Madagascar a Musical Adventure

Having seen the Dreamworks animated film of Madagascar, it is perhaps hard to see how it could translate to the stage. Of course, King Julien’s song ‘I like to move it move it’ positively lends itself to the stage, but what about the rest? Well, apprehension was allayed when the audience were greeted by cast members on arrival into the auditorium and I had the added bonus of attending a relaxed performance which was also signed. I was delighted to have this opportunity as so few amateur societies in this district have yet to venture into the relaxed performance world, and indeed I hope I see more catering for all members of our communities.

The set was simple but effective and worked well for all scenes with little movement required, and most of the costumes were excellent, especially Melman in a splendid Giraffe costume. The entire company worked very hard and this paid off as the gathered audience were thrilled by the production. The principals were well cast and Alex, played by Sean Williams was a suitably diva-ish king of the jungle, delightfully ‘cool’ and suitably effervescent. Leigh Bamford played a great Marty, the Zebra and Lauren Williams a fabulously sassy Gloria, the Hippo.

The waddle of penguins were very funny and led splendidly by Helen Lewis as Skipper, one of her many roles. Helen Morgan, Gemma Harries-Evans and Rhian Williams also had a variety of roles and a number of costume changes and all worked brilliantly together on stage. Owen Hughes was a fabulous Mort and Sophie Marvelley an excellent Maurice with lovely moments by Cira Westermark, Darcy Burgum and Poppy Harries-Evans as the ‘Mini Wildlife’. Special mention must go to Daniel Moses for his delightful performance as Melman, the Giraffe, with great comedy and character and to Neil Parks for his performance as King Julien, immortalised in the film by the inimitable Sacha Baron Cohen.

Many thanks to the entire company, both on and off stage, and thank for a wonderful relaxed and signed performance. Here’s hoping that more amateur companies present productions in this way to their communities!

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