Review

24^th June 2007

Dear Tony,

Please convey to your members, cast, musicians and stage hands my profound thanks for dedicating such a splendid show to Vera.  She would have been astonished that so much has been written about her, and to have such a professional show given in recognition of her contribution to amateur performance gave me so much pleasure and comfort.

The show was good throughout, and I was thrilled to hear people whom I had invited tell me how much they had enjoyed it and how ‘west end’ they thought it.  Individual performances were exceptional. But so was the chorus work.  I led the applause for the Ascot set, which I thought excellent in both presentation and form, and I congratulate you all for your hard work in making it appear so effortless.

It has to be said that the direction was impeccable.  Also, the choreography, which allowed all the performers to express themselves, but within tightly controlled set pieces.  To see a stage full of men and not feel uncomfortable that one or more of them might look awkward was a sign of their hard work.  The excellence  of the Dames sequence was their reward.  Equally, the girls looked good and danced with such ease that every movement was a delight.  Sexy?  Not ‘arf!

Performers rely upon their musical back up, and last night the band gave all the support anyone could wish for.  It is a pity that the sound at the theatre didn’t match the performance, both of the band and of the singers. 

It all added up to a wonderful evening, worth more than the ticket price, and one of which you all should feel very proud.  Someone asked me if you rehearse every night.  I told him that you only meet twice weekly, and he expressed his astonishment.  Since he was my co-trustee at The Lester Trust it bodes well for our continued support of a society which represents the very best of amateur theatre, and one of which, as a friend and supporter I feel equally proud.

Yours,