Thoroughly Modern Millie

An impressive inclusion on the Elaine Paige ‘Break a Leg’ Sunday radio programme gave a good feel factor and from opening this production was vibrant, full of energy with foot tapping music. Set in 1922 Millie Dillmount leaves Kansas arriving in NY, and even after being mugged is still determined to become a flapper, find a job and marry her boss.   Alison Campion portrays a first class Millie with conviction and is well teamed with young handsome Jimmy Smith ably performed by Mark Stevens. Some great comedy moments came from Sheila Crighton, villainous Mrs Meers alias Daisy Crumpler with catch phrase ‘so sad to be all alone in the world’ and her two Chinese laundry hands, Sharon Sellens as Bun Foo and Oli Man Ching Ho.  An added attraction was the very funny projected translation.  The lively band was led by Andrew Gill with singing of principal, cameo and ensemble well rehearsed and strong.  Eye catching NY sets were designed and constructed by the team, with use of moving projection, effective lighting and sound effects.  Costumes were of the era, neat and colourful with good finishing touches - Sharon Gordon particularly glamorous as Muzzy. Good character makeup and wigs. Although when a full cast was required the stage became a little cramped, there was particularly good use of the auditorium and off stage entrances. Keren not only danced, she set exciting choreography and directed resulting in a combined team effort of high quality. Mention must be made of the slick ‘Speed Test’ performed by Mr Graydon (Bob Murray), Millie, Miss Flannery (Charlotte Collins) and Ensemble, and wonderful duet from Mr Graydon and Miss Dorothy (Natascha Lampert-Montier).

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