Beauty and the Beast
Information
- Date
- 28th January 2022
- Society
- Clacton Musical Theatre Society
- Venue
- The Westcliff Theatre Clacton On Sea
- Type of Production
- Pantomime
- Director
- Lucy Weaver
- Musical Director
- Will Smith-Daye
- Choreographer
- Ashleigh Masters
I was warmly welcomed on arrival by Julia Clarke, Vice Chair of the society and I had the opportunity to talk with Director, Lucy Weaver during the interval.
The principal roles were all very well cast with very strong performances from all. The script gave ample opportunity for this talented society to showcase their acting, singing and dancing skills to great effect. And they tackled this well known pantomime with verve and enthusiasm!
Cassie Weston, as Belle was charming and played her part brilliantly. I thought her opening number, “Walking On Sunshine” was a really good show starter and “Unruly Heart” was just perfect. Gethan White was a fabulous Beast, angry but also gentle with a tremendous stage presence and a strong voice eg in “Wall In My Head”
I loved the portrayal of Lucas Luxuriant by Steve Salmon. How arrogant, bombastic and obnoxious he was especially whilst singing “ Handsome, Gorgeous”. He really engaged the audience who booed and hissed when he appeared.
The Dame, Madame Marie Macaroon, was all that a panto dame should be, extravagant, loud, funny and energetic. Douglas Garner acted out this part with great skill and I enjoyed his rendition of “All The Single Ladies”.
Ruby Cowley, aged 11years, was a most delightful Fairy Dust, brimming with confidence on stage. She acted, danced and sung and shows excellent promise for the future
Maurice, Belle's father, played by Sam McCarthy travelled extensively and always returned with a single rose for Belle. They sang an emotional duet “ Keep Holding On “, which ably complimented their strong voices.
Peter Norfolk played the simple fall guy, Potty Pierre and had the audience roaring at his antics and expressions.
The comedy duo, Beauregard and Marcel were played respectively by Phoebe Wiggett and Scarlett Wiggett and provided fun and slapstick comedy throughout.
The chorus was well rehearsed and contributed throughout with both singing and dancing. In fact the dancing was a joy to see and many congratulations to Choreographer Ashleigh Masters and Dance Captain Katie Barnett for the imaginative routines eg “We Will Rock You.” The small group of dancers were all so well coordinated in their actions ! Well done.
The music was well chosen and, without exception suited the voices. Musical Director, Will Smith-Daye had worked hard to pull out the best in every voice heard to great effect.
Company Stage Manager Nicola Heap, assisted by her deputy Marcus Nixon and the stage crew ensured that scene changes were swift and seamless. The sympathetic lighting design by Nigel Taylor enhanced the sets which were attractive backdrops—I especially liked the Beast's castle. The followspots were on cue. Sound levels were just right.
A special mention of the magnificent costumes and makeup by Chris Bareham and Janet Ross.
The audience was totally involved from the beginning and eagerly followed the twists and turns of the plot. I enjoyed it enormously.
Finally, huge congratulations to Director Lucy Weaver for having the vision to create this scintillating production and congratulations to all the cast and crew. You can all be very proud of this production.
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