Stepping Out

The company put their heart and soul into their production of this well known play about a mismatched group of people who, every week, enjoy the company of each other and, in doing so, enjoy the buzz and excitement of their time at their local tap dancing class.

We followed the trials and tribulations of this diverse and varied group and also learned of their troubles and woes through their personal life stories as they try to achieve, together, a perfect dance routine to be performed in public. Penny Woodman, as well as being the choreographer, was the discouraged dance instructor (Mavis) always at odds with sarcastic piano player, Mrs Fraser, played outstandingly by Frances Mansell. Aimee Bullimore brought forth the laughs as Dorothy, an enthusiastic dancer who was always out of step with her timing of the dance moves. Somehow Aimee always shines in comedy roles even when she has no speaking lines but on this occasion her performance was outstanding. Then there was the orderly Vera, played by Abbe Gray, always cleaning up and had a special affinity with toilets. She was loud, powerful and determined to be heard by the rest of the ladies. Debs Ravera as Sylvia came over as good church going lady with a great outlook on life and Judith Mason Griffiths as Andy showed a nasty temper at times but had a crush on Geoffrey which he, played by Peter Woodman, did not appreciate. In fact he didn’t come over as phased by being the only chap amongst so many women. Add convincing and very different performances from Zoe Green (Lynne); Natalie Steele (Rose); and Emma Godden (Maxine), in their roles, and the cast was complete.

The highlight of this play is the finale where the full company proved their worth in their tap dancing routine. Andre also proved his worth with the good direction, in fact excellent for a first effort, and John coped well with the on/off requirements for the music. The set was cleverly designed by Malcolm Stuart, the costumes looked great and the lighting worked well. This was a great little show, thoroughly enjoyed by everyone.

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