Me and my Girl

This show has such special memories for me having had the opportunity to be part of a production way back in 1997 and have enjoyed reviewing a few others since then. 

The uplifting overture showed evidence of a well balanced and experienced orchestra who also supported the fabulous cast throughout . Once again Director/MD Jeff deserves massive  praise for creating an absolutely first class show.

All the Borders companies have had challenges with lighting systems becoming obsolete in all the local performances halls this year, but there was no evidence that GAOS had allowed the massive underfunding of up-grades to make an ounce of different to the overall spectacle we experienced during the production. Flawless and slick.

The leading male role of cheeky chappy Bill Snibson was superbly portrayed by a multi talented young man. Matthew Wear, at only 18 years old, could sing and dance like Fred Astaire and lived the role, never missing a beat in song, dance and cockney accent. His comic timing and facial expressions saw him own the role he so deserved to play. ‘Leaning On a Lampost’  should get special mention within this memorable show supported by Sally in the ballet section of the number. Superb! This was Matthew’s final parting role with GAOS before going on to London to study professionally, and there is no doubt in my mind that he will have a bright future in musical theatre. Very best wishes young man.

No less talented in the leading female role and fitting perfectly into the role of Bill’s girlfriend Sally Smith was Jess Thomson. A charismatic young lady who paired beautifully in vocal duet and dance, displaying consummate ease in the tap number ‘Me and my Girl’ which was outstanding. Just as fabulous was ‘Hold My Hand’, both numbers with Bill.  One of her solo highlights was ‘Once You Lose Your Heart’, which received great applause.

Lady Jaqueline was haughtily and comically played by Grace Gilbert, who had the audience in stitches during Bill’s etiquette lesson, ‘You Would if you Could’. She also characterised the role brilliantly as she put Gerald in his place during ‘Thinking of No One But Me’.

The bumbling Gerald was excellently played by Dan Wilson, owning the stage for the opening of Act 2 in ‘The Sun Has Got His hat On’.

A solid performance throughout came from Sir John, Lewis Wilde, who, with Bill shone in the comic, drunken ‘Love Makes The World Go Round’.

Often understated, but not in this case, was Butler Charles who made the absolute most of his one- liners and facial expressions to portray this upright,  un-flappable character. The orchestration of his efficient and fabulous choral kitchen staff during ‘An English Gentleman’ was very impressive.

Parchester, Luke Dalrymple embraced the role of ‘The Family Solicitor’, vocally and in character as he hilariously skipped through his advisory number with the well cast Hareford family.

Due to a very unfortunate accident on the twelfth hour of opening The Duchess Maria had to be replaced for the entire run. Stepping into the breach in a truly professional manner was company President Ruth Davidson, who made a remarkable impression as the bossy Duchess. Although supported by an on stage script it was very rarely evident. A stalwart and seasoned performer, she absolutely embraced the role to give a star performance. A very lucky company to have such a versatile and experienced player on hand for such a pivotal role.

Cameo roles Bob Barking & Pearly King proved to be perfect for Cory Paterson, who’s larger than life stage presence and dance ability, helped support Bill and Sally in a spectacular ‘Lambeth Walk’. Pearly Queen, Emily Baldeston was his more than able partner in both movement and song.

The bombastic Mrs Brown was in the very capable hands of Shelley Foster, raising more than a few laughs at her bellowing voice and expressive characterisation.

Not a single weak link from youth to stalwart in this fantastic production. Everyone ‘gave their all’ and my goodness came up with a winner. Many Congratulations to all involved.

 

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