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The theatre, however quickly realised that Sam Kane is fine actor and singer: he not only gave the role of the fairground barker great presence, both vocally and in his acting, but he also brought great depth of emotion to the part. Not unexpectedly, his portrayal greatly contributed to the instantaneous standing ovation at the end of the show to applaud a production of very high quality. Wayne Sleep�s superb choreography is another big factor in the success of the production with its mix of classical dance and ballet-like sequences that are performed with exceptional skill by the company. Charles Shirvell steals every scene in which he appears as the eccentric Enoch Snow, while Sophie Caton as Bigelow�s much abused wife generates a very sensitive performance. She gets strong competition, however, from Gemma Wardle as her friend Carrie, who has a delightful singing voice and vivacious personality. Isherwood�s Jigger is suitably nasty and manipulative and there are excellent performances from Serretta Griffin as the owner of Nettie�s Spa. Ms Griffin�s talent is beautiful highlighted in her emotionally charged rendition of You�ll Never Walk Alone � a not unexpected highlight. Excellent costumes, wonderful sets and a fine orchestra all contribute to a production that comes very close to opera in its emotional power and vocal intensity. |
| KANE PROVES AN ABLE REPLACEMENT |
| SOME real skill and invention is required if the marathon musical Carousel is to hold an audience�s attention for well over two hours. The production of the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic at The Orchard his week shows how it should be done. It�s an outstanding example of musical theatre at its best. The pace of the action never slows ad the characterisations are strong and often totally compelling. At Monday nights first performance, there was a sigh of disappointment from the audience when it was announced that illness had led to the show�s star Darren Day being replaced in the role of Billy Bigelow by former Brookside favourite Sam Kane � who was originally due to play the unpleasant Jigger. The letter role was taken over by Mark Isherwood. |
| Picture Caption: STAND-IN TRIUMPH: Sam Kane, seen here as Jigger, stepped brilliantly into the role of Billy Bigelow. |
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