42nd Street

Leeds Amateur Operatic Society

Leeds Grand Theatre

If you enjoy a singing, dancing show, glitzy razzle dazzle, tap dancing at its very best and of jaw dropping intensity, then do not miss this production 42nd Street is another show where every song is a winner. ‘You’re getting to be a habit with me’, ‘Lullaby of Broadway’ and of course the title song. The production duo of Louise Denison, Director/Choreographer, and Jim Lunt, Musical Director, have been with the Leeds Society since 2005, and my word what a team they have become.

Choreography is stunning, it’s musicality and precision jump out at you. Louise keeps movement flowing with groupings and people moving on and off stage. Such hard work for all concerned, but from an audience point of view, that hard work was worth every minute.

After a fine overture, Jim Lunt and his 14 musicians give great support to the Company. It cannot be easy for them to be totally in time with a group of dancers of this standard, particularly in the show stopping tap number ‘We’re in the Money’. Singing of the cast and principals was excellent.

Two performances were outstanding, John Hall as Julian Marsh and Lydia Bradd as Peggy Sawyer.

John has experience, well judged timing and a stage presence which, together with a strong singing voice, gives him command of the role.

Lydia is wonderful as the newcomer chorus girl projected into the star role after being accidentally involved in a collision with the ageing leading lady, Dorothy Brock. Even at this early stage Lydia has the vitality and a capacity to make an audience’ believe’. A powerful and tuneful singing voice and superb dancing skills make her performance one to be remembered.

Laura Judge is well known in the Ilkley, Yeadon and surrounding areas. As Dorothy Brock she gives an accomplished performance and has great vocal ability.

Notable performances also come from Ben Walton as Billy, Samantha Griffiths as Maggie, Mike Porter as Pat Denning and Ian Hewitt as Abner.

The show continues until this Saturday, evenings at 7.15pm and a Saturday matinee at 2.15pm.

Val Pennett