Our House the Madness Musical

What a joyful, energetic production from an enthusiastic cast.

The set was rather prop heavy and used a lot of the stage, and from discussions with the Director, the cast had scant time to rehearse with the set, which led to some slow scene changes, and impacted on the pace of the production.  Lighting was mostly suitable, but sound balance between stage and band was occasionally not all it should be, although the band accompanied well.

The opening number showed good choreography, which was maintained throughout, suitable for the cast ability, from a new choreographer, who had drilled the cast well.

I was a little confused as to the era the production was set in, as costumes (provided by the cast) did not seem to have a focus, and most were current, which did not always sit well with the general feel of the piece.  

Stephen Rank (Joe) gave us the cheeky chappy, with good differential between the good/bad sides of his character, although perhaps a little more conviction was needed at times.  He created a good partnership with Laura Jones (Sarah), whose turmoil could be felt in the relationship, both sang well, and Sarah’s solo was particularly poignant and well-sung.

Keith Jenkinson (Dad) and Linda Riddy (Mum) gave sound accounts of their characters, showing a good empathy with their wayward son!

Max Caldicot (Reecey) was suitably sly and furtive.

I liked the rapport between Tony Warson (Emmo) and Alfie Fox (Lewis), Joe’s mates, there were some telling moments between themselves and Joe, along with humour which marked Emmo’s unworldliness and Lewis’s slightly more intelligent approach!

Lancia Wilson (Billie) and Jess Riddy (Angie) as Sarah’s friends, showed their friendship with sometimes unwelcome advice, very full-on.

Paul Riddy (Mr Pressman) brought out the unpleasantness of the man, nicely done.

Tom Kirkbride (Callum) was a forthright Scotsman, looking smart in his kilt.

The ensemble all had named parts and acquitted themselves well, in sometimes difficult scenarios, managing large and heavy props.

I left the production feeling uplifted because the music was the thing, and the cast sang and danced with conviction.

My thanks to VAMPS for their welcome and hospitality, a fun evening, and we also met up with some NODA colleagues we’d not seen for a while, which was really enjoyable.

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