Children of Eden

 
In comparative terms this is a new show and one which over time I am sure we will see performed more frequently. The challenge will be to achieve a result that matches the quality and standard of this production. From a book by John Caird with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, award winning composer of “Wicked” and “Godspell” this memorable production is a joyous mix of magnificent inspiration, music and a tender and moving drama. Good humour too can be found both in the script and characters on stage
It is not possible to mention everyone by name, though credit goes to the extensive throng of nearly 50 in the cast each one of whom produced individual quality performances of the 21 numbers in the show. Their interpretation and characterisation both of human and animal characters was outstanding. Opening moments became larger as one of many rich choral numbers introduced Father (Matthew Emeny) who steadfast and impressive throughout in his excellent portrayal of the God figure was central to the story loosely based on the first eight chapters of the book of Genesis The summoning of light, vegetation and human life (‘Let It Be’) was followed by Adam (Jack Scott-Walker and Eve (Chloe Earl) as they entered Eden and the glittering Tree of Knowledge. The naming ceremony followed defining words for hills, trees and waterfalls and for the animals that would be seen again in Act 2 in Noahs Ark. Real recognition here to the innovative team who treated the audience to a stage filled with an array of imaginative masks and costumes that created a scene of lions, tigers, leopards, flamingos, crocodiles elephants, and giraffes, to name but a few.. All producing a stage set of vibrancy and colour. The rebellious son Cain, played with strength and vigour by Jonathan Stephens and slaying his brother Abel played by Aidan Rider and is banished as a fugitive. ‘Generations’ is a rousing opening piece for the second act with exciting Steel drum type rhythms accompanied by thunderclaps and lightning flashes bringing on the flood and the “Return of the Animals” seen in act one. There is a sweet romance between Noah’s son Japeth (Michael Hill) and the outcast servant girl Yonah (Laura Deacon) whom he has smuggled aboard the Ark. Their delightful duet “In Whatever Time We Have.” is a beautiful song. Noah played by Gary Kimber and Mama Noah (Leila More) both impressed in vocal and believability in the roles they portrayed. Whether playing a story teller, dancer, animal, member of the Children of Eden Choir or one the extremely talented chorus, all in this production gave accomplished performances. The impressive score spiced with a variety of tunes and haunting melodies brought out an excellent and well-balanced orchestra out of sight at the rear of the stage. Costumes effective lighting and an appealing set just enhanced the whole production. Thank you again to WODS for a delightful and most enjoyable evening and to my fellow NODA Regional Representative Trevor Guest congratulations on becoming Society President
Ian G Cox
Regional Representative - Worcestershire East (District 12)
NODA – Be Inspired by Amateur Theatre
On behalf of Trevor Guest

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.