The Witches of Eastwick

My thanks to Glass ceiling for their very welcome invitation to see their latest production, “The Witches of Eastwick” performed at the Dolman Theatre Newport . Following the company’s successes at the NODA Awards  2026, I was very much looking forward to seeing the cast in action again, with this popular musical comedy.

From the opening number you could feel the energy, that without a doubt comes from the fact that every member of this cast, every performer gives 100% from the moment they hit the stage, making the full cast scenes a highlight throughout the show.

Jamie Davis as the devil himself, Darryl Van Horne, has a stage presence and personality that many a professional performer would envy. His delivery, timing and superb characterisation won the hearts of more than the witches. Wicked he may have been, but he made the character his own with panache and true style. An outstanding performance.

Try as I may I cannot separate my thoughts on our three witches. Alexandra Spofford[The Sculptress] played by Nina Kaine;  Jane Smart[The Cellist] played by Nicole Cleaton and Sukie Rougemont [The Writer] played by Laura-Jane Smith. I apologise but you must take it that any comment refers to you all. A trio made in Heaven [or hell] as it were. This was excellent casting that led to a superb performance. Individually the characterisations were perfect but together they were magic. The delivery, the comic timing , the emotion, the rapport between the characters and Darryl made the whole story real. This was the best, the most relaxed flight scene, leaving in no doubt, on the ground or off how talented this trio was. My congratulations to you all. Bravo

Felicia Gabriel played by Robin Watts and Clyde Gabriel played by Dan Butler. The woman everyone loves to hate and the cheating but long-suffering husband. My sympathy goes out to Robin; even the audience wants to see you fall and fall she did. A difficult role but Robin was up for the challenge. Great characterisation, totally obnoxious and beautifully done. We did have some sympathy for Clyde who played the downtrodden husband to perfection.

The daughter from this ill-fated marriage Jennifer Gabriel played by Katelyn Goddard, a surprisingly sane individual, considering her parentage and in love with Michael Spofford [Alexandra’s son]. This was well cast and resulted in a good performance from both with a very emotional rendition of “Something.

A very well delivered cameo role as “the little girl” from Poppy Bryant, with excellent clarity and good comic timing. Not to be upstaged and baring all for his art was Matt Bryant as the silent servant Fidel, a true trouper.

My congratulations and great respect must go to the production team Andre-Paul Spring [Director]    Vicci Bryant [Musical Director] and Emily John [Choreographer/Producer] The company show skill and outstanding professionalism. The harmony and musicality of both principals and chorus is a credit to the musical direction, and the choreography is a highlight of the whole production.

I say to you all “BRAVO”

 

The views in this report are solely of the author.

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