The Band

A new show for me, but I am so glad I saw this superb production by this very talented society. 

The show comes alive through the music of Take That, featuring a host of well-known hits. These were really enjoyed by the audience, who were on their feet by the end of the production, dancing and singing along as though they were at a live concert with the band themselves.  The story is about a group of friends who follow ‘The Band’.  The girls go their separate ways but come together again after 25 years to go to a concert.  They remember one of their number with fond memories. 

The band members, Jamie Wilson, Tom Wells, Charley Barnes, Finley Waldron and Anil Patel worked exceptionally well together, clearly demonstrating a high level of rehearsal and commitment, which really showed in their performance.  Vocally, they were strong delivering harmonies with precision.

The younger cast opened the show with great energy, Louise Heard, Molly Lewis, Rhian Horsley, Lilla Bainbridge and Lexi Birchley each created great and individual characters. Their personalities were quickly established, allowing the audience to understand their interests, friendships, and shared devotion as fans of the band. Their performance was fantastic with very strong acting and singing.  They worked so well together.  

Equally impressive was the transition to the adult characters. Helen Coulthard, Sally Pritchard, Chelsea Regan and Lauren Orgill were very well cast, with believable links to their younger counterparts carrying on the story clearly.  They are all strong singers and delivered their songs confidently. Their acting showed real emotion, and you could really believe the close friendship between these characters that had lasted over the years, their connection felt very natural.

The Backing dancers, extra dancers and ensemble really enjoyed themselves.  Superb harmonies and dancing.  Again, they all worked so well together.

I also enjoyed the appearance of Paul Lumsden, as Dave (Caretaker Dave, Roadie Dave, Airport Dave and Police Dave).  He really got the audience cheering.

The scenery and back projection was so well done and effective.  The lighting gave great effects.  Costumes were great and outstanding.

The orchestra produced a great sound and not to loud so that every word on stage could be heard.  Sheila Pearson did a fantastic job with the company. 

I don’t know how to describe the choreography; Maggie Jackson had the principals and dancers plus the ensemble doing a full workout.  It was a joy to watch.

Paula and the whole company should be proud of the standing ovation they received at the end of the show.  It was so well deserved.

Congratulations on this production, thank you so much for inviting Karl and myself and I look forward to your next production.

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