Our House

Our House is a Romantic comedy based on the character Joe Casey’s life and the choices he must make when he arrives at a “crossroad” in it.

Joe Casey played by Josh Hayes, showed excellent contrast between the two types of Joe that he could become, based on which path of life he chooses. This was done by using different tones in his voice and differences in his body language. He maintained a strong cockney accent, which was held throughout in both dialogue and singing. Jon Woldridge as Joe’s dad had a lovely falsetto and good American accent, my favourite parts of Jon’s performance were when harmonising with other members of the cast.

I have to mention Emily Wainwright who played Kath Casey for her “Goosebumps” voice, she carried her character well and gave a very mature performance. Lewis Rockett as Lewis and Andy Clegg as Emmo, made a hilarious Duo, as did Jasmine Stephenson and Rachel Patterson as Billie and Angie.

The staging was clever, effective and simple, with the use of two levels and brilliant lighting by Simon Todd. Each good and bad side was represented by its own lighting change, which was smooth and very effective. The Band were fabulous under the Musical Direction of Ian Tipping.

The Choreography by Sara Johnson was very good indeed.  Sara choreographed to the strengths  of the cast and none of them were out of their depth.  The chorus were really enthusiastic in every number and pumped out every one that involved them with fantastic harmonies and high energy.

The Front of House staff were friendly and professional, and gave us a very warm welcome.

The scene changes were well managed, and all of the props were brought on and off seamlessly by the cast. This was done naturally and I felt didn’t distract the audience from the story. The costumes were contemporary, along with the makeup, which I felt worked very well. I did like the fact that Joe Casey had a good outfit and a bad outfit to match the lighting of his alter ego’s, very cleverly done.

The direction from Richard Mann was brilliant! It was well considered and very effective, along with Ian tipping’s  Musical Direction and Sara Johnson’s Choreography , this was a thoroughly enjoyable show which oozed enthusiasm and talent.

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