The Roles I'd Never Play - The Reprise

Sunderland TC presented a sequel to their very successful “Roles I’d Never Play” concert, I didn’t have the privilege of seeing the first concert but I was delighted to be asked to cover for my colleague and get the opportunity to see this presentation and I thank you for the warm reception. The format of performing songs which are written for a different gender or age range was popularised on Broadway and continues to be one of the industry’s favourite events.  

I haven’t been able to visit a Sunderland TC show for a while due to conflicting calendars but my first impression was that of how much this group has grown in numbers and seems to be going from strength to strength which is great to see, the members all worked together to produce a very entertaining production featuring some outstanding vocal performances. Staging was simple with a raised area at the back of the stage which was used to good effect during the full ensemble numbers as were the steps leading onto the stage and the floor in front ensuring every performer was visible. Lighting changes were subtle and complimented the numbers and the sound was on the whole good despite a couple of conflicts with frequencies.

In a concert with 26 musical numbers and 27 performers it is difficult to single anyone out as so many had the opportunity to shine but stand out performances for me were the ensemble pieces in the programme, from “Do Re Mi”, “Revolting Children” to the finale of “We’re All in the together” and “Fat Sam’s Grand Slam”, all had great harmony and performance energy.  The female ensemble gave a super rendition of “Bui Doi” with an a-cappella start that gave you goose bumps, and of course the men giving us their best queens in “Ex Wives” was great fun. There weren’t many solos as most performed in group numbers but every one was well sung and performed. Group numbers which were my personal favourites were the “Jersey Boys medley”, “Red and Black”, “Raise your Voice” and “Lady Marmalade”. Choreography throughout was really well executed and interesting to watch particularly in the group numbers such as “Positive”, "Candy Store”, “Seize the Day”  and of course the full cast finale numbers.

Congratulations to the production team and all at Sunderland TC for a very entertaining production which had a mix of fun, poignancy and energy. Your audience clearly enjoyed every minute of it and watching you it was obvious that you all enjoyed performing it too. I look forward to seeing your pantomime “Cinderella” in January (oh yes I do!). 

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