Me and My Girl
Information
- Date
- 15th July 2012
- Society
- Stagedright Youth Theatre
- Venue
- Carlisle Sands Centre, Carlisle
- Type of Production
- Musical
- Director
- David McNeill
- Musical Director
- Alison Bedford
Choreographer: Maxine Watters
My last comment with previous reviews for this very talented company has been, ‘follow that’, and they most certainly did, giving an ebullient, and effervescent performance of this much loved musical.
Ninety children took part, between the ages of eight and eighteen, and director David had blended these enthusiastic youngsters, into a truly professional company.
There were some sparkling performances from the principals, particularly from Jack McNeill, as Bill Snibson, the cockney "jack the lad", and heir to the earldom of Hareford, he gave a virtuoso performance, his demeanour, delivery, dance and general performance was a joy to behold. His ‘Leaning on a Lamp Post’ was outstanding. Jack was superbly supported by Courtney O’Neil as Sally Smith, who sang and acted the part beautifully, the scene in the library between the pair was comic masterpiece. All the principals were very strong, the Duchess, Sir John, Lady Jacqueline, was a very saucy ‘vamp’, and Jamie Dodd played a wonderful ‘Hoorah Henry’, a great contrast to his previous role, as Tony in West Side Story, a great talent indeed.
I particularly enjoyed the chorus ensembles,’ Weekend at Hareford’, ‘The Sun Has Got His Hat On’, and of course the iconic ‘Lambeth Walk’, ninety kids in unison, doing the same things at the right time, no mean feat, well done to the choreographer!
The orchestra were very well led by Alison Bedford, just a small downside if I may, the scene changes were slow on occasions, but I can understand why, having worked with it in a similar confined area, and occasionally, the sound technician didn’t do justice to the performers, slow, and too loud at times with the mics!!!
Make no mistake, this was a superb all round production, despite my little ‘beef’!!, and again I will repeat my opening comment, ‘follow that’, if you can.
As always the company hospitality was exemplary, and it was a pleasure to have North West Councillor, Christine with me to share a delightful evening.
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