CURTAINS

I must admit I was a trifle apprehensive about seeing this show again, but I worried needlessly, as this was a joyous, fast-paced and funny production, with a cast who were obviously fully invested in the Director’s vision for the show.

I liked the minimalist setting – it allowed the show to run seamlessly, with audience attention engaged throughout.  The lighting swirls on the front tabs created a lovely backdrop to the opening.  Costumes gave the necessary colour to the stage, I was particularly happy to note that all the gents suits fitted well, with waistcoats that were long enough! – not always the case!  The ladies costumes also looked good and suitable for each character.

Lighting and sound were mostly good, one place where I couldn’t hear the dialogue for the music, but just a small thing.  Sound balance between stage and band was good, I feel that the band off-stage is a good choice for this venue – although I do appreciate that people not ‘in the know’ might not realise that you are using a live band rather than tracks, however, the sound of the entire show is, for me, better for it.  I was aware of the band, but it did not encroach on the singers.  I really enjoyed the quartet of Aaron, Georgia, Oscar and Carmen, it had precision and a sharp edge to it.

Choreography was very entertaining – the seven men on stools was very effective, Show People was excellent, quirky but relatable, and very much with an eye to individual capabilities.  She’s Dead had great impact, and I loved the comedy and awkwardness of Nikki and Frank’s dance number.

Hannah Moriarty (Georgia) was a feisty leading lady, with good portrayal of the various stage of her relationship with Graeme Smith (Aaron), who showed a beautiful singing voice.  This pair were very good together.

Ollie Slade (Frank) was again a revelation in a completely different type of part, he showed cuteness, an innate comedy side that I’ve never seen from him before, and a lovely whimsical relationship with Keshia Guest (Niki), who also showed her comedic side well.  Their partnership was great, and I loved their dance number.

Steph Gimblett (Carmen) gave the part strength and purpose, an accomplished performance, which I enjoyed.

Jeff Hammond (Christopher) was the show Director, definitely in charge until Frank started suggesting ways to make things better!  Well-managed, and I loved the suit, dressing gown etc!

Mary Watkinson (Jessica) accomplished so much in the short time she was on stage – so many nuances of expression and very much the faded star!  An excellent cameo role.

Matt Clothier (Sidney) always adds a certain gravitas and grittiness to the proceedings, with Howard Salinger (Oscar) providing the calming influence that money brings – both parts well-played.

Alicia Peckham (Bambi) created the ditzy character very well, with plenty of sass, whilst Nicole Santelmann (Jenny) was the calming influence with her well-ordered stage management technique.  Very different portrayals, but both adding diversity to the show.

Danny Diss (Daryl) stayed fairly quietly in the background, until the scene where all was revealed, and he stepped up the pace and showed a different side of his character, which was nicely achieved.

James Tudor (Bobby) provided a good foil to Georgia and created an understanding character who was unlucky in love!  Well done.

My thanks to HMTC for their continued hospitality, which is always very much appreciated, and for delivering an excellent production that I enjoyed so much.

 

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