Me and My Girl

Familiar tunes and the heart-warming story wound its way into the audience’s heart.  The boy from Lambeth comes to terms with his new position as Earl of Hareford yet is prepared to leave it all behind if he cannot have his girl by his side. Gordon Watson gave a polished performance of Bill Snibson catching the Cockney bonhomie, effortlessly stealing Sir John’s watch, delivering humour especially in the difficult library scene and all in fine voice. He was well matched by Gillian Black, who in her first principal role demonstrated she had the voice and acting ability to take the audience with her, especially in the emotive ‘Once you Lose Your Heart’. The ease with which they segued into the tap dance of signature tune ‘Me and My Girl’ was admirable. Cathy Taylor delivered a dominant Duchess Maria and sang the testing ‘Song of Hareford’ beautifully.  Her counterpart Roland Russell as Sir John was a good foil, a sympathetic ear to Sally and a realistic inebriate in ‘Love Makes the World Go Round’. Both brought their wealth of experience to the roles.  Marianne Millard as the ‘hot ’Lady Jacqueline gave her all trying to catch the new earl but met her match eventually  in Gerald  played confidently by Christopher Costello. David Black delivered a delightful ditsy solicitor Parchester, the life and soul of ‘Family Solicitor’. Minor roles of Lord and Lady Battersby, Sir Jasper, Charles, Mrs Brown and the Policeman were all ably filled. As society elites, servants, cockney folk, the cast delivered light and shade in song and movement, especially in An English Gentleman and the rousing Lambeth Walk. Their costumes were apt and colourful.  The show was fast paced aided by cast and backstage crew changing the scenes in full view but not detracting from the action. The stage was nicely dressed, and well lit.  Sound was effective picking up the nuances of dialogue and the orchestra a good accompaniment to the singers. This was a polished performance with a feel good factor, satisfying the need to be entertained and leaving the audience hungry for more.

Thanks to Elizabeth Donald, NODA Regional Rep, District 3 (Central Scotland)

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