ANYTHING GOES

Ulverston Amateurs

Director: Brenda Hindle

Musical Director: Peter Dyer

Choreographer Sally McKimm

 

This production by Ulverston Amateurs was the 1960s version of Cole Porter’s high seas frolics. This society once again displayed just what a company production is all about. The cast pulled out every stop to deliver entertainment.

 

A very workable set came from The Border Studio and the show was tastefully dressed by Dress Circle. The presentation was excellent although, if I can just mention, where tattoos are visible maybe appropriate make-up could be used. The lighting plot was good, and the sound was excellent. All these elements made this voyage on board the S.S. American a colourful and delightful 1930s romp.

 

Cole Porter’s music and lyrics were in safe hands. The vocal coach, Michelle Larcombe, and the M.D kept a tight rein on the tempo and phrasing. The singing, and the band, delivered the “Porter” magic. This set the way for the dancers with their well thought out routines. The nifty tap-dancing adding another layer to the entertainment value. The captain of this ship was certainly the director. All the dotty passengers and quirky characters made the show “De–Lovely”.

 

There were many enjoyable cameos. In particular Jenny Schofield, as Evangeline Harcourt, Hope’s toffee-nosed mother and Allan Lewis, as the goofy Wall Street mogul, Elisha Whiney. And how can we possibly forget Ching (Ken Hindle) and Ling (Andy Bond) with their comical capers.

 

There is so much of American vaudeville within this show. There is a zany mobster, Moonface Martin, and the gangster’s chick, Bonnie. Russ Palmer and Clare Coulston were a good double act, getting the comedy across and engaging in some entertaining slapstick.

 

Then there is the upper-class twit, Sir Evelyn Oakleigh. Adam Atkinson certainly knows how to deliver a funny line. He also knows the value of a look or gesture to get a laugh.

 

The unofficial cruse entertainer is Reno Sweeney. Nicky Diggle played a confident Reno and, along with her company of Angels, mocked the American evangelists with the kooky gospel about Gabriel.

 

As in all shows there is the plucky hero. For this musical it is Billy Crocker. He chases and seduces Hope Harcourt with entrancing songs such as “All Through the Night”. Robbie Mahy carried the part well: he became Billy and is a promising leading man in the making. Billy’s love, Hope, was delightfully portrayed by Phoebe Greaves. Phoebe’s gracious stage presence and effortless singing gave the character such charm.

 

This show is sheer fun with some of the best songs around, and this production captivated all that.