Oliver!

I was delighted to be asked by Roger Buist to cover Alyth's production while he was enjoying a well-earned break since it was quite a number of years since I had visited this Perthshire company's show and I must say I was not disappointed. In the two main juvenile roles of Oliver and Dodger we had lovely performances by Ella McKay and Penny Stephens respectively. Ella's rendition of Where is Love was a real tear-jerker and Penny made the most of her role both in her acting and her singing of I'll do Anything - two talented youngsters! Rudolf Gruneberg was in fine voice as the "bumbling" Mr Bumble, ably supported by Glenda Kean as Widow Corney. Ron Kirkpatrick coped very well with the demanding role of Fagan, ably supported by his band of young vagabonds. In the important role of Nancy, Claire Mallinson showed excellent stage presence and an extremely fine voice, especially in the show stopping As Long As He Needs Me - a pity about the distracting scene-changing in the background! Graeme Thomson was a superbly threatening Bill Sykes (wouldn't like to meet him on a dark night!) One highlight of a very enjoyable show was the delightful singing of the reprise of Where Is Love by Isabel McCurdy in the small role of Mrs Bedwin - lovely! All other supporting characters did their bit to complete the cast of a very enjoyable production with a trio of fine dancers a well-drilled small orchestra and a most appreciative audience. The evening was most enjoyable - and thank you Alyth for your warm welcome and friendly hospitality. We hope to "Be Back Soon."

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