Stepping Out

Is there no end to the versatility and talent that Exmouth Players have? They really are a credit to the whole concept of amateur theatre as they stage another successful show. The Director said in her 'Word' in the programme that the society are not a singing and dancing group, well you could have fooled me!
The story is all about different characters from all walks of life coming together, overcoming all obstacles and inhibitions, and growing in confidence enabling them to perform as they never thought they would be able to.
Katie Murray as 'Mavis' played the role with great skill and had a head start, as Katie in real life has danced and choreographed with many companies around the world. Exmouth players are fortunate to have found her and I hope there will be many more shows that can use her talents. Her pianist 'Mrs Fraser' alias Nicky Perry, gave a wonderful performance as the crotchety, irritable woman behind the piano, there were some wonderful lines and her timing was spot on, Nicky played the part so well that I would not have relished the thought of getting on the wrong side of her! Come out of the orchestra pit more often Nicky!
'Lynne' played by Kirsty Sydenham, did well with a strong performance especially her dancing skills. Katherine Lister danced well and played the diffident and defensive character of Andy well, along with Juliet Roach alias “Maxine. Their characters worked well.
The brave Geoffrey played by Jake Philp-Parsons, the only man in the show portrayed a very timid and lonely sort of character that could easily be over exaggerated but Jake understated it and got it just right. Pauline Jury as 'Dorothy' really impressed as the dotty one who didn’t know much about anything but would give it a go. She was just great with her waving of hands, trying so hard to get the movements right ,such a great part to play and magnificently done.
'Vera' portrayed by Pat Cowey, had the character to a tee! The fashion conscious, obsessive cleaner, initially seeming to ooze confidence but gradually revealing her lonely insecurity. Pat put everything into it and moved from comedy to pathos with great skill.
Patricia Henry–Peirce as Rose did a great job, an interesting character. A pity she has said that this is her last time. Let’s hope she just means the dancing! She is a superb actress. Sylvia, played by Rhiannon Driver, did well, however threw some good lines away and needed to put a little more of the character into her delivery. Helen, Catherine and Renee, just listed as 'other class members' did sterling work in their supporting roles.
Huge congratulations to the choreographer Sandy Worcester.
I did wonder if it was necessary to have a warm up comedian just before the finale, as it distracted somewhat from the show. I understand everyone had to change but maybe this spot could have been filled by the two dancers. It was also a pity that because of the new position of the stage a large percentage of the audience could see very little below the waists of the performers  and this is one show where it would be good to see their feet! Other than that it was excellent and once again congratulations to all concerned. Yet another enjoyable evening.

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