Show: Me and My Girl
Society: Ulverston Amateur Operatic Society (UAOS)
Venue: THE CORO ULVERSTON
Credits: Music, Noel Gray Book & Lyrics L.Arthur Rose and Douglas Furber
Type: Sardines
Author: Graham Whalan
Performance Date: 03/10/2023
Me and My Girl
Graham Whalan | 05 Oct 2023 16:08pm
Photo: Courtesy of UAOS
In the time of so-called ‘Juke-box’ and ‘Mega-musicals’ I often find it very refreshing to be reminded of some of the classic productions of the past, and certainly those which have stood the test of time. UAOS’ current production of Me and My Girl fits nicely into this category. First produced in 1937 it is a show which clearly has its roots in the music hall and variety tradition, with its simple rags-to-riches plotline, breezy popular songs and comic interludes, and the members of UAOS bring all this to life very successfully.
The plot centres on Bill Snibson, the common cockney geezer who unexpectedly becomes heir to a grand estate. But, before he can inherit, the formidable Duchess of Dene decides he must be re-educated in the social airs and graces of the toff and, crucially, ditch his equally unrefined girlfriend, Sally Smith. All efforts inevitably fail and, naturally, true love wins the day.
James Simpson as Bill perhaps lacks a bit of cockney swagger, but he carries off the role with an effortless, easy-going charm and his relationship with Sally, played both sympathetically and with assured comic timing by Helen Day, comes over as both tender and natural. Meanwhile, whilst Nicky Diggle plays the Duchess with a fearsome gusto, this is nicely countered by Allan Lewis’ more avuncular portrayal of Sir John Tremayne. Much of the comedy of course springs naturally from the inevitable culture clashes, which provide scope for lots of corny puns and misunderstandings. Bill’s interactions with the rigid and impassive butler Charles, played by Matt Berry, are priceless, as is Sally’s persistent mangling of history – ‘You know who Joan of Arc was, don’t you?’ ‘Of course! She was Mrs Noah.’
The score, as I say, is breezy and lively although I have to say, this being an opening night, the energy level did come across as a little low. Even so, there were some excellent comic touches – for example, there was Herbert Parchester, the Family Solicitor’s rather zany, but brisk and bouncy dance routine, by means of which he imparted invaluable legal advice, and there was Clare Coulston who, as Lady Jacqueline Parstone, performed with appropriate allure and confidence You Would if You Could, as she attempted a sensual, and gloriously unsubtle, attempt to seduce Bill. At the end of the first Act the rousing Lambeth Walk perhaps unsurprisingly brought everyone to life and, with The Sun Has Got his Hat On at the opening of Act Two the pace then seemed to quicken.
Alongside the songs the dance numbers prove very effective as they successfully manage to provide a temporary diversion whilst also complementing the action of the play. I understand this is Katie Postlethwaite’s first go at providing the choreography for a major production, and she has definitely done well. In fact this show marks the debut of a new creative team altogether since Brenda Hindle, having steered UAOS through more than 20 successful shows, has now decided to take a step back. In her place well-known local performer Russ Palmer brings his wealth of experience to production duties, and, in addition to Katie Postlethwaite, he is ably assisted by Musical Directors Phil Blackburn and Peter Dyer.
In short, this is a show which clearly has a great deal of heart, and is performed with much enthusiasm by a hard-working and experienced cast. Its cheerful optimism seems very welcome and timely in these uncertain times, and UAOS, once again, very effectively produces yet another delightful evening of entertainment.
- : admin
- : 03/10/2023