Big the Musical

Opening Remarks

I was delighted to be invited to attend Theats’s latest production, ‘Big the Musical’ (Big) and was very much excited to see the society’s work on the larger stage offered by the Core at the Corby Cube.

It is clear from the Chairman’s and Director’s letters in the programme that the production of ‘Big’ was far from straight forward, with several challenges arising. However, these were overcome; in true theatre fashion, the show went on! I applaud all concerned for the tenacity shown in the face of adversity.

In the round, Theats’s production of ‘Big’ was of a good standard, with moments of brilliance. It offered an evening of warm, family entertainment for the people of Corby to enjoy.   

The Show

‘Big’ is a musical adaption of the film of the same title. The film is a product of 1980 Hollywood, and the musical came to life on Broadway in 1996. The musical has short runs on Broadway and the West End and enjoyed a fleeting national US tour.

The music was produced by David Shire, the lyrics were created by Richard Maltby Jr and the book was written by John Weidman. The plot, of course, follows the adventures of Josh Baskin, a 12-year-old boy who grows up overnight thanks to the magic of Zoltar, a carnival wish machine. The plot provides some helpful reminders - be careful of what you wish for and enjoy your childhood.

Reviews on the musical were sharply divided at the time of its run on Broadway. I can see why. I had not seen the musical before but would not rush to see it again. I did not enjoy the music or lyrics very much. However, my views on the musical are not a reflection on Theats, who did a brilliant job with the material provided by David Shire, Richard Maltby Jr, and John Weidman.  

Creatives

Direction by Mark Walker was, as one would expect given his experience and reputation, superb. Mark managed the large company very well and directed the range of scenes wonderfully; in particular, the direction of a large chorus of children was handled very well indeed.

It was clear Mark had worked well with the principals and company to ensure clear characterisation, strong blocking, and the smooth delivery of the show.

Musical direction by Peter Morgan was of a high standard. He had coached the company to a very good standard and offered the audience an enjoyable interpretation of the score and lyrics. I particularly enjoyed ‘Stars’.

I also congratulate the band for the very valuable contribution it made to the production.

Choreography by Sheena Forster was very good, she managed the different abilities of the company very ably and produced several slick company numbers.

I think Act 1 Scene 6 was a triumph for all the creatives: I and the audience enjoyed the upbeat number, great direction, and piano dance offered in the scene.

Cast

The cast of Big was a vast one, with several principals and many more ensemble members. Each member brought their own special talent to the stage and added something of value to the production. It was clear to me that everyone was having a brilliant time, which is the most important thing of all!

I enjoyed the work of Rachel Fletcher as Susan Lawrence. She provided the strongest vocal and acting performances of the evening. Her achievements were made all the greater given that, I believe, she was sporting a leg injury.

The work of Sam Leach (Josh Baskin), James (Billy Kopecki), and Harry (Young Josh) must also be recognised. The team did a brilliant job in their portrayal of the key characters.

Ashley Malcolmson (Paul), Martin Brown (George McMillan), and Phill Mills (Mr Baskin, Tom, and Zoltar) also offered strong performances for the audience to enjoy.

I did very much appreciate Wendy Hopkins’s interpretation of Miss Watson, which brought some brilliant comedic characterisation to the stage.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, I recognise the fantastic work of the entire youth ensemble. They did brilliantly and, for me, perhaps, delivered the performances of the evening. Every single youth member had marvellous characterisation and strong stage presence. Many thanks to the chaperones who looked after the budding stars of the future.

Production

The staging of the production was of a good standard, with the scenery and properties offering a colourful backdrop.

Sound was of an excellent standard and the lighting design very good indeed.  

Well done to the backstage crew, who managed transitions well. However, I would encourage consideration of how transitions can be managed in more dynamic ways.  

The programme, which was available online, was of a professional standard.

Closing Remarks

Many congratulations to Theats on the staging of ‘Big’.

I look forward to seeing the society’s next production and wish everyone well in the meantime.

Luke Campbell

NODA Representative, East Midlands District 7

 

 

 

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