Annie Get Your Gun - June 2001

NODA NORTH WEST REVIEW

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)

 

 

 

 

 

 

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