This show was a new experience for me as it was the first time I had seen the stage show. All the problems of a society wedding come to the fore as morning dawns on the day prior to the wedding. Socialite Tracy Samantha Lord is marrying ambitious George Kittredge. Sian Esselmont carried off the role of Tracy, fully justifying her casting and giving an excellent portrayal of the spoilt bride to be. Singing was spot on and Sian took full advantage of the champagne situation the night before the wedding. Gareth McMurdo was more than 'at home' in the role of Tracy's former husband C K Dexter Haven. Gareth was a natural in this role and his confident manner in script and score was just perfect,'Just One of Those Things' and of course the lovely duet with Tracy, 'True Love' being very well received.

Fine perfomances from the versatile Andrew Bond as Reporter Mike Connor and Bev Southall as Liz Imbrie. As well as their well known 'Who Wants To Be A Millionaire', both solo numbers -'You're Sensational' and 'He's a Right Guy' hit the right note. Vivica Flynn portrayed Tracy's glamourous mother, Margaret Lord, with precision and Phil Evans just revelled in the role of alcoholic Uncle Willie. The performance I saw had Tracy's young sister Dinah ably played by Katy Collins, sharing this role with Jodie Breakwell, both youngsters fully demonstrating their talents. Nice contribution from Dylan Francis as Seth Lord, Tracy's wayward father and suitor Jonathan Davies as George Kittredge who loses Tracy in the final moments.

Costumes were very much of the period and I must complement stage staff on their swift and silent scene changes. Chorus numbers were well presented but I thought the stage became rather crowded with twenty six maids and servants together with Lord's Household Staff, I could have done with a few of them myself! Thank you all once again for your most generous hospitality and I look forward to your world premiere of the musical Lorna Doone in October 2010.

Reviewed by Lynn Emmerson

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