Thoroughly Modern Millie

What a lovely evening we had watching Adlington Music & Arts Society’s production of “Thoroughly Modern Millie” which has music by Jeanine Tesori, lyrics by Dick Scanlan, and is from a book by Richard Morris and Scanlan.  The show is based on the 1967 film of the same name which itself was based on the British musical "Chrysanthemum". The show was full of energy and panache with great performances from all the cast.

Rebecca Crookson gave a strong outstanding performance in the very important central role of country girl Millie Dillmount who has moved to New York City particularly to find a job and marry her boss, her characterisation was spot on and she held the stage at all times. Rebecca was very well complimented by the other members of the principle cast who included, Chris Bailey in the role of Jimmy Smith, Millie’s love interest and Emily Bailey as Millie’s friend the delightful sweet Miss Dorothy with Jonny Cunliffe as Mr Trevor Graydon, Millie’s boss and the man she had set her sights on marrying. Louisa Watson as Muzzy Van Hossmere had the star quality the part required with a great rendition of the song “Only in New York” and Sharon Morris was a sight to behold with her eccentric hair style as the Office Manager Miss Flannery. Diane Simmons gave a wonderful comedy performance with spot on comic timing, clear diction and a great characterisation as Mrs Meers, the owner of the Hotel for single ladies and kidnapper of orphan young girls, she was very skilfully assisted in her antics by Philip May as Bun Foo and Stephen Glenn as Ching Ho, who in turn made an excellent double act, their conversations in Chinese with surtitles were a favourite with the audience and were very funny. The ensemble of Frisky Flappers and Dapper Gents produced some good characterisations and supported the principle cast proficiently. The bright, vibrant choreography from Heather Hodgson added to the uplifting feel of the show and was performed skilfully by all the cast. Vocally the score is demanding for all performers and it was excellently sung throughout. The orchestra led by Musical Director Dave Dossett played the original score that suited both the style and the period splendidly, although they were a little loud on a few occasions. The set was once again well up to the companies very high standards, so congratulations must go to the set builders and stage crew led by Stage Manager Stephen Pilkington and also sound and lightings did a very good job. Costumes were bright and colourful, just right for the era and the type of production, they also added to the overall feel of the show, it was obvious a great deal of thought had gone into getting them just right,
 
Well done to the talented Director Jackie Creer, all the Production Team, cast, crew and all involved in the show, you all must have worked together with commitment and enthusiasm to produce such a fast paced outstanding slick show. Thank you for inviting us, we hope to see you for your next production.

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