Me and My Girl

Me and My Girl – Good Companions Musical Theatre
The Good Companions presented a lively and heart-warming production of Me and My Girl, a classic musical full of charm, humour, and toe-tapping tunes. Set in the 1930s, the show tells the story of Bill Snibson, a cheerful Cockney who unexpectedly inherits an earldom, much to the horror of his aristocratic relatives. As the family attempts to turn Bill into a proper gentleman, he struggles to balance his working-class roots and his love for his sweetheart Sally with the expectations of the upper class.

Bill Snibson was played with great charisma by Jake Perry, who was a delight to watch from start to finish, his rendition of Leaning on a Lamppost was lovely. Jake brought warmth, humour, and energy to the stage, fully embodying the cheeky yet loveable Cockney lad who suddenly finds himself among the aristocracy. Opposite him, Helen Perry as Sally Smith was equally impressive, what a talented family! Helen lit up the stage every time she appeared, singing and dancing with effortless grace. Her performance of Once You Lose Your Heart was particularly touching, showcasing her beautiful vocals and emotional depth. Together, Jake and Helen made a great pairing with the unmistakable Lambeth accent. Their duet Me and My Girl was a real highlight.

Ru Kniveton as Lady Jacqueline Carstone brought glamour and style to her role, perfectly complementing Tom Banks as Gerald Bolingbroke, whose over-the-top enthusiasm and expressive mannerisms provided many laughs throughout. The pair worked well together, capturing the light-hearted flirtation and comic tension between their characters. Their duet Thinking of No-One But Me was entertaining and great fun. Ru’s number You Would If You Could, performed with Jake Perry, was another fun number.

Angela Plant as Maria, The Duchess of Dene gave a good performance, portraying the dignity and authority expected of the role. She maintained an assured presence throughout and handled the character’s moments of humour nicely. Terry Stevenson as Sir John Tremayne was warm and very likeable, bringing an easy charm to the part. His duet with Bill, The World Keeps on Turning, was particularly enjoyable and well delivered. Martin Counter and Claire Jarman as Lord and Lady Battersby and Brian Counter as Sir Jasper Tring added to the family dynamic and supported the action effectively.

Ben Winson as Herbert Parchester, the Family Solicitor, gave a real standout performance. Full of energy and excellent comic timing. His number The Family Solicitor was fabulous, thoroughly entertaining, earning plenty of laughs from the audience.

Owen Williams gave a solid performance as Charles, the butler, supporting the household scenes well and Alison Watkins gave an engaging performance as both Mrs Brown and the Cook. Ollie Hand, Gary Rowley, and Morgan Hemstock made great Hareford Ancestors.

The ensemble looked wonderful in their costumes and performed with great enthusiasm throughout. The big company numbers, The Lambeth Walk and The Sun Has Got His Hat On, were both excellent. The choreography by Lisa Scott-Savage, was impressive throughout the show, from the lively tap routines to the full-stage dance numbers, everything was well-rehearsed and visually engaging.

Musical Director Steve Adey achieved strong harmonies and confident vocals from the cast, supported by clear and well-balanced sound from Phil Simcox and Pete Gough. Jamie Vella’s lighting design enhanced the period atmosphere beautifully and scene changes were handled smoothly under the direction of Stage Manager Steve Cole. Directors Phil Simcox and Heath Parkin delivered a polished and thoroughly entertaining production of this classic musical.

Many congratulations to Good Companions Musical Theatre for a thoroughly entertaining evening, we look forward to watching your next production of The Band.

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