ACT Reviews 2022-2023 Season

responsibility of taking a leading role. Harry Melling as Nutty Nick excelled in his first principal role. He delivered his dialogue with confidence and humour and was engaging and captivating when he was in the scene. He got the audience to participate in calling out, especially when anyone attempted to go for his nuts, coconuts that is! Here was a young actor that was completely at home on stage and enjoying every minute of it with no hesitation. The same could be said of Aiden Grantham who donned the frock for the first time and became the dame of the show, Margarita Juicilita. He also engaged with the audience well and played the part BIG and could make it even BIGGER next time out. He had clearly thought about his character and kept to it throughout. I always say, “if the bra fits, everything falls into place”. Both these young actors did a cracking job, well done! Dames, usually have a wardrobe and a couple of costume and wig changes would have enhanced the character, as each new incarnation invigorates the audience and renews the bond they have with her. However, the costumes, co-ordinated by Carol Levy were pleasing on the eye throughout. The set, designed by Victoria Husband and Rachel Bunting also engaged the audience. It all had purpose. The scene changes were slick under the command of Dave Husband and team of stage crew. Infront of tabs: the ultra violet scene was particularly effective. The sound and music were click tracks that the actors could sing along to and they did with spirit and gusto. Here I must mention Amelia Kerr who, in her character of Captain Seasalt, sang the sea shanty, “Wellerman”. This had me and the audience entranced. This song has a rhythm that has to be maintained and she nailed it. Fantastic! The love angle was between Robinson Crusoe played by Lee Dodd and Juanita played by Macy-Jo Callaghan. Both, delivered their dialogue with confidence and expression. Lee gave us the self-assured, strong character of the leading man, while Macy-Jo was the timid damsel who was determined to follow her heart.

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