The Full Monty

This was the first production I have seen by the Athenaeum Masqueraders. I was not disappointed and thoroughly enjoyed this production, directed by Lyn Taylor.

The simple set of a black backcloth and brickwork houses on each side worked very well. There are many scenes in this show however and each time there is a scene change, it does unfortunately have the effect of stopping the flow and energy of the piece.  Perhaps simplifying these set changes might have helped in this regard or not changing the scene at all on occasions. However the stage crew coped well with these very intricate scene changes and I’m sure will have tightened them up considerably by the end of the week.  I have to say that the emergence of the front half of a real car from the back of the stage for the suicide scene was a triumph and totally unexpected!

The cast were excellent and did a very good job of telling this often very poignant story.  The suicide scene managed to be comical, despite the subject matter, and the use of props in ‘Big Black Man’ was hilarious.  However it was the funeral scene that nearly stole the show for me, with a beautiful rendition of ‘You walk with me’ and a very touching scene of an emerging relationship.

The female ensemble has more of a supporting role in this show, but they always had good energy and did a fine job of fully engaging the very enthusiastic audience.  The additional men in the ensemble likewise did well in their various roles in helping to create each scene.

The choreography for the main protagonists was very good and the final number, especially, was well put together and well rehearsed. ‘Michael Jordon’s Ball’ also worked well, proving the theory of the song that men often dance better if they don’t realise they are dancing!

The band was placed on an upper level at the back of the stage, which worked well for the most part.  There were a few occasions where the balance was not quite right and we couldn’t hear the words, but they produced an excellent sound. 

The lighting was good, although a little slow to come up after scene changes on some occasions.  I’m sure the members of Hot Metal were relieved that the final lighting was spot on though and their modesty was preserved! Costumes and makeup were all in keeping and worked well.

The stars of the show though were undoubtedly the final line up of men, who performed ‘Let it go’ as Hot Metal.  This final number was well choreographed, well executed and a triumph. 

The whole company really deserved the rapturous applause they received at the end of the show from what looked like a full house and I am sure the warm response they received on this first night will have increased with every performance; a very enjoyable show.

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