Thoroughly Modern Millie

Set in New York in 1922, a thoroughly modern ‘Millie Dillmount’ provides a great tale of a young woman’s journey of self discovery and finding her own way in a radically changing world, hoping for a more modern life than most girls’ dream of.

PODYS ‘Millie’ played by Francesca Neal was imposing and full of personality as she encountered a number of characters in her quest for somewhere to stay, work, make friends and find romance. First to help is man about town ‘Jimmy Smith’ (Tom Parkinson) who lends a hand and she finds accommodation at the dubious Hotel Priscilla. Their 2nd act duet and scene on the window ledge was a highlight in their fluctuating relationship.

The Hotel Priscilla is run by the mysterious and sinister ‘Mrs. Meers’, a former actor who now works for a white slavery ring. Tom Dowdeswell was outstanding, capturing the theatrical and sinister elements of the role clearly and with great style. His accomplices ‘Ching Ho’ (Harry Chamberlain) and ‘Bun Foo’ (Jack Dickson) were excellent, mastering the language fluently and their musical number ‘Muqin’ with Mrs Meers was a show stopper.

Millie finds friendship with ‘Dorothy Brown’ played by Mia Brotherton, who gave us a sparkling performance in both acting and singing.  Seeking out Society’s most eligible bachelors, Millie finds work at Sincere Trust run by ‘Trevor Graydon’ played with great presence and confidence by Dylan Mulholland. Their number ‘The Speed Test’ was sung with impressive precision. Hannah Paterson as Graydons chief of staff ‘Miss Flannery’ provided good support and Olivia Filmer-Hare as ‘Muzzy Van Hossmere’, gave a shining performance as the famous Broadway party host and singer.

The remaining company of dancers and singers gave good support in a slightly restricted space than normal, due to the orchestra located on stage. The overall set and costumes were impressive but if I had one wish it would have been for the orchestra to have exercised a little more restraint, particularly during the background music to dialogue.

Many congratulations to PODYS on this their 10th anniversary production and for providing the youngsters with the opportunity for a great confidence boosting experience that they will never forget and  for which they should all be proud.

 

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