Monster Mash Up

Written and directed by the talented, Traci Stockman, this was a colourful, fast moving show. The ‘Monster Mash Up’ club, owned by Count Boris, who happens to be a vampire, is a venue where monsters of all types can dance, sing and have fun together with The Professors. However, Penny, a human, infiltrates the venue. The werewolf, Wolfrid, falls instantly in love but is it possible for his feelings to be reciprocated? How could she not feel the same when serenaded so beautifully by James Soley (Wolfrid ) and how could there not be a happy ending when Emily Bowkis (Penny) responds with her sweet voice? This duet was a show stopper.

The programme was colourful and well designed. I liked the science lab equipment on the cover and the addition of the eyeball in the letter ‘O’. Inside the bat and spider’s web was also effective. It was also pleasing to see every cast member, namely 35 in total, listed.  

The lighting was very effective, particularly the green and blue tones which contrasted with the predominantly red costumes. The excellent set comprising a Gothic-style club was well thought out and constructed. The entrance door with the tinsel disguised the ghoulish happenings inside. The sound was perfect with voices and vocals clearly heard throughout.

Red, a true vampire colour, was the predominant colour for the costumes, which were striking. The shiny, glittery wigs were a good addition and contrast. The black and white wig worn by Rachel Stone (Giggles), dressed in black, was equally effective. The Deathwatch Beatles looked magnificent in their Sgt Pepper’s outfits. The entire cast looked comfortable in their costumes, even the werewolves. All appeared to be wearing their costumes with pride.

All the singing was impressive and the solos and duets were truly outstanding.  The choice of music was eclectic, from Sinatra’s ‘Fly Me to the Moon’ through the Swinging Sixties to the Noughties and George Ezra. The audience were more than happy to engage in clapping and singing along. Dance moves were also slick and energetic, performed with smiles and obvious enjoyment. Congratulations to all.

The production team are to be congratulated on such a well-presented show. The entire cast performed their roles superbly. The principals were excellent. All cast members performed with conviction and obvious enjoyment. This was an entertaining and successful production. Being an hour in length, it was over far too quickly but the audience departed with smiles on their faces.  It is refreshing to watch a show that is genuinely a team effort and I look forward to seeing the next one.

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