Thoroughly Modern Millie

Walmsley Church AODS production is Thoroughly Modern Millie based on the 1967 feature film that starred Julie Andrews and James Fox. Interesting and sad how one of the themes - the slave trade - is still relevant today.

Composite set - in art deco style of blue, black and silver. Raised up stage at the back cleverly concealing the doors that would be used in Mrs Meers’ Boarding House and fanning steps leading down onto the stage, also used for the club where Muzzy sings. Various scenes were then played out, the Office/Prison/Typing pool with individual typing tables having seats attached and on wheels.  The scene on the outside of ledge of the office to mention a few. Some scene changes were long and I am sure as the week goes on they will get smoother and quicker. Stage Crew by Anne Cocking, Nora Howcroft, Dave McGreavy, Gill Pollitt, Zoe Pollitt, Linda West and Janet Witt. Properties by Anne Cocking. Sound was unobtrusive as it should be by Lea Royse and Elodie Perrier. Lighting on the whole was good - there was a scene with Mrs Meers in which I could not see her face. The chasing lighting at the end around the Proscenium was very effective as was the pink wash at the end. Lighting by Norman Bowers and Nathan Emmison.

Costumes were delightful and in keeping as were hair and wigs. Wardrobe by Eileen Reeves.

Lara Syddall choreographs and puts her touch on it with tap dancing office workers sat down and manoeuvring table and chairs on wheels and having fun with the Charleston. Walmsley for this show have chosen backing tracks and a new Musical Director takes to the helm with the very capable Cath Hilton. Nora Howcroft, having fifty years earlier been involved with the show but under another name ‘Chrysanthemum’, is Director of this show.

Ensemble worked well and supported the cast and great to see some youth members included too. The Office- and Boarding House girls all worked great together.  Kathryn Nuttall as Ruth, Nicola Shallicker as Gloria, Sue Cliffe as Rita, Janet Richardson as Alice, Lara Syddall as Cora and Nina Dickinson as Lucille. Val Greenhalgh as Ethel Peas and Dorothy Parker, Joe Davies as Mr Trevor Graydon and Julie Ogden as Miss Flannery all played their part.

Alan Moss as Ching Ho and David Witt as Bun Foo the undercover cops and pretending to not speak English and Ching Ho falling for Millie. Bless.

Miss Dorothy Brown was played by Lauren Carroll who had such a lovely voice and great character as did Oliver Hall playing Jimmy Smith. Both great voices – bravo!

Teresa Harper as Muzzy Van Hossmere brought out the glamour and wow with her character. Some lovely moments when imparting good advice to Millie - delightful!

Bringing the comedy was Vicki Wilson as Mrs Meers aka Daisy Crumpler frustrated actor, Boarding House proprietor and criminal. Hilarious when singing about Stanislavski. Great characterisation and jumping into different accents and her saying “Sad to be alone in the world” very watchable and brilliant.

Last but not least is the title role Millie played by Catherine Hall. Wow what a performance, what a find. Great casting and thoroughly connected to the role with a bit of comedy thrown in too and great energy. Great voice, Catherine working well with the cast. A highlight was Gimme Gimme. Great performance.

 

Walmsley cast and crew must be delighted with this show. Thank you for the invite and hospitality from my guest Carol and I. Look forward to seeing 9 to 5 The Musical in November.

Liz Hume-Dawson

D 5 Rep

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