The Roman Invasion of Ramsbottom
How refreshing to see a ‘Musical’ that has not been performed many, many times before! Congratulations to DODS Next Gen for being brave enough to step into the unknown. The show that is especially written for ‘young companies’ tells the story of the Roman roadbuilders arriving in Manchester to complete the ‘C6’ to Carlisle (all similarity to the M6 is quite accidental!) The residents of Ramsbottom refused to pull down the pub, The Roman’s Return (remind you of another pub?), which was in the way of progress. The script has some wonderful lines (if you know your Shakespeare and other similar references to TV programmes, etc).
The production was very well cast with the use of the whole age range of Next
Gen. The ‘Italians’ – strongly based on The Mafia –
were led admirably by Gareth Hewer as Don Giuseppe Baloni. He definitely looked
the part and had very good diction. The Romans were all suitably toga-ed and
Scott Cain, as Gaius Juliuo was outstanding as the manager of the workforce.
He fell for the Barmaid at the Roman’s Return and therefore did not want
to have it demolished. Scott has an excellent singing voice and has a good ‘stage
presence’ – he will go far! The ‘baddy’, Conkus Maximus,
(congratulations to the make-up department for making a false nose that stayed
in place throughout), was played by Christopher Leach. He once again showed
his ability in both singing and acting. What a pity for DODS that this was his
‘last appearance’ as he focuses on his education. DODS loss will
no doubt be some other Society’s gain in the future. His two sidekicks,
Acrimonious (James Burke) and Parsimonius (Karl Fagg) performed well and with
Chris sang a number in 3-part harmony keeping their own lines and blending well.
Among the Britons Joe Yarrow, as Accrington Stanley, did extremely well with
his Lancashire accent. It was good to see his developing confidence on stage.
Gracie Trotter (Lindsey Walker) played the girl friend of Gaius competently.
The principals were all well supported by the minor-part players and the chorus
who make a very good sound in their numbers, singing with gusto. The majorettes
added their charm to the show. The whole cast looked as if they were enjoying
themselves and this transmitted to the audience. What a pity more members and
friends of DODS don’t get off their settees and support these enthusiastic
youngsters – the future of the Society.
The only small criticism was that some of the hand movements needed to be more
decisive and definite but that comes with practice and experience, so well done
everyone on stage and not forgetting the hard working team of ‘backstagers’
and musicians, ably led by the Director Mike Brodie and Musical Director, Ann
Wadey – a job very well done.
Margaret Barker
(Past President of NODA)