Copacabana

~~As Regional Representative I was unable to attend this production.  This is an edited version of a report provided to the Monklands Light Opera Company.

Copacabana certainly made Cairnlea Church Hall the hottest spot in North Lanarkshire with a mix of colour, glitz and glamour leaving the audience clapping, tapping, and shouting for more.  Lola, the small town girl with huge dreams of being a star was played by Nicole Henderson, mixing vulnerability, sassiness and comedy.  As Tony, newcomer Clayton Wilson excelled in his singing, acting and dancing.  Liam McKinstray played Sam the boss of the night club was paired with newcomer Lee-Ann Mary MacCallum as his long suffering partner and retired Copa girl Gladys. Both are confident actors and singers and their performances complemented each other.  As villain and gangster Rico, John Bergin was brilliant playing next to Anna Marie Grieve who was cast as Conchita performing with great confidence.  Tremendous enthusiasm was displayed from those in various cameo roles and similarly the supporting cast of Copa Girls, Havana Girls and Copa Boys all added to the enjoyment. It would be remiss not to highlight the ensemble piece El Bravo, a swashbuckling pirate spectacular that was full of colour and energy.  Making her debut as Director, Stephanie O’Raw provided excellent vision and creativity, particularly for a small stage and returning as Musical Director, Patrick McClair ensured the cast were on top form with the band providing great musical support to compliment the score.  As Choreographer, Laura Goodwin joined the production team providing routines full of movement, spectacle and colour. Although the venue worked well, the production deserved a larger stage and the stage crew led by Ronnie Orr should be commended for their support.

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