Reviewed by Laraine Ball
October 2010
Marie Clark’s latest production is the eclectic musical revue ‘The World Goes Round’ a showcase of the songs from songwriting team Kander and Ebb.
John Kander and Fred Ebb wrote mainly for stage musicals including ‘Cabaret’, ‘Chicago’, ‘The Rink’, ‘Curtains’ and ‘Woman of the Year’ to name a few. However, they are perhaps best known for ‘New York, New York’ which became the signature song of Frank Sinatra.
‘The World Goes Round’ is a selection of some of the lesser and better known songs from various Kander and Ebb musicals. This revue features songs that depict the highs and lows of life. As the song ‘And the world goes round’ says, ‘sometimes you’re happy, sometimes you’re sad, but the world goes round’.
Like many revues there are strengths and weaknesses, highs and lows. However, overall Director Ben Saunders has delivered a polished and entertaining production.
Saunders and ensemble unravel a series of songs with good timing and finesse on an appealing and adaptable set. The costumes and set have a black and white theme with a splash of colour added, in particular red. The overall effect is alluring.
Each member of the ensemble holds their own and contributes to the success of this revue. Choreographer Kylie Pedlerís work has its ups and downs, and some of the musical numbers are more appealing than others. However, this is an accomplished show with much appeal.
The sound, lighting and the musical direction of Gordon Combes are crisp and enable this ensemble of talented performers to shine.
Stand-out performances come from Alisa James in ‘Colored Lights’ from ‘The Rink’ Chris Eaton in ‘Sometimes a Day Goes By’ from ‘Woman of the Year’ Nikki Gaertner in ‘How Lucky Can You Get’ from ‘Funny Lady’ and Omkar Nagesh’s humourous rendition of ‘Sara Lee’ from ‘The Act’.
Jenny Scarce-Tolley and Maxine Morales team up for an absolutely wonderful performance of ‘The Grass is Always Greener’ from ‘Woman of the Year’.
