Bugsy Malone

Bugsy Malone started life as a 1976 musical gangster comedy film, written and directed by Alan Parker in his directorial debut with music and lyrics by Paul Williams.  It is frequently cited by critics, film directors, and audiences alike as one of the greatest films of all time and in 2003, it was voted No 19 on a list of the 100 greatest musicals, as chosen by viewers of Channel 4.  

EMUs tonight certainly stepped up to the challenge of this show’s pedigree in all elements of the production. From the bold musical opening from the showgirls and the excellent lighting highlighting a huge “Bugsy Malone” with multicoloured projection changing throughout the performance, to the more sensitive moments including ‘Nobody’s Fool’ a particular musical highlight.

First and foremost, it was great to see that the production team of Georgie, Katie and Amy were as much a part of the EMU family as all the performers and technical team.  This team spirit was evident in every scene and the occasional fourth wall break, which drew the audience in, making this a high energy, fun packed evening. This was very much an ensemble production with every actor contributing to the overall strength of the evening with nice detail everywhere right down to the violin accompaniment of the removal of ‘splurged’ victims.

Alice Renshaw and Emily Bridge delivered the key roles of Blousy and Tallulah with great vocal strength backed up with strong acting performances.  James Christian, Joel Dawson and Tom Baddiley provided the comic timing essential for Fat Sam, Bugsy and Fizzy with Joe Langley providing a nicely understated Dandy Dan.

Amy had obviously spent a considerable amount of time in vocal coaching and projection from cast and chorus alike as the diction, nuance and vocal power shone through in every performer.  Also having the band on stage added to the overall effect so congratulations to the sound team for managing to still maintain a great balance. Katie had chosen an excellent blend of dance style and complexity for her cast as you could see the enjoyment on the faces of the cast as they moved throughout the night.  Georgie brought all of these talents together to create a great ensemble production. Her work with the principals and chorus ensured that all actors understood their characters and how they needed to develop and include both some pathos and comic timing.

Congratulations all and I look forward to the next production of The Wizard of Oz in July.

Martin Holtom

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.