The Best Man

We were delighted to attend the Scottish premier of this new musical written by Ian Cook and Ian Newton.  Set in London in 1981 on the day of the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana.  In her search for “Dagenham’s answer to Mr Darcy”, we witnessed the blooming of a new relationship between hairdresser Cathy Price (Kerry Mitchell) and womaniser Tony Wickham (Gary Cavanagh).  Kerry played the character of innocent Cathy with great expression and vivacity and was nicely matched by Gary’s convincing portrayal of “wide boy” Tony.  Cathy was flattered by Tony’s attentions but horrified to discover their one night of passion had resulted in her pregnancy. Oblivious to this, Tony had his own worries, in debt to a local crime boss Mr Temple (assuredly played with menace by Mark Masson) his plan to raise the money was by duping Cathy into giving him the money from her trust fund. Cathy was surprised by such an idea and forced to reveal her own news. But Tony recovered quickly from her revelation and did indeed propose as he saw an even better opportunity to turn things around.  Though Cathy was caught up in the whirlwind romance, her mother, Vi performed effortlessly by Linsey McDonald, was dubious about the match while Pat Sharp (Liz Pardoe) was convincing as her supportive posh aunt.  Lesley Ritchie played Cathy’s outrageous and disapproving Gran with verve. Cathy’s friends Sharon and Lisa, excited by the news were performed respectively and with good timing and energy by Elaine Scougal and Pamela Roach.  The two pals with Gran as well as Rodger Brunton as Rev Collins provided many comedy moments. Evident throughout it all was the love that boy-next door, Danny Tilney, harboured for Cathy.  Sensitively portrayed by Chris Duke, shy Danny confronts Tony about his scheme and eventually saves the day by telling Cathy the truth about her fiancé.  Supporting roles were competently delivered by Dave Soutar (Ron Wickham), Ali Laing (Charlie Thomas) and Claire Smith (Aunt Margaret) with various smaller cameo performances by members of the ensemble. Accents were consistent and convincing throughout and with some catchy songs and an enthusiastic singing and dancing chorus (though some of the lyrics weren’t always easy to make out) the show had lots of comedy moments. The touching duet When I Get Married by Cathy and Danny was a highlight.  With a simple set complemented by some nice production and a small but adequate orchestra providing the musical accompaniment congratulations must go to the production team and all involved for providing an enjoyable and entertaining evening.

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