Fame JR.

COYDS Youth Production of Fame JR was slick and fast paced with a simple set of back-cloth of the dance studio, framed with red curtains. Steps came down from the stage onto the floor utilising the floor space for the cast of 29, making use of the space and entrances coming through the audience which helps the scenes run smoothly into each other. A few props are then used to help tell the story with guitar and trumpets set on the floor Stage Left. A board on the floor Stage Right that is changed telling us of the various year the students go through from freshman through to senior year and graduation. A ballet bar and lockers are also used. Lighting and Sound all added to ambience and costumes were appropriate. Sound by MJay Audio Services. Costumes and Properties by Reggie Hennessey, Melanie Pollard, Rachel Hampson, Emma Hampson and CODY’s Parents and Carers.

Lily Loftus is Choreographer with Janine Roberts as Assistant Choreographer. The numbers were slick and good use of the stage and floor was made with the different levels of ability accommodated made this a strong ensemble - well done! The Musical Director was Emily Woodward and Emily clearly did her job, strong vocals and harmonies throughout with some standout vocals too.

The cast very much worked as an ensemble and entrances and exits were quick - all cast engaging throughout the performance.

The MUSICIANS in the FAME Academy were Joseph Hampson, Rosalie Stewart, Will Malpass, Gabrielle Boyle and Alice Emery. The ACTORS in The FAME Academy were Elizabeth Usher, William Pennington, Amelia Barber and Evie Boyle. The DANCERS in the FAME Academy were Hettie Potter, Katelyn Pratt, Emma Hampson, Sophie Grimes, Lizzie Lewis and Meredith Shepherd.

The TEACHERS at the Fame Academy were Libby Harmer playing the Drama Teacher Miss Myers. Archie Greenway played Mr Sheinkopf in charge of music and the baton. Sabina Wojtasik played the no-nonsense Miss Sherman who rubs Miss Bell - played by Lily Faith - up the wrong way, having different styles of teaching so they don’t see eye to eye.

The Students at The Academy were Rosie Clare, who played Lambchops the drummer, Alice Bromley plays Goody.  Aria Taylor played a feisty Mabel struggling to fit in and gives a strong version of Mabels Prayer. Sam Grimes gives us the character Tyrone beset with his own problems he struggles until he gets help from an unexpected person. Emily Burns plays Iris hiding a secret about her status.

Harry Brown plays Schlomo trying to get the band together and there is just a hint of romance with Carmen that is short lived. Harry gave a sensitive performance and strong voice. Bring on Tomorrow was lovely. Zac Harrison playing Joe gave us the comedy and energy to bring the character out. Funny scene when trying to flirt and it not going to plan.

Laila Rigby played the ill-fated Carmen. Laila a triple threat actress brought it all - the girl wanting more. Bring on Tomorrow was great as the lyrics talk about the future and are very poignant as her fate is revealed. Connie Pollard plays Serena in love with Nick, well she does carry his photo in her bag. Connie had a lovely voice and worked well with Jonas Rynn who played Nick. A very mature performance by Nick and strong vocals. I enjoyed your characterisation and the choices you made as an actor. Well played.

It was clear to see how the cast enjoyed performing this 80’s hit show - I remember it coming out at the time. The Committee and Chaperones must be very proud of this production and it was clear to see the commitment and love and the challenges you have faced as a group and overcome: a testament to the hard work behind the scenes. Thank you for the hospitality and kindness from my guest Dawn and I.

Liz Hume-Dawson

District 5 Rep

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