The Wedding Singer

SMP

Millfield Theatre

15 – 18 June 2011

 

I was unfamiliar with the musical adaptation of the film of the same name when I saw SMP’s production of The Wedding Singer.  I can say with no hesitation that the musical version is a real success.  The Eighties setting is unchanged, which brings with it the opportunity to have fun with the staging, hair, makeup and costumes.

 

I am pleased to report that SMP have made the most of such opportunity.  David Copping’s production is well thought out, with close attention being paid to the setting and detailing.  He has clearly worked hard with a large cast of young, energetic performers, who do not let him down.  The enthusiasm of all on stage is to be commended.  David’s directing debut shows real promise, particularly as he has taken on such a large-scale production.  A particular strength lies in his lighting plot, which assists in setting the mood throughout.

 

I should mention here the choreography of Paula Bland which was, again, brilliantly reminiscent of the era.  Highlights of the production were often in the choreography, notably ‘All About The Green’ and the opening number.  Also highly amusing was the use of essentially ‘unchoreographed’ dancing in a number of scenes.  The dance scene between Julia and Holly was particularly successful.

 

Claire O’Mahony as Julia is sweet and loveable.  It helps that her voice is as pretty as her face…..so much so that she even manages to carry off one of the most hideously 80s jumpsuits on stage with grace and elegance. 

 

Jamie Nicholls as Robbie Hart is also very strong.  This is a challenging role, requiring not only strong vocals and acting, but the ability to strum a guitar all the while.  Jamie manages to fulfil these requirements, and clearly relishes the chance to play such a demanding part.  At times his performance is reminiscent of Adam Sandler’s own in the film.  No bad thing.

 

I cannot ignore the magic of Caroline Fitch as Rosie.  As the all-singing, all-dancing elder, she has the pleasure of delivering dialogue worthy of Samantha in Sex and The City. Hilarious, and a highly accomplished ‘triple threat’, Caroline threatens to steal the show.

 

Another praiseworthy performance came from Jo Martin as Holly. Jo is at once sexy, yet cute, and delivers her big number (Saturday night in the city) with huge aplomb.  She also closes Act One with a racy special effect, rivalled only by Flashdance.

 

Adrian Gee as George seemed to suit his costumes rather too well, looking at times as though he had stepped right off the pages of Smash Hits magazine.  A great supporting performance from him, and also from his fellow band member Sammy played by Ben Hewis.

 

Finally, I must mention the excellent musical direction of Stuart Wall and the support from his hugely talented band.  These musicians are clearly enjoying every second of playing this show, and it shows.  The band are fantastic throughout.

 

All in all, this is a hugely fun show for the audience, with some classic ‘one-liners’ and very memorable musical numbers.  SMP deliver the goods with energy, enthusiasm and vigour.  You will leave the theatre dancing!!

 

Katrina Boyd