Anything Goes

Under the skilful direction of Adam Bishop, members of Grantham Operatic Society delivered a terrific treat to audiences with their recent performances of Cole Porter’s “Anything Goes” – an account of the foolishly reckless antics that occurred aboard the SS American as she made her way from New York to England.

Much detail was manifested in the characterisation displayed by the competent cast. Cain Knight (as Elisha J. Whitney) was the brash ‘Yale Man’ tycoon, with Kozby Lloyd (as Billy Crocker) his young employee who had not, as yet, managed to sort out his love life. Elaine Bishop (as Reno Sweeney) was an evangelist turned club singer, with amazing vocal delivery and perfectly timed put downs. Suzanne Webb (as Mrs Evangeline Harcourt), played a woman intent on increasing her fortune and improving her social standing through the imminent marriage of her daughter Hope (beautifully played by Daniella Bridge) although she is unsure as to who she is in love with! John Sheppard (as Sir Evelyn Oakleigh) was the upper class English man struggling to cope with ‘American speak’. Stephen Blanchard (as Moonface Martin) amply demonstrated his comedic talent and was very well partnered with Marie Hibbert (as Bonnie), his delightfully extrovert accomplice. Reno’s backing group - her Angels, named Purity, Chastity, Charity and Virtue, were Karon Rosser, Heidi Clayton, Lisa Stevens and Paula Yeomans-Hill. The choreography for the show was cleverly devised by Heidi Clayton. There was strong support from other members of the cast acting as passengers and ship’s crew. The action took place on a well designed and constructed set that was effectively lit. The costumes were of a high standard.

This work contains a superb selection of great tunes to accompany the well written lyrics that ensure   the songs slide seamlessly into the story line, a skill for which Cole Porter was greatly admired. Under the talented musical direction of Caroline Jones, the band and vocalists produced magnificent renditions which were enthusiastically received by the delighted audience. This was indeed great entertainment. Well done!

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