Each year our local NODA (National Operatic & Dramatic Association) representative comes along to see our show at the Queen's and we all frantically bite our nails hoping she'll like what she sees! This year Diane Gilchrist came to our VIP night on Thursday 8th July and here's what she thought...
This musical is based on a 1984 film and relates the problems that beset a small town after a tragic road crash in which four young people died. A ban on dancing followed tis, and when Ren McCormack moves to Bomont, he is determined to liven up the place, and soon gets to work on the young people of the town.
The opening really set the pace for this show, and the sheer exuberance of the cast was mind blowing. The chorus singing was good and full marks go to the Chorus Mistress, Catriona Wheelan. I especially liked the harmonies between Rusty, Urleen and Wendy Jo. The choreography was terrific, and the cast really looked as if they were enjoying every minute.
The parts of Ren and Ariel were extremely well played, singing and dancing with great panache and style. Although it would seem unfair to mention other individuals as everyone played their part with great conviction and confidence, I feel that a special mention must be made of Rev Moore and his wife Vi. The singing and acting of both characters was excellent and the poignant number ‘Can you find it in your heart’ was super, and provided such a contrast to the livelier numbers.
The staging, although basic, was used to great advantage, and the stage crew worked so efficiently that in seconds we were transported from scene to scene. The idea of the band being on stage was good, as they really were part of the action. Costumes were just right for the 80’s. The lighting was excellent, but there was a problem at times with the sound, in as much as the amplification was so great that some of the dialogue was lost, which was a pity. This was a minor glitch in what otherwise was an excellent production.
Well done to all concerned.
