Thoroughly Modern Millie

Amongst all the other complexities to be faced when staging a full-blown amateur musical, the question of where to site an orchestra does not usually figure.  But the Arts Centre does not easily lend itself to a front-of-stage ‘pit’ without a major reduction in seating, and regulations prevented the use of the gallery.  So in the event, it proved necessary to resort to accompaniment by means of backing tracks.  But the show was none the worse for that, and indeed the attendant discipline imposed by this form of music seemed to add extra impetus to an already vibrant production, the net result being a spectacular show, full of pace and energy, that simply hummed along from start to finish.

The Bridport area has often shown itself capable of producing amateur theatre to high standards, and this production was no exception.  The very talented, predominantly young, cast, not forgetting some equally talented not-so-young, collectively staged a riveting opening night that totally captured its audience – I admit to having wondered at the end of the show where all the time had gone.

Both individual performances and ensemble routines were excellent, the latter showing an abundance of eye-catching choreography that was well schooled and neatly executed.  In  the lead role, Emma Foulsham was delightful, with voice to match, and she was very ably supported by her flighty friend Dorothy (Lauren Glover), dashing beau Jimmy (Tom Matthews), and hearty boss Trevor (Ally Hughes).  The Chinese trio of Mrs Meers (Mo Kennedy), Ching Ho (Greg Horton) and Bun Foo (Dylan Hanby) brought villainous suspense and much mirth to the proceedings, while Sian Dearnley as Muzzy wowed the audience with a couple of powerful numbers.  Leading the very watchable dancers, Jodie Glover multi-tasked convincingly as Miss Flannery and the Pearl Lady.

Behind curtain, the Arts Centre is also less than accommodating when it comes to staging big musicals with multiple scene changes.  But by use of the flexibility built into a clever but simple set, some first class lighting and effective continuity planning, the illusion of a large-theatre setting was achieved.  A colourful suite of costumes completed the picture

Director Dave Swaffield, on the small side in stature but big in influence, and reputedly nick-named ‘The Rottweiler’ by an affectionate cast, can be well pleased with this production.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.