield.  Isaac Lord gave a fine contribution as Dean, Matilda’s son together with young Lorraine, Sylvia’s teenage daughter, played by Jess-Louise Dailey, they added a certain sparkle to the production. 

All minor roles were well executed, choreography was right on cue with everyone knowing their own task. A well-rehearsed  production which truly raised the roof and was worthy of a much larger audience. 

Congratulations P.M.A. thank you for your energy and enthusiasm, also for my beautiful flowers and badge. Iam grateful to have had the opportunity of witnessing many of your Productions and wish you all every success in the future.  THANK YOU ALL VERY MUCH!

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