Sweet Charity

This is a show that has been around since the 1960’s but it has stood the test of time and has always been a favourite on the amateur circuit. With the book by Neil Simon, lyrics by Dorothy Fields, Cy Coleman’s music and with songs like Hey Big Spender, If My Friends Could See Me Now and The Rhythm Of Life, you know that you are in for a fun show. Sweet Charity is the story of Charity Valentine who works as a paid dance partner/hostess in the Fandango club. Charity is looking for love, or at least somebody who will look after her, that is until she happens to  meet shy Oscar who relies on her for a change, a romance blossoms - until life intervenes.

The stage at the Stag Theatre is a vast space to fill. The scenery was minimalistic and some of it looked a bit on the flimsy side but what there was did the job together with  appropriate props. The fluorescent signs were a good idea to denote a scene change or what was going to happen but some of the script was hard to decipher. Scene changes were handled efficiently by either the backstage crew or cast, and both the lighting and sound worked well. Costumes were good, colourful and authentic for the 1960’s era but w2as not sure about some of the wigs. The band led by MD Carys Snipp were good and not overpowering the cast. Carys had also done a superb job with the chorus and soloists. Director Tracy Weaver and Choreographer Clare Brown  understood this show and were able to get the very best out of their cast. The dances and ensembles were creative and of the period, using the stage space effectively and within the capabilities of cast members.

A lot depends on the character Charity – she’s hardly ever off the stage.  Sophie Dunmore must have relished this part and she looked as though she was enjoying every moment - excellent singing, dancing and stage presence. I loved some of her facial expressions! Her fellow hostesses were very competent as a group and were able to show their individual characterisations. Charity’s two main friends Nickie and Helene (Ros Killpack and Elyse Herbert) gave good energetic performances while Richard Honess was convincing as the seedy club owner Herman. James Bruce looked every inch the smooth suave film star Vittorio Vidal and maintained a very good accent together with his girlfriend Ursula, played well by Georgina Lithco. A faultless performance was given by Alex Dunmore as the shy fiancée Oscar. Dan Dunmore seemed to enjoy his part as the hippy Daddy Brubeck together with the ensemble in their punchy rendition of Rhythm Of Life. Of course, we mustn’t forget Alfie the dog who was beautifully behaved for his walk on (and off) part.

There was a large cast and everyone, without exception, gave their all and looked as though they were enjoying themselves which permeated through to the very appreciative audience.

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