"I was looking forward to this production, and I certainly was not let down.  The Society were fortunate to have quite an experienced cast for the show.  Many had taken principal roles in the past, and this hopefully helped the director.  This was very much a team show.  It was a change not to see someone feel that they were the 'star' of the show.

'I Got Rhythm' from the moment the orchestra got under way, under the baton of

 

Musical Director - Matthew Little.  There is only one word to describe this man - brilliant - where does he get his energy from?  His arms moved like giant windmills throughout the evening.  I'm sure he would generate enough electricity to light the whole stage!!  Matthew knows what he wants from both the orchestra and those on stage - and everyone follows the high standards he sets.  The audience said it all at the end of the show - no one moved - but sat spellbound throughout two encores of the play out music.

 

Director - Jennifer Scott.  This may have been her first show as director for Chinnor, but I'm sure it will not be her last.  Her experience showed and it was obvious the cast had enjoyed working with her.  There were imaginative touches in the production.  She had made the cast aware of what she wanted and they responded so well.  I'm not sure who's idea it was for some of the male dancers to have their left foot in a bucket - very thoughtful!  The stage never looked overcrowded, good use was made of all entrances and exits - I know you only have limited space backstage.  Congratulations.

Choreographer - Gemma Scott.  You must have put in many hours with the dancers and the cast; and the proof was there for all to see.  Every member of the cast knew what they were doing, and it was done with a smile and precision.  Congratulations.

James Fitzgerald - 'Bobby Child'.  No stranger to this part.  He gave a competent performance and fitted the bill well: looked good on stage and danced confidently.  Diction and singing were fine - I liked the drunk scene with Bela Zangler.  Some work must have been put in by you both to make it look so good.  Congratulations.

 

Barrie Scott - 'Bela Zangler'.  Another experienced performer, who was no stranger to the show, or part.  I have mentioned the 'drunk' scene previously.  The rest of your characterisation was good, and your timing of the deliverance of your lines was very good.  Well done.

George Riddell - 'Lank Hawkins'.   Looked the part, and I enjoyed your characterisation throughout.  Good clear diction and upright stance on stage at all times.  I'm glad you enjoyed all the dancing exercises you were put through!!

 

Harry Sullivan - 'Everett Baker'.  A cameo part for the 'older generation'; played to perfection.

Joy Skeels - 'Polly Baker'.  The romantic lady - who will never forget this show, having to learn your lines in Hawaii, whilst on honeymoon with Mr Moose.  Well you both must have got down to the task well, as I never noticed a prompt for either of you!!!  Your character was beautifully performed and you seemed at ease working opposite Bobby - it was as if you were made for each other.  Looked good, and on the whole sang well - there were a few notes which made me feel that you were getting a little tired; still, two shows on Saturday is more than enough for anyone, and then you had all the worries of a Chairman.  You danced exquisitely.  Congratulations.

Chris Wright - 'Irene Roth'.  Fitted the role of the New York society girl - or as the programme has it, "Naughty Baby" - well.  Looked good on stage, clear diction and did all that was asked of her with confidence.  Well done.

Pat Pribyl and Ken Ebbs - 'Patricia and Eugene Fodor'.  These two cannot be separated.  They were perfectly matched for these cameo roles.  They made everyone smile each time they appeared on stage.  Excellent facial expressions.  Well done both of you.

Time and space restricts me reporting in depth on each minor character, for which I hope they will forgive me, but overall each and every one gave a good account of themselves, entering into the spirit of the production and developing the right character.

The Follies Girls.  All nine of you worked extremely hard and did it with a smile.  You looked dazzling in your array of beautiful costumes, which dazzled the audience and made one feel as if one were in Las Vegas; and you were well supported by the other showgirls.  The cowboys were not going to be left on the sidelines, and they proved themselves to be equal to all that went on around them.  The singing of all company members was crisp and full of energy and vitality in its deliverance, e.g. 'I Got Rythm' - you certainly had!!

 

Stage Manager - Jeremy Peters and his hard working crew deserve an Oscar.  This was a massive set, but good, by Proscenium Ltd, which needed sorting out on a comparatively small stage.

 

Stage Director - Ernie Thomas; had burnt the midnight oil, working things out with you all, as well as being a principal cowboy.  How many other people have given such devoted service to the one society?  Good on you, Ernie.  I wish that there were more of your sort in societies today.  Congratulations.  The set looked fantastic and everything seemed to work well.

The Whole Production Team and Cast made this a night to remember.  I certainly shall - it was equal to some West End shows.  Thank you all very much.  I look forward to your next production."