Kipps

Last year’s production of “In the Heights” was the first show I attended as a Regional Representative – it was an immensely impressive production which deservedly won the Youngstars Award for the best youth production in the London Region.  Expectations were inevitably high for this year’s show, and it did not disappoint.  This reworking of the classic musical “Half a Sixpence” proved to be an excellent vehicle to showcase the extraordinary talent that this energetic company is able to call upon; there was joy, humour, pathos, much excellent singing, some jaw-dropping ensemble routines, and a narrative that gripped the audience from start to finish.

The production was powered by a strong team of principals, including an outstanding performance in the title role.  The ensemble provided excellent support; harmonies were clearly audible in the part singing, and the unison singing was predictably strong.  The choreography worked well, with a pleasing balance between speciality dancers and company routines.  Some of the routines were incredibly energetic, and with temperatures touching 32°C in the shade it was remarkable that the company was able to perform them in full costume under the lights.  A particular strength of the choreography was the use of individual gestures in stylised tableaux; the show-stopping “Flash, bang wallop” was just one number that closed in this eye-catching way.

The set, largely built by the company, looked really good; the painted floor area which was extended into the auditorium was particularly effective.  The use of a forestage meant that the band had to move elsewhere, and the ten musicians were somehow accommodated in the wings and at the back of the stage.  A welcome consequence of this was that the sound balance between the singers and the excellent accompaniment was generally very good.  The colour co-ordinated wardrobes seen at the upper class social events were a triumph, and at one point Kipps wore a check suit that will be hoping to have its own lines next time.

As the director pointed out in his programme note, “In the Heights” was something unique and special, but with this production of “Kipps” the Youth of Banbury Operatic Society have followed it up with something just as impressive.  It’s a far more mainstream show, of course, inviting comparisons with senior societies; comparisons that the company has no reason to fear.  The leading principals were just so strong, the ensemble and technical team provided wonderful support, and the whole thing was put together with such care and know-how that even a matinee audience on a baking afternoon was brought to its feet.

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