Seven Brides for Seven Brothers

This is an ambitious challenge for any society to undertake mainly because of casting demands. To find seven brothers, six suitors plus additional male roles is no mean feat and add into the mix the requirements of singing, dancing and acting and you certainly have a mountain to climb. But, Chesterfield Operatic Society definitely climbed the mountain producing a vibrant and dynamic show. The brothers - Edward Jowle, Karl Brennan, Andy Moore, Steve Squires, Phil Simcox and Danny Scott played their roles with great gusto excelling in the comedy both verbal and physical. Their dancing, even though none of them were trained dancers, was energetic and full of life and their harmonious singing was excellent none more so than in the rendition of ‘Sobbin’ Women’. One outstanding brother was Gideon played by Edward Jowle. You don’t expect to hear such a full and rich singing voice from a sixteen year old. You could physically hear the gasps from the audience when he first sang. What a voice, what a talent, what a star in the making, truly magnificent! The brides, Lucy Telfer, Alison Doram, Gabrielle Mason, Jessica Widdowson, Roseanna Sanderson and Holly Sumpton were all delightful, their singing and dancing skills were exquisite. The six young suitors, Gianni Rosorto, Ben Whiteside, Matt Nicholls, Harry Large, Nathan Wragg and Jack Laird along with Sarah Morell as Mrs. Sander, Pauline Hindle and Ian Jones as Mr. & Mrs. Hoallum and Doug Malloy as the Preacher were all excellent in their supporting roles and together with The Townsfolk and children added that essential ingredient to make the whole show so polished. The two pivotal roles of Milly Brandon and Adam Pontipee were brilliantly played by Julie Metcalfe and Robert Spencer. Robert was imposing and convincing as the chauvinistic Adam. His fine, strong voice and great stage presence made him a perfect choice for this leading role. I was a little concerned early in the performance when jumping through a window on to a bed, he slipped, but fortunately, only the bed suffered damage! Julie was vivacious and fiesty as Milly giving a most charming and sincere performance. Her dancing was sheer perfection. The set was from the 2008 touring company production and was stunning as were the lovely costumes. Credit must go to the hardworking backstage crew and especially to the production team. Firstly to Phil Simcox who not only directed but was one of the brothers - not an enviable situation, to Paula Wilson for the most imaginative, creative and effective choreography and to Jonathan Francis as Musical Director and his superb orchestra. The challenge was indeed met and surpassed. A thoroughly entertaining and enjoyable show.

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