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Dirty Rotten Scoundrels

Author: Hazel Hole

Information

Date
1st July 2023
Society
Clacton Musical Theatre Society
Venue
The Princes Theatre Clacton On Sea
Type of Production
Musical
Director
Sam McCarthy
Musical Director
Rebecca Mason
Choreographer
Gabrielle Tyler
Assistant Director
Steve Salmon
Company Stage Manager
Nicola Heap

I was welcomed on arrival by Julia Clarke, Chair and Nicola Heap, Company Stage Manager and had the opportunity to discuss the production with Director Sam McCarthy.

On entering the auditorium we found that some seating at the front had been replaced by sofas which created a lovely intimate atmosphere. Whilst the main set depicting a veranda of a villa/hotel on the French Riviera was on stage, other elements eg casino, bar and hotel reception were positioned on the floor in front of the stage. Steps to the stage enabled easy movement between the different settings. Very innovative.

There were multiple scene changes throughout, mostly by moving props and furniture on and off stage. Congratulations to Nicola Heap, Company Stage Manager and her backstage team for achieving this seamlessly and, in most cases, the attention of the audience was skilfully diverted to action taking place on the floor whilst changes were being made.

There were stellar performances from all the principals putting everything into their interpretation of their characters. Peter Norfolk, as Freddy Benson was a real likeable rogue with some wonderful facial expressions and movement. His acting was exemplary and he showed enormous energy on stage. He was well cast against the other crook, Lawrence Jameson and these two talented actors worked so well together. David Richardson, as Lawrence,  was suave, sophisticated and confident, able to think quickly when a scheme was unravelling and again displayed some fantastic facial expressions.

Rebecca Mason, as Jolene Oaks from Oklahoma, was a gun toting cowgirl  intent on marrying Lawrence until she met his” brother “ ie Freddy. Rebecca played this part well and the gun shots were most authentic!

Samantha Slim, as socialite Muriel Eubanks was great in this role readily flaunting her wealth and falling in love. She sang a sensitive song “What Was A Woman To Do”very well indeed displaying a good vocal range.

Rory Dundar, as Andre Thibault, a general help to  Lawrence,  played this key role well and was basically another wheeler-dealer helping Lawrence and Freddy with their schemes.

Cassie Weston, as the American Soap Queen, Christine Colgate, was lively and personable with her love interests changing from Lawrence to Freddy. A strong role for Cassie which she performed very well.

All the principals had great singing voices and vocal range. Particular favourites for me were “What They Want” (Lawrence, Andre and chorus), “Oklahoma” ( Jolene, Lawrence and chorus), “Nothing Is Too Wonderful”( Christine and Freddy ) and “Love Is In My Legs” ( Freddy, Christine and Chorus )

There was much for the talented and versatile chorus to do including some small acting roles and lively dance numbers ably choreographed by Gabrielle Tyler.

I was impressed with the cast’s ability to maintain their accents, American and/or French throughout.

The lighting was used to showcase specific scenes and sound was good and appropriate. Costumes were attractive and relevant to the plot and the era.

I must mention the Musical Director, Rebecca Mason who took on this role late in the day and, ably assisted by Julia Clarke, ensured a high standard of musical accomplishment was achieved throughout.

Many congratulations to Director, Sam McCarthy for his vision and creativity in bringing this musical to the stage.

The audience were very appreciative and I certainly enjoyed the evening.

 

 

 

 

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