Chicago High School Edition

Many thanks for the invitation to review this exciting and scintillating performance of Chicago: High School Edition performed by the talented and hugely committed members of Odyssey Youth - the ‘middle’ arm of Odyssey Theatre Productions - at the Wykham Theatre on the Banbury Academy Campus. This group never fail to disappoint and this performance was no exception!  So much energy and dedication on stage from the impressive yet very simple opening - to the rapturous curtain calls! Amazing principal performances with some excellent support from a very disciplined and enthusiastic ensemble.

Andy Aldcroft’s skilful direction kept the action rattling along with barely a pause for breathe. The characterisations were very strong and believable even though, they are largely caricatures but were still very ‘real’ to the audience.  Each and every cast member was well drilled in their words, entrances, exits and dance routines and it was obvious that a great deal of effort and planning had gone into making this production possible by the production team. Kieron Galliard’s crisp musical direction ensured that the fantastic on-stage band added to the performances by providing atmosphere and fun to the proceedings. More importantly the band never over-shadowed the vocals - one of my bug bears I’m afraid - but top marks to all concerned on this occasion. The cast and ensemble were word perfect with some definitely spirited performances from all the cast and in particular some splendid principal vocals. What a joy to watch the talents of Sharon Green on display with some very clever and inventive dancing which in spite of the apparent complexity of some routines was accessible to all cast members and looked fabulous and completely complimented the style and setting of the production. I loved the little subtle touches – the heart shape made by the dancers with fans in All I Care About was one that springs to mind. Many congratulations - the whole company did you proud Sharon. How you taught and perfected the routines to that standard in a week is just astonishing! I’m sure Assistant Choreographer Katy Price had a large role to play in drilling and rehearsing the routines for the ‘finished’ article. Stunning! What a fantastic evening’s entertainment! The audience clearly loved it and quite rightly too!  This was live theatre at its best and with such talented young people long may Odyssey continue to thrive. I was privileged to be asked to meet the cast after the performance and they were a delightful bunch. Please don’t lose your enthusiasm and passion for the theatre - you are its future!

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