S.A.L.O.S Anniversary Production Review (From Swindon Advertiser)

S.A.L.O.S Anniversary Production Review

12:00pm Monday 24th October 2011 in Reviews

SALOS present their 60th anniversary production, 'Crazy For You' at the Wyvern Theatre this week.

Music and lyrics are by George and Ira Gershwin and book by Ken Ludwig; co-conception by Ken Ludwig and Mike Ockrent. It is inspired by material by Guy Bolton and John Mcgowan.

Review by Ros Hollands: I did wonder how director, Russell Langdown would follow last years excellent production of Beauty and The Beast.

Well, this is a completely different genre, going back to those old fashioned musicals, with memorable Gershwin tunes including I Got Rhythm, Naughty Baby, They Can't Take That Away from Me, and Nice Work if You Can Get It, to name but a few.

It's a high energy comedy which includes mistaken identity, plot twists, a feast of dance numbers and classic Gershwin music.

The story revolves around Bobby Child, a well-to-do 1930's playboy, with a dream in life to dance. James Canning, as Bobby, is a stalwart of SALOS leading men with a good voice and acting ability.

He also made a passable dancer (it takes years to become super proficient in this art). Despite the serious efforts of his mother, played by, Louise Van Der Watt, and soon-to-be-ex-fiancee, Irene Roth, beautifully played by Gemma Short, Bobby achieves his dream.

Jenny Webb was perfect in the lead role of Polly. She has a wonderful stage presence and a singing voice which was just right for these Gershwin numbers.

Martin Whiteley, at the moment on television in the reality TV series ‘Showboaters,’ portrayed his character, Bela Zangler with a great deal of panache.

Crazy for You is an all singing all dancing production and so credit must go to choreographer Judith Hockaday and director Russell, who I know is an accomplished dancer himself. Credit must also go to the company who had to perform these numbers, which on the first night were not as tight as they could have been.

However, after a couple of performances I’m sure they will be.

The orchestra, although a little loud at times, was excellent under the direction of Malcolm Webb. As were costumes, lighting, sound and scenery.

This feel good factor show is a must for all those who have an evening to spare. I remember my first SALOS show at the Mechanics theatre when I was little.

That’s probably about 50 years ago. May I congratulate you on your 60 years and may you continue for many more.

Ros Hollands