Evita

‘Evita’ ….a ‘sung through’ musical masterpiece from the brilliant twosome  ‘Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’, demands your attention from start to finish and this production was compelling as it moved at a cracking pace from scene to scene.

The Blakehay Theatre is small, but proved to be a perfect setting for this intimate production.  The director Blair Ruddick’s vision included a very original stage formation, built into the audience in a T shape, he positioned the exemplary band on either side of the walkway. Most of the action was to the front and clever costume and subtle scene changes took place in full view. With limited stage props and no scenery, this production depended almost entirely on the music, singing and acting and we were captivated, but I must not forget an exciting lighting plot and follow spots, well done.  The music was simply excellent and I congratulate Richard Lennox and his trusty team of performers….occasionally a little loud for the soloists, but really to be expected, considering their position, but never to the detriment of the wonderful sound of this stunning score. The company singing was excellent, entrances and exits crisp, diction clear, well done; the hard work was worth it!

The principals were all excellent and demonstrated their skills in characterisation and voice… Eva, Peron and Che held the show together with charisma and great emotion.  Magaldi and the mistress were in fine voice and their performances were most enjoyable, the Admiral and all other cameo roles were performed extremely well. The director achieved a real triumph in fitting this big story into this  very intimate setting and ensured we were all pulled  into the early triumphs and joy, but the pain and suffering of the leading characters and also all the people of Argentina at Evita’s death was tangible.

Congratulations WODS you well deserved your rave reviews and accolades.

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