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Our thanks to the many supporters who have
written their comments of appreciation.
'Acorn Antiques'
Acorn Antiques – absolutely fantastic!
There are not many things in Weston which impress
me anymore and I am sad to say that I am often lost as to what to praise
about the town.
But last
night I went to see Acorn Antiques the musical by Weston Operatic
Society and I can honestly say I cannot stop talking about it and cannot
praise the Operatic Society enough for this wonderful show. I was unsure
what I would make of it but it was absolutely fantastic. I have not
laughed so much in a long time and with all that is currently happening
in the country this refreshingly funny show really lifted our spirits. A
special note must be made to Ethne Rudd who played Mrs Overall, an
absolutely
wonderfully funny and heart warming performance that will not be
forgotten.
So, well
done Weston Operatic Society for giving me something to praise about the
town.
VW
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What a terrific show. Nice to see
the 'old Professionals' again'. I do not think any West End performers could
have beaten it. Everyone was excellent and what beautiful singing. We especially
liked Ethne Rudd's 'Mrs O' performance.
LP
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Just wanted to say how much we
enjoyed Saturday nights showing of the above. I had never heard of
the musical version and I did think it was a brave show to do,
especially as commercially, reputation and bums on seats are the key
motivators these days.
Since my father John is a VP we both agreed that the
characterisations, the costumes, the slickness - all showed a
trademark that Weston Operatic has epitomised over the years. If we
at Chester could emulate your strength in depth, we too would
attempt to do shows of this genre.
A big well done to the cast and all the backroom boys and girls. We
look forward to seeing your next show !
PT
'Guys & Dolls'
I would like to let
you know how much I enjoyed 'Guys & Dolls' on Thursday evening.
The orchestra was wonderful and the singing was out of this
world.
Mrs H
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New York’s
professional gamblers and petty criminals of the late 1940s came
alive in this glorious musical drama with a touch of well timed
comedy. The Weston super Mare Operatic society’s adaptation of
Guys & Dolls was a truly professional performance.
Credit should go to the entire production team, the orchestra,
the crew and cast but especially to Miss Adelaide and Nathan
Detroit for their respective performances.
PM
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Autumn
2010 production 'My
Fair
Lady'
Just
arrived home after watching yet another Weston Operatic Society
performance worthy of a West End showing. Well Done
PM
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My Fair Lady: "It's a good show, it is". In fact that is an
understatement, Weston Operatic's production of My Fair Lady was
superb and so slick.
From the start when you are met at the door by me president of
the society Ian Parker together with chain of office to the last
moment when Higgins asks for his slippers you could think you
were watching the film.
Robbie Bums and team 'did it' again. Perfect scenery, totally
energetic cast. The chorus line where fabulous and made you
think there were twice as many singers and dancers.
Alfie Doolittle plays a mean set of impromptu drums (shades of
stomp) Eliza has such a wide range and words cannot describe her
versatility.
Professor Higgins, Colonel Pickering, the list just goes on and
on. Congratulations to one and all for an extremely entertaining
evening.
Roll on Guys and Dolls in the spring.
AB
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MAY I take this
opportunity to congratulate the Weston Operatic Society on its
brilliant performance of My Fair Lady, at The Playhouse theatre.
GP
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I
JUST had to write and tell you that I felt I was privileged to
see the last performance of the Weston Operatic Society My Fair
Lady held at the Playhouse last Saturday.
It was
wonderful; you could not have seen anything better at any West
End theatre.
Every member of the cast danced and sang were all superb, each
one playing their part to perfection. Each set you saw was just
right and the casts outfits were spot on. The theatre was
packed, as well it should be, and the whole cast had a standing
ovation as an appreciation of their performances.
All I can say is Weston is very lucky to have , such a dedicated
group of enthusiastic people, willing to put in the time and
hard work in order to entertain us.
May they always have the support of the local people and the
many others who are connected with them.
May they have continued success with all tic future ventures.
LO
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Spring 2010
production
'Jekyll &
Hyde'
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Now that the dust has settled from the recent production of
Jekyll & Hyde I felt I must write to you and say how I felt.
Firstly it was an extraordinary production by any account, the
look of the piece, the temperament, delivery of speech was
immaculate, the musical interpretation undeniably clear and each
persons character played to the full extent with understanding.
The lyrics in particular were displayed vocally and emotionally
to the hilt and was a real credit to John Johnson’s musical
direction skills. The Leslie Bricusse lyrics I found
particularly interesting, he is such a well crafted writer. The
performances by every one was outstanding with very little
cliché to be found anywhere. Credit must go to Simon and
Mike the directors, for their understanding and interpretation
of Robert Louis Stevenson’s book. What can I say about Ed
Creswick's performance, it was a real tour de force controlling
the character both through the good and evil, there was no doubt
here who the character was and he handled it with great
professionalism and skill. His singing was of a professional
standard to be remembered for a long time. The splendid cast
knew what they were doing and proved to the audience they could
do it well. Congratulations to Carl Atkinson and his team for
their first big set construction.
What else can I say, except it was an extraordinary piece of
theatre that I watched that night, a credit to everybody who
worked so hard to make Simon Duffill’s vision a reality.
Sitting in the auditorium I felt so proud to be a part of what
the audience was experiencing that night. A standing ovation
was no more than you deserved.
BB
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LAST Wednesday I
attended the opening night of Weston Operatic Society's
production of 'Jekyll and Hyde' at the Playhouse Theatre, and
was so impressed that I went to see it again on Saturday
evening!
Everything about the show was totally professional - costumes,
sets, choreography, the orchestra, and most of all the amazing
acting and singing. It was hard to believe that this was an
amateur production as it was perfect.
The performance of Edward Creswick in the dual role of Dr Jekyll
and his evil alter ego was breathtaking - one could almost
believe an actual transformation was taking place as he changed
from one character to the other, even altering the depth and
tone of his superb singing voice.
The two leading ladies were also excellent in their very
contrasting roles, while the I supporting actors perfectly
complemented the leads.
I have enjoyed musical theatre for more than 50 years, both
local productions and in the West End, and I can honestly say
that this show was one of the best I have ever seen. I was
delighted that the audiences were so enthusiastic and gave
well-deserved standing ovations at both performances I attended,
and only wish that this production could be seen by more than
just the people of the Weston area.
Many thanks to Weston Operatic Society for two evenings of
superb entertainment. How about putting on the show again later,
for all those who missed it?
GB
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My wife and I went
to see the show Jekyll and Hyde last Saturday afternoon with
some concern about the theme.
The whole show was electrifying and very professional.
We have seen various productions in London and this was
certainly on a par with the best. Ed Creswick was incredible as
the leading man/men and all the rest of the cast were brilliant.
The story made shivers run down our spines.
It was a brave decision to put on such a show in Weston and it
certainly paid off.
Anyone who missed it really did miss out on a special treat.
Congratulations to all concerned with this show.
Every aspect of the production was first class. Well done.
R & V H
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We
would like to congratulate the cast and crew of Jekyll and Hyde on a
superb evenings entertainment. We came to see the show on the Thursday
night and thought that the whole event was as close as you can get to a
professional performance without being professional. My wife and I have
been involved in and watching amateur performances for the past 35
years+ and we both agreed that this was the best performance that we had
ever seen. Blown away.!! We are hooked and am joining your mailing list
to make sure that we do not miss anything in the future.
D & MG
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EVERYTHING about
the production was fantastic, the costumes, chorus,
choreography - everything. I am actively involved in
amdram / musicals in South Wales being a member of Penarth
Operatic and Dramatic Society (PODS), Concept and
Everyman but I must say I do not think I have ever seen (or
been involved in) anything better than your production.
Every member of the cast and supporters are to be
congratulated ESPECIALLY the lead who I thought was head and
shoulders above anything I have ever seen, as good if not
better than the 1997 Broadway lead - and that is saying
something!
My wife and I, having now discovered you, will try and make
the trip across the water from Penarth to see your future
productions, starting with My Fair Lady in October, I
only wish it was more commutable as I would love to be
involved in such a 'professional' amateur company.
Many thanks for a brilliant afternoon yesterday, the hairs
are still standing up on the back of my neck just thinking
about it
NP. (Penarth)
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Autumn 2009
production
'Fiddler on the Roof'
While holidaying at Weston I attended the opening night of "Fiddler on
the Roof." I had a most enjoyable evening! Thank you!
I had forgotten just how many good tunes there were in the show (I saw
the opening night in London's West End - strewth it must've been about
forty years ago...) when the lead was taken by Topol. At the time I
thought the show (and he) were brilliant. The same can be said of your
production. Please pass on my gratitude to all who were involved; not
just the cast (they always get the adulation) but the musicians, the
dressmakers, the seamstresses, the scenery makers, the scenery painters,
the lighting and sound crews
- who were particularly good -
the stage hands, the publicity team, the directors, the choreographers
and all the talent that goes on in the background just to make those who
appear on stage look good.
Thank you again, and I wish you good fortune and the continuance of such
wonderful events in the future.
HH
(Norfolk) |
Summer 2009
production
'The Likes of Us'
We have just got home
from watching the first night and want you to pass
on congratulations to everyone involved, it was
amazing.
AE
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Spring 2009
production
'South Pacific'
Just
a note to thank you all for the most wonderful show
this evening - a truly professional performance.
Please pass on my congratulations to all the cast,
especially those who know me - Bev, Darren, Owen
and, of course, Mollie-Mae; not forgetting my
friends in the pit who did such a wonderful job.
CM
I went to see the show on Saturday night - what
a triumph and what an audience! I thought that
the whole cast was superb and musically it was
exceptional. As usual, Dylan's voice stood out
as something very special. The duet he performed
with Ed, in Secret Garden, was unbelievable
enough (it gave me goosebumps) but the control
he displayed on Saturday was real star-quality.
It yet again goes to confirm the level of talent
at amateur level and how blessed Weston are with
their principals and chorus generally.
PD
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Autumn
2008
Production
'The
Pirates of Penzance'
As
it was my first visit to Pirates (honest!) I had nothing
to compare it with. Which is probably a good thing.
The costumes were excellent and the cast performed
extremely well. The principles were superb and I really
enjoyed Sue Collings' spirited Ruth. I think Ray
Jeffery must be quite a hard task master.
I was rather bemused by the 'modern' take on the
production, having expected something quaint in the
style of G&S. On reflection, the quirkiness made it
more accessible in some ways and more 'pantomime-like'
in others. The interaction with the conductor in the
pit was quite clever. So, overall, it was a most
entertaining evening and you certainly all gave us our
money's worth! Pity the singers off-stage only get a
mention in the programme and no acknowledgement on stage
because they obviously boosted the sound appreciably.
Best Wishes PL
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Oppitts 2008
Production
'Guys & Dolls'
I would just like to
say I came to see my first 'Oppitts' show Friday evening
and thought it was great.
The scenery, music singing, dancing, and drama were
impressive for their ages.
How do you do it in
that short time of rehearsals ! Congratulations
and thank you so much for giving Lucinda a brilliant
opportunity to work with you all, she is looking forward
already to the next !!!
Thank you again
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Easter 2008
production of 'The
Secret Garden' |
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Please offer my thanks to your society for inviting Denis
and me last night to the enchanting production of "The Secret Garden" which
we felt very privileged to see. The whole company is worthy of the highest
praise for presenting such a beautifully cast, well-dressed and highly
polished performance. Accompanied by a most simpatico MD and fine orchestra,
we were thrilled throughout with the vocal talent, both solo and concerted.
The sets were
amazingly fine and full marks must be awarded to the splendid crew who
worked so hard to provide the seamless changes and transform the stage,
particularly the garden to its magnificent fruition, including the charming
robin! The talented cast easily rose to the challenge set, with Rebecca
Rowntree bringing to the role of Mary Lennox, a maturity and depth of
feeling rarely seen in one so young. Brava! She was given strong support
from James Gilmore's invalid, Colin, Jake Chew's nature-loving Dickon and
lovely, warm-hearted Martha. Deeply impressive was the sincerity and
beautiful singing of Archibald and Neville Craven, especially their moving
duet "Lily's Eyes" and Lily's evocative rendering of "Come To My Garden".
Add this to the impeccable support from the rest of the principals and
chorus of spirits to make this production one of the most moving experiences
recently seen.
Yours sincerely,
Geraldine Branton, NODA South West Councillor.
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I
just wanted to
thank you for a wonderful evening on Saturday 29th. It was by chance I was
walking by the Playhouse on that morning
and noticed your poster. I mentioned it to my husband late on that afternoon
and at 6.30 I rang to see if there were any tickets. I was told that two had
been returned on the front row of the circle. We quickly got ready and
arrived in good time to pick up our tickets.
As soon as the show started I felt confident it was going to be good and I
was not disappointed. The orchestra, scenery, lighting, voices, costumes and
the continuity was amazing. I am looking forward to your next production and
also telling my friends just how good you all were.
We do have some insight into how much hard work goes into a production as my
husband and I were members of Clevedon Light Opera for 22 years.
Congratulations once again and thank you for a very memorable evening.
M and J W |
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I have been
meaning to drop you a line since I saw the excellent production of “The
Secret Garden” at the Playhouse. It truly was a superb production in every
way. Very professional and of the highest standard! It really was
great. My 14 year old daughter loved it as did her friend. Please do pass on
my compliments to the whole cast. I was extremely impressed with the
children too and the way the soloists held their vocal parts so well when
two voices intertwined the melodies together. Well done to you and everyone
else!
E T-G |
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Easter 2007 production of
'Sweeney Todd' |
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To all of the cast and crew of Sweeney Todd,
I came to see your production last night (Saturday 14th April), and am just writing to congratulate you on such a fantastic and moving show. If I had not known better, I would have thought your production was by a professional company - I was blown away by the brilliant and highly moving acting, the wonderful singing voices, the fabulous music, everything! Every person on the stage was so talented, from the leading actors to the ensemble, and I was mesmerised from start to finish.
I wish you all the best for the future - I will definitely be coming to see more of your productions. Thank you for such a wonderful evening's entertainment.
CT |
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My
congratulations on your latest production 'Sweeney Todd'. I was greatly
impressed. And although I know it's not a show popular with some, I have
grown to love it and totally enjoyed the Brian Buttle production of it.
Again my congratulations to all the cast and everyone involved.
Yours truly
GH |
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