SOUTH
PACIFIC
Directed by Angela Downes
NODA Review
Once again, CADOS has come up with a first rate show. After
a year out from doing a musical, the society attacked this
show with verve. The opening set was lovely, with the
appropriate lighting.
Eddie Small was an excellent Emile de Becque. Having seen
Eddie quite a few times over the years, I am struck by his
versatility and singing range, and this is such a glorious
part for the "mature" actor. Natalie Cooper as Nellie gave
wonderful insight into this demanding role, and the
sentiments expressed during the song You've Got to be
Carefully Taught still hold true today, despite all the
political correctness. Paul Kirkbright was a perfect Lt.
Cable, singing with great feeling Younger Than Springtime.
He was partnered by Cathy Higgin as a youthful Liat. Chris
Higgin was an excellent Luther Billis, modelling himself
slightly on Bilko.
Cathy Hurley just didn't quite get to grips with Bloody
Mary. She didn't have the sassiness required. Also, during
the singing of Bloody Mary, one of the lines is "chewing
betel nuts and she don't use Pepsodent". Unfortunately,
director Angela Downes missed the point of that line, as
Bloody Mary had a perfect set of pearly white teeth.
There was a good strong men's chorus, singing and moving
well. John Johnston gave a very detailed performance as
Captain Brackett. Unfortunately, Will Holt's Cdr Harbison
did not come up to expectations. He is supposed to an
officer, with all the force of authority that entails.
There are a lot of scene changes required, and CADOS' back
stage team rose to the occasion, never letting the momentum
slip. Both men's and women's chorus work was excellent and
it was difficult to believe that this show was rehearsed
and staged in six weeks.
Well done to the production team of Director Angela Downes,
Musical Director Judith Holt and Choreographer Renée
Clitheroe.
