Carousel a Concert

I confess I was uncertain quite what to expect given that the title actually included the word ‘concert’ but what we were treated to was a truncated version of this much loved show containing the vast majority of the well-known and well-loved songs with much of the ‘book’ cut away leaving the bones of the story and the wonderful melodies.  Presenting a semi-staged version of a ‘full blown’ musical was a first for the Society and it must be said that they rose to the challenge admirably.  

The live orchestra were cited at the rear of the stage and were certainly kept very busy – with little or no down time as we were whisked from one wonderful tune to another with very little lib in between.  The orchestra were very good and under the baton of the MD Stephen Hunter-Brown kept thigs moving along wonderfully.

The set was, by necessity very minimal but it worked really well – particularly given that the ‘working area’ was much reduced by the positioning of the orchestra, but it allowed a swift turn-round so that the action was never allowed to drop.  Lighting and sound were very good which meant that in general a great balance was maintained between cast and orchestra.

Many congratulations to the wardrobe department – the whole, very large, cast looked very appropriately clad, and just as important looked comfortable and ‘at home in their costumes.

Due to the truncation od the script, the characters were not really given the opportunity to fully develop their characters though, and whilst the darker side of the sub-plot was certainly both told and enacted it somehow did not feel quite so sinister and menacing as usual. Due in part to the minimal stage time allowed of characters such as the nefarious Jigger Craigin.  That said, the dramatic segments which remained were portrayed very well with lots and lots of emotion – just as required. 

The acting was good – with lots of really good facial expressions and in the main clear vocals. The singing, by both principals and chorus alike was a real treat – little wonder really in that it features some of the most moving and powerful music written for the stage, performed by a cast of people who were clearly dedicated and totally committed to the production.

Thank you WAOS for another great evening of wonderful music, camaraderie and friendship – and also for encouraging SO many younger people onto the stage – your final rendition of “You’ll Never Walk Alone” sent us all out into a dark March evening with a warm glow, and the conviction that Amateur Theatre is not only alive and well in Workington, but will continue for many years.  Thank you.

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