The Likes of Us

It was very busy in Cowes and virtually impossible to find a parking spot but that did not deter some 100 people arriving at the theatre. It just goes to show the popularity of this talented theatre group, who always please and entertain.

The programme was colourful and extremely informative. As well as a full synopsis, it contained information on Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Photographs and biographies are always good to see and it was evident that there was some talent amongst the cast.

Costumes were of the usual high standard and with some forty cast members and swift costume changes, this was no mean feat and was carried out swiftly and seemingly effortlessly. The set was fitting and appropriate with colourful backdrops. The use of a platform was effective and the stage was greatly enhanced by some skilled lighting effects throughout the show.

It is always a joy to hear and see a live orchestra. This one was expertly led by Luke Mulhern. They were excellent, enhanced the show and succeeded in not drowning out the singers as sometimes can happen. The choreography was of a good standard and credit should go to Sophie Everson for keeping a large cast in step.

This musical was one of Rice and Lloyd-Webber’s earliest collaborations which was never particularly popular. Based on the life of Thomas Barnard and how he set about enriching the lives of poverty-stricken children in the Victorian era it opens in the Edinburgh Gin Palace. Barnard, together with the woman he meets in the East End and marries, who is also trying to help the children attain education and better lives, ultimately establish the first children’s home. Eventually, The Gin Palace becomes a respectable tea and coffee house.

The Narrators, namely Daphne Brown and Lexi Skeldon-Downer, did a great job of guiding us through and kept up a good pace. Andy Kay in the lead was an excellent choice with his powerful voice and stage presence. His love interest Syrie, Lizzie Giakoumelos, was equally perfect with her sweet voice and they performed well together. Simon Apsey in his role of Johnny gave a standout performance with both his singing and dancing. Kate Chandler as his girlfriend, Jenny was convincing and her duet with Syrie ‘You Won’t Care About Him Any More’ was very moving. Jess Felis and Aimee-Rose-Howard were utterly convincing as the brash and sassy Rose and Mabel’ good time girls.’ Martyn Stanley was a commanding Prime Minister and Duncan Greaves as Auctioneer had a very difficult set of lyrics in ‘Going, Going, Gone’ but mastered them with perfect clarity.

The Trio of Cockneys, played by David Stradling, Shirley Denne and David D Ballard, performed their cameo songs well and were also kept very busy on stage providing appropriate moves and excellent facial expressions.

It is always good to see youngsters on stage and they were all well-rehearsed and clearly enjoying themselves. If they were tired, it certainly did not show. They were a joy to observe. Credit must be given to the Cockney Children, namely, Nicholas Newson and Millie Smith whose rendition of ‘The Likes of Us’ was truly delightful and moving.

The whole cast clearly enjoyed performing and their enthusiasm was infectious. The singing was very good throughout. The sound was slightly distorted at the start of Act 1 but this was soon rectified.

Well done to everyone involved.                                    

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