The Full Monty

The temperature in Rotherham Civic Theatre reached boiling point on Friday evening, as Maltby Musical Theatre Group presented their latest production, The Full Monty, which is exactly what we got! As a shy and retiring person, I didn’t  know where to look… ok, you got me, I did.  Although set in Buffalo, America, the show follows the same storyline of the hit 1997 British Film, about 6 unemployed steel workers who form a stripping group called Hot Metal. 

Dean Jenkinson, as Buddy Keno Walsh, did a fabulous job of getting the sell out audience in the mood for what was going to come. Dean must be congratulated as it can’t be easy to remove your clothes as soon as you enter the stage. Nigel Brewitt as Reg, was an audience favourite and his dance took the roof off the Civic.

Andrew Trueman, played the geeky and lonely, Malcolm MacGregor. Andrew’s portrayal of the character was both funny and moving, especially the funeral of his mother, where he was joined by Jack O’Boyle in the stunning duet, You Walk With Me. Jack played the role of the Donald O’Connor wannabe and The Sound of Music super fan, Ethan Girard. Jack’s performance was both energetic and funny with a certain ‘part’ being eye catching. Tony Bubb, reprised his role as Noah ‘Horse’ Simmons, having last played the role 12 years ago. His song and dance routine was excellent, especially with Tony landing in the splits. Harold Nichols was played by the always impressive, Richard Wilshaw. Richard’s acting was first rate, and you felt real empathy for him as he struggled with his recent unemployment status. 
The casting of Harrison Turner as Dave Bukatinsky, was top class. Dave goes through lots of emotions from unemployment to low self-esteem and Harrison hits the mark each time. Jerry Lukowksi was played to perfection by Josh Matkin. Jerry is a complex character and I believed every word that Josh said. His song, Breeze of the River, was personal highlight for me. 

Of course, where we have men, we have women. The talented women of this group also had time to shine. Jess Kennedy and Karen Mills played Georgie and Vicki, the wives of Dave and Harold. Both talented women, who made the most of the opportunity’s available to them. Emma Bland, portrayed Pam Lukowski, Jerry’s ex wife and commanded the stage. However, Fiona Broadhead as Jeanette, the chain smoking piano player, should hold workshops on how to play a comedy character, and being real. The audience loved her and couldn’t wait to hear what she was going to say next. An exceptional performance. 
As the only child performer, Rowan Poulton, held his own amongst this talented and experienced cast as Jerry and Pam’s son, Nathan. The ensemble worked hard, with each person having a well defined character, and swiftly moving the set with ease. 

Director, Matthew Roddis, made a story which is now nearly 30 years old, seem fresh and modern. Matthew also found places within the script to give the ensemble extra bits to do. As to be expected when you have Pete Lane as Musical Director, the singing from principals and ensemble was a delight to the ears, and the 9 piece band was a joy. Anita Wilshaw, Choreographer, created original routines that all society members could perform to a high standard. 

The show, although funny, is ultimately about support and friendship amongst men, and I was delighted to see that the society was supporting Andy’s Man Club. 

Well done MMTG. I loved it. 

 

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