Having read the book Pickwick years ago, I was interested to see how Walmsley would bring the story to life on stage. I am glad that I read the synopsis of the show, there wasn't much of a story but the music was extremely good and under the baton of Mike Pinder it bounced along at a cracking rate. Some of these numbers were very wordy and must have caused many a headache to learn.
The set was simple but very effective and the costumes were in keeping with the period.
Philip Morris gave a good solid characterisation of Pickwick. Ian Barlow was excellent as "gentleman's gentleman" Sam Weller. One of the stars of the show was David Wilson who was great as Alfred Jingle, the wily womaniser. His scenes with Vicki, his real-life wife, who was brilliant as the maiden aunt Rachel, were hilarious. Finding out that although she was not very attractive, she was nevertheless an heiress, he immediately set about wooing her. These were lovely scenes. Kathy Turton was well cast as Mrs Bardell with a lovely voice and excellent stage presence.
The rest of the cast were very impressive in the small parts. The chorus singing was as usual excellent. I am always impressed with the harmonies from this society.
