The Bakers Wife

The Celebration continues for DMTC in their 100th year with a wonderful interpretation of the charming romantic musical by Joseph Stein and Stephen Schwartz. 

The open stage set for the audience arrival was muted and subdued to reveal the village in Provence in 1935 which has been without a baker for a whole 7 weeks. 

This was not a show I was familiar with, only having heard  two of the songs before, but was very much looking forward to being back to The Brigend for another celebratory production from DMTC.

As the bar restaurant awakens to the beautiful ‘Chanson’ from Denise (Lindsay Nurney), the characters become animated with excitement about the impending arrival of the new baker and his wife. The Teacher (Sharron Harper), Priest (Laura Whitelaw) and Marquis (Neil Carruthers) lead the ensemble in a wonderful, rousing, ‘If it Wasn’t for You’, to welcome them both. 

The title role of Amiable The Baker was expertly played by (John McIntyre). His elation was evident in his new important role as baker, with the perfect pairing of his wife Genevieve (Georgie Swale)

They both made huge vocal contributions throughout the show, in duet ‘Merci Madame’  on the welcome to the village. 

Baker Amiable’s solos ‘Any-Day-Now Day’ with ensemble and ‘If I Have To Live Alone’ was outstanding.

Genevieve’s well known solo ‘Meadowlark’ was beautiful, as was ‘Where Is the Warmth’.

The first act moved well with many highlights, ‘Proud Lady’, ‘If It Wasn’t For Her’ and the moonlit set for ‘Serenade’.

The village have to endure many trials while Genevieve is lured away by a handsome young chauffeur.

As we proceed to Act two, the opening men’s chorus lead by Claude the cafe owner (Neil Webster), finds humour in ‘The Worlds Luckiest Man’, much to the despair of Amiable the baker.

The ensuing, hilarious  Community debate ‘If it Wasn’t For You’, was superbly sung and characterised by The Priest (Laura Whitelaw).

‘Feminine Companionship’  and ‘Romance’ were both perfectly and lyrically performed to add to the drama of the story. 

In an all’s well that ends well finale, the Baker and his wife reconcile their marriage and once again  love triumphs and the village can have bread on the menu again.

A thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining production, artistically directed and musically supported by a talented trio of   musicians.

Many Thanks for your kind hospitality.

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