The Producers

"How can they follow that?" was one of many comments heard from audience members leaving Brechin Amateur Operatic Society's 50th anniversary production, "The Producers." This was certainly one of, if not THE, best shows ever seen in Brechin City Hall. Right from the opening bars of the overture, the audience were treated to an extremely top class evening of musical theatre with comedy of the highest standard and acting, singing and dancing to match, from principals and chorus alike. In the pivotal role of Max Bialystock Graeme Baird was in supreme form, showing every emotion in a quality performance both dramatically and vocally. His co-conspirator Leo Bloom (Alan Matheson) in his quest to stage a flop, also excelled in his duets with Max (We Can Do It and I Want to be a Producer) and his solos. His scene with his "blanket" was hysterical. As the Swedish blond bombshell, Ulla Svansen (Gill Smith) was on top form, driving Leo wild - not to mention the males in the audience. As the nutty neo-Nazi Franz Liebkind, Brian Mathieson had the whole audience in fits of laughter with his adoring flock of pigeons and the "camp" duo of Roger Debris (Kenny Christie) and Carmen Ghia (Chris Taylor) were also supreme, adding to the comedy and music of the piece in no uncertain manner. All these major roles were well assisted by their supporting characters. Add to that a well drilled and harmonious chorus, complete with a troupe of dancing "zimmer" ladies led by Hold Me Touch Me (Ali Niven) this was a performance of the highest standard and the production team are to be congratulated. We now await next year's show to find if they can "follow that!!!!"

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