A show with such an iconic pedigree boasting the likes of Gene Kelly and Co., Tommy Steele and the inimitable Morcambe and Wise, comparisons are sometimes difficult to set aside. So was this a problem – no not really!
From the film sequencing system being used to introduce the entire cast during the overture, via excellent principals and sub-principals to a deluge of rain provided by the ever inventive backstage crew (thankfully avoiding drowning the orchestra in the pit), this production by Nora Howcroft ticked all the right boxes.
The suave, silent screen star, Don Lockwood, played by James Eccleshare, and his irreverent sidekick, Cosmo Brown, played by Sean Hargreaves, were on top form. Both displayed strong vocal and acting abilities. However it was their energetic terpsichorean skills that really caught the eye.
The self-centred Lina Lamont with her shrill, contorted vowels was played to perfection by Adrienne Wormald, who gave a most effective delivery of 'What's Wrong With Me?'. On the opposite side of the coin the all-sweetness-and-light, Kathy Seldon, was very well portrayed by Beth Corrigan. The supporting roles of R.F. Simpson and Roscoe Dexter were brilliantly played by the experienced Mike Taylor and Steve Benson.
Where there is little chorus work in a show it is understandable that the chorus is used at every conceivable opportunity and this has been known, on occasions, to ruin completely a principal number. In this case both chorus and dancers combined effectively and were never over obtrusive.
The technical requirements were particularly good, especially the film sequences and the sound stage scene. Musical director, Ben Smith, and his accomplished orchestra provided excellent backing, Choreography by Lara Crombie was very good and once again the society provided all that is best on the amateur stage.
