Kipps the new Half a Sixpence Musical

Kipps, as the programme title confirms, is the new Half a Sixpence musical from the pen of Julian Fellows, George Stiles and Anthony Drewe.  This was my first live performance experience of this Musical, I had started to watch a televised production at Christmas but fell asleep within 20 minutes so am delighted to say that this production by EMUS was a much more riveting experience thanks to the enthusiasm and panache of the full ensemble cast.

Joel Dawson in the title role was excellent, he brought exactly the right wide-eyed naivety, and banjo playing prowess to Arthur Kipps as Arthur moves from poor shop assistant to wealthy stately-home owner and then back again for 20 minutes before finally making it big as a Theatre Angel.  Sky Stacey was also on fine form as Ann Pornick giving one of strongest acting and vocal performance I have seen from her over the years. 

Katie Chamberlain was convincingly sympathetic as Helen Walsingham with Bethan Moore delivering the feckless, arrogant conman James Walsingham to a tee and Rosey Malins shining as the Theatre impresario Chitterlow.  All other member of the cast delivered convincing performances that supported the narrative of the show and drove the story on with just the right balance of light and shade so congratulations to Grace, Lowri, Evan, Angel, James, Livvi, Carys, Amy, Eleanor, Izzy, Seth, Lacey, Eloise C, Katie, Sophie, Elis, Elouise L, Harry, Martha and Yasmin.

Throughout the night the work that Richard, Martin, Hayden and Abbie had put in during the rehearsal period was very evident.  The choreography was just right for the period of the show and the enthusiasm of the cast shone through every musical and dance number with the highlight being Flash Bang Wallop.

Martin and his 10-piece band were on sparkling form in their side room and the sound balance was well judged never drowning out the on stage team.  Richard kept the action moving ably supported by the back stage crew keeping scene changes sharp.  The use of minimal key props and back projection and spot on lighting also greatly aided the production as did the costuming.  It always good to see a self-built set so congratulations to Mark and Bill Robbins and the EMUs team.

This was a very enjoyable production so thanks to all for making my first experience of Kipps on stage a very good one and see you in February for We Will Rock You.

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