Showtune

What and enjoyable evening’s entertainment we were treated to by “Wigan Musical Theatre Group” with their production of “Showtune” a musical celebration of the music and lyrics of Jerry Herman, Conceived by Paul Gilger with piano and vocal arrangement by James Followell.
The songs included in the show were from such iconic musicals as “Hello Dolly”,” Mame”, “La Cage Aux Folles”, “Mack & Mable” and also some of Herman’s lesser known compositions such as “The Grand Tour”, “Dear World”, “Milk and Honey” and “A Day in Hollywood”.

There were eight principle performers, Maria Rignall, John Clinton, Clare Hodkinson, Alyson Wilson, Clive Green, Ken Rees, Liz Shaw and Edward Magenty, each one bringing their individual talents to their performances. The sound balance was very good, as was the clarity of voice from the singers meaning that, we could hear the words and follow the action. There was a smooth transition between numbers and the singing was good throughout, on occasions there was some nice comic timing and lovey poignant renditions of songs which really brought the whole piece to life. The many highlights of the evening included “I Won’t Send Roses”, “Song of the Sand”, “Time Heals Everything”, “And I was beautiful”, “Shalom”, “What do I do Now”, “My Best Girl”, “Nelson”, and there were others which are too numerous to mention. The company added to the overall experience when they joined the principles for the big production numbers such as “Hello Dolly”, “The Big Time”, “The best of Times” and “Movies are Movies”. Staging and presentation was polished and confidently done, movement was well thought out suited the type of production and was also executed well by the cast. The set was just right for the show and the venue with good use of props, so well done to all backstage crew, props, sound and lighting. Costumes suited the songs, looked nice and also enhanced the production adding to the overall effect.. The orchestra led by Musical Director Joan Bond played very well at just the right level and had a major role in the success of this show.

Congratulations to Director Frances Cheetham for an excellent production and well done to all involved including front of house. Everyone worked as a team to bring to the audience a great final product. Thank you for inviting my friend and I we had a lovely evening.
 

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