THE BIG PARODOS SHOWCASE 2022

What a fun afternoon we all had, with the performers pulling out all the stops to provide their audience with many and varied items.

The woodland backdrop was very suitable for Act 1 particularly, and everyone stood out in their colourful costumes.Lighting was good, but because there had not been time for a full dress rehearsal there were some late mic cues, however, this did not faze anyone!A special shout out to Lily Anthony, who started her song, but the mic didn’t work at all, so she was given a hand mic and proceeded to sing again from the beginning, with no apparent nerves – extremely well done.

I enjoyed the choreography, which suited the various capabilities of the performers.

The Production started with Lucia Kidman performing the song she was unable to because of ill health at Into the Woods Jr, she acquitted herself well, with a tuneful and expressive performance.

This was followed by a potted version of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, giving the cast a chance to act.I was impressed overall that everyone projected well, and particularly enjoyed Katie Osborne (Hermia), and Isabelle Georgescu (Puck).Other parts were nicely played by Chloe Ragui (Titania), Keira Halfpenny (Cobweb/Quince), Callum Bird (Bottom), Lucia Kidman (Oberon), Freya Mullen (Helena), Vito Kidman (Lysander/Flute), Caitlin Greaves (Demetrius), with Caitlin also forming a nice little group with Lily Anthony and Jessie-Jay Barnes (Snug, Starvelling and Snout).Everyone coped very well with the Shakesperean language and gave us an upbeat, snappy version.Well done.

Act 2 was a showcase for all the cast, with the addition of a 6 piece Let Us Entertain You choir, who helped out with backing for some numbers, and sang a lovely song with an unusual and charming arrangement from Bryony Reynolds.

The choice of music was diverse and challenging for the cast, but they all did well, and also got the chance to act as compere between numbers, more good experience for them.

This was a nice end to the year, with everyone getting a chance to act, dance and sing, perhaps attempting numbers they wouldn’t know, which is always good for youngsters, as they are introduced to the different facets of stage work.

We enjoyed the production very much, thank you for bringing us light and warmth on a cold and miserable afternoon!

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