Our House

“Our House”, based round the music of the group Madness who were at their height in the late 70s and early 80s and with a script by Tim Firth, tells the story of young Londoner Joe Casey and how his life would/could unfold depending on whether he chooses to go down the right or wrong path following a party for his 16th birthday. Noah Griffin, who has just finished his final year at secondary school, was perfectly cast in the lead role of Joe Casey with excellent singing, acting and dancing skills. He moved easily between the good and the bad Joe with seemingly consummate ease – though the multitude of quick changes must have been manic for his dressers! Sally Stewart, another who has just left school, too was excellent as his girlfriend and good influence Sarah. Her strong singing voice shown to it’s best in the duets “NW5” with Joe’s Dad and “It Must Be Love” with Joe. Darren Jalland as Joe’s Dad and Suzie Hughes as his Mum Kath Casey both gave very strong performances as the voices of reason in Joe’s life. Much of the humour in the piece was provided by Ryan Garrett and Ryan Williamson as Joe’s friends Lewis and Emmo and by Robyn Smith and Abbie Menzies as Sarah’s friends Billie and Angie who were always ready with a sarcastic and well timed put down line. Strong support was given by Janice Ingram as ruthless building contractor Ms Pressman and Megan Cruikshank as her enforcer, and former classmate of Joe, Reecey. The singing and movement of the enthusiastic ensemble was very good especially in the title number “Our House” and the well known “Baggy Trousers”. The six piece band led by Craig McDermott from the keyboard had the audience swaying and clapping along from the overture to the finale. The set representing the red brick Irish Estate was impressive and the changes of scene were well handled meaning the action was kept fast paced. Costuming was appropriate to the characters and the era. Congratulations to everyone involved for delivering an excellent evening’s entertainment.

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