The Wedding Singer

Walking into the Gaiety Theatre is always a wonderful experience, and this time it was boosted by the impact of the open set staging with the band under the walkway at the back of the stage and the bright colours of the show logo on the digital screen.  This was extremely effective and set the right level of high energy that the production provided during the evening.

Being transported back to the 80s is always fun, everyone loves the 80s right?!  Well, this production of The Wedding Singer did not disappoint.  From the costumes, hairstyles and dance moves, the 80s came alive in Ayr for sure.  The simple staging was used successfully, and all scene changes were very slick which kept a fast pace on this lively show.  Powerful vocals from the impressive ensemble and talented principal cast were consistent throughout and never faltered.  MD Cammy Hill lead the cast and band incredibly, and even made a small cameo appearance in the Vegas Wedding at the end.  Lynne Christie’s choreography was on point for every number, cleverly moving a full stage with ease and creating lovely moments in the solo features it was a joy to watch.  Being a fan of the show, I also enjoyed the wonderful little touches in Martin Christie’s direction and couldn’t list them all, but highlights were certainly; the way the bouquet was thrown at the end of “Someday”, the waitresses appearing with the roses, and Julia’s reaction to them at the end of “Pop!”, the use of the video wall for Glen’s phone call and Julia pushing Robbie back into the dumpster at the end of the song.

Leading the audience through the story is the main character of Robbie Hart, played fantastically well by Greg Philp.  Greg not only tackled the many varying styles of songs he had during the show effortlessly, but also played the guitar live, pulled out the dance moves and gave a full range of emotions during his characterisation.  Playing opposite Greg was Lynne Kenmuir as Julia Sullivan.  Lynne’s singing voice in every number was controlled, powerful, beautiful … just perfection.  She gave us a sweet and warm character in Julia with good comedy as well in a cleverly subtle way which was hinting to the Drew Barrymore portrayal of the character from the film, but with her own twist.  Completing Robbie’s band ‘Simply Wed’ were Mikey McCabe as Sammy and Evan Warrander as George.  The scenes when all three were together flowed so well with a natural friendship and connection.  Mikey’s featured singing parts in “Right in Front of Your Eyes” and “Single” were excellent and his laid back character contrasted like a dream with the more neurotic sides from Robbie and the eccentric George.  Evan’s George was lovable, he had the audience laughing with him in every scene and featured good comedy moments.  Playing Julia’s cousin Holly was Laurin Campbell.  Laurin’s dancing was amazing, the splits during “Saturday Night in the City” was a wow moment and her stage presence leading the dance numbers was superb.  I loved her take on the character, again balancing vulnerable moments in her relationship with Sammy with full on comedy.  More comedy was provided by Helen Petrie as Grandma Rosie.  This is a great part with lots of “steal the show moments” and Helen did not miss any of them.  Her delivery of the witty lines, performance on “A Note from Grandma” and dancing in “Move That Thang” were all genius and had the full theatre in stiches.  David Cannell delivered the “baddie” of the piece very well.  The charming, smooth talker the audience cringe at and love to hate.  His character work, dancing and singing were all great and I loved all the wee flirty looks and moments when interacting with other characters which built up a well-rounded slimy character.  Ciara Brady as Linda was another genius character.  After years of watching AAOC’s shows this was a massive contrast to other parts I have seen Ciara play and she delivered exceptionally well.  Her husky speaking voice, big belting vocals and movements were all perfect for the rock-chick Linda and walking in those heels was a talent itself.  Her opening number “Note from Linda” was exceptional.  Completing the main principal line up was Carol Ann McKinlay as Angie.  She brought comedy into the part of the interfering mum and had great family chemistry with Julia and Holly in their scenes together.  A show like this gives the full ensemble a chance to shine with smaller principal roles and all were delivered wonderfully.  Some of the big showstopper moments of the show for me have to be; the opening number “When It’s Your Wedding Day” with special mention to the bride and groom for their featured dancing, the energy in 'Saturday Night in the City' with the pyrotechnics at the end, 'Casualty of Love' with lovely character moments especially from those at table 9, the guys strutting their stuff in 'Single' and 'All About the Green' featuring smooth dancing from Robbie and Glen.  I have almost mentioned every number in the show, but it was all just so enjoyable.

Congrats to AAOC on another great performance this year.

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