Anything Goes, WAOS - Ovation Radio Review

⭐️⭐️⭐️ - 'NOW, THIS IS A SOCIETY THAT KNOWS HOW TO SING!'

Last night, we were kindly invited along to the Witham Public Hall for the opening night of Witham Amateur Operatic Society's latest production of the Cole Porter classic Anything Goes. This production has had so many alterations and arrangements over the years that we were intruded to see which one they had inshore for us.

We were glad to see they had the better arrangement, granted the overture is still a smidge on the long side, but it builds the atmosphere beautifully, and the packed house was loving it 

From the off, we were blown away by the vocals of this ensemble, and their rendition of 'Bon Voyage' filled the auditorium, this is an ensemble honed to near perfection in harmony.

The company was filled with nervous energy, and I'm sure they will relax into narrative as the week continues. Aimee Hart as Reno Sweeney was a strong choice, who commanded the stage. Paul Flynn as Billy Crocker brought an awkward charm to the role. Working well with Hart's Reno. Hannah Ambrose looked every inch, the sweet debutant, as Hope Harcourt.

Graham Bowden & Tim Clarke as Moon Face Martin & Evelyn Oakley respectively were stand out performances with superb comedy timing strong vocals and wonderful characterisation, which pushed the story along and knew how to deliver a one liner. Susy Hawkes-Dighton as Erma brought a warmth and built a lovely chemistry with Bowden's Moon Face with many a comedic turn.

Almost every company member brought their own flair to their characters and added a little something to entertain their opening night audience. At times, the pace ebbed slightly, and a character slipped, but opening night is never simple, and the audience loved it. They deserve their packed houses, and we have no doubt this show will go from strength to strength.