Annie Get your Gun

This ever popular show was a repeat choice for the Society, having been previously staged in 1992.  This production, liberally sprinkled with many well known musical numbers, was an up-to-date version that generally improved the script and made for good listening.  The story, set in 1890, is loosely based on fact and concerns the varying tribulations and apparent successes of two Wild West shows.  This provides all the ingredients and glamour to entertain.

A strong line-up of principals was led by Lyndsey Spark as a dainty sharp-eyed Annie Oakley. She not only had her shooting skills well honed, but also had her singing boots on!  From her first appearance she captivated the audience and carried the show along.  This young person is an undoubted asset to the Society.  Drew Herron was absolutely at ease with his role of Frank Butler, and brought both comedy and romance to a character which can sometimes be unlikeable.  Mike Douglas (Charles Davenport) caught the eye with his usual strong interpretation of the role, and Paul Godfrey (Sitting Bull) looked fearsome.  Susan Smith (Dolly Tate) played the part well with excellent singing.  Peter Boyd and Bob Douglas completed the “Indian” line-up as Buffalo Bill and Pawnee Bill – both suitably costumed and made-up.

The other supporting roles and chorus members contributed to an enjoyable evening’s entertainment.  The Indian Ceremonial scene was particularly colourful with excellent costumes which might have been enhanced with some UV lighting.  Mention also needs to be made of the younger talented children taking smaller parts. I congratulate the Society on their recruitment and hope you may retain them.

The Phoenix stage is small, so to make best use of space the tightly controlled orchestra is sited in another room. Good use is made of audio-visual communications.  Scenery and props were simple but effective – particularly when Annie shot out the chandelier candles one by one.  Appropriate sound effects contributed to the harbour scene.  Costumes were from “In-Disguise” and the Society.

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