Half a Sixpence

As many theatre followers will know, the show is based on H G Wells' novel 'Kipps'. ‘Half a Sixpence’ was first produced in London's West End at the Cambridge Theatre in March 1963, with Marti Webb her first leading role, playing Ann. It was later adapted for film in 1967, starring Tommy Steele with Julia Foster as Ann.  Kipps, an orphan who unexpectedly inherits a fortune and climbs the social ladder, before losing everything and realising that you just can't buy happiness.

Although the original version has probably quite rightly been updated, 50 years on, its messages remain simple and just as relevant now as they were then.

PODS’ ‘Kipps’ played by Steve Miller captured his sunny disposition and naivety and we are reminded what a huge part this is, in almost every scene and 10 musical numbers along the way. But Steve is up to the task and sustains his performance throughout with ease. Hannah Burton (‘Ann Pornick’) with whom Kipps shares a sixpence when she agrees to be his girl was well cast and her ‘I know what I am’ was particularly both strong and moving.

The other apprentices, ‘Sid’, ‘Buggins’ and ‘Pearce’, portrayed by Matt Owens, Andrew Hemming and Nick Cosnett respectively fulfilled their individual characters well, all under the watchful eye of an impressive ‘Mr Shalford’ (Dave Hemming). But the fun moves up a gear with the entrance of ‘Chitterlow’ the actor playwright fellow, played by Paul Tapley, with great characterisation and presence.

Inheriting a fortune Kipps is drawn to the Walsingham family who take him under their wing and eventually are the cause of his financial downfall. The scenes with ‘Mrs Wallsingham’, (Judy Megarry) aided and abetted by ‘Mrs Botting’ (Rachel Kent) and the corrupt William (James Megarry) are all well played with just the right sense of superiority. It is not surprising Kipps falls for ‘Helen Wallsingham’, played by Loren Howland with great charm and poise.

The orchestra were overall un-intrusive and the choreography was great fun and as always the chorus were very well dressed, although the stage was sometimes a little overcrowded. When given the full stage however for ‘The Party’s on the House’ the chorus was particularly powerful and worthy of a reprise in the finale.

The full house thoroughly agreed this was a great evening’s entertainment and I thank PODS for the invitation.

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