Dr Dolittle

I do love seeing new shows and Dr. Dolittle did not disappoint. The music was complex, but easy to the ear and the young people sang beautifully. Chorus harmonies were good and controlled, and everyone in the show was well drilled.

All the animals were great, with appropriate costumes, moving around in character and setting the scene beautifully.  Beth Rutledge, using simple puppetry, portrayed Polynesia the parrot. The audience easily accepted that she was acting the part, but using a puppet.  Well done Beth. Caitlin Graham gave us a feisty but loveable Emma. Her singing voice was beautiful with great range. Ross Norman, as Dr. Dolittle’s side kick Matthew, was really good.  His well maintained Irish accent worked with the lovely warm and humorous character he created. Young George Baldwin was perfect for the part of Tommy, and I was very impressed with his clear diction, while  Daniel Robson and Amy Beckford made a great couple as Mr. and Mrs. Blossom, the owners of the circus.

The star of the show, however, was James Forster as Dr. Dolittle.  What a talented young man with his ability to take on this mammoth role. His singing voice was fabulous, and he created a sympathetic but commanding character. He was the link and catalyst for the show and he did the job superbly.

Well done to Ann for adapting this for the Juniors and to the Senior members of the society for supporting their young talent.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.