Bugsy Malone

Over the past few years HD&OS’s Young Idea have gained a good reputation for achieving some truly enjoyable productions and this production of “Bugsy Malone” was no exception.

The show itself does not run particularly smoothly. Scenes end abruptly and often switch between different times, places and characters. Not so for Young Idea. The set was excellent with the split- level areas all used to the full, with subtle lighting changing the mood as required. For this production the set made a great impact and created the right atmosphere for the show allowing for slick scene changes and impressive lighting. Also I really liked the starkness of the lighting that gave dark shadows on faces at times, emulating black and white photographs of the time. Clever idea!

The costume department did wonders recreating the mood of the gangster era and the youngsters obviously relished taking on the different characters. The suits for the guys were wonderful and The Speakeasy dancers outfits were stunning and well thought out. Tallulah and Blousy were complete opposites and looked just right.

The singing, under the guidance of Andy Merrifield was confident and impressive from both principals and ensemble and the choreography was executed well and added interest to the numbers although the dance styles and musical interpretation changed from time to time as if executed by a different choreographer. This did not however, spoil the overall enjoyment of the evening.

In the title role of Bugsy Malone, (Harry O’Hare), excelled, his New York accent held out throughout the production and his demeanour showed he was in charge throughout although still being a very likable character.

Bugsy was sensitively supported by (Zoe Martin) as Blousy Brown, his love interest. She was superb in her portrayal of the shy auditionee developing into the star turn at Fat Sam's speakeasy. Her song “Only A Fool” suited her well. One to watch for the future I think.

 I liked Fizzy (Ria Cabbani), 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. Lovely!

Fat Sam (Joshua Langley) and Dandy Dan (Elijah Calderaro) worked hard on their characterisation and created two very different characters.

Tallulah  (Madeline Gibbens) played the typical gangsters broad with great confidence and 'My name is Tallulah' was a highlight of the second act. This young lady has a good vocal quality that should head her into many leading roles in the future.

Captain Smolsky (Cathy Dixon) and O’Dreary (Benedict Long) made for a good comedy team and with a little more encouragement have the makings of comedians of the future. We all have to start somewhere.

Leroy (Ciaran Couldridge) made a good attempt at the undiscovered boxer who pals up with Bugsy but I would have liked to have seen more characterization. His is a small part that needs to be made the most of. Never the less 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 can’t have everything.

The audience were very appreciative of all the hard work that had gone in to this show and I must congratulate all involved in the performance.

 I was very impressed by the talent and enthusiasm of the young cast.

Thank you for inviting me

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