Phoenix Players Oh What A Lovely War.

Arts Centre 24th September 2014

The Phoenix Players have returned to the Arts Centre stage with a bang; and quite literally too. I have to admit that this was a first for me. I have never seen Oh What A Lovely War. I would, after this offering, see it again.

Daphne Breakspear came up trumps with a wonderful production and showed her experience in the direction.

A great deal of rehearsal must have gone into this musical play which spans a gambit of emotions, with some very funny moments. The company of 26 players were excellent.

The singing of those well known war time songs, including the audience participation, was ably accompanied by John Davies, on keyboard and Keith Tyler, on percussion. All sung with gusto and at times with such sympathy that the message most certainly went home to those in the audience.

I loved the strong male chorus, off stage, singing against the back projection of war photographs and the chilling information of the millions of men killed.

Some of which actually brought a tear to my eye, as they were so evocative and emotional, and gasps and sighs from other members of the audience.

Any single one of the main characters portrayed could be relied upon to give just as strong a performance as the rest of the company. I have to say that a star in the making is Max Sly who gave the ultimate performance on the night. It's no wonder when he comes from such a talented family.

Steph Trinci, Margaret Price and all the other solo singers, both male and female, sang well.

Costumes, staging, back projection, lighting and props were cleverly thought out throughout. This play needs an exceptional technical team. It had one.

The Phoenix Players have risen to the challenge with this production and succeeded at every level.

Oh What A Lovely War runs until Saturday. Miss it and you have missed a treat and an astonishing history lesson into the bargain.

Ros Hollands