Gypsy

The Maryport society, left home to bring this production to the Carnegie Theatre in Workington. The show was a first for the society, a first for Workington and Cumbria. All this in their Centenary year, what an inspired choice ‘Gypsy’ turned out to be.

Clark Wilkinson is a very talented young man with great theatrical vision, this production was his brainchild from concept to performance. He has the ability to select shows that suit the company and to show off their strengths. What an excellent job he made of it.

Star of the show was Helene Phillips, playing Momma Rose, the domineering matriarch, determined to make a star of daughter June and then daughter Louise. She commanded the stage from start to finish, her singing and acting of the highest quality. She was more than ably supported by Clare McMullen as Clare, who has really blossomed from the shy junior I once directed and Zoe McSorley as Louise, who eventually becomes the famous stripper ‘Gypsy Rose Lee’, having had to play second fiddle  to her more talented sister for most of the play. Also in top form was Mike Quinn, as theatre agent Herbie, Momma Rose’s, long suffering boyfriend.

Clark had designed a minimal set, which made the scene changes very slick, and the plot moved along at a good pace. All the ensembles and dances were well performed  by a young talented company, and the orchestra was superbly led by another young musical talent, Daniel McLaughlin. Costumes were of period, and the technical staff have to be praised, they were very well prepared, lighting good, sound good!. I don’t often say that.

Well done Maryport, you gave a centenary performance to remember and an excellent opening performance. It was a pleasure to have Councillor Christine along with me. She was able to see what a talented lot we are in West Cumbria.

I hope its not the last time I come across ‘Gypsy Rose Lee’, congratulations to Clark and his talented team.

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