Dance The Night Away Review
It is a constant source of wonder to me that small villages can mount a
production with 30 enthusiastic performers and perhaps as many
volunteers backstage and front of house. And yet Blackmore Players not
only did that but filled the Village Hall with 120 or so appreciative
people each night.
Dance the Night Away was a musical revue
that included a genuinely funny play in Act One – Last Tango in
Blackmore – and a spoof on Strictly Come Dancing in Act 2. Although the
proceedings were overlong in my opinion, I am convinced that any cast
member that wanted a chance to do a solo item or a duet had that
opportunity, thus providing valuable stage experience to those that
wanted it.
All four performers in Last Tango in Blackmore were
well characterized and those of us involved in amdram recognized the
stereotypes very readily – even the ladies willing to get their kit off
if the part requires it! This play was a genuine highlight and hinted
at the dramatic talent contained within the larger group.
Simply
Fun Dancing in Act 2 was a clever idea, creating a framework for more
singing and dancing as well as introducing some comedy through the
panel of judges and the excellent Drew and Jess. Many of the song and
dance routines were well conceived but my favourites always seemed to
include Keith. This extremely tall gentleman, with a permanent grin and
wonderfully gangly legs (emphasized with platform shoes) was a master
of disguise, appearing as a teddy boy in Come Outside and as “Baby” in
the Dirty Dancing classic, Time of Your Life. The reproduction of the
famous lift in that number was hilarious. The company seemed to be
enjoying themselves as did the audience, one or two members of which
didn’t seem to know how to behave appropriately but I cant believe they
live in Blackmore! Thank you for a fun evening.
Stewart Adkins - NODA