Fame Jr
Information
- Date
- 24th June 2022
- Society
- Digswell Players
- Venue
- Digswell Village Hall
- Type of Production
- Musical
- Director
- Adrienne Perry
- Musical Director
- Mary Goodfellow
- Choreographer
- Emma Gilby
Directed by Adrienne Perry, Fame is a difficult show to present in a junior format. The strong story of the original is lost because contentious moral issues are removed from the junior version. The principal performers did their utmost to act out their roles, trying to tell in few words the difficulties they were experiencing … relationships with other pupils and teachers and dyslexia and weight issues.
The performers all acquitted themselves well, especially a number of the principal performers who showed burgeoning talents. The singing and dancing were performed to backing tracks and this was a big advantage to the young performers who were skilfully rehearsed with the recorded music and never missed a beat or an entrance or exit. Well done MD Mary Goodfellow.
The costumes were colourful and added to the visually excellent display.
The lighting complemented the action. The choreography was well thought through and made the most of the limited space available.The Production Team had obviously worked extremely hard with each other to execute a commendable singing and dancing performance.
The whole cast often included the principal performers working as a total team and their smiles and infectious enthusiasm lit up the stage.
Oli Baskerville was a super Tyrone. Characterization was good and he worked well opposite Amelia Brown as Iris. I would have expected Iris to wear the correct ballet footwear, as the black pumps looked far too heavy and out of place. Pink ballet shoes or even white jazz shoes would have given a softer effect.
Olly Fitton was great as Schlomo. There was a sensitivity about this performance which showed intelligent acting. Good work here.
Adam Grant was perfectly cast as Nick and I enjoyed “I Want To Make Magic” very much. This is a difficult song and you handled it very well indeed, congratulations.
Alice Hoxha portrayed the character of Serena well. You have a powerful vocal instrument, take care not to force it too much and work on your breath control. You have a lot of potential and look forward to hearing you again in the future.
Michael Hunter showed great promise playing the role of Joe (Jose). A born entertainer, blessed with a copious amount of confidence. Just remember to stay in character throughout, even if you recognise someone in the audience stay focused at all times. A definite comedian in the making.
However, outstanding among the performers were Charlotte Fossey as Carmen Diaz, her fantastic vocals and assured performance were a delight to hear and see, and Chloe Palmer as Mabel who gave us a heart-warming and convincing performance dealing with the sensitive issue of weight loss. What a future I predict for these two girls!
There was full support from all the cast with nice character cameos throughout.
The audience was most encouraging and judging by the applause and smiles from the performers during the finale, a good time was had by all.
I had a lovely evening and thank you for your hospitality. Congratulations to you all.
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