Dick Whittingtn

A lively, beautifully costumed and colourful opening, 'To Get The Party Started', is just what we might expect, and this year was no exception. Almost a totally youthful company, but for the experienced performance from 'old-stager' (Campbell McNeil) playing the outrageously comic, Dolly Dumpling.  It was fabulous to see so many wonderful, mature performances from such a young company. The beautifully costumed Queen Rat (Kirsten Hood) was suitably commanding and nasty throughout with a fabulously expressive and versatile side kick, Rupert, superbly played by (Rory Fairbairn). The Rat Queen Rap and dance in Act 2 was brilliant! Dick (Carly Robertson) and Alice (Kirsty Doogan) were very good together and their voices blended really well. Dick's, 'I Gotta Fly' was really well sung and the duet 'Brighter Than Sunshine' made me smile. Tom the cat (Caitlin Lauder) played an outstanding feline character. Excellent!  I've watched young (Mak Wilson) go from strength to strength as a performer, and this year, cast as Idle Jack, he gave an experienced, comical and engaging performance.  (Jack Richie), Fitzwarrens, showed great skill with words and (Miranda McFarlane) sparkled as Fairy Bowbells.  In Act 2 everyone were happily shipped out by the competent Captain Cuttlefish (Archie Bogle) and trusty sidekick, Scupper (Emma Worters). A very talented bunch of sailors danced to  'Sail with me Tonight'.! Well done girls! The Sultan was majestically portrayed by (Grant Maltman) and the two guards (Alice Ellwood and Ailsa Landels) were both due worthy applause for their singing. This huge cast of Ratlings, Mermaids, Dancers, Villagers and Sailors all put their heart and soul into each choreographed number. The mermaids sung so beautifully from Disney's Little Mermaid while the diverse range of musical numbers were so thoughtfully chosen that the audience were constantly enticed to sing along. This fabulous young group really do deserve the 'Hall of Fame' as they do so well to 'Reach out and Pass it On'. Wonderful!  

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