Kipps

The new version of “Half a Sixpence” certainly packs a punch with some great musical numbers and lively dance routines. The Edwardian Music Hall songs playing in the background as the audience took their seats set the scene perfectly.

The society had gathered together a terrific cast, made up of members old and new, for their first full scale production since the enforced closure of theatres. It was obvious that everyone on stage was really enjoying being back, doing what they love best.  I was aware of some hesitancy to begin with on this opening night but the pace soon picked up.

I have seen Connor Hughes on stage before and I think he was well cast in the demanding role of Kipps. This was a very good characterisation of the draper’s apprentice who inherits a fortune and finds himself catapulted into a world where he struggles to fit in. His song and dance numbers were well executed but it was such a pity that his cravat/neckerchief was troubling him in one of the earlier scenes. Later in the show his shirt cuffs appeared to be causing some problems.  I am unsure whether the latter was an intentional display of nerves by the character or a costume malfunction.  Either way I’m afraid both instances were rather distracting. Well done though on an otherwise very good performance.

There were good performances also from Michelle Hills as Ann Pornick, Kipps’ first and only true love and Rebecca Faulkner as Helen Walsingham, whose plans to marry Kipps are thwarted.  Mrs Walsingham, was well played by Helen Bickley with Steve Charles as her swindler son James.

Daniel Abbott really captured the larger than life Chitterlow, an aspiring actor and playwright. It would be easy to overshadow Kipps in this role, such is the enthusiasm and zest for life the character exudes but I think the balance here was just right.

Jonathan Whitmore was hilarious as Buggins and a good performance from Yves Randle as Sid, Kipps’ workmates at Shalford’s Bazaar.  Ruling the roost with a rod of iron was Mr Shalford, owner of said store and well played by Bernie Bush.

The large supporting cast all contributed magnificently to the proceedings. The show has a terrific score and the singing was almost non-stop with some lovely harmonies, great toe tapping chorus numbers and lively dance routines.  Costumes were excellent and the projected scenery ideal for a show with so many scene changes.  Watching a house take shape on screen while the architect paces out the plot was quite ingenious. A mention here for Richard Pink who not only played the aforementioned architect, Mr Maxwell, but also brought nice comic touches to the roles of Carshot and Foster.

The orchestra under the direction of Susie Savage provided excellent accompaniment.

Lighting, although for the most part good, was a bit hit and miss at times. From blindingly bright stage lights to the stage being plunged into darkness on one occasion.  Well done to the cast who carried on regardless.  Some minor sound issues were quickly sorted.  Hopefully these tech problems were resolved for the remainder of the run.

Overall this was a lovely production which I very much enjoyed. Thank you for inviting me.

 

 

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