Review of Bugsy Malone

Disclaimer: By The way this is a really long review

A review of The Rattonians Youth Group Production of Bugsy Malone.

I went to watch The Rattonians Youth group on opening night, Wednesday 30^th October 2013. Over the previous few days I had heard rumours that not all was going as planned but I was confident they would rise to the challenge as they always do and put on a brilliant performance, and I was more than right.

Each performance was slick and even when some may have had small lapses in memory they covered it with style and confidence. I have to begin with a review of Grace Allen. Her voice was stunning through every song, matched perfectly by style and timing. Her Blousy attitude and all the scenes with Alex were played perfectly and I was extremely proud seeing her go from strength the strength after seeing her performance in Just So earlier in the year. Alex Dry as Bugsy conveyed confidence when on stage alone, explaining the changes in storyline with character and class. Seeing him all grown up since Oliver he is developing his craft and could potentially be someone to look out for in the future on the west end. James Tomlinson always makes me smile. His characterisation is always spot on from his mannerisms and physical appearance to the voice he uses. When he got angry at the boys I couldn't stop giggling. Another potential star in my eyes. Aaron Wilder dazzled me with his dance skills. Yet again his singing was effortless as he strode across the stage but with the amazing choreography, by the equally amazing Laura Sivers, he added to his performance. Becka Wyatt looked beautiful and sounded beautiful. The style of song was perfect for her voice and matched with the dancing routine made me love her character. A slightly seductive edge that matured her performance effectively. Rhys Clarke was fabulous as the evil Dandy Dan. Accompanied by his despicable gang of accomplices I was thoroughly entertained. I wish I could mention every person by name but we would be here forever because there is something I could say about every one of you.

I have to shout out to the wonderful costume and props provided by the Rattonians but organised, made, fixed, altered and made fabulous by Pat Saunders. She works extremely hard to make sure the show looks perfect and does a wonderful job every time. Always lovely backstage making sure you are okay and just generally being an amazing woman. It would not be the same if she wasn't around just for a quick smile.

Choreography as always doesn't need any explaining. As per-usual Debbie Hackett pulls out all the stops to create dance moves tailored to the specific style asked of her. I am always excited to see each sequence and step as it makes you smile just by doing it. The stand out dances were Fat Sam's Grand Slam, Down and Out and Bad Guys. How they manage to fit all those children on the stage I'll never know but allowing so many children to appreciate the quality of dance she provides is wonderful.

With Alex Adams' direction the production took full form. Each scene flowed into the other with an effective use of lighting and sound effects. Then to take on the role on stage controlling the show put a lot of pressure on his direction but all the transitions worked effortlessly. Even his one line off-stage was heard without microphones and was easily recognisable as him.

Carl as always looked as if he was 'enjoying' himself, even but grabbing a hat that had fallen off onto the front of the stage and placing it on his own head for the remaining of the show. And again as always the music sounded beautiful, a band the west end would be proud to play with.

But, can we just mention the Splurge. There was masses of it fired in 'shots' all over the stage which Aaron did an exquisite job in clearing every time a mess was made. At the very end when everyone and everything was covered in Splurge I was terrified for all of you dancing. When I saw Grace slip my heart was in my mouth it seemed I was willing you all to stay on your feet, and for that performance at least you all did.

All in all a performance all of you should be extremely proud of as I was very proud of you all. Sharing the stage with talented youngsters as yourselves is an honour and a privilege. The atmosphere backstage is always so excitable and friendly you can always find someone to talk to. Such a tight knit group it feels almost like family. Well done.

 

 

From now on I’m going to just talk about my brother as I am biased and cringey like that.

Kieran made me both jealous and proud all at once. For his second show with the Rattonians he was at the front, on a microphone, had parts and responsibilities, as well as giving a great performance. You can tell his love for musical theatre has grown. He is behaving as a role model to other members as well as being strict. He has made some great friendships. Unfortunately, me and him are probably just as equally hard to costume as we are the total extremes in size. His tall thin figure made the suits and hats made him look very funny and accentuated his ears which I found hilarious. I love him to pieces and miss him very much at University and wherever he ends up going to college next year I’m sure he will excel and get exactly where he wants to in life with some great qualifications. Well done smelly.