NODA North West News

Despite the rather bizarre storyline the production, along with the S. S. America, floated along on a raft of excellent Cole Porter music and lyrics which make this an entertaining, light-hearted and watchable show if you don't take it too seriously. Director Nora Howcroft provided the deft touch to steer the ship to a successful conclusion. Steve Taylor's orchestra coped well with the score and Delaney Brindle's choreography added considerably to the overall effect. From the moment she stepped on stage Kathy Turton (Reno Sweeney) put her numbers over with power and clarity whilst Christian Brabin (Billy Crocker) has a promising voice and looked quite at home with the part. Mike Fallon was delightfully 'over the top' with his P. G. Wodehouse styled Lord Evelyn Oakleigh whilst David Wilson successfully milked the part of Moonface Martin for all it was worth. Vicki Wilson was very good as the bubbly, swivel hipped gangsters moll Erma. The part of Hope Harcourt is not the best defined in the musical world. However, Lindsay Farnworth made the best of what the part had to offer. The experienced Joyce Walters (Evangeline Harcourt) and Don Howcroft (Elisha Whitney) both contributed fully to the overall production. The Angels, Charlotte Fallon, Karen Millington, Carole Brooks and Elizabeth Pycroft worked well together. However, I felt their costuming did little to enhance their showgirl image. Otherwise costuming looked authentic and the stage set looked great. Congratulations to all concerned – a most enjoyable evening's entertainment. My thanks for the society's hospitality. Glyn Neary