The Pajama Game

A very nice A5 colourful programme was prepared by multi-tasking John Sewell, also in charge of Light and Sound but had an assistant on this occasion namely co-opted Steph Beeken. Content interesting and easily readable, informative and amusing. Timely cues with some good effects.  I particularly like the reds during Hernando’s Hideaway and facial lights and the lid timing on the flue during ‘Steam Heat’ great.

A musical is full of vitality, comedy, strength, stubbornness, it’s about ‘capital and labour’ a pay rise and of course much about romance that develops between a new arrogant factory superintendent and a militant grievance committee rep popularised by Doris Day.

H & S announcements were suitably adapted in ‘limey’ language by Mr Hassler, factory owner aka Michael Patrick – a nice touch, with David Richardson as a versatile Vernon Hines clutching his stopwatch as the time-study man introduced the proceedings, curtains opened onto the factory floor scene complete with good back projection, girls at their sewing machines for ‘Hurry Up’. There is a sense of tradition running through this musical. The strength and part singing from girls was pleasing and not overshadowed by the orchestration. In fact, this was the case throughout and all credit must go to Heather Leslie who acted as Chorus Mistress who also played Mae and one-third of the trio, Fosse influenced slick ‘Steam Heat’ routine.

Costumes were very good indeed, a more feminine period with petticoats and accessories. The annual picnic a more casual look, with striking red/black polka dots for the nightclub.  Men just right too, overalls, executive suits, moustached French gentleman and Strong Man, ‘Sleep Tight’ fashion parade for the finale. Makeup and hair styling completed the picture.

There are a lot of scene changes during this musical which does slow down proceedings, and were done swiftly on an open stage, although during semi blackouts movement was distracting at times. Having said that, the four flats were static and the backdrops and back projections were neat and furniture was thoughtfully altered from sewing table to desk, office to kitchen minimised interruptions. Numerous props and good finishing touches. The knife throwing booth and action was well executed.

Heather Kemeys, as director certainly made a hit and together with a well-cast team produced a lively, enjoyable and tight performance.  Accents were good, songs well projected and characters totally believable. Dance sequences using the fairly limited amount of space were well rehearsed and interestingly and athletically devised by passionate dance mistress Millie.  Good work from Matty Hurst as Charmer Sid and gritty Babe, by a confident Monika Green who worked out their differences during the combative duet of ‘There Once Was a Man’ with gusto whilst Secretary Gladys cheekily played by Fiona Murch made sure our bustling obsessed comedian Vernon would ‘Never be Jealous Again’.  Creditable performances from Steve Bowen as Prez with a strong, wise Mabel from Gillian Davis. Congratulations to the rest of the cast becoming their own individual characters.

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