When Children Rule The World

This was my first visit to Walberton Player's Youth Theatre and what an enjoyable evening I had. I was met by friendly faces, enthusiastic members and helpers, introduced to the Production Team and generally made to feel very welcome and at ease.

The whole evening had a lovely 'community spirited' feel to it with a lot of whole families involved in one way or another.

This was Claire Dorey's first time as Producer and, with Lesley Mercer as choreographer, they put together a number of songs and dances which gave the audience a feel-good factor.

This company is fortunate to have a venue with a good size stage to work on and I would imagine some of the lighting and sound equipment in situ - which is always a bonus.

I was slightly disappointed that I could not hear all the soloists at times and when I saw hand held mics used half way through Act One I wondered why they, or even some head mics, could not have been used earlier. That said, the children were excellent at projecting and as an ensemble made a great sound.

There were some very good solo/duet performances - I particularly liked the two duets performed by siblings Benjamin and Dominic McGreevy and Georgia and Emily Hunt - some lovely acting from everyone in these.

I particularly enjoyed the lyrical modern dance solo by Alice Dukes -  choreographed herself.

I must also mention the amazing facial expressions from Grace Hattersley - particularly in The Charleston- these made me smile and certainly let the audience know how much she was enjoying herself!!

The whole cast should be commended for a fun, enchanting evening's entertainment which clearly showed that they were enjoying themselves - which is what it's all about!

I look forward to a return visit to this friendly, welcoming society.

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