Company

Sale and Altrincham Musical Theatre’s production of Company offered a thoughtful and entertaining evening, delivering Stephen Sondheim’s complex musical with notable flair. The production opened on a strikingly atmospheric stage, bathed in blue light and framed by a brick wall backdrop. The simple apartment furniture and muted city sound effects created an effective New York loft vibe, setting the tone for the unfolding narrative. 

The ensemble’s performance of the title song “Company” was well delivered, featuring excellent harmonies that captured the energy and camaraderie central to the piece. However, it was occasionally marred by slurred diction during certain vocal moments—a minor flaw in an otherwise enjoyable opening. 

The flashing lights used to indicate scene changes were a functional visual cue to the first dinner party scene with Sarah and Harry, played by Victoria Lewis and Adam Garnett, showcased good chemistry between the performers, with Victoria demonstrating impeccable comic timing that brought humor and authenticity to her role. 

One of the standout musical moments was the trio performance of “You Can Drive a Person Crazy.” While the harmonies were tight, there were occasional timing issues that detracted slightly from its polish. The sound levels on stage also seemed to be imbalanced at times, which may have impacted the overall clarity of certain musical numbers. 

Tim Wood’s portrayal of Bobby was a cornerstone of the production, with his consistency and charisma anchoring the show. His delivery of the climactic song “Being Alive” was particularly compelling and well received by the audience, displaying strong vocals and emotional depth. Bobby’s interactions with the other characters brought cohesion to the ensemble, and Tim’s performance was undoubtedly a highlight. 

Eilidh Pollard excelled in her rendition of “Getting Married Today,” tackling one of the most demanding songs in the musical with exceptional skill and precision. Her comic timing and vocal dexterity were impeccable, making this moment a standout of the evening. Similarly, Vikki Bullar’s interpretation of Joanne was commanding and nuanced; she brought depth to the jaded character and delivered a compelling rendition of “Ladies Who Lunch,” which resonated with the audience. 

Overall, Sale and Altrincham Musical Theatre succeeded in delivering a well-rounded production of Company. While minor technical issues, including occasional sound imbalances and slurred diction, were present, the cast’s energy, skill, and dedication shone through. The creative choices in staging and ambiance effectively transported the audience into Bobby’s world, and the chemistry among the performers brought a rich layer of authenticity to their interactions. 

I thoroughly enjoyed watching Company and extend my gratitude to the theatre for their invitation and hospitality. The production was a testament to the cast and crew’s hard work and passion—a memorable evening that celebrated the complexity and beauty of Sondheim’s masterpiece. Well done to all involved! 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.