Luck was a lady indeed on the opening night of Oxford Operatic Society’s latest production, and the society’s unique blend of singing talent and passion for the craft was on full display. The society is Oxford’s longest running amateur company, and thus has a good deal of experience in the technicalities of putting on a show – including fun costumes and an impressive set. Its members threw themselves with gusto into this very American musical, replete with gamblers and gangsters, dance-hall girls and missionaries.
Opening night wasn’t without its hitches and slight ‘wardrobe malfunctions.’ These troubles only highlighted the professionalism of the group as they continued along without so much as a hiccup. James Studds as Nicely-Nicely Johnson commanded a great stage presence, and Dave Crew as Nathan Detroit had fabulous timing. Marilyn Moore as his fiancé, Miss Adelaide, all but stole the show with her constant struggle to tame her man. The missionary Sarah Brown was played by Sarah Leatherbarrow, who has a stunning voice, and her love interest/gambler Sky Masterson (Tim Younger) came fully to life in Act II’s famous song, “Luck Be a Lady”.
A special mention really must be made for the men of the group. While they may not have had life-long dance training, they fully immersed themselves in the dance numbers, and not only did they seem to be enjoying themselves, but created wonderful effects.
And in the end, this is what art is about – entertainment and enjoyment for all, performers and audience alike. It is fabulous to see local talent shine in such a big way, playing to such a large audience, in a professional setting. Guys and Dolls runs through to this Saturday, 26 November 2005, and includes a matinee on Saturday. See it if you can – it’s completely worth the gamble.
Opening night wasn’t without its hitches and slight ‘wardrobe malfunctions.’ These troubles only highlighted the professionalism of the group as they continued along without so much as a hiccup. James Studds as Nicely-Nicely Johnson commanded a great stage presence, and Dave Crew as Nathan Detroit had fabulous timing. Marilyn Moore as his fiancé, Miss Adelaide, all but stole the show with her constant struggle to tame her man. The missionary Sarah Brown was played by Sarah Leatherbarrow, who has a stunning voice, and her love interest/gambler Sky Masterson (Tim Younger) came fully to life in Act II’s famous song, “Luck Be a Lady”.
A special mention really must be made for the men of the group. While they may not have had life-long dance training, they fully immersed themselves in the dance numbers, and not only did they seem to be enjoying themselves, but created wonderful effects.
And in the end, this is what art is about – entertainment and enjoyment for all, performers and audience alike. It is fabulous to see local talent shine in such a big way, playing to such a large audience, in a professional setting. Guys and Dolls runs through to this Saturday, 26 November 2005, and includes a matinee on Saturday. See it if you can – it’s completely worth the gamble.