Charity the Musical

'Charity' is a newly written musical, fresh from the pen of Sara Kreindler. It tells the story of a board of charity officials who become polarised in their opinions as to what the charity should stand for. As the play develops, it becomes clear that none of them really know what they believe in, and that their actions do not mirror their ideals. In the midst of this lies two central love stories. One couple is desperately trying to get together, yet can't find the words to do so; the other couple's situation is encapsulated by the question 'Is this guy too nice for me?'. Fear not, however - they all learn their lessons, and as they finally realise that charity should be about empathy with your fellow human beings, both couples solve their problems and end up together.

The score is very diverse and totals 23 songs. Listen out especially for ''Charity'', a tune you will not be able to get out of your head. The acting from the large cast is varied, and ranges from the unconvincing (few) to several magnificent performances, such as that given by Anita (Reina Hardy). Again, the singing is of wide-ranging quality, with some performers not quite able to hit certain notes but others displaying outstanding vocal abilities - Mavis (Christine Chung) is particularly good, as is Trevor (Simon Tavernor). The star of the show however is Ben (Richard Power), who combines an impressive acting talent with an even better voice. His rendition of ''I can't believe'' really brings Kriendler's score to life with an almost poetic elegance. Unfortunately, the impressive score and singing was severely hindered in places by the technical setup, which meant that a few steps stage left taken by a performer could result in a lurch from ear-ringing volume to straining to hear a word. Let's hope this was a first-night hitch. In contrast, a highlight was the professionally choreographed ballroom dancing. The cast was well lit throughout, and the band never faltered. The pace was kept constantly high by quick scene changes intermingled cleverly with the action. Certain moments of the show also had the audience in fits of laughter in true cheesy musical style. The comic stars included the cameo waitress (Marila Tombra) and Joseph (Chris Cooper). More humour was provided by songs including ''Vegetarian's Dilemma'', which discussed the age-old question 'Is it ok to eat a fascist?' and ''We're in Jail''.

I am not sure whether the central message 'Charity' is trying to convey actually comes across well through the constant descent into comedy and bursting into song, but in reality audiences rarely go to see musicals for intense drama, but rather for a fun evening out. 'Charity' is exactly that, and if you have a spare evening this week, go down to the OFS and try it out - you'll be humming all the way home!

Ashish Marwaha 14.05.02