Bugsy Malone

Hannah Cumming was an original member of Centre Stage when it was formed in 2007. Since then she has blossomed from being a cast member to heading off to University to complete a degree in performing Arts. It is fitting that she has been invited back to Langholm to direct her first production with this Company. Once again this talented group of youngsters pulled out all the stops and gave the audience a superb production of this show written for young stars.

The set was excellent with the split level areas all used to the full with subtle lighting changing the mood as required. The costume department have done wonders recreating the mood of the gangster era.

I liked the innovative start to both the first and second Acts by bringing on "night club" singers to set the mood, including some of the more mature members of this youth group and the Director herself. Well done. It was obvious they weren't good enough to be in the show as they all failed their auditions at Fat Sams to be in his troupe.

In the title role of Bugsy Malone, Luke Bell, excelled, his New Yoik accent held out throughout the production and his demeanour showed he was in charge throughout. He was ably supported by Beth Smith as Blousy Brown, his love interest. She was super in her portrayal of the shy auditionee developing into the star turn at Fat Sam's speakeasy. Speaking of Fat Sam, this role was played by Callum Jeffrey and he and Finlay Eagleston as Dandy Dan the rival gang leader, played their opposing roles excellently. Fat Sam's moll Tullulah was superby played by Chloe Wilkes. She has a stunning voice which should head her into many leading roles in the future. I liked Fizzy (Emily Hislop), the "cleaner" who wanted to be a star but was too frightened to audition, She popped in and out throughout the show, and gave a heartfelt rendition of her song Tomorrow in which she expresses her desire to be a performer.

The remainder of the minor principals were all very good in their performances, and everyone had plenty to do with the doubling up of characters.The dancing throughout the show was well rehearsed and added to the spectacle, as did the chorus singing. It was obvious that the whole cast were enjoying themselves and especially in the ensemble numbers when the stage came alive when everyone was involved. The scenes in Cagey Joes Gym was excellent, and the lead up to the final "shoot out" was superb. I would have liked to see more foam or whatever was being used in the splurge guns but I cant have everything.

This was the first time I have seen this show although I saw some of the movie many years ago. I thoroughly enjoyed my night out in Langholm and look forward to many more. Well done, a most enjoyable evening.

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