WHITE CHRISTMAS

This production was the beginning of our run up to Christmas, and was the perfect choice to put us in the correct mood. We always seem to watch the film ‘White Christmas’ at this time of the year, and this was an extra bonus, but with Music & Lyrics by Irving Berlin and based on a book by David Ives and Paul Blake, how can a society fail.

Set in 1950’s the show tells of a retired American Army General, General Waverly, expertly portrayed by John Bowen, looking for his next posting which never seems to arrive. He therefore sets himself up in a winter holiday hotel, where song and dance team, Bob Wallace – Rob Jones and Phil Davis – Craig Harris decided to put on a show to boost income. Good performances from the duo who pulled out all the stops in their tasks, especially Craig Harris on his first attempt at a musical. Well done. Experience showed in the portrayal of the two sisters, Betty and Judy Haynes, played by Amber Deacon and Emma Edmunds respectively, they blended well together and the ever popular ‘Sisters’ number was a triumph. The girls worked well with the boys, Bob and Betty with ‘Count Your Blessings’ and Judy with Phil, leading the Company with ‘I Love A Piano’ in Act 2.

Brilliant characterisation from Gaenor Bowen as Martha Watson, the past Broadway star, now Receptionist . Gaenor brought out all the comedy in this role with throw away remarks which the audience appreciated, and she led the Company with ‘Let Me Sing and I’m Happy’. Lovely close harmony Martha, Betty & Judy in ‘Falling Out Of Love Can Be Fun’. Dizzy contributions from Dawn Jones and Bev Dunkley as Rita and Rhoda, and a believable portrayal from Andrew Bond as Mike Nulty, the mincing director on the verge of a nervous breakdown. Lovely performance from young Gwennan Jones as the General’s Granddaughter, Susan Waverly, spot on with script and singing, just as Caitlyn Bloor carried out the same tasks at alternative performances. There were many minor roles but I must mention the cameo role of Ezekiel Foster – Mark Ward, handiman at the hotel.

The large cast and chorus, were well-rehearsed, but I felt the dancing numbers could have done with a bit more polish. Scenic Artist/Design expert, Bridget Wallbank, once again led the team to excellent set construction and efficient scene changes. I loved the costumes, particularly Act 2 number, ‘I Love A Piano’. We were indeed treated to the best of Irving Berlin which gave us a real foretaste of the coming festive season.

MERRY CHRISTMAS ALL AND A HAPPY AND HEALTHY 2017.

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