Boogie Nights

Author: Ian G Cox

Information

Date
3rd October 2012
Society
Alcester Musical Theatre Company
Venue
Palace Theatre Redditch
Type of Production
Musical
Director
Bev Hatton
Musical Director
Hannah Wolstencroft
Choreographer
Dawn Tolley

Having the opportunity to enjoy the iconic music of the 70’s in one single evening wrapped up in a show extravaganza of colour and spectacle does not arise every day. All the passion, pace, tragedy and triumph was depicted in this offering which from the audience and casts perspective was enjoyed immensely.

It was unfortunate that the sound quality at times was a little patchy that was prone to give some irritating feedback making  at times  the vocal quality not as strong as it might be. Though this was made up with brilliant costumes in eye catching colours, huge energy from everyone with well thought out and practiced choreography.  The stage seemingly a little crowded as performers jostled into place in the bigger choral numbers.

Principals in the cast played their roles very well and were ably supported by enormous enthusiasm which produced a real fun loving show. Roddy – Griffin Mosson – Debs – Gemma Coles, Terry – Nathan Miller, Trish – Rachel Gill and Lorraine – Hayley Willis, all performed with passion and energy. Dean – Stuart Parish played an effective DJ well, as did Baz – Stuart Howell as the bouncer. Spencer – Dave Hatton demonstrated some interesting dance moves. The supporting cast of ladies and men’s chorus, skaters, dancers and the Wolstencroft Wailers generated huge on stage energy and appeal for the audience absorbing all the greatest disco classics and some taking the opportunity to purchase light sticks which they waved with great exuberance to “Starship Trouper”. This was just one of a string of toe tapping hits of the 70’s along  'You Sexy Thing',' Don’t Go Breaking My Heart.', 'Enough is Enough” Will Survive', 'If You Leave Me Now “, “Sugar Baby Love”, 'Boogie Wonderland' and many many more!. All made for a magical walk down the memory lane of music that continues popularity 40 years on. The scene on the night the King Elvis Presley died made for a poignant and emotional performance one of a number in the show where characters played exceptionally well the balance of humour and fun with the tragedies of the time

A set with scene changes interspersed with a brick wall proved highly effective and inclusion of roller skates, bicycles and dry ice – possibly a little too excessive – all added to the sense of fun and enjoyment. Costumes were vibrant and showed an extensive wardrobe selection including cowboys, sailor’s high visibility jackets and fur coats. The total impact being one of great spectacle and excitement

An inspired initiative to partner with the local Alcester Academy and sponsor a trophy for the student adjudged “best Overall Performance in an Academy production has clearly encouraged young people to join this talented group which delivered a thoroughly enjoyable entertaining experience.

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