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Brilliant! was the verdict of Clare aged 10 ½ (don’t forget the half), excellent! said Janet aged 64 ¾ (don’t forget the three quarters) and the two of us who are somewhere in between wholeheartedly agreed. Also congratulations to Dave Willetts, Shona Lindsay and company as Clare stayed awake for the whole performance unlike recent theatre experiences (sorry G4 and Shakin’ Stevens).
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers is based on a story by Greek historian Mestrius Plutarchus and was written in 75 AD.It tells the story of the abduction of the Sabine women by Roman soldiers.American Stephen Vincent Benet updated the tale in 1928. Entitled The Sobbin’ Women, the setting was 19th century Tennessee, the Roman soldiers became naïve backwoodsmen – the Pontipee Brothers, and it tells how they came to marry their wives, and so the musical loved by many was born. The show opens with the classic “Bless Your Beautiful Hide” sung by Adam Pontipee, played by Master of the Musicals Dave Willetts and his performance was, as expected, very strong, although we did struggle to hear him and some of the other male cast at times.Shona Lindsay is a delight as Millie, his bride, with a beautiful, clear voice.The supporting cast of brothers and brides was fantastic and the dancing, especially the men, was astounding - even though they did seem to be a bit cramped on the small stage, they still managed some breathtaking leaps.The highlights were the Social Dance and the wood chopping scene.Those were Clare’s favourite bits.
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The set was fairly simple, but effective, easily transporting us to Tennessee in the 1800’s with wooden houses and barns, which turned to reveal interiors.The scene changes were smooth and nothing seemed to get stuck!Costumes, as you would expect, were colourful with lots of frilly petticoats swirling around for the ladies. This is a great show for all the family - with music, dancing, a touch of comedy and a good storyline, there’s something for everyone. Carole Green |
