Jack and the Beanstalk

Congratulations to O.L.S.S. A.O.D.S. for once again using an original script written by two of their talented members Leo Appleton and Rob Fearn.It keeps to the traditional story and it moved along at a good pace keeping the members of the audience, young and old, enthralled which is not always easy to achieve.

Leo Appleton as Mother Betty Bitsnbobs was very funny and he showed all his experience with his comic timing as he encouraged audience participation. The central role of Jack was played by Archie Follett who commanded the stage at all times showing great maturity and stage presence and is clearly a young actor who will progress and no doubt we will see him in further Productions. He confidently moved around the playing area and worked so well with the delightful Daisy the Cow.Pauline Hardie again excelled as the Fairy and sang beautifully. As Musical Director she had obviously worked with the solos and ensemble numbers which were all appropriate to the show, It was poignant to hear the original “ Can I Be the Man”, written by Jim Thomas, sensitively interpreted by Archie Follett.  I particularly enjoyed Rob Fearn’s character of Squire Root. The audience booed his every entrance as the villain of the piece. Members of the ensemble were very enthusiastic but they must learn to project more when turning upstage and I did feel that there were too many straight lines at times, although the choreography, by Amy Appleton worked well, considering the limited space available.

The live five piece band, fronted by Assistant Musical Director Angie Strickland were just what was required, always accompanying, never intruding. The use of the screen showing The Giant was innovative and worked well, as sometimes young children can be frightened by a huge Giant on stage.Costumes and accessories by Jeanette Appleton and Debra Chantry were once again beautifully crafted.The set was simple but very effective, especially the very impressive Beanstalk.

Congratulations to all the Production Team. Phil Thomas, should be encouraged by this, his first attempt, at Direction.

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