Copacabana

Opened on the 5th May 1994 At the Palace Theatre Manchester and later transferred to the Prince Of Wales Theatre London in June 1994 and ran for 525 performances.  Mandy Grealis directed this lively fast moving show giving the cast a wonderful opportunity to display their singing, acting and dancing talents.  Music by Barry Manilow and lyrics by Bruce Sussman and Jack Feldman and based on the hit song Copacabana, and set in and around the 1940’s. The show’s story of a girl wanting to join the Copacabana Club.  The young aspiring songwriter Tony (Nick Lang) played his part with lots of imagination as he tried to create a story of a young ambitious singer Lola (Caroline Burgon) who also played her part her character hilariously struggled with the auditions without a great deal of success at the beginning but won out in the end when she received helpful tips from Gladys (Larissa Street) who with very good comic acting  helped Lola to succeed. Sam (Alan Hilliar) the forceful owner of the Copacabana was loud and in a perennial bad temper but eventually gave Lola a chance. Rico (Matthew Benbrook) was the gangster playing his part well as he tempted then kidnapped Lola. Conchita (Lorna Bye) the fading star of Rico's nightclub entertained with her dance routines and singing .The rest of the ensemble gave great  singing and dancing support to the production. A most enjoyable evening. Bob Good conducted the orchestra in true 1940 style and supported the cast well Stage manager Matt Wilson and his crew supplied a simple set.  Lighting by Tony Marshall, David Topman, Laura Mackintosh, Rolly Trice. Sound Chris Evans.

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