Summer Holiday

Kidderminster Operatic and Dramatic Society – Summer Holiday

Summer Holiday set in the 1960’s is a vehicle for the songs of Cliff Richard and The Shadows and has been adapted from the film of the same name. The nostalgia of the music swept through the audience, most of whom like me were brought up listening to the catchy melodies and lyrics. Who can forget the string of top twenty hits which are still enjoyed today by us oldies and brought to life in this lively and entertaining performance.  Chris Yates (Donald Preston) led a very strong cast most of whom were not born when the songs were Top of the Pops. Steve (Tom Paine), Edwin (David Clarke and Cyril (Ryan Donnal) were all well performed and Jerry (Julian Richards),unusually playing a camp comedy role was outstanding. He was a superb foil for Stella (Jill Parmenter) the brassy and aggressive mother of lovely Barbara(Molly Parmenter).Three other female parts Mimsie ( Kathryn Knight), Alma (Emma Paine) and Angie (Emma Preece} looking good and dancing and singing so well all gave polished performances. With four boys and four girls being all together for a week on holiday in France in a red London Omnibus (You guessed!) were sorted into couples by the finale.The ensemble numbers were lively and well choreographed and the whole performance of principals and chorus was a delight. The five  strong orchestra captured exactly ‘The Shadows’ backing plus excellent lighting and sound enhanced the whole performance. I really enjoyed this feel good production which highlighted the depth of young talent in the Society.

20/03/04

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