Hooray for Hollywood!

This was a home written musical review of songs from Hollywood films. The director and writer of the script did a marvellous job of creating characters within the dialogue connections that gave extra meaning to the songs, such as the arguing sisters singing ‘Sisters’. The idea of involving the hall user groups in a fund raising event was very creative and gave really good background to the songs.

On entering the hall, it was clear that a village hall was the venue for the rehearsal of this celebration of Hollywood Musicals, at least for the first Act. (In the second Act the hall was decorated for a show.) The kitchen corner with kettle, tea bags and mugs on a small table looked just right for this run down centre of village activities. The green and white paint on the walls, the broom, and two chairs, the notices to the toilets and the notice board were well thought through, with the garden area suggested by trellis, flowers, table and garden furniture – and the ‘No dog fouling’ notice. The addition of an ‘Out of Order’ notice for the men’s toilets during this rehearsal was a lovely touch!

The music was well played with good rhythm and tempo for each song. I did feel that sometimes that clearer music cues would have been helpful to the singers. Also, the key for certain songs stretched the singers’ vocal range too much, as in ‘Couple of Swells’. However, the music was supportive and well balanced. The opening to Act 2 was particularly good.

The costumes were fun, with ‘normal’ clothes worn for the first half and costumes for the ‘performance’ in the second part. The sound was well controlled, as was the lighting: both added to the production without being distracting. The choreography was very creative for many of the songs, with the big numbers such as ‘We’re in the Money’ and ‘Broadway Melody’ working particularly well.

Altogether this was an inventive production that was both well planned and directed, with creative use of the stage areas and scenery. The music was catchy and the songs well delivered. This was a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon of theatre.

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