Hairspray

When a show has a run from 24th January-3rd February including two Matinee performances and 100% sell out run, it really speaks for itself in both the choice of show and a very enthusiastic production team, also with a cast of around 50 involved on stage all pulling out all the stops to achieve a terrific production.

A really strong principal cast from Sophia Twohey as Tracy Turnblad,Olly Medlicott as her “Mother” Edna, and Jonathan Davis as Wilbur Turnblad.

Sophia did it all with a great voice, super dancing and expression, and a totally competent performance all round and the teaming with Olly Medlicott as her Mum, Edna, who really threw himself into this role complete with a very elegant wig and some super costumes, especially in Act 2 was very well played. Edna joined up with Jonathan Davis as Wilbur Turnblad, who acted his socks off, with some fantastic scenes in both acts, the duet with Edna,”You’re Timeless to Me” had a terrific reception of approval from the audience, with a few mishaps with Wilbur and his braces, which he totally dealt with and made the most of. This was instant thinking on his feet from Jonathan,very well done!

The Von Tussle family of Velma and Amber played very well by Lisa Pordham and Sophie Holland, were well cast, with a very elegant Velma, and the Pingleton family of Penny, played by Leanne Field in such an amusing style, and Joanne Davis as the very overbearing Mother of Penny, both gave fine performances.

Thomas Pleasant as Link Larkin and Will Mugford as Seaweed J Stubbs presented first class performances, and as always both were totally committed to every character they play, with great singing and tone from both of them.

The contribution from Motormouth Maybelle, played from a wheelchair by the talented Chi Chi Armstrong added so much to the show with her solo’s, especially “I Know Where I’ve Been” which really touched the emotions in sensitive issues and was beautifully sung and presented.

 The dancing throughout was beautifully placed, and Congratulations to Debbie Marks on her debut with COS as Choreographer.

All the musical numbers directed by Geoff Osbourne were so well balanced and full of enthusiasm, and the songs all blended in tight harmonies from the entire company.

The costumes wigs and make up all added to the credit due to all involved in the production both on and off stage.

Always the lighting and sound is most important, and with a very experienced team we had first class effects on both aspects.

The production under the very capable and talented Director David Rutter, was a departure in many ways for the content, and a totally diverse production for the society, which the creators of “Hairspray” described in detail in the colourful and informative programme.

An inspiring production to all who had the pleasure of seeing it. Many Congratulations on taking on such a thought provoking production, and thank you for your hospitality as always much appreciated.

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