ACT Theatre Reviews 2021-2022

Director, Natalie Bowden, handled the large cast well and together with Mhairi Jennings added some lovely choreography to the numbers. The children were animated throughout and never marginalised as sometimes happens in other productions. The office scenes were stylish and sharp and the full cast numbers filled with energy and joy. The whole cast was strong, however, a number of performers stood out. As the young Josh Baskin, Jack Ashworth, was endearing and engaging with sweet vocals. I felt Jack should have been a little more disguised during the ensemble pieces elsewhere as this was a little confusing. Jake Hornsey, as best friend Billy, was superb. Consistently entertaining Jake was one of the standouts of the night. Well done on a great performance. Robbie Carnegie played George MacMillan with warmth and nonchalance whilst Rebecca Towner-Yates, as Mrs Baskin, showed the pain of a mother worried about her missing son. Melissa Steele’s portrayal of the initially corporate climbing Susan Lawrence showed her talents as a character actress and her opening number demonstrated strong vocals and comic timing. Special mention must go to Freia Reidel-Fisher as the ever-suffering Miss Watson. Eye catching throughout with excellent vocals, characterisation and movement, Freia was a delight to watch. The success of the evening ultimately rests on the likeability and believability of the grown-up Josh Baskin. Fortunately, Seb Green delivered both in abundance. With a strong vocal range and superb acting, both in dialogue and through song, Seb ensured that the audience was with him every step of the journey. On an evening of big theatre, big songs, big dance numbers and big performances it is appropriate that the biggest thing of all were the smiles of the audience members as they rose to their feet at the bows. Thank you to Bowden Theatre Works for your hard work and kind hospitality.

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