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The enchanting musical
version of HG Wells' Kipps was brought to life by St Anne's
and a very capable job they did of it. Gavin Kirkham was superb as
Kipps -
the down-trodden shop
assistant catapulted into a life of luxury following the death of
a long-lost relative. Ably supported by his colleagues Sid (Daniel
Crossley ), Pearce (John Stringfellow) and Buggins (Peter Taylor
), Kipps tries to come to terms with his new found wealth but
succeeds only in leaving behind the girl he loves, Ann (Lian Wray)
for one who just loves his money Helen Walsingham played serenely
by Alison Chard. Eventually Kipps realises his error and makes
good with Ann only to find his money frittered away by Helen's
swindling brother (Matt Crossley). It all turns out well in the
end when a play, written by his friend Chitterlow (Peter Weston)
and in which Kipps has a share, is a hit and enables our hero to
start again with Ann.
This was an enjoyable
show, although a little slow at times, and the audience certainly
took to Kipps and his three pals with "All In The Cause Of
Economy" being a particular favourite. I even managed to enjoy
"The Party's On The House" which, in many other productions, has
been dreadful at best.
Peter Weston was
excellent as the showman Chitterlow - a role he has played several
times before but one in which 1 would gladly go to see him play
several times again. Also, making a rare but welcome appearance,
was Pat Dearden as Mrs Walsingham. With a voice like Pat's, no
wonder Kipps went back to Ann!
The production team of
Doreen Astin (producer), Bob Bamber (musical director) and Gail
Wray (choreographer) combined to make this a very entertaining
show with some slick musical routines.
St Anne's is in the
enviable position of having a host of young members which bodes
well for the future. Gavin Kirkham has already proven what a fine
prospect he is and several of the others appear to have similar
potential. Perhaps 1 won't have to come out of retirement after
all!
(Tommy Warburton)
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