Anything Goes

Cole Porter’s Anything Goes has a fine pedigree: it was first performed on Broadway in 1934, transferring to London in 1935.  Since then it has undergone several revivals and two film remakes.  It is easy to see why the show is so popular, it is bright, happy, has lots of humour, plenty of good tunes and splendid dancing. 

As the whole story is enacted on the S.S. American during the week of the Atlantic crossing in the 1930's, we were treated to some excellent characters and some great fashions with the costumes by Sheena Moore.  The static set depicting the ship’s deck provided good levels with plenty of room for business. 

The action is played out to a background of well-known and toe-tapping Cole Porter musical numbers, such as "You're The Top", "It's de Loverly";“Friendship” and the title song which closes the first act, "Anything Goes".  

This production involved a large cast, thirty-six plus Rosie the dog (playing Cheeky) all of whom performed with style and enthusiasm.  

With so many leading roles it is almost impossible to single all of them out but full credit must go to Kate Steggles magnificent as Reno, a bravura performance, Liam Corbett in fine form as Billy, Bob Moulding comedic as Moonface and the sweet-voiced Jess Elvin as Hope.

Husband and wife team Phil and Joyce Amtower created a nicely mature love interest as Elisha J Whitney and Mrs Evangeline Harcourt respectively and Jeremy Warbrick in the part of the typically English Lord, Evelyn Oakleigh, almost brought the house down singing “The Gypsy in Me” - a very funny number loved by the audience.

On the technical side sound and lighting were very good and the stage crew made the necessary changes with commendable efficiency. 

Director Louise Travis has a deft touch, bringing out all the comedy and giving us some great entertainment.  She was very well supported by her assistant directors Judith Thomas and Lou Petch, co-choreographer Heather Couch and the absolutely excellent orchestra, under the direction of James Recknell.

Congratulations to you all on a wonderful team effort providing us with a most enjoyable and excellent evening’s entertainment.

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