Of course the evening, in many ways, belongs to Charlie Stemp as Arthur. A Laine-trained dancer he leaps ebulliently round the stage with mercurial athleticism and neat feet. He also makes Arthur by turns, rueful, earnest, troubled, joyful and eventually happy. Stemp has a fine singing voice both in solo work and in duets and other groups. He more than deserves the tumultuous applause he gets as he and Devon-Elise Johnson as Ann (also very good) dance off the stage – still fizzing with infectious energy even after the curtain call. Paul Brown’s designs are a key part of the success of this show too. The set is based on a revolving mock wrought iron arrangement which is a cross between a bandstand and a gasometer. Screens within it drop and lift to display or reveal different sets – a pub bar for example or the counter of the draper’s shop. It’s both imaginative and ingenious. And the sumptuous costumes – a lot of Edwardian white and delightful black and yellow for Lady Punnet’s party – add a lot. There are some really memorable songs in this show, many of them rooted in tuneful, witty, music hall tradition. The fast, furious and funny Flash Bang Wallop is now the finale and is a theatrical roller coaster treat as you listen for the words of each verse and enjoy the way it hangs on the pause before it returns to the chorus. It is to this show what Sit Down You’re Rocking the Boat is to Guys and Dolls. |
Originally published by Sardines: http://www.sardinesmagazine.co.uk/reviews/review.php?REVIEW-Chichester%20Festival%20Theatre%20(professional)-Half%20a%20Sixpence&reviewsID=2492 |
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