Thoroughly Modern Millie

This has to be one of my favourite shows of all time. I remember as a child watching the film starring Julie Andrews until the VHS tape, yes I go back that far, was worn out. I was thrilled when it was re-released some years ago for the stage and have musically directed it. Therefore, I know it forwards, backwards and sideways… No pressure for the company then!

I was delighted by this fine production which had flare and imagination. The whole show was set as a film being made which worked but was on occasion a little distracting for the audience. However, the excellent performances by all on stage were not diminished by this and the entire company worked so very well together. The ensemble was always well focused as I have come to admire of this talented group and the singing was good.

There were some lovely performances by the principal cast with Alice Linforth bring Muzzy Van Hossmere alive for us on the stage and Daniella Difede giving a great performance as the tyrannical Miss Flannery. I was delighted by the performances of Sammie John and Nicholas Heaton as the bungling duo Bun Foo and Ching Ho. Nicholas gave some fabulous comic moments and their song and dance routines were comedy gold. The starry eyed lovers, Miss Dorothy and Mr Graydon, were played excellent by Josie Daniel and David Davies-Ribnicov and they were not alone on stage as the other loved-up pair were Millie Dilmount and Jimmy Smith played by Elysia Coates and Robin Haley. The performances of these two were outstanding and they worked so very well together on stage. Both displayed excellent command of the stage and Elysia led the entire company on her journey with great aplomb and a lovely voice. Special mention must go the performance of Gemma Partridge as Mrs Meers as the audience were given an amazing spectacle every time she was on stage. Perfect comic timing and great characterisation made this portrayal wonderful for all.

Many thanks to the entire company for an evening of 1920s magic!

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