30th January 2025
The Pirate Princess
Ottery Community Theatre, The Institute, Ottery St Mary
Choreographer: Emma Wright
Although Clevedon LOC played to a small house when I attended, the absent audience missed a very good interpretation and production of this difficult musical. The ‘CLOC’ designed and built set permitted the production to be slick and fast paced. The costumes perfect for the period could have shown more dirt and wear and tear. The orchestra was mostly sympathetic to the performances and the MD handled his orchestra very professionally. Lighting and sound were good. Sweeney Todd- Jeff Prescott and Mrs Lovett- Julie Ashton were totally convincing as the murderous couple with the supporting roles all coming together to make a very good show. I also really liked the performance of Christine Richards ‘Beggar Woman’. This is a complex musical both to stage and perform and everyone did a very good job. Sadly they suffered from the curse of Sondheim… audiences don’t like what they don’t know or understand, but it is wonderful that the club doesn’t shy away from the challenge. I love the show Sweeney Todd and thoroughly enjoyed this production. As usual CLOC can be relied upon to be adventurous, talented and they always give exceptional ‘musical theatre’ value for money. Well done.© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.