The Full Monty

The scene is set. The audience, mainly Ladies, are ready for 'The Full Monty', and they were not disappointed. This fast moving production was another sure fire hit for Sutton Coldfield Musical Theatre company in this their 85th year. Based on the book by Terrence McNally the musical is based in Buffalo and not Sheffield as per the popular film of the same name. The musical features six ex steelworkers who, led by Jerry, after seeing their wives at a Chippendale show decide to form their own group. Hot Metal, and to perform the full Monty. Jerry's ex-wife Pam (Leanne Bowket) wants her maintenance payments for their son, so Jerry has to come up with an idea to raise the cash.

 

The six principle male cast really worked well and bonded well together. The leader of the men was Jerry Lukowski (Phil Bourn, who had an outstanding stage presence), who along side Harold (Rob Fusco), Dave (Ben Green), Horse (Fidel Lloyd), Ehtan (Ben Adams) and Malcolm (Patrick Jervis) made up 'Hot Metal', who played their parts with confidence, four of them having played their roles before. A special mention must go to Ehran Bowley as Jerry's son Nathan. A confident performer. The girls in the company supported their men well especially Paula Lumsden as Jeanette, their piano playing friend. Some good harmonies from the cast supported by a good sounding orchestra who were located at the back of the stage under the direction of Shelia Pearson. Good choreography under the direction of Jenny Morris.

 

The set was very impressive with some superb lighting and a very clever video wall. Good costumes, which looked right for the time period. Accents were good and convincing and did not falter all the way through the show.

 

Paul Lumsden directed the cast well and should be proud of the production.

 

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