" Crazy for You"

 

 

“ Crazy for You “ is a romantic comedy musical based on the book by Ken Ludwig and with lyrics by Ira Gershwin and music by George Gershwin.The show was an amalgam of songs from many productions including the 1930’s musical “ Girl Crazy “ and it opened on Broadway in 1992 to critical acclaim, The West End Production opened in 1933 and there have been many successful revivals.

Congratulations to St Annes Parish Operatic Society for choosing a very strong Production Team and Cast to bring this classic, feel-good factor musical to the audiences at the Lowther Pavilion.Lynda Clarkson, Director had used all her experience to bring out the very best performances from all the cast and maintained the enthusiasm and pace throughout the evening.We were treated to a rousing Overture, by the very talented Orchestra, under the baton of Stewart Hankinson, whilst the accompanying excellent lighting effects by Phil Sykes created the appropriate atmosphere for the ensuing scenes. Elaine Morrison, Choreographer had created some lively and innovative routines and I know she is very proud of the way the cast interpreted these.

The “Follies Girls” were slick, polished and vibrant and created a nostalgic memory of the 1930’s.

Costumes and accessories were excellent and appropriate for the period.Congratulations to the cast and backstage crew who seamlessly created the many and varied scene changes. The sound-balance between the orchestra and the action on stage was very good and imaginative lighting effects enhanced the performance except for one particular scene, which was too bright and some audience members were shielding their eyes. As there were no weak links on stage, this made for a first class Production.

Darren Skelly as Bobby Child, the rich son of a Banking family, gave an energetic and enthusiastic performance. He certainly moved well but I felt there was not enough light and shade in his vocals. Claire Louise as the feisty Polly Baker gave an outstanding, convincing, performance showing her all-round ability. Joely-Colleen Emms,( Irene Roth), played an excellent cameo role, which showed her vocal skill at its best. Andrew Would continues to impress with his characterization of Lank Hawkins and Una Bird was delightful as “Mother”,((Mrs Lottie Child.)I did enjoy Eugene and Patricia Fodor, (Tim Greenwood and Alison Thornton), who were an outstanding contrast to other characters on stage.

I feel that this musical is just a vehicle for the various musical numbers and the storyline is incidental but as I am a fan of the “Gershwins” I had a very enjoyable visit. Thank you for your kind welcome to my wife and myself.

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