Crazy for You

September 2023 was totally devastating for all companies who normally perform at The Core when the theatre closed due to the discovery of RAAC concrete, for Knowle Musical Society I know there were many changes to consider when deciding to move venue to The Artrix  however I’m  pleased to say that they embraced the challenge and overcame all the obstacles to prove “The Show Must Go On “  With many fantastic well known Gershwin musical numbers the audience were in for a treat.

Michael Green played the engaging Bobby Child who unintentionally falls hopelessly in love with Polly Baker played by Chloe Rawson. Both of whom were perfectly cast and I’m sure the audience really enjoyed seeing how their on-stage relationship developed. Michael and Chloe’s performances were superb throughout both being somewhat ‘triple threats’.  Special mention must be given to wonderful versions of three of my all-time favourites ‘Someone to watch over me ‘, ‘They can’t take that away from me’ and ‘Embraceable You’.

Larger than life Bela Zangler was played well by Steve Hayes. I particularly liked the mirror scene with Bobby  ‘What Causes That’ the movements must have taken many, many hours to reach that exacting level of detail.

Nicky Ginns played Bobbys thwarted fiancé Irene Roth who gave an entertaining delightful rendition of ‘Naughty Baby ‘in her attempt to woo Lank Hawkins played by Andrew Halliday.

Good characterisations of eccentric Tour Guide writers Eugene and Patricia Fodor played by Phil Seedhouse and Jackie Hall.

Without mentioning everyone by name the large cast all played their supporting roles well with many recognisable characters throughout the energetic chorus numbers, I loved ‘Slap That Bass’& ‘I’ve Got Rhythm.’

Bobby’s Mother Lottie was played by Sue Johnson and Polly’s father Everett was played by Vince Holley.

One of the hi-lights of the show for me had to be the Zangler Follies dancers, Louise Keeling , Mickie Brown, Sophie Kowalewsky, Jo Kendrick, Libby Laishley, Annette Nuttall, Joanna Purdey and Claire Thomas all were brilliant throughout especially the wonderful harmonies in ‘Nice Work If You Can Get It ‘they were absolutely great, their performances enhanced by their totally amazing show girl costumes.

As with most societies these days KMS might have had a shortage of men as on this occasion the traditionally male roles of Sam, Mingo and Moose were played by Chris Stanford, Margaret Lilly and Sarah Furmage respectively.

The well-rehearsed cast had been put through their paces by choreographer Pauline and the production team.  Under the experienced musical direction of Chris, the orchestra not being in the actual auditorium has a very different sound at The Artrix. Director James ensured there was good use of the stage and the whole production was of a very high standard.

Finally, I’d like to mention the projected scenery and lighting that was used to great effect. That said some of the images were a little on the large side (to be credible) for me but that could be personal preference.

Congratulations KMS on a very enjoyable professional production.

Thank you once again for the kind invitation, Joyce

 

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