Our House

Dryburn Theatrical Workshop has always been a society that is not afraid to tackle new and interesting shows, and this year was no exception.  I have always been a fan of the music by Madness so when I was asked to review this show I was excited as I had not had the opportunity to see it previously. Firstly, I must congratulate Michelle Coulson who ensured that through her professional direction this production was well considered and very effective, packed with drive and energy from start to finish, and delivered the essential wow factor that this show needs. Helen Wilson, as choreographer, really put her stamp on this show and gave us some first class choreography which was very lively and slick. Musical director John Hudson and his musicians certainly understood the need for the music to shine, were sympathetic to the actors, and never let the music overpower the cast. The set looked very good and the lighting clever. The only criticism I have in regards to the technical element of the show was the sound. During  the performance that I watched the sound at times was poor and I had to strain to hear the dialogue which was important to ensure that you could follow the story line.

Our House is a romantic comedy about Joe Casey’s life and the choices he has to make when on his sixteenth birthday a simple mistake could change his destiny for ever.  Joe’s life is put into turmoil having to decide good from bad and live with the consequences of that night.

The principal characters were all well cast. Joe Coulson was outstanding in the role of Joe Casey.   He showed excellent contrast between the two different Joes using different tones in his voice and body language, and certainly handled the many costume changes to represent the different characters.   Each change was carried out with ease and quickness and in some changes it was virtually impossible to detect.  Joe’s singing voice has matured over the past few years, and he delivered his musical numbers well to the audience’s appreciation.  There was an excellent performance from Lee Passmoor as Joe’s deceased Dad who acted as narrator through the show as he tried to save his son from falling into the wrong ways that he had done, with terrific vocals and stage presence. Annette Morris, as Kath Casey Joe’s mother, generated genuine warmth of personality with her Irish accent and beautifully  pitched vocals. Emma Scott played Joe’s on and off girlfriend Sarah.  With her excellent stage presence she was able to combine the innocent girl next door looks with a great voice delivering her solo numbers and duets beautifully. She presented a fresh-faced contrast to her wise-cracking friends Billie and Angie well played by Charlotte Archer and Lucy McCabe respectively. There was first class support from Adam Donald, playing Emmo, and Phil Martin, as Lewis, Joe’s friends.  They both had the audience laughing in all the right places and made a great double act with natural rapport and a great support for Joe. The baddie in the pact was Reecey, played by Gary Eglinton, a strong character who led Joe into his undoing in a very subtle way with excellent stage presence and vocals.  A solid performance came from Graham Gibson as Mr Pressman and Mr Jesmond. Special mention to the remaining cast who performed in smaller cameo roles.  They all contributed to the success of the show, as did the dancers who performed their routines perfectly. Special mention must also go to the chorus who were enthusiastic and delivered their musical numbers with beautiful harmonies and high energy.

A huge well done to the whole production team and cast. This was a wonderful show, and I had a great night.

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