The Mikado

Manor Operatic Society, Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

****

EVERY now and again an amateur company manages to breathe new life into one of the Gilbert & Sullivan classics, and the MOS have done just that.

Assistant producer Barbara Hayward sang superbly in the role of Yum-Yum, desperate to avoid a marriage to newly promoted Lord High executioner, Ko-Ko, and formed the ideal partnership with show producer Nick Hardy, playing wandering minstrel Nanki-Poo (really the Mikado's son in disguise).

Brian Trott sparkled as the reluctant executioner, delivering his little list of people who never would be missed, in some style, while Beth Willis was a delight as Pitti-Sing, and other inspired contributions came from Susan Bushby (Katisha), Peter Bushby (Pooh-Bah) and Paul Wozniak (The Mikado).

Adding considerably to a fine show was the peformance of the orchestra, directed by Ian Hayward.

To 27.04.13 

Paul Marston

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Crazy for You

WBOS, Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

**** 

ONE of the top amateur companies in the region, West Bromwich Operatic Society are making a real song and dance of their 75th anniversary with this sparkling Gershwin musical.

Working to Mike Capri's superb direction and choreography, the young cast come close to professional standard with their acting, singing and dancing.

Leon Davies is excellent as Bobby Child, the 1930s recreating a role he first performed 15 years ago. He is sent to close down a fading theatre in Deadrock, Nevada, but falls in love with the daughter of its owner, Polly Baker, and instead leads a rescue mission.

Claire Kramer is the perfect Polly, and there are fine performances from Emma Wetherall (Irene Roth) and Simon McGree (Lank Hawkins) and Simon Pugh (Bela Zangler) while the girl dancers are spectacularly good.

Outstanding support, too, from new musical director Ian Room and his orchester. To 27.04.13 

Paul Marston

The Sound of Music

Lichfield Operatic Society, Lichfield Garrick

*****

IT would be difficult to imagine a better staging by an amateur company - it is,quite simplystunning and every ticket is sold.

Sophie Randal, bravely battling with a throat infection, is the perfect Maria, bursting with enthusiasm as she teaches the youngsters to sing, while unexpectedly falling in love with the handsome Captain Georg Von Trapp whose reluctance to come under Nazi rule creates a dramatic finale.

Jordan Adams proves an outstanding Von Trapp, a strict disciplinarian but softening under the influence of the effervescent Marie, and Julie Mallaband, who played Maria 20 years ago, impresses as the Mother Abbess. Splendid contributions, too, from Craig Allen (Max Detweiller) and Paula O'Hare (Elsa Schraeder).

Full marks to production director Lynne Hill, choreographer Jemma Tiso and musical director Ruairi Edwards.To 27-04-13. 

Paul Marston

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Calamity Jane

Willenhall Musical Theatre Company, Dormston Mill Theatre, Sedgley

****

THE Deadwood Stage is thundering through the Black Country in style delivering a musical simply packed with catchy tunes.

Willenhall was the first company in the UK to perform Calamity Jane when the rights were issued in 1964, and the current production is a genuine hit.

Lydia Lavill is outstanding as Calamity, a gun toting gal with a reputation of being careless with the truth, and she cleverly exchanges her rough buckskin gear for a posh frock to win her man near the finale.

Fine performances, too, from Timothy Swallow (Wild Bill Hickock), Sam King (Katie Brown), Rob Dixon (Lt Danny Gilmartin) and Will Phipps (Francis Fryer).

Lindsey Grant's choreography is impressive, Andy Poulton produces and directs stylishly, while musical director Karl Babarczi and his orchestra provide superb support. To 20-04-13

Paul Marston

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Harvey

The Fellowship Players, Grange Playhouse, Walsall

****

LIVING with a brother who insists his friend is a 6ft white rabbit called Harvey finally proves too much for widow Veta Louise Simmonds who decides to admit him to a sanitarium.

But that comes unstuck when she is locked up instead and mild-mannered Elwood P. Dowd carries on creating confusion with his invisible bunny.

Mary Chase's 1944 play became a successful film starring James Stewart, and in this production Chris Pomlett gives a remarkable performance as likeable bachelor Elwood.

Sheila Grew is excellent as Veta along with daughter Myrtle Mae (Naomi Millard); impressive contributions also from Dan Holyhead and Alan Lowe (psychiatrists Lyman Sanderson and William Chumley) and Rachel Holmes (Nurse Ruth Kelly).

A mention, too, for Francis Williams who painted the portrait of Elwood with Harvey . . . the only time we get to see the rabbit. To 20-04-13.

Paul Marston

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Les Miserables - Schools Edition

Lichfield Garrick Youth Theatre

*****

THIS beautifully staged production by a talented cast of over 50 young people simply takes your breath away.

Every performance has been sold out, and it's easy to see why . Matthew Browne's portrayal of Jean Valjean, locked up for 19 years after stealing a loaf of bread in 19th century France, will boost his West End ambitions while Chris Buckle excels as the single minded Inspector Javert.

Abigail Tong at the tragic Eponine gives us the the show-stopper On My Own, and there are outstanding contributions from Lucy Charnock (Cosette), Jon Barakat (Marius), Jessica Long (Fantine), Michael Manser (Enjolras) and Emma Charnock (Young Cosette) and  Shane Harper and Sarah Berriman as the seedy, innkeeper, Thenardier and his cunning wife.

An excellent orchestra, under musical director Oliver Rowe, and Sarah Berriman's slick choreography, complete a cracking show directed by Julie Mallaband.. To 06-04-13

Paul Marston

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Daggers Drawn

Aldridge Youth Theatre

****

IN Mugged by Andrew Payne bullying and theft was followed by a fatal stabbing with pupils having to decide what to  tell police and innocent victim Marky (Jack Heaven) wrongly suspected of being a gang member.

William Young impressed as Marky's pal, Dig, with Shona Tulloch convincing as Soph who was mugged for her mum's mobile phone, leading to tragedy when Marky attempts to retrieve it – reported by on-the-spot TV reporter (Daniel Foster) and TV newsreaders Catherine Hooper and Charlotte Allen.

The second play, Living with Lady Macbeth, by Rob John, saw Natalie Webster excel as Lily who is determined to clinch the role of Lady M in the school play when even her mum (Catherine Hooper), boyfriend Barry (Daniel Foster) and teacher Ms Bevis (Katie Arblaster) didn't rate her chances, but loveable Lily refused to back down.

Both plays were directed by Jo Smith.

Paul Marston

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Edge of Darkness

Lichfield Players, Lichfield Garrick

****

IT'S obvious from the start of this clever play by Brian Clemens that something strange surrounds the return home of 23-year-old Emma Cranwell after a mysterious absence of three years.

She has amnesia and is overhead speaking Russian while brandishing a knife at a portrait in the living room.

Newcomer Jen Austen is convincing as Emma and there are impressive performances from Phil Shaw and Gina Martin, as her parents Max and Laura.

There is something strange about them as well and despite apparent wealth, financial problems are soon apparent. Even so they engage a new butler, Hardy (Brian Asbury) who adds to mystery which deepens with the arrival of half-Russian stranger Livago (Stuart Goodwin) with a shock announcement about  Emma.

Samantha Richards completes a fine cast as the maid, Penny, in this intriguing drama produced by Andrew Bodger. To 23.03.13

Paul Marston

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Annie

Walsall Operatic Society, Lichfield Garrick

****

CHILDREN rule in this tale of orphan Annie who charmed the US President and helped kick-start the  revival during the Great Depression.

Marston Green schoolgirl Kasey Robinson, aged 11, is a delight as the plucky redhead  invited to spend Christmas with billionaire Oliver Warbucks who enlists to help locate her missing parents.

She has a fine voice,  tap-dances, and  oozed confidence singing The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow and encouraging the 11 other excellent girls in the New York Municipal Orphanage - with tiny Emily Hardy (Molly) a bubbly bundle of fun.

The adults also excel. Steph Coleman os outstanding as Miss Hannigan,, Andy Jones is a convincing Warbucks and Lauren Key is the perfect secretary, Grace Farrell.

Tom Fletcher and Kellie Humphrey earn high marks as the con-couple Rooster and Lily St Regis, and there is an amusing contribution from Ben Coleman (radio presenter Bert Healy). To 16.03.13

Paul Marston

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The Pirates of Penzance & Trial by Jury

Walsall Gilbert & Sullivan Society

Forest Arts Centre, Walsall

****

THIS double bill celebrates the 50th anniversary of the society with two operettas performed in 1963 with two of the original cast - Pamela Robinson and Dylys Bradbury - on stage again in Trial by Jury.

Pamela is also the producer while Dylys has appeared in all 50 shows.

Trial has strong performances from Emma Jones (Plaintiff), Ian Askew (Judge), Gary Gentle (Defendant), Michael Taylor (Usher) and Liz Ellison (Counsel) while in Pirates. veteran Mac Hammond, the sargeant of police, and his eight terrified coppers are hilarious in their reluctant pursuit of the band of cut-throates, impressively led by Bryan Till, the pirate king.

Karen Marie Lyon (Mabel) and Steve Parrish (Frederic) are a perfect partnership, while Steve Groves excels as the Major General and Ann Simpson is an amusing Ruth.

Long-serving musical director Brian Hirst brings the best out of his orchestra and chorus. To 23-02-13.

Paul Marston

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Veronica's Room

The Circle Players

Aldridge Youth Theatre

****

IT had been Helen Gilfoyle's ambition to direct this chilling play since reading the story in 2006, and she has achieved it in some style.

The Mackeys, a middle aged couple who were caretakers at a family home near Boston, Mass, invite an attractive girl student and her new boyfriend back to the property.

Susan is told she resembles the family's daughter, the late Veronica, and reluctantly agrees to pose briefly as her to provide solace for a troubled sister.

Beth Howell gives a remarkable performance as Susan in her first Circle lead role, finding  herself  locked in the identity of Veronica in a room with seriously unstable people.

Jean Kerby and Clive Barlow also excel as the weird couple, cleverly switching from the seemingly sane to the obviously insane, and Thom Handley completes a fine cast as boyfriend, Larry, who offers the only hope of escape ....or does he? To 23-02-13.

Paul Marston

The company dedicated the production to Aldridge Youth Theatre's long-serving sound engineer, Richard Aulton, who died recently.

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Life and Beth

The Fellowship Players

Grange Playhouse, Walsall

***

WHEN a key cast member of this Alan Ayckbourn comedy fell ill, Chris Pomlett stepped in at short notice - to play a ghost, and gave a convincing performance as the late Gordon Timms, a health and safety officer who died after falling from a ladder!

Some of his exchanges with his horrified wife, Beth, played by Susan Lynch, provide important highlights in the second act after some of the early humour became predictable.

Beth is enjoying a little freedom from her domineering husband when well-meaning relatives turn up to provide a Christmas boost - driving her mad with their interference.

Sister-in-law Connie (Sue Richardson) drinks too much and ends up arrested by the police while son Martin (Dale Roberts) is a D-I-Y disaster to add to his mum's misery.

A convincing performance, too, from Mark Dallison as the the Rev David Grinseed. To 16.02.13

Paul Marston

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Bedroom Farce

Lichfield Players

Lichfield Garrick

***

THIS typical Alan Ayckbourn comedy is all about bed-hopping, but by the audience whose attention has to switch repeatedly to the action taking place in three different bedrooms built on stage.

Yet the main thrust of the plot concerns one young couple – Trevor and Susannah – whose home doesn’t actually feature on the set. Their relationship has problems which creates problems at the three homes one Saturday evening.

Trevor and Susannah, well played by Stuart Goodwin and Amanda Robinson, arrive separately at a house-warming party arranged by Malcolm (Ian Davies) and Kate (Denise Baker).

Trevor and former girlfriend Jan (Rachel Duncan) steal a kiss but are spotted by Susannah who speeds to in-laws Ernest (Stephen Brunton) and Delia (Adrienne Swallow) who preparing to go for an anniversary dinner.

Meanwhile Jan’s husband Nick (Greg Spencer),  is confined to bed with a bad back. To 02.02.13

Paul Marston

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Puss in Cowboy Boots

Spotlight Youth Productions

Brownhills College Theatre

****

THE Wild West merges with pantoland in a show that triumphed over the weather after an army of relatives and friends ensured that the 60-strong cast maintained standards  even though rehearsals, set construction and even completing costumes was disrupted.

Director Steve Groves wrote the panto which opens when rancher Cassidy's will shocks daughter Priscilla, who expected to inherit the ranch, but only gets the family cat, Caroline.

This is no ordinary cat though and Charlotte Kinson gives a remarkably mature performance as the super-puss outwitting the Black Hand Gang – and matchmaking between Jessica Foulkes, comfortable as Priscilla, and Governor's son Olly Trippledecker, well played by Dario Biedma-Coleman.

Strong contributions, too, from Tony Foxall (gang leader Jethro Gibbs), Matthew Pettifor (the Governor) and Callum Lerigo (James W. Earp), with the four Barbershop singers Ben Farmer, Dan Hardy, Nathan Owers and Matthew Trembling providing sharp comedy. To 26.01.13

Paul Marston

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 Red Riding Hood

Aldridge Youth Theatre 

***

GOOD pantos benefit from a good dame and this one written and directed by Neville Ellis has a stunner!

George Caulton is rarely off stage as Dame Hatty Hood. He has been an AYT regular over the past ten years, and is a hoot as Rosie Hood's mum.

And there is another outstanding performance from choreographer Natalie Webster, who plays larger-than-life Cherry Bo Peep, singing about 'Walsall is the place for me' while tangling with the sharp-fanged Big Bad Wolf (George Wyton) and his apprentice Loopy (Daniel Boot).

William Young is excellent, too, as village yob, Asbo Hood, while Natalie Ashcroft (Rosie Hood) and Jon Flood (Squire Twigg) also impress.

Music is from Guy Rowland (piano) and Ray Vale (drums), in a panto with one fault - a 10.25pm finish is too long. Oh yes it is!

Further performances are on January 17, 18, 19, 24, 25 and 26

Paul Marston

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Iolanthe

Erdington Operatic Society

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

****

WHEN it comes to staging Gilbert & Sullivan this award-winning company take some beating!

They have outstanding leads, an excellent chorus and presentshows in a lively and imaginative fashion with Iolanthe yet another triumph. The costumes provided a blaze of colour in the comic opera which made its debut in London's Savoy Theatre – the first to use electric lights - in November 1882.

So it was fitting that, 130 years on,  EOS had fairies with illuminated wands, Peers with twinkling crowns, and musical director David Allen conductiong his excellent orchestra with a light on the tip of his baton.

Terrific performances from Barbara Hayward (Iolanthe), Colin Lapworth (Lord Chancellor – also director and choreographer), Nick Hardy (Strephon), Letty Cheadle (Phyllis), Peter Turner (Earl of Mountararat), Brian Trott (Earl Tolloller), Pam Cooper (Queen of the Fairies) and Paul Wozniak (Private Willis). To 10.11.12

Paul Marston

*This company still open their shows with the National Anthem. Are they unique?

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Les Miserables - School Edition

Bmos Youtheatre

The Old Rep

****

CHEERS and a standing ovation is the least an outstanding young cast deserved for their stunning presentation of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schonberg's great musical.

The cast, aged 10 to 18, produce a performance that crates much of the drama and emotion audiences expect from the adult version.

It has cost £18,000 to stage the show which oozes talent at all levels, with James Reidy an excellent Jean Valjean, the former convict relentlessly pursued by single-minded policeman Inspector Javert, superbly played by Nathan Queeley-Dennis.

Sparkling comedy is provided by Joe Logan and Grace Gwynne as the seedy inkeeper, Thenardier and his wife, and there are excellent contributions from Georgie Hughes (Eponine), Louis Delaney (Gavroche), Sam Butters (Enjolras), Connie Ross (Fantine) and Isobel Robinson (Cosette).

Directed by  Alan Hackett with musical director Chris Corcoran to 10-11-12.

Paul Marston

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Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Wbos Youtheatre, Lichfield Garrick

****

IN celebrating their 25th anniversary, the West Bromwich Operatic Society Youtheatre have returned to their very first production and playing the Elvis lookalike Pharoah, with a wonderful range of hip shakes, is Matthew Nicholas whose uncle, Jason, created the role for the company back in 1987.

The outstanding band of youngsters fill the stage with sparkling dancing to Lisa Metcalfe's imaginative choreography, and what a performance, too, from Maison Kelley in the lead role of Joseph, Jacob's favourite son whose dreams upset his 11 brothers but bring him fame and fortune as Pharoah's right hand man.

The three Narrators, Anya Chalotra, Lucy Follows and Lydia Orme link the action together splendidly and there is an amusing contribution from Frazer Shine, one of the brothers, particularly his French accent in 'Those Canaan Days'.

Well directed by Adam Lacey, with Ian Stephenson's musical direction, to 19.11.12

Paul Marston

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Richard III

Lichfield Players, Lichfield Garrick Studio  

***

A NOTE in the programme for the last production by this company announced: Coming up next is Richard III.

Soon afterwards the kings remains were found in a Leicester car park and it is tempting to wonder what he would have made of this production.

The 20-strong cast wear modern clothes, Richard's hump has gone and instead of swords its guns and mobile phones

Chris Stanley gives a powerful performance as the Duke of Gloucester, later Richard III, and for him its a family affair - his wife Sarah plays Lady Anne, while sons Lewis and Tom are the princes in the tower.

Fine contributions, too, from David Stonehouse (Duke of Buckingham) and Stuart Goodwin (Earl of Richmond). Directed by Ian Parkes. To 27.10.12

Paul Marston

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Whistle Stop West End

Brownhills Musical Theatre Company

Brownhills College Theatre

****

A YOUNG cast of over 50 bring the West End to Brownhills with this impressive song and dance concert.

The company deliver a programme bursting with excellent music from great shows and sparkling choreography.

And when they introduce items from Barnum, they are able to turn on a few clever circus tricks . . .juggling, somersaults and plate spinning!

In Act One, Helen Norgrove, Kate Rock and Karen Cockitt delight the audience with three of Andrew Lloyd Webber's love songs, and before the interval Katie Shuck and the full company sparkle in I Got Rhythm.

Later outstanding contributions come from Karl Steele (This is the Moment, and Singin' in the Rain) and there's even  a bit of fun with the Addams Family.

Produced by Richard Haines and Pete Smith, with Chris Corcoran's musical direction and Sarah Haines' choreography, the show runs to 27-10-12.

Paul Marston

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Carousel

Lichfield Operatic Society, Lichfield Garrick

****

IT has cost £38,000 to stage but the company and their customers must feel it is worth every penny.

There is a stunning opening to this production telling of love and tragedy when fairground barker Billy Bigelow marries one of his young admirers, Julie Jordan. During the overture, the cast drift around the fair, watching dancing girls, jugglers or riding the carousel, and at the close the entire company join in You'll Never Walk Alone.

Former cathedral choirboy Nick Lawrence is outstanding as the surly Bigelow who realises the error of his ways too late, and Jenny Barlow-Jennings excels in the role of his patient partner, Jule.

On the lighter side there are lovely performances from Kathy Coombes as Julie's friend, Carrie Pipperidge, and James Pugh, the jolly fisherman, Mr Snow.

Directed by Julie Mallaband with Sarah Clark's choreography and Oliver Rowe's excellent musical direction.To 27.10.12

Paul Marston

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Once a Catholic

The Circle Players

Aldridge Youth Theatre

***

WHEN this amateur company moved from Kingstanding to perform at Aldridge Youth Theatre in 1990, Mary O'Malley's comedy was their first production and its sexual content and digs at the Catholic faith produced some complaints..

But there's no doubt the story of life in the Convent of Our Lady of Fatima - a grammar school for girls in North Birmingham during the 1950s - is humorous in parts, particularly when Father Mullarkey (Lee Tregellis) interrupts his breakfast to hear a naughty confession from Mary Mooney (Clair Tregellis).

At times the action is a little disjointed with many curtain closures, and during a lecture on mortal sins there was a theatrical sin on opening night, when the cast couldn't quite hear the prompt!

Fine performances from Liz Daly (Mother Peter) and Thom Handley (Derek) in the play directed by Margaret Jeffcoat. To 20.10.12

Paul Marston

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Calendar Girls

The Fellowship Players, Grange Playhouse, Walsall

****

Tim Firth's emotional play based on the film is so popular that the Fellowship Players easily sold every ticket for their ten performances with a waiting list.

Sam Allan impressed as Annie, whose husband John (Mike Klymko) dies of cancer, prompting members of her Women's Institute to go nude for a calendar, hoping to raise just a few hundred pounds for a new settee at the local hospital -  they raised £3million and counting.

A fine performance, too, from Shelley Jennings playing Chris, the driving force behind the project and Rosemary Manjunath pressed the humour button beautifully in the role of Ruth, who first refused but  eventually took part in the famous photo shoot.

Ruth Bosman (Cora), Vida Green (Jessie) and Sharon Scragg (Celia) were the other excellent calendar girls in a show directed by Alan Lowe and produced by Jennifer Smith. To 13.10.12

Paul Marston

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The Sound of Music

South Staffs Musical Theatre Company

Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

****

A CAST of 40 hit the peaks in this Rodgers and Hammerstein musical about the love story  between a young postulate nun and a naval captain in 1930s Austria.

It was a wise decision to recruit Tim Brown as Captain Georg Von Trapp. He had performed the role for Kinver Light Opera Society in May, and slotted smoothly into the role of the stern father who softens under the influence of postulate, Maria, who is sent as governess to his seven children. Claudia Gilmour is excellent as Maria, leading the confident children in Do-Re-Me and The Lonely Goatherd.

Sheila Wood (Mother Abbess), Roger Stokes (Max Detweiler) and Maria Shee (Elsa Schraeder) all make their mark in a fine show directed by Karl Veltman with James Maddison's musical direction, and music by The Midland Concert Orchestra. The musical runs to 13-10-12

Paul Marston

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Whistle Down the Wind

West Bromwich Operatic Society

Dormston Mill Theatre, Sedgley

****

THIS talented Black Country company are staging the Midlands amateur premiere of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical with lyrics Jim Steinman.

More than 20 youngsters are in the cast and are particularly impressive in the chorus work which features songs like No Matter What., When Children Ruled the World and, of course, Whistle Down the Wind.

Set in Louisiana in 1959, the musical's plot follows 15-year-old Swallow, who discovers a bloodstained mystery man hiding in the barn and believes he is Jesus, when in fact he is a fugitive.

Kim Lavendar is excellent as Swallow, Lyndon Flavell sings superbly as The Man, and there are other impressive performances from David Walters (Amos), Joash Musundi (Edward), Laura Wynter (Candy) and Andrew Foggin (Boone).

Directed by Simon Pugh with Adam Joy's musical direction, whistles along nicely to 06.10.12

Paul Marston

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Little Shop of Horrors

Lichfield Garrick Youth Theatre, Lichfield Garrick

****

THIS is the third time the youth theatre have staged the comedy horror rock musical, and the previous Audreys  both moved on to the West End.

Siobhan Dillon is playing Molly in Ghost while Katie Kerr is in the revival of Boy George's Taboo, alongside Samuel Buttery, another LGYT graduate.

Now Lucy Charnock, 14, is in the role and her performance suggests she could head the same way.

The cast of nearly 50 are superb in the story of how a mysterious exotic plant, with a taste for blood, saves a failing florists shop.

Chris Buckle is excellent as Seymour Krelborn, the other shop assistant and there are outstanding contributions from Matthew Browne, the sadistic dentist, Orin, Jon Barakat (shop owner Mr Mushnik), and Robert Glynn (the voice of the man-eating plant, Audrey 2) in a show directed by Oliver Rowe. To 29-09-12

Paul Marston

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The Canterbury Tales

Aldridge Youth Theatre

***

A FINE cast of 14 youngsters revelled in Geoffrey Chaucer's witty tales – even arranging for the author to take a bow at the end.

His 'body' stretchered on stage as the five of four short plays opened, and the actors succeeded in a bring-him-back challenge set by four alchemists.

The cast, aged 14 to 18, performed with gusto with Steffi Procter and Natalie Webster making their marks as directors, alongside the experienced Neville Ellis and Jo Smith.

The plays - The Pardoner's Tale, The Nun's Priest's Tale, The Wife of Bath's Tale, The Knight's Tale and The Miller's Tale - were funny and lively with  Natalie Webster was particularly impressive as the Wife of Bath.

Fine performances, too, from William Young, George Caulton and Jon Flood as Tom, Dick and Harry, George Wyton (the Knight), Katie Arblaster (Alison, a young wife), and Ella Parkes (Queen Guinevere). To 22.09.12

Paul Marston

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Tiptoe Through the Tombstones

Lichfield Players

Lichfield Garrick

***

AUTHOR Norman Robbins made it clear that this sequel to his A Tomb with a View, was a spoof.

The plot, which has Tomb family solicitor Mortimer Crayle (Phil Shaw) planning to bump off clients for their dodgy inheritance, takes some swallowing - like the poison swilling around on stage - and at times the action is laboured.

As the bodies pile up and a mystery figure dressed as a clown appears, occasionally, once spraying cyanide, the audience attempt to guess whodunit without a policeman in sight to help!

Some sound effects needed tightening up – a  strange sounding door knocker for one, then a distant 'bang' seconds after the killer had clearly pulled the trigger.

Top performance came from Sam Crawford as Vernon Prewitt, the gay (or was he) cleaner, called in to tidy up decaying Monument House.

Directed by Ian Davies to 15-09-12.

Paul Marston

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Miss Saigon - School Edition

Wolverhampton Youth Music Theatre

Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton

****

ONE of the first amateur companies in the country to stage Claude-Michel Schonberg and Alain Boublil's dramatic musical, Wolverhampton YMT have turned the challenge into a triumph.

Based on Puccini's beautiful opera Madam Butterfly, it is an emotional love story revealing an American GI's romance with pretty 17-year-old Vietnamese orphan, Kim, a newly recruited bar girl in a sleazy club run by the scheming 'Engineer'.

There are delightful performances from Tom Winfield as soldier Chris and Aimee Fisher (Kim) whose singing and acting - particularly in the duet Sun and Moon - is outstanding, and Fraser Callaghan gets it just right in the role of the Engineer and his American dream.

Directed by Ben Cole with Laura Canadine's choreography and Mike Cotton's splendid musical direction, Miss Saigon - a sell-out - runs to 08.09.12.

Paul Marston

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Once Upon a Dream

Spotlight Youth Productions, Brownhills College Theatre

****

THIS company has a reputation for writing its own musicals and this time it was director Jackie Anderson's turn to accept the challenge.

She produced a clever tale based on A Midsummer Night's Dream, with fairies, royals, a pop band and groupies.

The young cast of sixty revelling in songs like Don't Stop Me Now, Glad All Over. Shang-a-Lang, Stupid Cupid, Hushabye Mountain, The Impossible Dream, and I'm a Believer and a popular scene with Luke Groves (Bottom) in Elvis gear singing All Shook Up.

Other outstanding contributions came from Matthew Kinson (Punk), Bethanie Hayton (Cupid), Tony Foxall (Oberon), Charlotte Kinson (Titania) and David Anderson (John), while chorus member Laura Birkbeck received a special cheer when she appeared with the Olympic torch she carried in Birmingham.

Produced by Nigel Anderson and Steve Groves, with Ian Windsor's musical direction to 14-07-12.

Paul Marston

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Crazy for You

BMOS, The Crescent Theatre

****

THE West End version closed last year and the amateurs of the Birmingham and Midland Operatic Society are now doing justice to the Gershwin musical.

The quality of their tap-dancing gives the production real zip, and choreographer Sarah Hickman has done a tremendous job.

Leading from the front is Richard Ainslie, playing rich boy Bobby Child, desperate for a stage career but sent to the ailing town of Deadrock, Nevada to close its Gaiety Theatre.

He excels with his singing and dancing, and is involved in a hilarious sketch with New York follies director Bela Zangler (John Spencer) when they mirror each other's actions perfectly. A fine performance, too, from Abigail Wells as Polly Baker and there is plenty of humour, especially from Jonathan Eastwood (Lee Hawkins) and Sally Jolliffe (Irene Roth).

Directed by Stephen Buckham with David Easto's musical direction it runs to 14-07-12

Paul Marston

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Pride & Prejudice

The Crescent Theatre

*****

THIS classic Jane Austen story of love, ambition and snobbery among the landed gentry of 19th century England was given a stunning send-off at the theatre's Ron Barber Studio before moving outdoors with the touring company.

This new adaptation is a beautifully acted delight with Hannah Parker superb as Elizabeth Bennet, second of five unmarried daughters of a Hertfordshire country gentleman, clashing with the apparently aloof and condescending Fitzwilliam Darcy, excellently played by Matthew Hopkins.

Julie Lloyd delivers wonderful expressions and mood changes as the girls' ambitious mother while Nicky Turner is a bubbly Lydia, and there are splendid performances from Taylor Howson (Caroline Bingley), Lee Davies (Rev William Collins), Alan Bull (Mr Bennet) and Susan Lynch (Lady Catherine De Bourgh.

The play, directed by Andrew Smith, has impressive original music composed by University of Birmingham graduate Erica Reed.

Paul Marston

Pride & Prejudice can be seen at the Botanical Gardens (July 12), Castle Bromwich Gardens (July 14 & 15, St Nicholas Place, Kings Norton (July 18 & 20, and Harvington Hall, Kidderminster (July 21 & 22).

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Little Shop of Horrors

The Fellowship Players

Grange Playhouse, Walsall

***

IT'S rare for this amateur company to stage a musical, but Alan Menken and Howard Ashman's tale of a speaking, man-eating plant is something they have managed to get their teeth into.

Well staged, with the convincing plant growing to mini-car size inside Mushnik's ailing Skid Row florist's shop, the show includes plenty of humour amid its darker side.

Roddy Lynch acts and sings well as shop assistant Seymour who finds the plantand names it Audrey II after the pretty blonde colleague he secretly admires.

But when Seymour realises the plant needs human blood to survive, things start to go wrong.Jennifer Smith is an excellent Audrey, abused by her pain-loving dentist boyfriend Orin (Stephen Ralph), and she impresses with Lynch in the duet, Suddenly Seymour.

Directed by Michael Penn, with Mike Klymko's musical direction, the Little Shop of Horrors stays open until 16-06-12

Paul Marston

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Grand Hotel - The Musical

Crescent Theatre Company, The Crescent Theatre

***

THIS George Forrest, Robert Wright and Maury Yeston musical,  set in 1928 Berlin when hotel guests faced a Europe hit by financial crisis, moght be a little close to home for some..

It is well staged with impressive acting, but the story is heavy going, and expectations have changed markedly from when the 1989 Broadway production was nominated for 12 Tonys and collected five.

The music is more pleasant than memorable and Tiffany Cawthorne's choreography bright with outstanding performances from Charlotte Dunn as Flaemmchen, a typist dreaming of Hollywood success, and Mark Horne as terminally ill Jewish bookmaker Otto Kringelein.

Strong contributions, too, from Andrew Smith (destitute Baron Felix Von Gaigern) and Angela Daniels (fading ballerina Elizaveta Grushinskaya).

The hotel foyer set with a revolving door, works well and the band, under musical director Gary Spruce, are excellent.

Directed by Alan K. Marshall, to 02-06-12

Paul Marston

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Wedding of the Year

Lichfield Players, Lichfield Garrick Studio 

***

SINCE this Norman Robbins farce was first published in 1976, political correctness have made the plot a little uncomfortable.

Robbins wrote it after being in a play with a large lady who told him bitterly: "I wish someone would write a part for a fat girl and make her the lead. I never get a decent part in anything”.

From that came the story of overweight Alison Murchinson, linked by a relative to the dim, accident-prone son of a neighbour, to enter a Wedding of the Year competition.

Dawn Nicholson, playing Alison, is hardly overweight, but, wearing baggy clothes, she does her best to convince while Steve Appleyard is believable as the plotting Uncle Frank, Rosemary Bodger gives a strong performance as Alison's mum, Ethel, and there are amusing contributions from Pauline Fowler and Delia Lucreman as the proverb-quoting aunts Matilda and Honoria.

Directed by Andrew Bodger it  runs to 26.05.12

Paul Marston

*Some members of the audience complained about the noise from the Bob Geldof concert in the main theatre on Wednesday night. A continual boom, boom, boom could be heard in the Studio while the Lichfield Players were performing

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Jane Eyre

The Crescent Theatre

****

NINE actors, some playing multiple roles, deliver a gripping version of Charlotte Bronte’s classic exploring the relationship between modest governess Jane Eyre and Edward Rochester, master of Thornfield Hall.

Adapted by Polly Teale, it suggests that Rochester's first wife, Bertha Mason, a mad woman secretly locked in an attic, is actually a manifestation of Jane's passionate inner self.

It requires Paula Wall (Bertha) to be on stage for the entire show, and she gives a wonderful performance switching moods from placid and loving to violent and frightening.

Making her acting debut Stourbridge drama student Daisy Barrett-Nash is excellent as Jane while Jeremy Wyatt is a convincing Rochester and Daniel Wilby sparkles as a lord, a clergyman, and even Rochester's pet dog, Pilot. Outstanding contributions, too , from Peter M. Smith in a trio of parts, including Rochester's horse, and Alice Winstanley (Adele/Abigail). Directed by Karen Leadbetter to 12-05-12

Paul Marston

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The Producers

Brownhills Musical Theatre Company

Lichfield Garrick

*****

MEL Brookes' musical about a scam to make a pile from a Broadway flop is a sure fire hit for Brownhills MTC.

Experienced actor Greg Yates is superb as has-been producer Max Bialystock, who sees salvation the discovery by his accountant Leo Bloom, impressively played by Karl Steele, that you can profit from a flop, with the help of sex-starved old lady investors.

So he links the most tasteless musical ever written with the worst available director and waits to cash in - except the critics love Springtime for Hitler.

Kate Rock, playing the pair's stunning blonde Swedish secretary Ulla Inga Hansen Benson Yonsen Tallen-Hallen, is . . . stunning. And there are fine performances from Richard Haines (Hitler fan Franz Liebkind who writes the show), Pete Smith (gay director Roger De Bris), and Scott Harrison (Carmen Ghia).

Directed by Tim Jones, with Jill Horne's choreography and James Maddison's musical direction, The Producers runs to 05.05.12

Paul Marston

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Calamity Jane

Lichfield Operatic Society

Lichfield Garrick

****

RECORD takings for an amateur show at the Garrick have been achieved by this talented company, and customers must have been well satisfied.

A terrific cast delivered the story of buckskin-clad Calamity Jane and her secret love, with real power, smart acting and joyful singing of numbers such as, The Deadwood Stage and The Windy City

Grammar School girl Georgina Jones, who is hoping for  a stage career, excelled in the role of Jane, a six-gun toting gal with an eye on handsome cavalry officer Lt Danny Gilmartin (Dan Anketell).

There was a clever opening to the show, with a model-sized town on stage  and fine performances from Jordan Adams as Wild Bill Hickock, Craig Allen (Henry Miller), Sophie Randal (Katie Brown), Patrick Jervis (Francis Fryer), Kathy Coombes (Susan) and Rebecca Rowley (Adelaide Adams),

Directed by Martin Rainsford with choreography by Frances Welch  and muical direction by David Easto to 28-04-12

Paul Marston

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The Wizard of Oz

Willenhall Musical Theatre Company

Dormston Theatre, Sedgley

****

FROM Birmingham Dogs Home to a starring role has been a remarkable journey for Sammi the six-year-old Yorkshire terrier cross (pictured right)

She was abandoned, heavily pregnant, had four pups in the Sunnyside centre, then recruited to play Dorothy's loyal pet, Toto..

Sammi performs like a real trouper and how the audience love her. Much credit for that goes to Claudia Gilmour, excellent in the lead role of Dorothy, who encourages Sammi through a series of scary scenes en route to the Emerald City and a meeting with the Wizard of Oz (John Wiley).

It has cost £21,000 to stage this excellent show and there are fine performances from Will Phipps (Scarecrow), Rob Dixon (Tinman) and Alf Rai (the Cowardly Lion), while Mary Mark (Good Witch of the North) and Rachel Coleman (Wicked Witch of the West) make strong contributions.

The musical, produced and directed by Andy Poulton with Meg Dowen's choreography and Karl Babarczi's musical direction runs to 28-04-12

Paul Marston

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Pygmalion

The Fellowship Players

Grange Playhouse, Walsall   

****

HIT musical My Fair Lady was based on George Bernard Shaw's classic play of 1914 so it is interesting to see how the original plot in this impressive production compares.

Phonetics expert Prof Henry Higgins has to turn scruffy cockney flower girl Eliza Doolittle into a well-spoken lady to win a bet with Colonel Pickering (Roger Shepherd).

 Jennifer Smith is a confident Eliza, blossoming to pass for a duchess at an ambassador's garden party, with Alan Lowe word perfect as Higgins who believes perfect speech is the key to success.

 A splendid performance, too, from Gerry Joyce as Eliza's father, dustman Alfred Doolittle and full marks to the set builders whose hinged walls enable the set to be transformed twice from Higgins' study to his mother's smart flat - and the four maids and one manservant who carry out the switch to generous applause. Directed by Sheila Grew Pygmalion runs to 28-04-12.

Paul Marston

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Titanic - the Musical

West Bromwich Operatic Society

Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

**** 

NEVER afraid of a challenge, this outstanding amateur company have found a musical triumph in the centenary of the tragic sinking of Titanic with the loss of 1,517 lives.

The music and songs are enjoyable - powerful at times - and the chorus work superb while the clever use of a sloping deck helps create realistic scenes of people sliding as the ship sinks.

Directed by Mike Capri with Jonathan Hill's musical direction, there are fine performances by Andreas Hope (Captain Smith), Tim Swallow (the owner, J. Bruce Ismay), John Weatherall (designer Thomas Andrews), Craig Smith (First Officer Murdoch), Leon Davies (radio operator Harold Bride), Tye Harris (Stoker Frederick Barrett), Rachel Davies (Kate McGowen) and Sarah Moors (Alice Beane).

Frazer Shine, playing Quartermaster Hitchens, is the great-great nephew of Ellen Shine, a third class passenger who survived and lived to be 101. To 21-04-12.

Paul Marston

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Fame

Garrick Youth Theatre

Lichfield Garrick

****

HAD the cast been up for honours at a school for performing arts they would pass with flying colours in a show that is pure entertainment, packed with explosive dancing, fine songs and impressive acting.

It tells the story of the problems, success, failures and love lives of students at New York City's High School for Performing Arts.

Jessica Lambert's excellent choreography ensures realism from the word go, and Chris Buckle (Joe Vegas) delivering the very humorous song Can't Keep it Down in great style.

A fine performance, too, from Charlotte Middleton as Carmen Diaz Robert Glynn as Tyrone Jackson.

Important contributions, too, from Jon Barakat (Nick Piazza), Grace Lambert (Iris Kelly), Amy Mallaband (Serena Katz), Esme Wade (Mabel Washington), Jack Moreton (Schlomo Metzenbaum), and Laura Mallaband (Grace Lamb), with sound performances from senior cast members Julie Mallaband (Miss Sherman) and Dawn Welch (Ms Bell).

Directed by Aimee Berwick with Oliver Rowe's musical direction, To 07-04-12

Paul Marston

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Blood Brother & The Fish

Aldridge Youth Theatre

****

THIS excellent double header featured the youngsters of AYT telling two stories about twins in Liverpool and then France.

In the opening tale by Willy Russell - not the musical version - Natalie Webster, splendid as Mrs Johnston, opened with  the Marilyn Monroe song to explain her plight of children, poverty and no husband.and then is was the drama with a slightly different end  with Joseph Cryan (Mickey) and George Caulton (Eddie) were superb as the twins, parted at birth then reunited in friendship and death.

Fine performances, too, from Savannah Cook (Mrs Lyons) and Natalie Ashcroft (Linda).

In the second play, The Fish, an amusing short French comedy by Yves Cabrol, Harry Gregory played Louis Cabrol, is choosing  between twins Yvette and Celestine Plum (Emma Friend and Keyleigh Lowe), the French accents and acting were outstanding.

Both plays were impressively directed by Neville Ellis.

Paul Marston

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Duets

Lichfield Players   

Lichfield Garrick

***

The cabaret layout in the Studio with the audience at tables might help bar takings but some customers were craning their necks to see while a chilly opening night saw people donning coats to watch Peter Quilter's four short stories about relationships.

In the first, Blind Date, Jan Goodwin and Phil Shaw give an amusing performance as a mature couple who meet through a magazine ad and chat about previous attempts to find romance.

In Secretarial Skills, Mandy Davies plays a loyal secretary rewarded by a free cruise by her gay boss played by Greg Spencer who eventually convinces him to join her on board.

The Holiday sees Rosemary Bodger and Andrew Brennan as an unhappy married couple on holiday abroad and finally The Bride-to-be has Charlotte Killick as a woman set for her third marriage with Ian Davies as her brother trying to get her to the altar on time. To 31-03-12.

Paul Marston

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Half a Sixpence

Wolverhampton Musical Comedy Company   

Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

*****

MANY of the young cast in this outstanding production admitted they had never heard of Tommy Steele, but the 1950s pop star would have loved Muscom's up-to-date version.

Amateurs they may be, but their performance simply oozes class - a credit to director-producer Denise Robinson.

Student Tye Harris is a superb lead as the ordinary shop assistant Kipps who comes into a fortune and he has  a fine partner in Claudia Gilmour as Anne, the girlfriend with which he shared a split sixpence when they parted as youngsters.

Fine performances, too, from Nicholas Sullivan as the eccentric actor/playwright, Chitterlow, and Lindsey Grant (Helen, the posh girl Kipp almost marries after striking it rich).

Costumes are excellent, so is Karl Babarczi's musical direction. To 17.03.12

Paul Marston

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Fiddler on the Roof

Walsall Operatic Society

Lichfield Garrick

****

THIS company is hitting all the right notes in the much-loved musical about a Jewish community's battle with tradition and struggle for survival in Tsarist Russia.

Chris Wolverson heads a fine cast as the warm-hearted dairyman, Tevye, facing a family crisis when three of his five daughters reject arranged marriages and want to choose their own partners.

He is convincing and handles all the big numbers, particularly If I Were a Rich Man, comfortably, then combines well with Jayne Ison (his wife, Golde) in the amusing duet, Do You Love Me.

Excellent performances, too, from Rose Burnell, Kelly Humphrey and Lauren Key as daughters Tzeitel, Hodel and Chava, Craig Smith (Motel the tailor), Tom Fletcher (Perchik, the student) and Trish Humphreys (Yente, the matchmaker).

Directed by Richard Poynton with Charlotte Mills' choreography and orchestra under musical director Tom Brookes it runs to 17-03-12.

Paul Marston

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 ‘Allo ‘Allo

The Fellowship Players

Grange Playhouse, Walsall

****

ALMOST military precision has gone into the staging of this much loved TV show, starting when the customers arrive to be welcomed by female members of the French resistance, in trench coats and berets.

There were a few hiccups on opening night; the café’s front door jammed and some of the accents needed a bit of attention, which should improve during the run, but overall it is an enjoyable telling of David Croft and Jeremy Lloyd’s tale.

Mike Klymko is a convincing Rene, keeping his affairs with waitresses Yvette (Michelle Jennings) and Mimi (Emma Thorp) secret from his wife Edith (Ruth Bosman).

There are also strong performances from Sam Crawford (Italian Captain Bertorelli), Roddy Lynch (Lt Gruber), Bryan Jennings (Colonel Von Strohm), Francesca Richards (Helga) and David Brown (Herr Otto Flick) . . . but did the latter forget his limp when first appearing?

Directed by Jennifer Smith, ‘Allo ‘Allo runs to 11.02.12

Paul Marston

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Lords and Ladies

Lichfield Players

Lichfield Garrick

***

RATED as the biggest player’s production for some time, the challenge of Terry Pritchett’s fantasy is met with a fair degree of success.

Some people may find it difficult to follow at times, staged as it is in the mountainous forests of Lancre on Discworld, involving witches, wizards, lords and ladies – dangerous elves led by a queen (Lydia Clements) and a king (Brian Todd) - and a range of other bizarre characters, including an intelligent ginger orang-utan!

There are outstanding performance from Gina Martin as witch, Esmeralda Weatherwax, ably supported by the humorous broomstick-toting Adrienne Swallow (Gytha Ogg).

Fine contributions, too, from Sarah Stanley (Magrat Garlick), Brian Asbury (the wizard Professor Mustrum Ridcully), Ian Davies (King of Lancre) and Maurice Allden (Casanunda, the world’s second greatest lover). Directed by David Titley - to 04.02.12

Paul Marston

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Our House

Coppice Performing Arts School

Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

***

YOU can’t help admiring the enthusiasm of  the young cast in this show, featuring music and lyrics by Madness, but even that doesn’t lift the story above the average.

At times the action stumbles along in the rather confusing tale of hapless urban teenager Joe Casey who celebrates his 16th birthday by breaking into a building site overlooking his home, apparently believing it will impress his girlfriend.

The story is heavy going, illuminated only by the best known songs Our House and It Must Be Love and a lively finale.

Jay Wiley is a confident Joe, and Amy Goodall reveals the best voice in her role as girlfriend Sarah.

Our House was directed by Stephen Clifton, with Nick Lacey’s musical direction. To 28-01-12

Paul Marston

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Cinderella

Spotlight Youth Productions

Brownhills College Theatre

***

SPOTLIGHT’S panto, updated by director Steve Groves, sees a cast of over 60 revelling in the story of Cinderella.

Helping her rags-to-riches rise is Fairy Jobmother, splendidly played by 12-year-old bundle of energy and charisma, Charlotte Travis who - with a star on the end of her wand - is magical; and there are many other outstanding performances. Andrew Cox, as Buttons, is the perfect link with the audience, while Charlotte Kinson (Cinderella) and Christopher Allen (Prince Anthony) are an ideal partnership earning warm applause for their duet, More Than Words.

Strong contributions, too, from Jessica and Charlotte Foulkes as step-sisters Davina and Cheryl, Luke Groves (stepmother Martha), David Anderson (King James) and Deborah Allen (Queen Barbara).

Produced by Nigel Anderson with Ian Windsor's musical direction, Cinderella tuns to 28-01-12

Paul Marston

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The Pied Piper

Aldridge Youth Theatre

****

IT may be the final pantomime of 2011 – of first of 2012 -  but this lively show by AYT is a real cracker.

Neville Ellis's story of rats plaguing Hampton-in-the-Marsh gives the talented cast a chance to show just what they can do and with the help of Dexter Whitehead's direction and Joanne Billingham's choreography, the youngsters deliver.

The leads are outstanding, with Joseph Cryan,18, in sparkling form as Paddy O'Piper,  ably supported by his amusing side-kick Dougie Drum (Will Young).

A superb performance, too, from Aimee Hall, rarely off stage as untidy farmer Heidi Hayseed. Paul Atkins is a splendid Rizzo Rat  with strong contributions from George Caulton (Dame Dilly Dumpling), Natalie Webster (Madam Zaza), Savannah Cook (Ned Dumpling) and Katie Arblaster (Greta).

Excellent music is provided by Guy Rowland (piano) and Ray Vale (drums). Further performances will be given on January 14, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27 and 28.

Paul Marston

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Christmas Cabaret

Grand Theatre Glee Choir

Newhampton Arts Centre

****

IT’S easy to imagine some of the youngsters in this impressive show making it onto the professional stage at some point in the future.

Aged between eight and 18, they performed with supreme confidence in a cabaret with a Christmas theme, staged on two nights.

Formed nearly two years ago by Louise Bent, education officer at the Grand Theatre, the group now has about 80 members, some of whom have already appeared in professional shows at the City’s premier theatre.

The cabaret was cleverly compered by Tara Brown and Faraz Rafiq who also combined in an amusing duet, Fairytale of New York before the finale, O Holy Night, featuring the full company.

Ben Croydon provided one of many highlights playing guitar and singing Happy Christmas (War is Over), and there were outstanding contributions from Nicole Appleby (Hallelujah), the Rock Chix 6 (Greatest Time of the Year), and Elise Poole (I Saw Mummy Kissing Santa Claus), while Tilly Thompson and Ben Evans delighted the audience with the humorous Baby It’s Cold Outside.

Some confident choreography, too, with Alicia Barnes chipping in with an attractive ballet dance.

Christmas Cabaret was co-produced by Louise Bent and Elaine Buckland, with Zara Phillips’ choreography.

Paul Marston

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The Producers

WBOS

New Alexandra Theatre

*****

IT'S hard to believe this Mel Brooks musical about staging a Broadway flop is being produced by an amateur company.

The wonderful cast simply revel in the tale of the get-rich-quick scheme cooked up by a struggling producer and his accountant to oversell a lousy show then cash in when it closes after one night.

They find a sure-fire flop - Springtime for Hitler, a gay romp written by ex-Nazi, Franz Liebkind (Jake Sharp ) - recruit the worst director in New York, flamboyant, gay Roger De Bris (John Wetherall) – and he show . . . becomes a smash hit.

Simon Pugh is superb as producer Max Bialystock, there's a fine performance from Leon Davies as accountant Leo Bloom, and the latter's wife. Rachel, is a delight as blonde Swedish bombshell Ulla, Springtime’s leading lady.

Directed by Mike Capri, with musical direction by Adam Joy and Claire Kramer's choreography, the show runs to 26-11-11

Paul Marston

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Sinbad the Sailor

BMOS Youtheatre

The Old Rep

***

IT'S panto time and the youtheatre are navigating through Sinbad's adventures with great enthusiasm.

The encouraging audience reaction helped confidence of the cats, aged 10 to 18, particularly in the second act in an amusing Walk Like An Egyptian number set in a Cairo bazaar.

James Mateo-Salt and Hannah Sefton combined well as Sinbad and Princess Miranda, with strong support from Karina Holness (Evilena), Nancy Ling (Fortuna), Nathan Queeley-Dennis (The Caliph), Griff Llewellyn-Cook (Tinbad the Tailor) and Charlotte Hill (Prince Said).

Comedy came from the dame Norma Snickers, (James Reidy) and Silly Sally (Izzie Robinson), with young Luke Tollis as The Wazir and William Mateo-Salt and Jenna Simpson an amusing duo, Snaffle and Trace.

Sinbad d by Alan Hackett with Melanie Flint's choreography and Chris Corcoran's musical direction runs to 12-11-11.

Paul Marston

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The Pajama Game

WBOS Youtheatre

Lichfield Garrick

****

NO danger of anyone nodding off watching this musical about life in a pajama factory by the West Bromwich Operatic Society Youtheatre.

Nearly 60 members of the company, aged 10 to 19, have it all sewn up with some very impressive singing and dancing during the pay battle at the Sleep Tite works in 1950s America.

They have two strong leads in Roberto Petrucco as Sid Sorokin, the factory superintendent, and Lucy Fellows, the wprkers’ leader, Babe Williams, who falls for her boss..

They are impressive, particularly in the duet There Once Was a Man. Roberto also shines with the hit song Hey There

Bright comedy, too, from Frazer Shine, the factory foreman, Hines and there are important contributions from Lauren Key (Gladys), Maison Kelley (Prez) and Jack Webb, company boss Hasler, With sharp choreography from Lisa Metcalfe, directed by John Wetherall with Ian Stephenson's musical direction it runs 12-11-11

Paul Marston

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A Christmas Carol - The Musical

Bilston Operatic Company

Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

***

FULL marks to this amateur company for landing the regional premiere of the musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic tale.

They manage a tough challenge with reasonable success, but the opening scenes lack flair and overall the show suffers from a lack of big numbers.

A couple of flying ghosts lift the action, with Tom Winfield revealing a fine voice as the Ghost of Christmas Past, and there is a big improvement all round after the interval.

Stephen Harper is excellent as Scrooge and there are fine performances, too, from John Halford (Ghost of Christmas Present) and young Ben Evans as Tiny Tim. Costumes are good, though even the desperately poor appear well dressed.

Janette Cole is director-choreographer and Paul Woodhall musical director To 12.11.11

Paul Marston

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The Crucible

Lichfield Players

Lichfield Garrick Studio 

***

ARTHUR Miller's play about the 1692 Salem witch trials show how easy it was in 17^th Century Massachusetts Bay for anyone to be accused of witchcraft and hanged.

The story focuses on a witch hunt sparked by young girls seen dancing in the woods at night, and the clash of farmer John Proctor with the authorities when his wife is accused.

Chris Stanley gives a powerful performance as Proctor, whose past affair with young Abigail Williams now puts his own life is in danger. He faces the dilemma of hanging or signing a confession to save his life but lose his self-esteem.

Stephen Brunton is convincing as Deputy Governor Danforth, and there are fine contributions from Eve Fehilly (Abigail), Ian Parkes (Rev Samuel Parris), Hannah Freeman (Elizabeth Proctor) and Don Harris (Giles Corey). Directed by David Stonehouse, it runs to 05-11-11

Paul Marston

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The Pirates of Penzance

Erdington Operatic Society, Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

****

AFTER a year's break from Gilbert & Sullivan the EOS have returned to their first love with this amusing tale of pushover pirates and clueless cops.

This is a stand-out production, helped by high quality costumes and a good orchestra under musical director David Allen.

Nick Hardy is excellent as Frederic who, because of a blunder by his ex nurse, is apprenticed to a pirate inseam of a pilot, and Letty Cheadle is a sparkling Mabel, falling for the reluctant pirate who plans to leave the band of cutthroats on his 21st birthday.

Colin Lapworth, more than 40 years with the society, not only directs and choreographs the show but gives a cracking performance as Major General Stanley.

Peter Turner is in fine voice as the Pirate King, Pam Cooper impresses as the bungling nurse, Ruth, and Brian Trott (Sgt of Police) and his seven terrified bobbies are a real hoot. To 05-11-11

Paul Marston

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West End Now!

Lichfield Operatic Society

Lichfield Garrick

****

MORE than 50 songs from 12 current West End shows have been packed into this sparkling show which gives the company an opportunity to parade a wide range of talent .

Researched and compiled by vice-chairman Brian Smith, it is a musical kaleidoscope of memorable hits, coupled with some clever choreography by Jemma Tiso and amusing introductions from Craig Allen, Lichfield's 'Singing Postman'.

Due to copyright restrictions, original scenery, costumes and props cannot be used, but that proves no handicap as soloists and the chorus deliver high quality performances, helped by a strong orchestra directed by David Easto.

The show opens with three numbers from The Lion King and closes with an exhilarating selection from We Will Rock You, and in between there are many fine songs from some leading musicals.

Act 1 ends in spectacular fashion with the chorus singing One Day More, and Jenny Barlow Jennings, Robert Bannon and Ray Hibbs impress with solos from the same musical.

After the interval Dan Anketell, Patrick Jervis, Nick Lawrence and Mark Johnson are fine as The Jersey Boys.

From Chicago, Wendy Clarke, Rebecca Bowley, Sarah Clark, Natalie Haslam, Charlotte Middleton and Kathy Coombes are a delight in Cell Block Tango, Melanie Sutton is arresting in When You're Good to Mama and Sophie Randal outstanding with Only the Good Die Young (We Will Rock You).

A terrific performance, too, from Georgie Jones with Love Never Dies in a splendid show directed by Martin Rainsford. To 5.11.11.

Paul Marston

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 Beyond a Joke

The Circle Players, Aldridge Youth Theatre

***

FOR much of the first act in Derek Benfield's comedy it's tempting to think it should have been titled Beyond Belief.

 Six people, usually workmen, have died in strange circumstances over a period of time at Andrew and Jane's country home, but it seems no more than a coincidence until the couple's boyfriend arrives.

Geoff, played with a little too much nervous tension by Matt O'Hare, misunderstands a conversation he overhears and is convinced his prospective new family are killers.

It all seems a little over the top until Thom Handley, playing the local vicar, turns up to give the action a lift with his amusing and comfortable style, before he, too, becomes a victim of the accident-prone home.

Clair Tregellis plays Jane, George Georgiou is Andrew and Eleanor Ball their daughter, Sally, in a play which benefits from a fine set but needed too many prompts on opening night.

Directed by Carol Grice, it runs to 22.10.11

Paul Marston

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Guys and Dolls

South Staffs Musical Theatre Company

Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

****

WHEN it comes to multi-tasking Maria Shee holds all the cards in this musical about gamblers, gangsters, girls and a mission in need of sinners!

She gives a delightful performance as Miss Adelaide, girlfriend of Nathan Detroit who runs the oldest floating craps game in New York.

But Maria is also the choreographer and the quality of her work stands out, particularly in Take Back Your Mink with the Hot Box Girls and when Nicely Nicely Johnson leads the cast in the stunning Sit Down You're Rockin' the Boat.

It's a sparkling musical by a talented company on its 75th anniversary, with Lucy-Ellen Parker and Simon McGee excellent as salvationist Sarah Brown, battling to keep the Save a Soul Mission open, and gambler Sky Masterson, just as determined to take her out and win a bet. 

Alf Rai (Nicely Nicely), Roger Stokes (Nathan Detroit) and Will Phipps (Benny Southstreet) also impress in a fine musical directed by Karl Veltman with James Maddison's musical direction. T0 15-10-11

Paul Marston

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The Graduate

The Fellowship Players

Grange Playhouse, Walsall 

YOUNG Daniel Holyhead landed the challenging part of brilliant graduate Benjamin Braddock in this stage version of the famous 1967 American film, and he passes the test with distinction.

 The teenager is totally convincing as the rich man's son trapped into an, at first, unwanted affair with the alcoholic wife of his father's business partner and best friend.

 In the motion picture Benjamin was played by Dustin Hoffman and the sexy Mrs Robinson by Anne Bancroft, and Terry Johnson's adaptation of Charles Webb's novel works extremely well, despite the need for fourteen scenes.

 Here Susan Lynch is excellent as Mrs Robinson, and the seduction scenes in the play, directed by Stephen Ralph, are cleverly staged after she strips to her underwear, at first to the anguish of blushing Benjamin. To 15.10.11

Paul Marston

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 Hobson's Choice

Aldridge Youth Theatre

****

THE youth theatre's senior section reached new heights in staging Harold Brighouse's classic Lancashire comedy about Salford bootmaker Henry Horatio Hobson.

Set in the 1880s, it reveals how the successful businessman used his three daughters to run the shop - unpaid - while cashing in on the skill of timid worker Willie Mossop.

Not an easy task for the teenage cast, but they simply revelled in the Victorian humour, were totally convincing, and thoroughly deserved the cheers at the final curtain.

There was a memorable performance from Joseph Cryan as bootmaker Mossop, terrified of his bullying boss - splendidly played by Alexander Fisher - and stunned when Hobson's eldest daughter, Maggie - brains behind the business - decides she is going to marry him and set up a rival shop.

His transformation from frightened worker to confident businessman was exceptional, while Natalie Webster sparkled as the determined Maggie, and Katie Arblaster and Savannah Cook - Maggie's sisters Vickey and Alice - delivered a range of wonderful expressions.

Strong contributions, too, from George Caulton (Albert Prosser) and David Bruce (Freddy Beanstock) in a play well directed by Patricia Harrison. To 24.09.11

Paul Marston

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An Ideal Husband

The Crescent Theatre Touring Company

Botanical Gardens

****

 YOU have to admire the spirit of people who organise open-air events during an English summer, and this company's 2011 tour has opened in what could be called typical weather.

On the first night a downpour soaked the cast in their period costumes, but the show went on, and the second night in the beautiful setting of the Botanical Gardens saw the audience of over 100 huddled in overcoats, woolly hats and covered in blankets against the chill wind after enjoying their picnics, wine, and hot coffee.

But the acting in Oscar Wilde's 1895 comedy-drama was superb, and if anyone missed a word of the clever dialogue it was only because a peacock strutting through the folding chairs chose to call his mate a few times.

The story involves an attempt at blackmail over an incident of political corruption - so nothing new there - and Sally Wood is a delight as the scheming Mrs Laura Cheveley, an attractive guest during a social gathering at the plush Grosvenor Square home of Sir Robert Chiltern, a rising statesman with an apparent blameless background.

Gerry Hudson gives an outstanding performance as Sir Robert who is suddenly faced with the prospect of resignation from the House of Commons unless he agrees to Mrs Cheveley's demands, and there are excellent contributions from Simon Garrington (Viscount Goring), Anna Downes (Lady Chiltern) and Alan Bull (Earl of Caversham).

Directed by Robert F. Ball, the play continues its tour at Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens (July 2 & 3), St Nicholas Place, Kings Norton (July 5 & 6), Highbury Hall (July 7), Hall's Croft, Stratford-on-Avon (July 9) and Harvington Hall (July 16 & 17).

Paul Marston

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Outside Edge

Circle Players,

Aldridge Youth Theatre

***

THIS Richard Harris comedy about a village cricket team and the women behind the players gets off to a very slow start.

Some of the early humour is rather predictable, but thankfully the pace in Gill Troman’s production increases in the second act as the hundred comes up on the scoreboard.

The impressive set representing the inside and front of the club's pavilion was designed by Bob Jeffcoat, Lee Tregellis and Colin Troman, and it works well.

Clive Barlow is convincing as Roger, the pompous club captain, and Liz Bennett, playing his timid wife, Miriam, gives an amusing performance coping with all his excessive demands until she rebels and wrecks the scoreboard.

Also enjoying a decent innings are Liz Daly (Maggie), Stan Hubbard (Bob), Thom Handley (Dennis), and Matt O'Hare (Kevin). To 25-06-1.

Paul Marston

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Duets

The Fellowship Players

Grange Playhouse, Walsall

****

HUMAN relationships are examined in Peter Quilter's four amusing mini-plays set in four different apartments on one stage.

How the company manage such a slick changeover between the two stories either side of the interval becomes a very important part of the enjoyment for the audience.

Instead of quietly moving in to change the window view, the colour of the settee, the kitchen unit and the position of the front door (on wheels), scene shifters Sue Richardson and Stephen Ralph ham it up to music.

Wearing high visibility jackets, they sing as they work - A Fine Romance for their first offering, then Me and My Shadow, all put together with some neat choreography. If the posing pair didn't exactly steal the show, they certainly borrowed it! With the help of Mike Klymko (keyboard).

Dale Roberts (Jonathan) and Jill Simkin (Wendy) get the ball rolling in Blind Date, meeting in his flat after making contact through a dating magazine, she arriving with a chunk of cheese rather than a bottle of wine. Their negotiations are a hoot.

In Secretarial Skills, Kay Munday plays Janet who seems to attract no romantic interest from gay boss Barrie (Mark Dallison), but in the end he sends her on a cruise, and agrees to go too.

Sam Evans (Bobby) and Rachel Holmes (Shelley) are in a Spanish resort finalising their divorce in The Holiday, and the final play features Naomi Millard as bride-to-be Angela, preparing for her third wedding with the help of brother Toby (Alan Lowe) while coping with a string of hitches.

Directed by Dawn Vigurs, Duets runs to18.06.11

Paul Marston

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Sweeney Todd

The Crescent Theatre, Birmingham

****

THIS is a razor-sharp production by the Crescent Theatre Company who have hardly missed a trick with the musical version of the demon barber of Fleet Street.

The dark, eerie set, representing a decaying area of London in 1775, gets the audience in just the right mood for a show which has a remarkable mixture of terror, joy, humour and excellent music.

And how the cast rise to the challenge of a frightening story describing how a vengeful Sweeney Todd returns to the capital after 15 years transportation on false charges and hunts down the crooked judge who had eyes for his lovely wife.

Walsall's Lee Hodgetts is magnificent as Todd and has a splendid partner in Karen Leadbetter, playing Mrs Nellie Lovett who has a failing pie shop below the barber's shop Todd sets up to lure his victims!

She displays a real sense of fun to give the tale a bit of a lift as business booms with the Todd’s victims, supposedly more than 150, filling her pies.

The cleverly designed set includes a special barber's chair which sends victims plumetting to the depths.

Outstanding performances, too, from Mark Horne (Tobias), Nick Thompson (Anthony) and Amy Thornhill Comerford (Johanna),.

Directed by Keith Harris with Gary Spruce's musical direction, the grisly tale of the cut throat barber runs to Saturday night 04.06.11.

Paul Marston

Recipe note: The printed programme contains special thanks to city stores which provided the pies used in the show. They might have wanted to keep that quiet!!

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Disney's Beauty & the Beast

Brownhills Musical Theatre Company

Lichfield Garrick

****

FOR its 40th anniversary production this outstanding company chose the story as old as time, and it's a beaut of a show.

Dave Hayward is excellent as the spoilt prince turned into an ugly horned beast when he spurns an old woman's plea for help, and he forms an ideal partnership with young Phebe Jackson, an impressive Belle in her first principal role.

The pair are convincing as the drama unfolds. Hayward's delivery of If I Can't Love Her at the end of the first act is memorable.

Another debutant, Stephen Clancy, lights up the stage at times as Lumiere, the human candelabra, and Richard Haines is humorous and menacing in the role of the village bully, Gaston.

Fine contributions, too, from Alison Room (Mrs Potts) and Pete Smith (Cogsworth).

The scene where the Beast is transformed back to the handsome Prince could be improved, but overall Tim Jones's direction is excellent. So too is the musical direction of Ian Room in his final show for the company. To 21.05.11

Paul Marston

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Oliver!

West Bromwich Operatic Society

Grand Theatre. Wolverhampton                          

****

EXACTLY ten years since they last staged the show, the talented company finds director and choreographer Mike Capri ensuring that it's as fresh and lively as ever.

Sarah Moors is an outstanding Nancy, girlfriend of the murderous Bill Sykes, and she thrills the audience with Oom-Pah-Pah and As Long as He Needs Me.

Steve Coussens is a powerful Sykes and bulldog Buster takes the biscuit for his impeccable behaviour as the villain's pet, Bullseye.

A sound performance, too, from Terry Gormley playing Fagin, while young Ben Evans acts and sings confidently as Oliver Twist and Maison Kelley is a confident Artful Dodger.

Callum McArthur and Chris Sandhu give a very sexy slant to the roles of Mr Bumble and Widow Corney, with Craig Smith and Rebecca Thorne a visually spectacular Mr and Mrs Sowerberry, the creepy undertakers.

Jonathan Hill is musical director of a cracking show. To 14-05-11

Paul Marston

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Take a Bow

WBOS Youtheatre

Mill Theatre, Sedgley                       

****

FULL of enthusiasm and bursting with talent, the 64-strong cast - aged 10 to 19 - revelled in the programme of 38 numbers.

The full company sparkled in Speed Your Journey, One Short Day, and six Abba songs which produced a rousing finale.

Grace Wyatt gave a fascinating performance with Taylor the Latte Boy, Connie Ross sang Don't Rain on My Parade impressively, and there were other strong solos from Lauren Key, Tom Whitehouse, Ross Hadley and Frazer Shine

In the duets, outstanding contributions came from Lucy Follows and Grace Wyatt and from Ellie Dabbs and Maison Kelly.

A graphic piece, too, was delivered by Kathryn Day, Bethany Mahoney, Laura Binsley, Kayleigh Timmins and Charlotte McNally in Cell Block Tango from Chicago, and a very amusing duet featured Lydia Stephenson and Connor Bacon, with zimmer frame and three-pronged walking stick, singing an old-timers’ version of Sixteen Going on Seventeen which became 60 Going On 70.

Musical direction was by Ian Stephenson with Lisa Metcalfe and Claire Kramer's choreography. To 01.05.11

 Paul Marston

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My Fair Lady

Lichfield Operatic Society

Lichfield Garrick

****

MAKING her debut as production director for the company, Ruth Harvey has made quite an impact with this story of how the famous Wimpole Street phonetics expert, Professor Henry Higgins, transforms common Covent Garden flower girl Eliza Doolittle.

He accepts a challenge to use his elocution expertise to make the dustman's daughter into a lady capable of mixing with the elite, and the acton includes some great songs, like Wouldn't it be Loverly and I could have danced all night.

 Jordan Adams is an excellent Higgins, and there is a superb performance from Jo McAllister as Eliza, the 'prisoner of the gutter' who blossoms to the point where she charms royalty.

 Wonderful comedy, too, from Craig Allen playing dustman Alfred P. Doolittle, while David Hill impresses as Colonel Hugh Pickering and Eoin Edwards proves the ideal toff, Freddie Eynsford-Hill.

 The costumes are good, but the staircase in Higgins' study could do with a coat of paint. David Easto is musical director and Heidi Cresswell choreographer of a happy show . To 30-04-11.

 Paul Marston

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Double Bill

Aldridge Youth Theatre

 * * *

THE two chosen plays proved heavy going for the audience if good acting practice for the youngsters.

Black Comedy, a farce by Peter Shaffer, was often irritating, and there was little to lift the spirits in the second offering, The Fall of the House of Usher, by Edgar Allan Poe.

The comedy, directed by Dexter Whitehead, began in complete darkness, with two characters - shadowy figures on stage - chatting away for a few minutes in what, for them, was normal light.

But when the lights came on (thankfully) it was supposed to be pitch black after a power cut for the cast who felt their way around, bumping into furniture or doorways, mistaking identities and spilling drinks. Even when one of the characters turned up with a giant candle, the flame went out!

Joseph Hicklin impressed as young sculptor , while Savannah Cook played his fiancee and there were confident performances from Geroge Caulton (Colonel Melkett), Natalie Webster (Miss Furnival), and Joseph Cryan (Harold Gorringe).

The Fall of the House of Usher, directed by Richard Howell, featured strong performances by Joseph Cryan as Roderick Usher and Natalie Ashcroft (his sister Madeline), and while the Gothic tale was gloomy, it enabled the cast of six to test their acting skills, without props or scenery, opening imaginary doors, eating or pretending to be furniture and one even becoming a musical instrument.

The final performance was on Saturday night. 09-04-11

Paul Marston

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The History Boys

Fellowship Players

Grange Playhouse, Walsall

****

EIGHT young actors succeed with flying colours in Jennifer Smith's production of Alan Bennett's touching story about life in a fictional Sheffield grammar school.

They play the students being prepared for an Oxford University entrance examination,. Classroom antics include an hilarious scene where one of them ends up trouserless as the startled headmaster (Michael Penn) walks in.   One of the students is bedding the head's attractive secretary and there are even hints of gay activity, but while a few four-letter words fly around there's nothing offensive.

The lads also score as scene shifters, transforming the classroom into a locker room and back again for the clever set designed by David Tonks

Alan Lowe gives a superb performance as the eccentric, motorbike-riding teacher. To 16-04-11.

Paul Marston

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Godspell

Willenhall Operatic Society  

Dormston Mill Theatre, Sedgley  

***                  

Director-producer Andy Poulton has given the show a circus setting and it proves a colourful way of getting the religious message across.

Jesus becomes the ringmaster in red tail coat and top hat, Judas a clown and various other characters emerge as majorettes, a strongman, ballerina, cowboy, red indian etc . . .

Alf Rai, who has proved a real find, is excellent as Jesus, with Chris Dowen a confident Judas in his first principal role for the society.

A sparkling comedy performance, too, from Colette Forsyth (Joanne), and strong support is provided by Andy Robinson (Jeffrey), Lydia Lavill (Sonia) and Rob Lehman (Herb).

Choregography by Meg Dowen is impressive and the big numbers like Day by Day, Prepare Ye the Way of the Lord and We Beseech Thee bring out the best in the chorus, though on a few occasions words were drowned because the music was too loud.

Michael Cotton is the musical director. To 09-04-11.

Paul Marston

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Oliver!

Garrick Youth Theatre

Lichfield Garrick

****

HERE'S a cracking young company who have the audience - let alone Oliver Twist - pleading for more at the end of Lionel Bart's much loved musical.

Even adults would be satisfied with this performance which is jam packed with quality acting and singing from an enthusiastic cast of 50.

Oliver has been entertaining people for more than 50 years, and it's easy to see why. The story is good, the music excellent and it is ideal for youngsters taking early steps in the theatre.

The principals are superb, with Romayne Sturridge outstanding as that crafty rogue, Fagin, leading his gang of kiddy crooks with a brand of humour that is infectious.

Amy Mallaband sings beautifully in the role of Nancy and gravel-voiced Mark Johnson is a convincing as the brutish Bill Sykes.

Wonderful contributions, too, from Lewis Sanders (Mr Bumble), Georgina Jones (Widow Corney), Charlotte Middleton (Mrs Sowerberry), Joe Barnes (Mr Sowerberry, the undertaker) and Gus Wade (Oliver).

Directed by Julie Mallaband with Oliver Rowe's musical direction and choreographer Jemma Tiso earns top marks for the various dance sequences. Oliver runs to Saturday 09-04-11

Paul Marston

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Guys & Dolls

Walsall Operatic Society

Lichfield Garrick

****

NICELY done! Craig Smith, chairman of this talented society, takes one of the key roles in Frank Loesser's entertaining musical and becomes the star of the show.

Assistant head of a Wednesbury secondary school, he plays the ever-hungry Nicely-Nicely Johnson and his acting in the story of New York City gamblers, gangsters and Salvationists is spot on, topping a great performance with that sparkling number Sit Down, You're Rockin' The Boat.

Tom Fletcher is excellent as big time gambler Sky Masterson, though he could do with a sharper suit and hat, and Charlotte Mills proves the ideal missionary, Sgt Sarah Brown, despite a somewhat ill-fitting wig.

Paul Bickerton sparkles as the crafty rolling crap game organiser, Nathan Detroit, while Helen Figures proves a real hoot as the squeaky-voiced Miss Adelaide, star of the Hot Box night club and long-time fiancee of Detroit.

She has a big moment with her sexy female dancers who do a semi-strip in the other big number, Take Back Your Mink, and there is an impressive contribution from Les Middleton (Arvide Abernathy).

Richard Poynton directs, Michelle Baker is choreographer and Jack Hopkins musical director of a lively show that runs to Saturday night 19.03.11

Paul Marston

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High School Musical on Stage!

Wolverhampton Musical Comedy Company

Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

*****

Wolverhampton Music Comedy Company’s production of Disney’s High School Musical on Stage! is fun, high-energy family entertainment under the direction of Denise Robinson who is also choreographer and producer. 

Set in East High School, adolescent teenage sweethearts Troy Boulton (Tye Harris) and Gabriella Montez (Holly Stringfellow) have received a call-back after auditioning for the leads in the high school musical, Juliet and Romeo, but this conflicts with commitments to the basketball team and the science decathlon. Their friends engineer a way for them to attend call-back during the competitions. They win the parts much to the chagrin of Sharpay Evans (Kimberley Robinson) president of the drama club and school star and her twin Ryan (Pip Harper).

Tom Winfield plays Jack Scott and provides excellent links between scenes as the narrator. Boulton and Montez steal the show in the second half with Start of Something New.

Some of the dialogue was lost due to intermittent problems with the sound system or mikes but overall this was a highly entertaining, polished and very professionally delivered amateur production. A big well done to everyone involved.

Lynda Ford

 Meanwhile in the other class. . .

* * * 

A CASUAL glance round the audience on opening night provided an instant picture of who loves this Disney musical the most - youngsters and the young at heart.

Scores of children - mainly little girls - packed three levels of the auditorium, many dressed in red and silver dresses and waving pom-poms, just like the cheer leaders on stage, and parents were there too.

The company has risen bravely to the challenge offered by the cult show about rivalry at East High School in America, Denise Robinson, the director, producer and choreographer, has ensured that the numerous dances are superbly delivered, some of the movement being worthy of skilled gymnasts with its innovation.

Making his debut with the company, Tye Harris excels as Troy, with Holly Stringfellow an impressive Gabriella, and there are substantial performances from Kimberley Robinson (Sharpay Evans), Pip Harper (Ryan Evans), Tom Winfield (Jack Scott), Veronica Bould (Ms

Darbus) and Dexter Whitehead (Coach Boulton).

Karl Babarczi is musical director of the show in which one of the hit numbers, We're All in This Together, says it all. To 19.03.11

 Paul Marston

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The Mikado

Walsall Gilbert & Sullivan Society

Brownhills Community College Theatre

****

ON her debut as director-producer, Karen Lyon has brought a fresh and lively approach'. Working with her former school chum Rachel Eyre (musical director and Pittie Sing), she has introdcued new features that work well. The gentlemen of Japan appear as Kung Fu fighters with bamboo staffs.

 And there is a delightful moment during the singing of Tit Willow when a loveable bird puppet with a giant yellow beak accompanies Ko-Ko and, having plunged to its death, returns wearing a halo.

 Ian Askew excels as Ko-Ko, whose little list of people who never would be missed includes mobile phone users, girls who are ambitious to become soccer WAGS, and even tabloid journalists! But were cufflinks worn in ancient Japan?

 John Stacey is a confident Nanki-Poo, with a fine partner in Letty Cheadle (Yum-Yum), and strong support from Brian Marshall (Pooh-Bah), Michael Taylor (the Mikado) and Rachel Simpson (Katisha). Retired MD Brian Hirst has returned as guest conductor. To 26-02-11

Paul Marston

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Something's Burning

Fellowship Players

Grange Playhouse, Walsall

***

WHEN Nell Adams' husband suddenly deserts her she doesn't have much time to mourn the departure of the dodgy builder.

She is soon targeted by an equally suspect local teacher and poet, and the pair embark on a risky affair.

Jill Simkin is excellent as Nell whose initial rejection of the new suitor quickly disappears - but just how genuine is George Rush when he expresses his love for her?  Sam Evans perfectly reflects the unsteady character of George who gets a wake up call when an older man from the area, widower Jim, falls for her charms, too.

Gerry Joyce is an amusing Jim, involved in some lively verbal clashes with George as the two men almost come to blows in their attempts to claim the lady's affections.

Good supporting performances, too, from Charlotte Richardson (Nell's sister Gail) and Rachel Holmes (George's wife, Helen).

A well designed set by David Tonks helps the action of Eric Chappell's play, directed by Chris Pomlett. To 12-02-11 

Paul Marston

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Season's Greetings

 Lichfield Players

 Lichfield Garrick

****

JUST when you thought Christmas was over for another year, here comes Alan Ayckbourn's little cracker about a festive party for the Bunker family and friends.

It's an entertaining comedy, if a shade slow getting into top gear. Two scenes at the end of the first act and just before the close had large audiences in stitches.

The first highlight sees blonde hostess Belinda Bunker, enthusiastically played by Sarah Stanley, darting from room to room late at night with one of the guests, Clive (Ian Davies) with a lot more than a kiss under the mistletoe in mind.

And they accidentally set off one of the mechanical toys under the Christmas tree, bringing the rest of the household from their beds.

There's even a shooting incident and laughs galore when dodgy doctor Bernard (Brian Asbury) stages a puppet show while grumpy old Uncle Harvey chips in with his own sarcastic commentary. Tom Rowley is a hoot as the agony uncle, a former security officer who is convinced he has spotted a crook at the party.

The set, designed by Jim Warrallo, works particularly well in an enjoyable play directed by Barrie Atchison. To 05.02.

Paul Marston

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Creepy Hollow

Spotlight Youth Productions

Brownhills Community College Theatre                           

***

This young company describes its latest musical show as a scary panto, and it hits all the right notes.

Written by director Steve Groves, following an idea by Nigel Anderson, the story is set in the haunted Creepy Hollow Hotel and features a lively cast of ghosts and zombies.

There are many opportunities to introduce well-known songs, sometimes with a little twist, such as GhostDusters.  Inevitably Thriller is there, along with Monster Mash, and Karen Lyon's choreography enables the cast to move and dance in style suitable to the spooky scenario.

Andrew Cox is outstanding as the hotel's hunchback buter, Seymour – he could have been recruited from the Rocky Horror Show - and his duet, Suddenly Seymour, with the cook, Mrs B (impressively played by Lucie Bunce) is a genuine highlight. To 29.1.

Paul Marston

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The Sleeping Beauty

Aldridge Youth Theatre 

****

THE Youth Theatre's version of the traditional story, written and directed by Neville Ellis, is a real cracker. 

It is fresh, lively, colourful and includes clever new features which are thoroughly exploited by an enthusiastic cast of more than 50 youngsters.    

The show doesn't end with a kiss from the handsome prince awakening Princess Rose from her 100-year sleep. She turns down his offer of marriage until he kills a dragon and wins her love. 

Joseph Cryan gives a professional-quality performance as Nanny Gripewater and Savannah Cook also attracts plenty of audience participation as the evil Fairy Mildew. 

There are sparkling comedy turns from George Caulton as Private Barrel, the soldier with a strong Black County accent, and William Young, a little gem as Cuddles the jester.    

Guy Rowlands (piano) and Raymond Vale (drums) provide the music. Full marks to the parents and helpers who created the costumes and scenery. To 22.1.

Paul Marston

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Songs for a New World

Not So Productions Grange Playhouse, Walsall

****

HAVING pledged to bring some of the most innovative and new musicals to the Midlands, this exciting young company can look upon its latest production as a triumph.

Jason Robert Brown may not be a household name over here, but the American song writer and lyricist has talent which comes bursting through in a revue-type show containing music for just about every emotion.

Although the vocally-demanding score is a stern challenge, Karen Cockitt, Timothy Gough, Kate Rock and Richard Haines come through with flying colours, whether in solos, duets or as a foursome.

The songs deal with a particular moment in different individuals' lives - and the cast, who have all enjoyed key roles with Brownhills Musical Theatre company in the past - show a keen appreciation of the situations involved.

There are humour, sadness and pathos in the music, and Sarah Haines' choreography helps the visual quality of a show well directed by Dexter Whitehead, who described it as one of the most exciting pieces he had ever worked with.

A strong performance by the four-piece band, directed by Matt Walker, is vital to the success of the revue. To 27.11.

Paul Marston

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Summer Holiday

WBOS Youtheatre

Lichfield Garrick                                                                        

**** 

THE young company delivers an energy-packed show in John Wetherall's production, with clever dancing to Lisa Metcalf's choreography.   

Four London bus mechanics, led by Don (George Stuart), decide to convert a red bus into a mobile holiday home and head for the South of France, giving a lift to stranded girl band en route, then collecting a stowaway 'boy' who turns out to be a well known girl singer.   

George Stuart (Don) excels with his singing, forming an excellent partnership with Abigail Poulton (Barbara), and there are fine comedy spots featuring Grace Wyatt (Stella) and Connor Bacon (Jerry).   

Some early hitches with the sound equipment didn't unhinge the cast who impressed with top Cliff Richard songs. Musical direction is by Ian Stephenson. West Brom's got talent.

To 13-11-10.

Paul Marston

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Return to the Forbidden Planet

Bilston Operatic Company

Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

 ***

A RATHER slow lift-off doesn't deter this company as it stages Bob Carlton's spaceship musical. 

It does eventually hit the booster button, the improvement coinciding with the arrival of roller-skating robot Ariel (Jon Dempsey), who glides smoothly round the stage and, at one point, even pops up in the stalls shaking hands with the 'passengers'. 

He also sings well as the cast light up the show with its rock 'n' roll hits.   

Stephen Harper impresses as Prospero, and Amy Spinks provides the love interest as his daughter, Miranda, who takes a shine to the spaceship commander, Captain Tempest (David Walters). 

Although the set works reasonably well, and BBC newsman Nick Owen is amusing with his recorded narration on the spaceship screen, the space monster's giant tentacles didn't look too good when they flopped through the roof with supposed menace. 

Direction is by Simon Pugh with Bambi Dahmi's choreography and Peter Smith's musical direction. To 13-11-10.

Paul Marston

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A Night at the Musicals

Brownhills Musical Theatre Company

Brownhills Community Theatre 

**** 

ALWAYS prepared to try something different, this excellent company includes puppets in its latest spectacular show and it works a treat.

 The muppet-sized, hand-operated creations are used in a selection of numbers from Avenue Q, and the first night audience loved them, particularly the humorous If You Were Gay.

 Members of the cast operate the puppets while they sing five songs, and they manage to get the mouth movements near perfect.

 The show, produced by Pete Smith and Tim Jones, opens with Dave Hayward and the ensemble in Bohemian Rhapsody, from We Will Rock You, followed by a real bonus as young Georgia Holmes and the children sing and act scenes from Annie.

 Paul Bailey, Elizabeth Casey and Kate Rock impress in a selection from Anything Goes, and John Cruxton and Colin Coleman sparkle in Always Look on the Bright Side of Life, from Spamalot, and Julie Lomas sings Whatever Happened to My Part with real feeling.

 A great show ends with five numbers from Hairspray. Colourful costumes, exciting To 13.11.

 Paul Marston

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Mary Stuart

Crescent Theatre, Birmingham

*****

THE intimacy and connection between actors and audience are wonderful, as one is able to catch every nuance, expression and vocal intonation in an exceptional theatrical experience. 

Friedrich Schiller's play has been given a new translation by director Andrew Cowie, and the stark stage setting and subtle lighting make for clever use of scene changes and focus the emphasis on the text and the storyline. 

Karen Leadbeter, as Catholic Mary Stuart, delivers every line with strength and passion. Imprisoned for 19 years, and usurped by her Protestant cousin Elizabeth I, Mary seeks reassurance from friend and former lover, Lord Leicester, played with warmth and compassion by Stewart Snape. 

Lord Burleigh is played with just the right amount of anger and menace by Colin Simmonds. Naomi Gilbert, as the regal, virgin Queen, makes her first, majestic entrance in full, opulent Tudor splendour, so, top marks for wardrobe mistress Anne Curry. 

Congratulations to all the cast and backstage team for a truly thought-provoking production. To 13-11-10

Elizabeth Smith

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Orpheus in the Underworld

Erdington Operatic Society

Sutton Coldfield Town Hall

****

THE company can feel well satisfied with its staging of Offenbach's colourful operetta - a romp, full of energy and imagination.    

A few weeks before the show opened, a leading member of the cast had to drop out through family illness, but Letty Cheadle stepped in to fill the role of Eurydice with aplomb, while Colin Lapworth - also director and choreographer - proved an amusing Orpheus. 

A fine performance, too, from Pam Cooper as Calliope, and Paul Wozniak was a hoot as the super-fit Mercury, darting on and off stage like some demented soccer sub. 

David Allen was musical director of a devilishly good show.     

By the way, this is one of the few societies - is there another? - who always play the National Anthem before curtain up.

To 6-11-10 

Paul Marston

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Jesus Christ Superstar

West Bromwich Operatic Society

Alexandra Theatre Birmingham

***

Jesus Christ Superstar is now 40 years old. If that puts the writing into its mid-life, there was certainly no crisis in WBOS energetic resurrection. 

With its overtones of a black pagan mass, this production has ambition to punch well above its weight and at times achieves it.  

Possibly benefiting from their week at the Wolvehampton Grand, the entire cast was position perfect and `in the moment’ in every scene.  

SUPERB VOCALS

There really were no weak vocal performances although lack of good mic technique occasionally sent a few notes into distortion .The clearest surprise was the young Lydia Hackett who crafted her superb vocals and acting into a mature compassionate Magdalene.

On every level there’s plenty to at look at. Herod’s song featuring John Wetherall was the most surprising with its Fosse like choreography and scantily clad decadence that would not have gone amiss at a Madonna concert.  

It’s not all gimmick, the glitter just serves to effectively contrast the pain and emotional depth of the more torturous scenes. 

Possibly out of respect, the curtain call was taken in somber character but against the elated audience applause though, I kept thinking, smile a little, this is a big production and you just nailed it. 

Jeff Grant

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Jekyll and Hyde – The Musical

Lichfield Operatic Society, Lichfield Garrick

***** 

Lichfield Operatic Society have triumphed again with Leslie Bricusse’s Jekyll and Hyde - The Musical. The show is jaw-droppingly good and there is absolutely nothing amateur about this production; the show is full of ‘best bits’ and closed to a long and enthusiastic standing ovation. 

The three principle characters are perfectly cast. Eoin Edwards plays Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde, Kerri Davies is the doomed tart with a heart, Lucy Harris, and Jenny Barlow-Jennings, the new girl on the block, plays Jekyll’s fiancé, Emma Carew. The trio are all very talented and accomplished actors and songsters. 

There are many words to describe the show; special, extraordinary, skilled, expert and accomplished are but a few. The whole production team and cast did a marvelous job and the orchestra, lead by Oliver Rowe, was outstanding, particularly the percussion section.   

Just a final note, and not a criticism at all, but the band momentarily overpowered the narrator in the opening scene and in the final moment of the show there was a bit of feedback from Emma’s mike. Still a five star show though. To 6-11-11

Lynda Ford

All change . . .

****

IF you hadn't read the posters you would never know this was an amateur production.

 And that is a tribute to a fine cast and production director Julie Mallaband who have put together a terrific show from the adaptation of Robert Louis Stevenson's classic tale.

There is plenty of humour, colour, impressive choreography and songs - none better than This is the Moment, sung by Dr Henry Jekyll as he prepares a dangerous experiment on himself to prove his claim that good can be separated from evil in man.

 Eoin Edwards is magnificent as Jekyll, particularly when he transforms to the murderous, manic Hyde, simply by ruffing up his hair, altering his expression and body shape and giving his voice a blood-curdling growl.

 A stunning performance, too, from Kerri Davies, playing the beautiful prostitute, Lucy Harris who gets involved with both Jekyll and Hyde, though the moment her body is dragged off stage, feet first, in semi-darkness - but spotted by the chuckling audience - needs attention.

 Jenny Barlow-Jennings impresses as the doctor's fiancée, Emma Carew, with high marks for Paul Roberts as John Utterson, Mark Johnson (Spider) and Dan Anketell who took over the role of Simon Stride at short notice after 19-year-old Nick Lawrence collapsed during rehearsals.

Oliver Rowe is musical director and Jemma Tiso the choreographer.

Paul Marston

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Jesus Christ Superstar

West Bromwich Operatic Society

Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

**** 

WBOS have undertaken the huge commitment to perform Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice’s dramatised musical, Jesus Christ Superstar, for two consecutive weeks in two theatres.*  

The show gives a view of the mental and physical torture of Christ in his last week on this earth and, whilst set to rock music, is definitely not light-hearted. 

The whole cast made a splendid effort despite issues with the sound in the first act which detracted somewhat from performances. I suspect some first night nerves as well. Individual performances in the second act were more assured, much improved and promise even better for future.  

Tim Prottey-Jones plays the ‘haunted and hunted’ Christ.  In Act I he did a good job with some difficult pieces but in Act II he really found his voice. Lyndon Flavell (Judas) gave a high-energy performance. Lydia Hackett has a great voice and her moving depiction of Mary Magdalene was a performance to note. 

Best song of the night was I Don’t Know How To Love Him. I also enjoyed the lighter King Herod’s Song and the happy, clappy Superstar.   A big well-done to the orchestra. 

The simple set was transformed through imaginative lighting and the crucifixion of Christ, whilst sad, was a powerful vision. The show is dedicated to Peter Davis who was to have directed the show but sadly died earlier this year. To Oct 30

Lynda Ford 

Second coming . . .

****

 THE highly talented company has accepted a difficult challenge in staging this Tim Rice/Andrew Lloyd Webber musical in professional theatres on two successive weeks, but the amateurs are turning it into a triumph.

 On the 40th anniversary of the show, they will follow a week at the Grand with another at Birmingham's Alexandra Theatre, and a treat for audiences is guaranteed.

 This rock opera tells the story of the last seven days in the life of Jesus Christ, and while it is a tense tear-jerker at times, there are lighter moments too, particularly when the portly King Herod (John Wetherall) sings his personal challenge to the doomed Jesus.

And the attractive girl dancers sparkle to the choreography of Claire Kramer during Herod's big scene, which contains some very sexy contortions.

Tim Prottey-Jones, in his first appearance with the company, is an impressive Jesus, delivering a powerful Gethsemane, though I am not sure about that jet black wig, and the crucifixion scene needs attenton. On opening night there was too much fumbling by soldiers attaching him to the cross, losing some of the dramatic effect.

 There are outstanding performances from Lyndon Flavell (Judas) and Lydia Hackett (Mary Magdalene), with strong contributions from Craig Smith (Annas), Callum McArthur (Caiaphas), and Luke Hopson, Simon Peacock and Roger Shepgerd as the priests.

 Directed by Tim Brown and produced by Mike Capri, with Jonathan Hill's musical direction.

Paul Marston 

* The show moves to the Alexandra Theatre on Tuesday 2^nd November through to Saturday 6^th November 2010.

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The Crucible

The Circle Players

Aldridge Youth Theatre 

***** 

THIS dramatic and haunting play by Arthur Miller brings out the best in this company, surely one of their finest productions since they were formed in Kingstanding 76 years ago.

It grips the audience from start to finish, the only respite being  the flute music from Sarah Broder  during scene changes ending with Amazing Grace. Delightful.

The story focuses on the Puritan purge of witchcraft  in old Salem in 1692, the author drawing a parallel with America's fear of Communism in the 1940s and 50s.

Wearing period costumes, the cast of 25 - including children - deliver a memorable performance. Thom Handley is magnificent as farmer John Proctor, whose courageous defence of his wife accused of witchcraft eventually threatens his own life.

Clive Barlow is a superbly menacing Deputy Governor Danforth, and there are other outstanding contributions from Fay Mason, as Proctor's loyal wife, Elizabeth, Eleanor Ball (Abigail Williams), Stan Hubbard (Rev Samuel Parris), Alex Howell (Rev John Hale), Rebecca Lucas (Mary

Warren), Lee Tregellis (Judge Hathorne) and Ian Toulouse (Giles Corey). Directed by Liz Daly. To 23-10-10. 

Paul Marston

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Spring and Port Wine

The Fellowship Players

The Grange Playhouse, Walsall

****

THIS Bill Naughton play provides a fascinating look at what life was like for a typical working class Lancashire family in the early 1960s.

Seems hard to imagine, in this day and age, how stern father Rafe Crompton could dominate his wife and four growing-up children so comprehensively, but times have changed and the comparison is interesting.

Chris Pomlett (did they wear black shirts in those days) gives a totally convincing performance as Rafe who keeps his loyal wife, Daisey, so short of cash she has to resort to all kinds of schemes to cope, yet there is plenty of money locked away in dad's desk.

He is at his best in the scene where he delays dinner while carrying out an extraordinary 'witch-hunt' into who gave a lone herring to the family cat when he was determined to make reluctant daughter Hilda eat it.

Sue Richardson is impressive as the downtrodden Daisey, desperate to keep her children happy and, despite her own financial worries, still managing to help out her scrounging neighbour, Betsy Jane (Charlotte Richardson).

Eventually the four children - Florence (Rachael Holmes), Wilfred (Adam Purchase), Harold (Sam Evans) and Hilda (Naomi Millard) - reach the point of revolt, but their father is not easily beaten.

Dale Roberts, family friend Arthur, completes fine cast in a play directed by Anne Chamberlain. It runs to Saturday night October 16, and the excellent set for the Cromptons' home, designed by David Tonks, adds realism.

*The family's fluffy white cat in this production was clearly a cuddly toy, so why the note on the foot of the programme: "We would like to reassure patrons that no animals have suffered in any way during this production"? To 16.10.10

Paul Marston

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Khaotic - The Fred Karno Story

From The Top Theatre Company

The Old Rep

****

NEARLY everyone over a certain age will know, and probably have used, the expression 'just like Fred Karno's Army', many not having a clue who the man was.

It was that comment, from a friend describing apparent chaos in the author's Lichfield office, that led Streetly-born David Crump to start researching into the man dubbed the King of Comedy, and this excellent new musical is the result.

The show is having its world premiere in Birmingham this week and is certain to be in great demand when it becomes available to amateur companies from next Spring.

It contains some fine original music by Peter Smith, with Crump's lyrics, and gets an extra fillip from such memorable old music hall songs as Waiting at the Church, The Boy I Love is Up in the Gallery, All the Nice Girls Love a Sailor and It's a Long Way to Tipperary.

Fred Karno began his showbiz career as an acrobat, but went on to discover many talented performers, including Charlie Chaplin and Stan Laurel, and his shows toured the world for 30 years.

The new musical is presented in a lively, entertaining style, with Michael Fleming impressive as Karno's eldest son Freddie. In that role he also acts as compere, as well as turning his hand to being a policeman, barrister, reporter and a few other characters.

David Crump leads from the front as the ambitious Karno, and his wife Debbie gives a fine performance as Mrs Edith Karno who has to cope with her talented husband's moods and infidelity.

Charlotte Gessey is a convincing Marie Moore, the attractive younger woman for whom Karno leaves his wife, and there is a wonderful moment when Steve Birch, playing Stan Laurel crashes on to the floor with his boss and produces a stunning replica of the great star's unique facial expression.

Produced by Jan Chambers, this endearing musical will be visited by some of Karno's relatives before it closes on Saturday night 09.10.10

Paul Marston

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Two One Act Plays

Vesey Players

The Other RSC

****

VESEY Players, for many years panto specialists, have re-invented themselves as an amateur dramatics group with two lively one act comedies at The Other RSC pub theatre at The Station in Sutton Coldfield.

In the first, The Worst Day of My Life, Dave Newman is deadpan as Charlie Brown, just a man who can't say no, whose stay in hospital is nothing compared to his wife trouble - lots of them. There is steady secretary Joanne (Michelle Wilson), fussy house-proud Evelyn (Janet Daniels) and the excellent Tabitha Hughes as good time (had by all) girl Melissa and they all want a piece of Charlie. Even Nurse Samantha (Kerry Daniels) gets in on the act in a fast paced piece that delivers the laughs.

David Tristran’s Last Tango in Little, in this case, Aston should be a comedy banker and a Vesey quartet of Colin Townsend as Gordon, Steve Paterson as Bernard, Vivien Smith as Margaret and Tina Romano who excelled as Joyce did not disappoint, turning it into a winner.

It is the tale of an amdram group on its uppers who, with just four members, often still find themselves with more cast than audience until they find the secret of success - sex. Although with an enthusiastic full house they seem to have already found their own way of packing them in.

Next production at The Other RSC is David Hendon’s From Me to 3792 starring Caroline Nash on November 3&4.

Roger Clarke

www.rscaw.com

www.frommeto3792.co.uk

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Boogie Nights

South Staffs Musical Theatre Company

Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

****

DISCO classics get the audience on their feet in this high energy show which is proving a successful experiment for the talented South Staffs company.

In the past they have only performed traditional musical comedies or operettas, but with a young cast available they switched to Boogie Nights and a chance to let their hair down.

Maria Shee has done a wonderful job as choreographer, particularly with the dancing to I Lost My Heart to a Starship Trooper at the start of the second act, and the electrifying finale of We Are Family - a standing ovation showed just what the audience thought about it.

Simon McGee fits snugly into the role of Roddy, a Jack-the-lad who specialises in birds, booze and boogie while dreaming of becoming a rock star. His antics threaten to cost him the love of his girlfriend, and appropriately he sings If You Leave Me Now with considerable emotion.

An excellent performance, too, from Lucy-Ellen Parker as his anxious partner, Debs, with Luke Renwick and Jessica Harper - the couple's best pals Terry and Trish - equally impressive, and Roger Stokes is amusing as Roddy's Elvis-loving dad, Eamon while David Reynolds can feel well satisfied with his debut as director. To 09-10-10.

Paul Marston

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Footloose 

Lichfield Garrick Youth Theatre 

Lichfield Garrick  

**** 

The musical version of Footloose emerged from the 1984 movie starring Kevin Bacon. It received mixed reviews on Broadway – the main consensus being that whilst the score was strong, the plot was weak. Despite the critic’s response, audiences loved it and the show enjoyed long runs both in America and in the West End.  It continues to tour regularly today.

The story is simple - the youths in a backwater town in Tennessee are discouraged from having any fun by its God fearing elders (Dancing, it would seem, is the work of the devil). The kids, being kids, want to party and no outdated party pooper is going to stop them strutting their stuff. Something, somewhere, has got to give.

The Garrick Youth Theatre has something of a reputation for quality. Recent successes such as ‘ Les Miserables’ and ‘ West Side Story’ have propelled them  into one of the top musical theatre youth groups in the country – an accolade earned not only from the sheer talent of the young performers but also the level of technical quality that supports it.

The sheer logistics of putting on a show like this are huge. Director Aimee Berwick (herself a former Youth Theatre member) has to cast roles from a wide range of ages and ability. With so many people needing to be cast there is danger in it looking as though performers  are there simply to make up the numbers (after all, tickets need to be sold and the more in the cast, the more chance of that happening ) but Berwick avoids that trap and accommodates the large cast with real thought.

TEEN DRIVEN MUSICAL

The show is surprisingly wordy for a ‘teen driven’ musical but the cast mostly handle this well. Cues are sometimes slow to be picked up and the nuances of comic timing are at times missed but these are skills that take time and experience to learn and there is no better learning environment than on a main stage before a real audience.

As with all good musicals though, the heart lies in the score.  There are some great songs here – as well as the title track we all know, there is the supremely camp ‘ Holding out For A Hero’ and the catchy ‘ Lets Hear It For The Boy’ ( beautifully sung by Abbigail Tong) amongst other less well known numbers. The Ensemble singing is strong and choreography by Jessica Lambert is simple but effective.

 Youth Musical theatre audiences are keen to clap and ‘whoop’ – they are given ample opportunity here for both.

Several performances stood out. Georgina Jones as ‘Vi’ played her part with a maturity beyond her years. Her scenes with her husband Shaw (played with real pathos by Nick Lawrence) were, for me, the best in the show. Lewis Sanders, as ‘nice but dim’ red neck ‘Willard’ showed real comic ability – If the Youth theatre ever do panto, he is a shoe in for ‘ Dame’ ) Charlotte Middleton is convincing as the daughter who struggles to be reined in by her strict father and Jack Moreton cuts a dash as Ren.  There are no weak links though and it’s equally pleasing to see some of the younger members taking their chance to shine.

Credit too for some impressive staging, There are a fair few locations here – a kitchen, a railway bridge, a gymnasium, a burger bar, and a church to name but a few. No easy task getting all that on around a cast of around 50.

There were some problems at times with the sound mix – dialogue onstage being drowned out by the orchestra. A tricky balance to get right.  That said, the orchestra, conducted by Oliver Rowe, were excellent throughout

Footloose runs until Sat Oct 2^nd. Treat yourself and get a ticket. 

Tom Roberts

Lichfield Garrick

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Rebecca

Lichfield Players

Lichfield Garrick                           

*** 

IN deciding to open their new season with this Daphne du Maurier classic thriller, the players made a wise choice.

The story is a fine mixture of drama, intrigue, love and fear which begins when wealthy Maxim de Winter returns with a new wife to his plush home, Manderley, in Cornwall.

The mysterious drowning of his first wife, the beautiful Rebecca, a year earlier, still haunts the building, and the situation is not helped by the sinister attitude of the spooky housekeeper, Mrs Danvers, well played by Karen Fisher.

There were a few early hiccups on the first night, but the cast grew in confidence as the play progressed to its dramatic and unexpected conclusion.

In her debut with the players, Hannah Freeman impresses as the new Mrs de Winter, helped by Bill Killick's strong performance in the key role of Maxim who appears to have been somehow involved in Rebecca's death.

Stefan Dufaye (Frank Crawley), Denise Baker (Beatrice Lacy), Andrew Bodger (Giles Lacy), David Titley (Jack Flavell) and Phil Shaw (Colonel

Julyan) all make good contributions as the tension builds.

The set is impressive, with the possible exception of a chandelier which is too high in Manderley hall and a doorbell that seems better suited to a fire engine.

It is directed by Carol Lawford. To September 18. 

Paul Marston

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 We Love to Boogie

Spotlight Youth Productions

Brownhills College Theatre

***

WHEN it comes to sheer enthusiasm and not a little skill, the Spotlight youngsters take some beating.

This musical story written by their director, retired West Midlands policeman Steve Groves gave full rein to the splendid cast of 60.

Some well known 70s  songs were woven into the tale of TV company SYPTV suffering from a plunge in audience figures, so the chiefs launched a new show, Pops at the Top, with big personalities like Timmy Saville (Matt Kinson), Smashey (David Anderson) and Nicey (Nick Allen).

Outstanding choreography by Karen Lyon and her team brought the best out of the youngsters, particularly the Pam's People group led by Amber Lakin (Pam) and Grace Foulkes (Alisha).

Fine performances, too, from the leads Charlotte Kinson (Mandy) and Chris Allen (Graham), with Jonjo Smith brimming confidence as Chris, the TV show director.

Ian Windsor was musical director in charge of a lively band. To 17.07.10

Paul Marston

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The Railway Children

Aldridge Youth Theatre

 * * * *

THE intermediate group of AYT gives a first-class performance in Edith Nesbit's classic tale.

 Directed by Isobel Taylor, Dave Simpson's adaptation for the stage enables the youngsters to portray the humour, sadness and joy involved in the story of a young family's struggles when the father, a Foreign Office official, is wrongly jailed for a crime he didn't commit.

 Mrs Waterbury, her two daughters and son, have to leave their plush London home and live in a tiny cottage near the railway station on the Yorkshire Moors, but the friendship the children strike up with an old gentleman passenger on the trains eventually leads to a happy ending.

 Lauren Clark is convincing as the mother, while Emily Castles (Roberta), Amundeep Rajania (Phyllis) and William Young (Peter) act and deliver their lines with great confidence.

 Miles Carlisle is impressive as Albert Perks, the station porter, who also links the action together neatly as narrator, and Alexander Fisher makes his mark in the role of the Old Gentleman.

Nearly 30 volunteers had helped in support work, including construction of the excellent set which contained the livng room of the Waterburys' cottage, part of the countryside and the station, with a framed painting of a stream train and three children waving to passengers and the driver.

 On several occasions the centre of a copse is lowered to reveal a tunnel and railway lines. And the sound effects of steam trains creates atmosphere. To 10.07.10

Paul Marston 

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The Merry Wives of Windsor

Crescent Theatre Touring Company

Birmingham Botanical Gardens

* * * *

OH, what a giggle in the gardens as this talented company began their summer tour with Shakespeare's naughty domestic comedy.

The story of how down-on-his-luck Sir John Falstaff plans to restore his fortunes by seducing the wife of one of Windsor's wealthy citizens is the ideal vehicle for this trip.

Thankfully there was no rain to mar the launch of this open air event at which the audience enjoyed picnics with food and wine while a variety of wildlife - particularly the screeching peacocks - joined in the fun.

Vincent Clarke is in sparkling form as the portly Falstaff who escapes an angry husband on one occasion in a basket full of filthy laundry, then, on another uncompleted mission, dressed as a woman.

His scheme to seduce Mistress Alice Ford is scuppered by the cunning of the attractive woman, well played by Sonia Bethell, and her friend Mistress Meg Page (Debbie McEwan).

Terrific performance, too, from Colin Simmonds as the threatened husband, Francis Ford, and there are outstanding contributions from Pat Dixon (Mistress Quickly), Patrick Bentley (Dr Caius), John Whittell (Sir Hugh Evans), Paul Brotherton (Master Abraham Slender) and Ivor Williams (Master Robert Swallow).

As the sun began to set and was replaced by a chill breeze, some members of the audience used the interval to fetch their car rugs, but the action of the play, directed by Robert Ball, left a warm glow.

The merry wives continue tormenting Falstaff at the Botanical Gardens on July 1 then at Hall Gardens, Castle Bromwich (July 3 and 4), St Nicolas Place, Kings Norton (July 6 & 7), Hall Croft, Stratford-on-Avon (July 10), and Harvington Hall, Kidderminster (July 17 & 18).

The box office is on 0121-643-5858.

Paul Marston

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Dick Barton - Special Agent!

The Circle Players

Aldridge Youth Theatre

***

IT opened with the famous theme tune The Devil's Gallop, then this drama group, founded in Kingstanding, cantered through the spoof of a musical drama about the brave deeds of Dick Barton who comes into conflict with the villainous Baron Scarheart in Phil Willmott's amusing story.

The audience played their part, too, booing the nasty characters, panto-style, then humming along with Land of Hope and Glory while waving the Union flags provided.

Stan Hubbard, in trench coat and trilby, excelled as Dick Barton, even impersonating his sidekick, Snowy to confuse the nasty foreign enemy Baron Scarheart, cleverly played by Clive Barlow, with a dodgy eye patch and accent!

Clair Tregellis was superb as the Baron's sexy assistant, Marta Heartburn, with Matt O'Hare an impressive Jock, and Fay Mason a cute Daphne Fritters, daughter of the missing chief, Sir Stanley Fritters.

Directed by Anne Troman, with Vincent Byrne's musical direction, Dick rides to 12-06-10

 Paul Marston

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Rope

The Fellowship Players

Grange Playhouse, Walsall

***

TWO students are so convinced they have committed the perfect murder that they stage a supper party at the scene of the crime in Patrick Hamilton'a play.

They even use a chest containing the body of a fellow undergraduate as a makeshift table for their guests who include the victim's father, Sir Johnston Kentley.

Lee Hodgetts is outstanding as the over-confident ring leader, Wyndham Brandon, and David Brown gives a fine performance as his pal, Charles Granillo, who starts to buckle under the pressure.

But the plot has some weaknesses. Why, for instance, does Granillo so casually pocket, then mislay, a coliseum ticket that was bound to be a vital clue?

Books given to Sir Johnston (Mark Dallison) on the night of the party are tied up with string, when a piece of rope has been requested. And in the Hitchcock film version the very rope used to strangle the student was used to parcel up the books!

There is, however, a dramatic end to the play when one of the guests, Rupert Cadell (Michael Penn) returns to challenge the guilty pair, having found the boy's show ticket. The acting is outstanding throughout on a perfectly designed set. Directed by Stephen Ralph. To 19-06-10

Paul Marston

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One for the Road

Lichfield Players

Lichfield Garrick Studio

*****

HATS off to the Lichfield Players on an excellent production of Willy Russell’s comedy drama, One for the Road. Directed by Sarah Stanley, the cast of four are, captivating, polished and very, very funny with many laugh out-loud moments.

The Garrick Studio is the ideal arena for this production, the audience could be guests in the Cairn’s lounge/dining room. Rachel Duncan plays the fussy Pauline Cain with conviction and Nigel Lowe as the mischievous and witty Dennis Cairn. They await the arrival of his parents, who never actually make it.   

There have been tales of strange happenings in the neighbourhood, with beheaded gnomes and the defacing of the Venus di Milo. Surely the Parnes kids are responsible.

Dennis is 45 tomorrow and wants to be free of his dormer bungalow trap. He wants to be free, to hit the road.   He hates Richard Claydermann and John Denver with a passion as symbols of the life he leads.

 But Dennis has a secret locked away in the Queen Ann dresser.  Friends Roger (Ian Davies) and Jane (Louise Brennan) come for dinner and throughout the evening secrets are revealed, Roger is a serial philanderer. Pauline is having an affair with Roger; Wednesday afternoons she is Roger’s “Bakewell Tart” to his “John Denver” much to the dismay of Jane.  The ensuing tussle uncovers Dennis’ secret.

Lynda Ford

  An alternative road . . .

*****

WHAT happens when Dennis Cain stands on the brink of a mid-life crisis leads to some brilliantly funny dialogue in Willy Russell's sparkling comedy.

And Sarah Stanley's direction brings out the best in the players' cast of four who are word perfect with the witty exchanges taking place during preparations for a dinner party arranged to celebrate his 45th birthday.

Nigel Lowe is superb as disillusioned Dennis, bored with life on Phase Two of a private housing estate where social climbing is the name of the game, and apparently ready to head for the open road with just a rucksack for company.

His anxious wife, Pauline, beautifully played by Rachel Duncan, tries hard to ignore his rants, but when their posing neighbours and friends Roger and Jane Fuller arrive, Dennis takes a turn for the worse..

Excellent performances, too, from Ian Davies and Louise Brennan as the posey Fullers who find a few skeletons popping out of their own cupboards as tempers become frayed, and Dennis's proposed escape route is blocked in an unexpected and hilarious climax.

The debate between Dennis and Jane, convinced his problems are of a sexual nature, is a hoot. To 12.06.10.

Paul Marston  

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Singin' in the Rain

Sutton Coldfield Musical Theatre Company

Lichfield Garrick

*** 

THIS is a very entertaining production although not always for the right reasons and it fell just short of expectations; just like the custard pie launched at leading lady, Lina Lamont (Sarah Clarke) by Kathy Seldon (Heidi Creswell) in the first act.

Talking movies are the future which causes quite a problem for silent movie stars Don Lockwood (Phil Bourn) and Lina Lamont whose irritating, screechy voice will drive the public away.  When the silent Dueling Cavalier is turned into the musical Dancing Cavalier the only way to success is to overdub Lina’s voice with that of Don’s new love, aspiring star, Kathy, much to the chagrin of Lina, who deludes herself that she and Don are partners on and off screen.

She conspires to lock Kathy into a long term contract as the voice of Lina Lamont ensuring Kathy’s chances of stardom are doomed. The film is a huge success, but Lina’s scheming is undone. Don and Cosmo conspire to uncover her lack of vocal skills and Kathy is acclaimed as a star.

The audience was appreciative of a cast which was energetic and enthusiastic. Richard Ham produced a brilliant comedy performance as Cosmo Brown in Make ‘em Laugh and, again when he joined leading man Phil Bourn (Don Lockwood) in Moses Supposes. Clarke really touched a nerve with that dreadful screechy voice.

Bourn did really well in the lead role of Don Lockwood delivering some very difficult dance routines; in particular with the title song Singin' in the Rain. However, he did seem to be dancing by numbers on occasion.

This was the second night and some things didn’t work that should have, like the pie that missed the mark and the failing smoke effects.

The black and white silent film and the talking Dancing Cavalier were really well done and caused much amusement. To 29-05-10

Lynda Ford

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My Fair Lady

Aldridge Musical Comedy Society

Prince Of Wales Theatre, Cannock

****

THIS much loved Lerner and Loewe musical based on George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion was a joy for the cast and a double triumph for Garry Bailey.

He not only directed the show skilfully, but also played Professor Henry Higgins who transforms common flower girl Eliza Doolittle into a charming woman fit to attend an embassy ball.

Bailey has appeared as Higgins on two previous occasions but this was his first time on stage with the Aldridge company and his confidence rubbed off on the cast.

He formed a fine partnership with Rachel Carruthers, convincing as Eliza in her switch from the Covent Garden pavements to mixing with the aristocracy, and she managed to cope well with th effects of a throat infection.

What a performance, too, from Chris Parry as Eliza's dustman dad, Alfred P. Doolittle. His Get Me to the Church on Time was one of the highlights. Ken Beckett (Colonel Pickering) and Mark Nicholls (Freddy Eynsford-Hill) also impressed, while the orchestra, directed by Ben Batt, excelled. To 22.05.10.

Paul Marston

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  Sweet Charity

 Brownhills Musical Theatre Company

 Lichfield Garrick 

***

THE production was short of real fizz in the early scenes, and even the first of the big numbers - Hey Big Spender - didn't see the cast raise the tempo. 

But gradually Kate Rock lifted the show as the hapless Charity, portraying the sweet nature of the girl destined to fall for the wrong type of men until she seemed to have found 'Mr Right' in the so-shy Oscar Lindquist (Richard Haines). 

One of the highlights was Baby, Dream Your Dream, beautifully sung by Katherine Woolridge and Sarah Thomas, as Nickie and Helene.

It was a surprise when Gary Pritchard (Vidal) took off his tuxedo jacket but climbed into bed with his lady friend – still wearing his smart trousers. Clearly not an Italian stallion!

To 8.5.10

Paul Marston

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Abigail’s Party

Lapworth Players

Lapworth Village Hall

***

WHETHER Mike Leigh’s now near-period-piece play does in fact join the Comedy of Manners pantheon, as it has been suggested that it might, remains to be seen. Certainly, it is a biting satire on estate neighbourhoods of the 1970s and the getting-a-bit-above-themselves citizens who failed to hide the shortcomings standing between them and acceptance in educated society. It would have been good to see Mr Leigh mentioned in the programme. 

Beverly is the hostess of the gathering to which Sue has been invited so that she can escape from the shindig that has been arranged in her own home by her daughter Abigail – and it is Beverly who carries the principal burden of inadvertently holding up herself and others like her to ridicule. It is Beverly who flamboyantly accepts a bottle of Beaujolais from a guest and disappears after revealing that she is about to put it in the fridge. It is Beverly who is prone to upbraid her long-suffering husband in the presence of others. It is Beverly who makes a play for a new man whom the night has produced. It is Beverly who repeatedly makes our toes curl. 

And it is Claire Hill who is charged with ensuring that no aspect of the awfulness of Beverly escapes us. She does this admirably, with a voice that whines incessantly and a tendency to describe everything as little – an adjective she uses about a dozen times in the course of the evening. Huw Cooper is her husband Laurence, a clearly-stressed estate agent who can rarely do anything right for her and who wins our sympathy vote hands-down. 

DIFFIDENT MOTHER

Pam Watt is Sue, the shy, diffident mother in flight from her daughter’s first big party; the woman whom the dreadful Beverly presses to drink and more drink before giving her considered opinion that when you’ve been vomiting in front of blokes it’s embarrassing. In contrast, Sue arrives as an understated role that offers relief from the arguments and false joviality that surround her. 

Mike Brunt is Tony, the taciturn, monosyllabic computer expert who blossoms after initial hesitation before the onslaught of his hostess; and Monica Byng (as his wife Angela) allies an outlandish laugh with some wonderfully erratic walking in response to Beverly’s endless insistence on giving her more drink. She did have some problems with the script on the first night, but much can be forgiven for a character so rosy, so happy and so effortlessly funny. 

At one point in Sue Wall's production, four of the five characters were smoking, which was interesting, because it had been a long time since I had seen a production get under way without the statutory dire warning about having nothing to do with the evil weed. Nor was there the seemingly inevitable reminder about turning mobile telephones off. It took 13 minutes for one of them to ring in a row near the front. It failed to ruin the evening. To 1.5.10.

John Slim

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Anything Goes 

Lichfield Operatic Society

Lichfield Garrick

****

All aboard that’s going aboard  for a fun-filled trip on the SS American. Cole Porter’s Anything Goes has been delighting audiences for more than 75 years and you won’t be disappointed by this latest offering by the Lichfield Operatic Society.

The show is fast paced, full of fun and Porter classics including I Get a Kick Out of You, It’s De-loveley, Anything Goes and Blow, Gabriel, Blow. Set in the early 1930s, Billy Croker’s boss is sailing from New York to London. Billy should be at work on Wall Street but his love Hope Harcourt is also aboard planning to marry her wealthy but dim fiancée Sir Evelyn Oakleigh, during the crossing. Billy stows away believing he can convince Hope to marry him instead and helped by nightclub singer Reno Sweeney and Public Enemy #13 Moonface Martin it all comes right in the end for Billy and hope and Sir Evelyn falls in love with Reno to tie up loose ends.

Dawn Welch plays Reno Sweeney and after a nervous first night start produced an excellent performance.

Jordan Adams seems a natural as Billy Croker and Eion Edwards is perfect as the foppish Sir Evelyn while Craig Allen is hugely entertaining as the second rate gangster Moonface Martin and, for me, Kerry Davies as Bonnie stands out as best performance of the night with Buddie Beware. 

The staging captured the atmosphere of ocean going liner with slick transitions between scenes and the costumes definitely captured the essence of the era.

I had heard that Anything Goes “may probably be the most admired musical of all time” and having watched this production I understand why. To 01-05-10

Lynda Ford

THERE was an unexpected interval during the first act of the opening night when a female cast member literally fell overboard. The member of the chorus fell heavily off the set at the rear of the stage and the curtain was closed for 20 minutes while paramedics were called and the lady treated and checked out before being allowed home

Thankfully the only damage is heavy bruising and not only did the show go on, in full, in the finest theatrical tradition but the lady herself  has vowed to be back on board and is expected to take her place on deck on Thursday night

Anything else . . .

****

A GANGSTER steals the show with Craig Allen giving a superb performance as Moonface Martin –  Public Enemy No 13 – disguised as a clergyman but with a machine gun in his violin case.

He gave the show a happy boost after a real-life drama when, 30 minutes into the first night, a senior lady member of the chorus fell headlong down steps leading from the ship at the rear of the stage.

The curtain came down and there was a 20-minute delay while paramedics treated her for severe bruising before she was taken home and the show resumed. The splendid cast went on to delight the audience with fine numbers, and Anything Goes provided a spectacular end to the first act.

Dawn Welch is an excellent Reno Sweeney; Jordan Adams makes a powerful Billy Crocker and Eve Fehilly impresses as Hope Harcourt. There is a terrific comedy performance, too, from John Cleese look-alike Eoin Edwards, as Sir Evelyn Oakleigh, while Kerri Davies shines as gangster's moll Bonnie.

Faye O'Leary is production director, David Easto musical director, and Charlie Welch and Jessica Lambert choreographers of a quality show.

 Paul Marston 

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Applause!

Watershed Theatre Company

Grange Playhouse, Walsall

***

SIX talented singers delivered a well-chosen programme of old and new songs in this Sunday cabaret evening.

Inevitably, they chose some of the hot numbers from popular musicals, including Miss Saigon, Oliver! and Les Miserables of the more recent shows, with a few oldies such as Oklahoma, Gypsy, Carousel and Ragtime for good measure.

Dawn Horne was first to impress with The Man That Got Away, from A Star is Born, while Jennifer Smith and Alan Lowe sparkled in If I Loved You (Carousel).

Lee Hodgetts delighted the audience in several numbers, combining particularly well with Alan Lowe in Well, did You Evah, from High Society.

Excellent contributions, too, from Karl Steele (Mr Cellophane from Chicago) and Helen Norgrove with an alternative version of Somewhere Over the Rainbow (The Wizard of Oz).

In an powerful finish the full company joined together for the show-stopper from Les Mis – One Day More.

Mike Klymko and Richard Bateman provided the music.

Paul Marston

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Disney's Beauty and the Beast

West Bromwich Operatic Society

Grand Theatre, Wolverhampton

*****

Disney's timeless fairy story is delivered with style, imagination and vivid colour – plus the spectacular happy ending when the Beast is transformed back into a handsome Prince with a mid-air spin.

The emotional musical runs like clockwork, with the leads outstanding and the chorus work impressive throughout.

John Wetherall is a magnificent Beast, both when snarling and violent or, as his relationship with Beauty begins to develop, tender and loving. He has a fine voice, and forms the ideal partnership with Kim Lavender, who is bright and bubbly as Belle, the beauty with the power to remove the spell from her hideous captor.

Excellent performances, too, from Leon Davies as the village bully, Gaston, Sam Robinson (Lumière), Nicholas Sullivan (Cogsworth), Sarah Moors (Mrs Potts), Tye Harris (Lefou) and Peter Worrall (Maurice).   

Costumes and special effects are top-notch, as are Mike Capri's direction and choreography, and Jonathan Hill's musical direction. To 24.04.10

Paul Marston

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The Pirates of Penzance (Australian Version)

Willenhall Operatic Society

Dormston Mill Theatre, Sedgley

*****

ALL the famous songs of Gilbert & Sullivan's classic operetta had been updated and I have never seen the show performed with such enthusiasm and outrageous humour. Producer-director Andy Poulton ensured a triumph, and he even built the stunning pirate ship,

Alf Rai was a joy as the Pirate King, Rob Dixon sparkled as Frederic, and there was wonderful comedy from Colette Edwards (Ruth). Fine contributions, too, from Charlotte Wood (Mabel), John Wiley (Major General Stanley) and Mark Friedl, the Sergeant of police.

The chorus was in great voice, and the squad of terrified policemen and women a real hoot as they charged through the auditorium in pursuit of the amusing pirates.

Laura Canadine and Meg Dowen provided imaginative choreography, with musical direction by Mike Cotton who, with a specially strengthened baton, even had a sword fight with the pirate king. To 17.04.10

Paul Marston

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Flatspin

The Fellowship Players

Grange Playhouse, Walsall

***

THERE are times during this Alan Ayckbourn play when you have to remind yourself that it's a comedy rather than a drama about an elaborate police drug sting operation.  

Would the young actress - or actor as Rosie Seymour calls herself - really adopt the identity of the absent owner while only standing in for the caretaker, or be prepared to hop into bed with the neighbour who apparently pops in for a chat? 

The place is supposed to be bugged by a forest of mics and spy cameras, yet some of the 'good guys' involved in the plan to catch a drug dealer behave as though no one can see them. 

Sarah Philips is excellent as the sex-starved actress, and there are amusing scenes as she prepares to seduce caller Sam Berryman (Sam Evans) only to find he has hopped it while she was undressing in the bedroom. 

Then Chris Gardner, as another security man in the 'sting' team, offers an indecent proposal and is felled by the truncheon he invites Rosie to test! 

Gerry Joyce impresses as the team leader, and Naomi Millard is an amusing enforcer, while Sue Richardson plays the dangerous drug dealer. 

A superb set for the Docklands apartment was designed by David Tonks. 

Directed by Chris Pomlett. To 24-04-10

Paul Marston

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West Side Story

 Garrick Youth Theatre

 Lichfield Garrick

****

A TALENTED young company celebrates its 25th anniversary in style, with Richard Poynton’s impressive directing début.

 Jessica Lambert’s choreography enables the youngsters to demonstrate their skills, especially in the lively prologue where the teenage Americans and Puerto Ricans flex their muscles.

The lads are in great form with the comedy number, Officer Krupke, and there are strong performances from Daniel Breakwell (Tony), Phoebe Wade (Maria), Robert Glynn (Bernardo), Charlotte Middleton (Anita) and Romayne Sturridge (Riff) – though Daniel Breakwell needs to show more fury in the knifing scene and when he is told of his new girlfriend's supposed death.

Oliver Rowe is musical director. To 10.3.10.

Paul Marston

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Carousel

Walsall Operatic Society

Lichfield Garrick

****

ONE of the first musicals to contain a tragic plot, this Rodgers and Hammerstein classic is given the full tear-jerker treatment in a splendid production.

From the fairground opening with its impressive carousel horses, juggler and acrobat the atmosphere is perfect.

Director Richard Poynton deserves great credit helped by the fact that the leads are excellent and the chorus strong, particularly in the big numbers like June is Bustin' Out All Over, A Real Nice Clambake, and of course the show-stopper, You'll Never Walk Alone.

Trainee solicitor Tom Fletcher makes a fine Billy Bigalow, the handsome but ill-mannered carousel barker who is lured into crime by the dangerous Jigger Craigin (Simon Docherty).

Fletcher has a strong voice and the ideal partner in University of Birmingham undergraduate Charlotte Mills, playing the pretty but naive young mill worker Julie Jordan who falls for Billy's charms and suffers for his faults.

Outstanding performances, too, from Cassie Woolridge as Carrie Pipperidge and Craig Smith, her fisherman boyfriend, Mr Snow, with Jayne Ison (Nettie Fowler), Rose Marie Burnell (Mrs Mullins) and Philippa Mills (Louise) also on song.

Ian Room is musical director and Michelle Baker choreographer of a cracking show. The Carousel keeps turning until 20-3-10

Paul Marston

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