An enthusiastic crowd were treated to the very best of the Gershwin's music in this new national touring production of the Broadway and West End favourite that packed 'em in for a decade. This production, directed by Lincoln Theatre Royal's Chris Colby, has more of a repertory feel about it and he has given many of the musical numbers a makeover. Sometimes it works - sometimes it doesn't. The central characters: Polly played by the talented Melanie Stace and Bobby by the versatile Darren Bennett, give it 100%+ and excelled in both dance and vocals. Darren was superb doing his impersonation of the flamboyant impresario Bela Zangler. The role of Bobby is a demanding one and he is certainly up to the challenge. Melanie sang a wistful 'Someone to watch over me' and has the kind of confidence to admire and makes her character larger than life. A large cast supports all of this with Mark Wynter as the real Bela, Jenny Cox as a sultry Irene and Christopher Beeny and Sue Hodge as the English eccentrics and scene-stealers Eugene and Patricia Fodor. With music directed by Jonathan Gill and a good sized band the Gershwin melodies ring out loud and clear. After Birmingham this production continues on tour until the end of August.
Written by Clive Fuller
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