Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

The Rose Theatre at The Rose Bruford College is unusual in as much as it is set in the round. The performing area in the middle with audience all around, in itself must cause a directing headache but I must say this particular problem was easily overcome.

The story of Dirty Rotten Scoundrels is quite simple really with ‘The Scoundrels’ trying to charm vulnerable rich ladies with the intention of making them part with large amounts of money, however there is a twist to the story when they become the targets of ‘The Jackal’.

Because of the ‘round’ scenario there was no scenery as such, props and movable furniture were important and due credit to the back-stage crew who were quick and efficient with the numerous scene changes. Lighting and sound were also important, and this worked well. The eight members of ‘The Rotten Band’, although hidden from view, were ably led by MD Louisa Lowing. Ensemble and solo numbers were well sung. Although the music in the show is not particularly memorable you have to listen to the lyrics for it to come alive. Costumes looked good and summery for the ‘Riviera’ climate.

The show kicks off with excellent chorus choreography by Gail Arnott and Lydia Ann Porter, well suited for the cast and venue. We are introduced to the main ‘scoundrel’ Lawrence Jameson played by Neil Stevens, portraying the suave con artist with great panache. His nemesis came in the form of  Freddy Benson played with great endearing enthusiasm by James Foster. I admired James with his skill of manoeuvring a wheelchair! Neil and James bounced off each other with great comic timing. Hannah Stevens plays Christine Colgate as a rather skittish American heiress with a sting in her tail. What a great role for Hannah to show off her lovely voice, dancing and acting skills. Roger Fane and Elizabeth O’Donnell as Andre, the corrupt policeman and the wealthy Muriel, team up well and Vicky Kenway as the slightly deranged cowgirl Jolene from Oklahoma truly pulls out all the stops in her exhausting 'Oklahoma' number! We mustn’t forget the ensemble, together with the various supporting roles that were so important, showed great enthusiasm. This production was obviously a great team effort and Keith Neville has directed this company to a high standard.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.