ACT Reviews 2022-2023 Season

dancers were slick and energetic. These dancers really lifted the numbers that they were in, particularly ‘Monster Mash’. However, their high energy and animated faces sometimes highlighted the lack of energy and enthusiasm in the ensemble. A couple of bigger smiles and a little more vitality and vigour was needed to support those in principal roles.

I was surprised to see that there was no musical director on the production team. The lack of musical direction was unfortunately evident in most of the numbers. The chorus singing was not strong, and harmonies weren’t there. Also, the backing track used for ‘Always Look on the Bright Side of Life’ did not fit the song and made the singers sound out of time. If this had been done with a correct backing track, or even acapella, the audience would have joined in. I certainly would have sung along, but I couldn’t work out the timing myself, so I kept my lips firmly sealed! That being said, it is clear that Jim Rowe directed rehearsals effectively. As I’ve previously stated, the whole show was well-rehearsed, and scene changes were slick, and staging and props were always used successfully. I particularly enjoyed the set and staging used in the dungeon scene. Jim also stepped into the role of Slimeball on the night that I watched the show. Despite not being the person cast for the part, he performed well and engaged the audience in the typical hissing and booing you would