Out There

‘Out There’ is an original tale written by Eliot Davis with a contemporary score composed by James Bourne (former member of Busted). Newman Carter, a world famous astronaut, mysteriously disappears in 1969. The show is set in the USA and follows the fortunes of runaway Logan Carter some forty years later, telling how he saves the town of Hope, Texas, and discovers that Newman Carter is infact, his grandfather. As was stated in the programme putting on this show has proved to be a great challenge for the group mainly because of the fast scene changes and the much doubling of roles and this was achieved on both counts. The excellent back projections were used to depict various scene locations assisted by the use of props efficiently delivered by stage hands who by the end of the performance must have been ‘worn out’ - I got dizzy just watching them come and go! (I must just mention that the rather insensitive removal of the coffin did evoke a titter from the audience but in fairness, they were rather rushed to get all of the props off the stage!). Luke Grainger was great as Logan Carter, executing the different moods and emotions of the character in both singing and acting with accomplished ease as did Richard Pearson as Newman Carter, giving another terrific performance. Josie Pearson was superb as Sheriff Pack - what an amazing singing voice she has and Laura Howard was great as her mechanic daughter, Jamie Pack, and the love interest of Logan. Simon Owen stridently portrayed Logan’s father and the song ‘What Matters The Most’ that he sang along with Luke Grainger (Logan) and Richard Pearson (Newman) - was absolutely brilliant. All the cast had named roles, many doubling up as various characters, and each and everyone merited praise. I must just mention Hugo Carter, who played Young David and Young Newman, he was so natural and self-assured for one so young. There were some excellent light and sound effects particularly for the “blast-off” and the four piece band was in fine form. The singing throughout by soloists and the ensemble was, as ever, superb and there were some lovely dance routines. It’s gratifying to see something new and I congratulate Kate and Jim and everyone involved for taking this bold step, and whilst a challenge in so many ways, the production proved to be a successful and entertaining trip to ‘the final frontier’. 

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