Gotta Swing

As promised in the programme, this was an evening presenting some of the most iconic ‘swing’ hits from the past 60 years. 

What the programme did not promise, but was certainly delivered in spades, was the slickest revue I think I have ever had the privilege to attend. 

The scenery looked exactly the part of review bar of the era with the steps down to the stage, the ruched satin curtain – even the art deco ‘logo’ on the floor, with different coloured lighting to enhance the various sections.    Between the sections there was possibly the blackest black-out I have ever witnessed – during which furniture and/or props were moved on and off quickly, quietly and very efficiently.  How they saw what they were doing I genuinely have no idea but the whole of the crew certainly deserve a round of applause all of their own.  It must also be noted that all of this was achieved in a theatre which seats only 65 and the audience have to walk across a corner of the stage to reach the bar!  An absolute triumph for all the backstage staff and crew.

Costumes were superb – the women really went to town and displayed some simply stunning evening wear – a la mode, whilst the men for the most part wore D.J’s with suitable accessorised bow ties etc.  There were many costume changes all of which were excellent and timely.

The cast of just 12, used hand-held microphones, and performed to caned music.  I must admit that although the microphones did exactly look the part I found them something of a distraction in such an intimate setting – mainly because on occasions they prevented me from seeing the facial expressions – which were superb.  The songs were very far from ‘just sung’ every single member of the cast stayed in character throughout the show and really ‘performed’ each and every number.  

It would be impossible to single out any one person as there was no list of the numbers and who was singing them, but even were I able to do so, it would be SO unfair to single out any one person as each and every one was as good as the next.  The ensemble number were slick with a great sound balance – really all there is to say is thank you and very well done for a slick, polished and professional revue show.

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