Reviewed by Fran Edwards
May 2013
Marie Clark Musical Theatre has picked a winner for the first show this year! Director Ben Stefanoff has cast this piece well and MD Emma Knights and choreographer Ali Walsh have displayed the cast’s talent.
Buddy Dawson is J. Pierrepont Finch; the role fits him like a glove. He sings it well and shows he can dance! The object of his affection, Rosemary is played beautifully by Rachel Da Graca Costa. They make a great couple and work well together.
The other key roles are also well filled. Bud Frump, is portrayed by Chris Daniels, who has all the right annoying habits, and Kristin Stefanoff plays Smitty with just the right attitude.
Other fine performances come from Katherine Fielding (Miss Jones), Max Rayner (J.B. Biggley), Michael Coumi (Bratt) and Callum Byrne (Gatch). Really all the male cast did well each playing at least one named character. Jamie Wright and Sean Hilton both played two characters and managed to make them noticeably different. Rachel Dow charcterised Hedy LaRue well but could have been helped in a few scenes by sexier costumes.
The sets, designed by Ben Stefanoff, were bight and colourful and the changes were smooth and fast. Ali Walsh’s choreography sparkled, especially the all male, toe tapper Brotherhood of Man.
Costumes were good especially the males, who all looked smart and businesslike. Lights and audio supported the high standard of the production, making it fun to watch. This is a show to tap your toes to and come out singing the tunes. Do yourself a favour, don’t miss this fun show.
