Bye Bye Birdie

This was the first time I had seen this show so didn't know what to expect.  The production had a double cast and I saw the Wednesday evening performance.  The theme of a much adored rock and roll idol, Conrad Birdie being drafted into the army may or may not have been inspired by the Elvis Presley's conscription but was undoubtedly an ideal choice for youngsters.  In an effort to save his record company, Conrad's songwriter and agent, Albert Peterson (played confidently by Jason Pan), organises a farewell appearance on the Ed Sullivan show.  Together with his secretary and long suffering girlfriend, Rose Alvarez (Penny Stephens) they hope this will promote Conrad's new record, One Last Kiss, especially as Birdie will give one last kiss to an avid member of Birdie's fan club, Kim Macafee.  Penny Stephens gives a very mature performance both in singing and acting as Rose, the used and abused girlfriend to petulant Albert.  However, the plan goes rather awry when an excited Kim, very naturally performed by Rose Stephens finally meets Birdie and her family overreact.  Her mother, Doris, nicely handled by Lucy Scarlett tries to keep everything calm but her father, Harry is overwhelmed and reacts badly. Alix Burness gives an energetic portrayal as Harry while Kearan Jones as Kim's cute little brother Randolph is very watchable.  Every time Birdie makes an appearance his adoring fans scream their heads off.  Here the teen chorus were in their element and played up to the situation well.  And as for Conrad himself - Fergus Durston was certainly on hip swinging form.  There were also very able performances by Rebekah Mitchell as Mae Peterson and Zoey Morgan as Gloria Rasputin.and an enthusiastic and energetic cast made for a lively and enjoyable evening.

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