The Drowsy Chaperone

"The Drowsy Chaperone" was, until I saw it a few days ago that is, new to me. After watching the first part prior to the interval I confess I was not sure whether I liked or not. What I was certain of at this point was that I was watching a seriously drilled cast capable of stunning performances. By the end of the evening I was totally sold on the piece. Perhaps it takes a bit of time to get used to the "joke" of persuading the audience they are actually listening to a vinyl recording of a 1920s show with the original cast while being helped along the way by a present day narrator. As The Man In The Chair, Mick Dawson led us throught the backstorys of the actors we were seeing. It is a mighty role to take on as he never leaves the stage from start to finish. Mick's skill in imbuing life and credibility into at times a fairly moribund script is to be applauded. Since the show is supposed to be from a time when the rules of musicals were very different to today it contains elements that are hard to equate with what we have come to expect. The comedy duo for example, an absolute must in the days of Romberg et al, were present. Tony Lewis and Neville Hartley were suitably weird as the pastry chefs come hit men. I loved their rendition of "Toledo Surprise", classic bit of silliness if ever there was. The plot is hardly worth mentioning really but it contains enough credibility to hang the characters on (just). In truth this is a musical joke designed to offer musical theatre buffs a wry smile. That said the show offers fabulous opportunites for the cast to shine.

Lyndsay Pilkington as the DC herself was riveting. I was taken in by her. What an assured brilliant performance this was. Deborah Thew as  Janet Van De Graff was equally impressive, able to hold the stage majestically and looking fantastic. Marion McCumskay had pulled out it all the stops to dress this show to a very high standard. As Adolpho, John Kearns was way over the top and enjoying every minute of it. His personal song of intruduction "Adolpho" was sung with complete sincerity. 

Every single one of the principals created witty engaging characters. The stand out song for me was "As We Stumble Along" which could find its way into any traditional musical. Its reprise at the end was welcome. Over the top, outrageous and silly are all words applicable to "The Drowsy Chaperone."  Funny, entertaining and refreshingly original are equally applicable. Director David Slater's usual bits of business were in evidence. Each one helping to add that extra bit of sparkle. 

Thank you for introducting me to this little gem of a musical. I eagerly look forward to "Pirates" in the new year.

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