Anything Goes

This popular musical was first aired on Broadway towards the end of 1934. Music and Lyrics by Cole Porter, it was bound to be a winner, so it was ‘all aboard’ the SS America for an exciting cruise from New York to London with Newtown MTC.

As the tabs opened following a long overture, the band looked very comfortable situated up stage centre on the deck, with the usual steps leading to the top deck. The Director made full use of the steps and upper deck throughout the production for entrances and exits for the Company. Credit must go to Stage Manager and all back stage Crew, together with Costume Team for a tremendous effort. The Sailor Quartet entered and exited with different ballet steps moving props at appropriate times which brought many chuckles from the appreciative audience. However, there were one or two pauses between scenes which I am sure were quickly ironed out for the next performance. 

Returning to Newtown MTC after a University and Family gap, Emma Edwards as Reno Sweeney was just faultless in her interpretation of this prestigious role. From her first entrance she made her mark with ‘I Get A Kick Out Of You.’ Other triumphs followed, as Emma was spot on with ‘You’re The Top’ with Billy and led the company with a rousing ‘Blow Gabriel Blow’ in Act 2.  A performance to be proud of. Full marks to Owen Nelson who gave an unbelievable performance as Billy Crocker, a role which Owen took over just 2 weeks before show week.  Owen coped well with his vocal tasks in particular ‘It’s De-Lovely’ and ‘All Through The Night’ harmonizing well with Hope Harcourt, beautifully played by Nia Morgan. John Bowen was perfect in the role of on the run   Moonface Martin taking every opportunity to carry out his wheeling and dealing together with girlfriend Erma. Polished performance here from Karen McMurdo as Erma, her number ‘Buddie Beware’ with the Sailor Quartet was very well received. Gareth McMurdo gave a fabulous portrayal as toff Lord Evelyn Oakleigh with his ‘spiffingly posh’ accent, constantly referring to his little note book and writing phrases down. His duet with Reno ‘Gypsy in Me’ was a triumph.  Nice contribution from Justine Nelson as Mrs Evangeline Harcourt, Hope’s Mother. 

It was a real privilege to attend this production, as Anything Goes marked the 100th production for Mike Clarke as either performer or Director. I have seen Mike in many guises and I deem it an honour to have witnessed his characterization as Elisha Whitney, in Anything Goes. Congratulations Mike your talent and experience are insurmountable.

Andrew Bond was very comfortable in the role of Captain whilst Brian Worley-Morgan gave us a very energetic Purser. Tony Orme and Ollie Orme did all that was asked of them as Moonface’s henchmen Spit and Dippy. The roles of Purity, Chastity, Charity and Virtue were in the hands of Amber Harris, Jaz Titcombe, Jasmine Anderson and Esme Turrell. There were many minor roles and these were all executive with aplomb.  Chorus numbers were well rehearsed and choreography was fresh and well devised.

Thank you once again Newtown for my cruise ticket from New York to London.

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