Madagascar A Musical Adventure Jr

Only one word to describe this youth presentation, “Superb”.  From start to finish this was a pulsating production with every youngster involved deserving immense praise for the way the musical maintained the many highlights that shone through. 

Great credit must go to the very talented production team, excellently directed by Siobhan Parker, achieving high attention to detail which the cast followed to the letter.  Molly Parkinson`s choreography was a delight and again the well drilled team of youngsters deserve great acclaim for the discipline shown throughout.  Sam Griffiths` musical direction was also worthy of note, getting fine vocals from the lead players and the cast of over thirty.

Outstanding performances abounded with Jude Yellop as Alex the Lion leading the way, confident in vocals and libretto, he gave a tremendous all-round performance.  Grace Collishaw, as Marty the Zebra was equally effective, with clear diction and vocally strong.  Jude and Grace played off each other excellently.  I loved Lottie Ludlow`s laid back portrayal of Melman the Giraffe, with good timing bringing the laughs.  To complete the principal foursome, Roisin Parker as Gloria the Hippo, gave clear delivery of lines and again was good vocally. 

The four Penguins with Kate Whitaker as Skipper, and a crew consisting of Nefeli Fryganioti as Rico, Flori Tasker as Private, and Holly Brooks as Kowalski were excellent in every scene.  Perfect in movements and facial expression, they had the audience in raptures on every appearance on stage.

Finally, Jake Lightbown, as the mad cap King Julien, gave a wow of a performance, a comedy actor in the making.  With Findlay Parker as Maurice Lemur also coining the laughs, they made ideal comedy partners.

Well costumed, with a very good set, this short snappy show had it all.  The applause at the end said it all.

Well done LEOS Youth, this show will be hard to beat.  Top class entertainment.

 

 

 

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