Miss Saigon (Schools Edition)

The Scottish premiere of this special edition for youth groups was a treat of the highest order for all those lucky enough to get a ticket.  This highly talented group wowed visitors to the Adam Smith Theatre with performances of a maturity which belied their years. From the opening scene in the bars of Bangkok, exploding with colour and exuberance, audiences were captivated by a feast of storytelling which was ably managed through the strength of the performances and both the dramatic and musical direction. To stage a piece recounting the horrors of the aftermath of the withdrawal of the Americans from Vietnam is challenging indeed, but even moreso when it is sung through! The skills of the principals came to the fore and made the storytelling seem effortless. The frailty of Kim was brought to life alternately by Emma McFarlane and Morgan Wilcox whilst Daniel Paton brought real pathos to the main protagonist, Chris. Both Stephanie Hay and Aimee Izatt shone as Chris’s forlorn wife, whilst Ciaran Sneddon turned in a solid performance as Chris’s friend, John. His heart-filled rendition of ‘Bui Doi’ was a particular favourite with the audiences. The sly and scheming Engineer was truly captured by Alastair More who turned in a captivating performance. The principals were supported by a strong, confident company – it was hard to believe they were only teenagers. The clever set design culminated in the arrival on stage of a helicopter to evacuate the Americans – drawing a round of applause itself. This indeed was a production to remember and one which was truly worthy of the last night standing ovation it received!

Clark Graham

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