Catholic Players' production is streets ahead (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Catholic Players' production is streets ahead

11:24pm Tuesday 24th November 2009 in

• Skip social links
• Print
• Email
• Comments(0)

42nd Street at The Alhambra

Catherine Zeta Jones sent a ‘break a leg’ message to the Bradford Catholic Players for their production of the show which gave the star her West End break.

This talented society didn’t need luck, not even from a Hollywood A-lister.

From the spectacular opening to the dazzling finale, their show reached professional standards.

Originally a 1933 movie providing escapism from the Great Depression, this production was a delightful tribute to romantic comedy, dancing girls – and boys – and spectacular big numbers.

I defy anyone not to try a shuffle-ball-tap after watching the cast tap away at lightning speed through the title song.

The show-within-a-show story unfolded at a cracking pace, under expert guidance from director David Kirk, with fabulous choreography by Jacqui Drake Sweiss.

Highlights included the Ziegfield-style Dames, Lullaby of Broadway and We’re In the Money.

The set oozed Thirties glamour, with a shimmering New York backdrop and effective devices such as the lively night train. Katie Carroll lit up the stage as chorus girl Peggy Sawyer, while Anne-Marie Carroll was hilarious as doomed diva Dorothy Brock. Great performances too from Nathan Hurtault, Paul Chewins and Anna Clarke.

A feelgood treat.

Runs until Saturday.