Fame JR

Neil Hartley NODA Scotland Youth Coordinator wrote:

Set in the early 1980s in the New York High School for Performing Arts, the cast divides neatly into the Students and the Teachers and the story tells of the trials and tribulations of the young Students committing to four years of hard work. Although things have moved on from the time in which the show is set, similar problems resonate with the young people of today. The script is very intense and the music and choreography challenging but most satisfying. This was a good show for the Youth Theatre to stage and stretched them from their comfort zone, whilst giving them the opportunity to pick up those bigger principal roles with the majority having solo songs to complete. Certainly the whole show generated a great atmosphere and was well received in Grangemouth Town Hall.

Following on: This production had loads of energy taking us through the journey the young people have in seeking fame as performers. On the way the cast’s singing and movement in Hard Work, Bring on Tomorrow, Semaphore Year and the signature tune Fame roused the audience’s appreciation. Dancers and chorus performed with assurance. The principals gave their best in all their roles with the likes of Cohen Gurung catching the aggression of a teenager trying to make it without revealing his weakness and Carice Baillie giving a confident performance of Carmen. Amelia Clem successfully characterised the angst ridden Schlomo ‘playing the piano’ very well. Sophie Gilland displayed her talents in the character of Mable and delivered a telling Mable’s Prayer. Bobbie-Jo Marston caught the earnest teacher Miss Sherman while Becca Tait contrasted as dance teacher Ms Bell. Their duet The Teachers’ Argument displayed their differing attitudes to dealing with youngsters. Over the years I can see how well and far these youngsters have developed in singing, acting and movement. They coped well with the different dimensions of the stage while the scenery was moved swiftly on and off. Good lighting contributed to each scene’ s atmosphere. This was a rousing and enjoyable performance. Congratulations to all.

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