Boogie Nights – The 70’s Musical

What a happy show. The audience were enthusiastically singing along by the end. The scene was set very cleverly by Baz the Bouncer (Steve Pace) inviting us into the 70’s disco to meet the bride Debs (Gemma Wilkinson) and the company, waiting for the groom Roddy? (Nigel Davies). Roddy led us skilfully back in time and, as the plot unfolded, we were introduced to a variety of characters. A very demanding part, which he was able to keep alive and fresh throughout. Debs was pleasing on the ear and portrayed the changes in her circumstances effectively. No surprise really to find Deb’s groom was actually Roddy’s best friend Dean (David Pearce).

Trish (Emily Dunford) and Terry (Charlie Mortimer) worked very well together, a typical 70’s couple. We were treated to many well performed songs throughout the show. Roddy’s father Eamon (Martin Brisbourne) was played for all of the laughs. An excellent performance and timing, especially his portrayal of his idol, Elvis. Spencer (David Harrison) and Lorraine (Sally Edwards) had their share of a stormy/loving relationship which they seemed to enjoy. All of the company shared their verve and enthusiasm with us in the audience and were an integral part of the happenings on stage.

The two different lounges and disco scenery, taking us immediately to the 70’s, were simple but effective and were managed by a well drilled stage crew. We were puzzled by some of the lighting effects in the show. The music, a mixture of live and recorded soundtrack, was, on occasions, rather too loud. On the whole, the home produced costumes worked well.

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