Fame

The Crash Band Wallop Youth Theatre finally got to perform, following the 15 months of pandemic strategies, their rendition of Fame, with a live streamed version, and in a new performance venue for them too. The local village hall, that was unrecognisable until after the show, extra scenes revealed how it was all done, was transformed to a theatre stage fixed set with 2 levels, used a coloured and moving lighting rig and mic sound, and housing a live band too. Cast were able to enter from several points and extra set additions within the main structure were added with ease by themselves.  The whole filming on-line streaming from several camers did not phase them at all.

This smaller cast for CBW of 24 individuals came together to perform to cameras and create an entertaining and enjoyable version all the same. The characters of staff and students from the PA High School were all well depicted by this young cast, with alternative genders for some roles well fitted into the script. English Teacher “Miss Sherman” was well played by Lauren MacDonald, with great character and lovely singing voice. Dance teacher “Miss Bell” was beautifully played by Leah Chambers-Sims, a gentle thoughtful character and lovely voice too, the duet with Lauren was sung very well together. Student “Ty Jackson” as the brash, hip hop dancer was played so energetically from Chloe Richardson, who made the part very likeable and well played. Georgie Rose as “Serena”, the shy nerdy student was an excellent performance, great clear acting and a beautiful voice.  Outstanding for me, was the performance from Abigail Robertson as “Carmen”, whose singing in “There she goes / Fame” was great and then for second act scene as drug addict with song “In LA” gave a stunning performance that was so emotional and powerful, an excellent piece of theatre. 

Each of the principals all had their characters well defined, “Nick” by Toby Davidson as the conscientious student, “Schlomo” from Alfie Gibson was the gentle friend to Carmen, and “Joe” played by Fenn Telfer as the rebellious loud one, all added to give an overall complete cast, and supporting company added to the show’s script to complete the story.  Dancing had some lovely ballets, and various group numbers added to the overall show.

Lovely to see you back onstage CBW – keep up the good work.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.