Anything Goes

Anything Goes contains a superb selection of great tunes to accompany the well written lyrics, both from the pen of Cole Porter.  Under the talented musical direction of Suzanne Stewart, the band, neatly tucked on the upper deck of the SS American, and the vocalists were enthusiastically received by this opening night’s audience. The story of the show gives an entertaining account of reckless antics that occur aboard the aforementioned ship on her voyage from New York to England.

A competent cast ensured the performance flowed well from scene to scene. Craig Tait excelled as the brash ‘Yale Man’ tycoon, Elisha Whitney, with Darren Johnson displaying equal skill as his young employee Billy Crocker – still attempting to sort out his love life! Jilly Martin as Reno Sweeney - evangelist turned club singer – offered first class vocal delivery with well-timed put downs. Evangeline Harcourt (Diane C Peet), a woman intent on furthering her fortune and social standing by means of the imminent marriage of her daughter Hope. Hope was beautifully played by Fiona Scott, although she is not absolutely certain with whom she is in love!  Mark Grieve excelled as the upper-class Englishman, Lord Evelyn Oakleigh, struggling to come to terms with American speak. Mark’s o.t.t. plummy accent was well maintained throughout. Adam Campbell and Maggie Duffus were simply delightful as Moonface Martin and Erma respectively. Both actors used their voices and physicality to convey character, and did so successfully.

All of the other cast really aided the scenes and helped bring the whole production together. The whole cast numbers were brilliant. Visually stunning against the backdrop of the ship and a wonderful showcase for the vocal talents of this society.

The choreography for the show was well devised by Claire Robertson and made certain to involve the full Company at times, not only the designated dancers!

The set, featuring the SS American, complete with upper deck was well designed by John Urquhart, and offered fine acting areas, on a variety of levels, for the LADAMA cast. Costumes by Utopia Costumes were appropriate and well managed.

Overall, direction by Malcy Burnett was all that was required to bring this toe-tapping piece of musical theatre to life, as was seen tonight!

Well done LADAMA for providing an excellent evening of entertainment!

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.