Annie Get Your
Gun was originally intended to be Jerome Kern's swansong but,
after Kern's death shortly before production began, it was offered
to Irving Berlin and the rest is history.
I was quite
happily enjoying this show until Cathy Patterson took to the stage
as Annie Oakley. From then on, this show was going to be a huge
success. This was possibly one of the finest amateur performances
seen in the region for several years. Ms Patterson had the poise,
the personality and the voice to make this part come alive - a
truly magnificent performance. She had the luxury of a decent
supporting cast including Rob Harrison as Frank Butler, whose duet
with Annie 'Anything You Can Do' was a true showstopper. In
addition, John Chesters was perfect as the great showman Colonel
Buffalo Bill. There was also a fine performance from Leo Appleton
as Chief Sitting Bull.
With some
excellent dance routines (especially from the Indians) and an an
enthusiastic chorus this was an entertaining show that continues
St Annes Operatic's recent revival. Keep up the good work!
(Tommy Warburton)