Director: Peter Pennington
Choreographer: Sally Wild
Musical Director: John Crosdale
Manchester Music Award Nominations: |
Alan Titley awarded "Best Actor" in his role as King Arthur |
This production was well thought out and made good use of the difficult stage scenery by Fredericks of Weston-Super-Mare, which was quite magical. The costumes were indeed spectacular and eye-catching. Without a King Arthur, you don't have a Camelot, and Urmston found an Arthur with all the emotional and acting skills to tell the story.
Alan Titley gave a most excellent performance: even his hand gestures were a joy to watch. All the supporting roles were well covered, but I must single out Jill Ratcliffe as Guenevere. She gave another stylish performance. Jill knew how to support her fellow actors and how to command a scene.
Chorus work underlined the hard work the society had put in. A very fine production. Congratulations to you all.
His rival, Lancelot (Lee Roberts) was a creditable knight. His French accent was an asset and his rendering of melodies like "If Ever I Would Leave You" sent me weak at the knees. Guenevere, a lovely lady with a conscience, was played by Jill Ratcliffe and there was good support from Gordon Harrison as Merlin. John Walker as jolly Pellini and young Lee Christian as the dreadful Mordred.
The ladies contribution was excellent too, as were the dancing girls. The special effects were original, particularly the use of the echo chamber when Merlin spoke. There were also some impressive backdrops, but why no round table? A glimpse of it at least would have been nice.