A West End Worthy Performance From WBOS14/5/2015 Based on the 1990 romantic fantasy, Ghost The Musical tells the very human tale of a spiritual love that transcends the greatest of barriers. Taking care to respect the classic screenplay, WBOS present a stellar re-telling of the story with a few tweaks and a lot of talent. The show opens with Here Right Now performed by the three leads: John Wetherall as Sam, Laura Stanford as Molly, and George Stuart as best-friend Carl. The relationship between the trio is played to perfection throughout, with comedy, anger and tenderness shifting to reflect the unfolding story, it was really engaging to watch. In particular, the scenes between Molly and Carl made for brilliant viewing: grief, awkward affection and the ultimate betrayal narrated with real emotion by the omniscient Sam. Stuart’s portrayal of turncoat Carl was dynamic and conflicted, and he commanded the stage with soaring vocals and confidence far beyond his 22 years. Wetherall was equally well-cast, and played the present and departed Sam with depth. Most impressive, though, was the brilliant turn by Stanford as Molly. Her beautiful hushed tones and impressive belt gave real heart to her anguish, particularly in With You, which left few dry eyes in the audience. Laura Wynter took on the role of reluctant psychic Oda Mae Brown, made famous in the film by Whoopi Goldberg. Whilst elements of the character were a rightful homage, Wynter gave a great individual performance whilst giving the audience the eccentric personality they know and love. A gorgeous gospel voice, she shone in numbers Are You A Believer? and I’m Outta Here, but never at the expense of the scene. Special mention must go to Maison Kelly as Subway Ghost, whose offbeat and tormented spirit was played with conviction. The ensemble and dance ensemble had clearly worked hard also, as numbers were well sang and executed with purpose and precision. The storytelling too should be applauded, their presence set the scene and supported the principals to move the narrative forward with pace, with More, Rain/Hold On and the subway transition to watch out for as particular highlights. WBOS did a superb job at bringing this classic to the local stage, with incredible emotion and performances worthy of any West End theatre. A definite hit, if you can still get your hands on a ticket this is not one to miss. To book tickets for West Bromwich Operatic Society's production of Ghost The Musical, which runs until 16 May click here, or call the Wolverhampton Grand Theatre's box office on 01902 429 212. Find WBOS on Twitter here. Find WBOS on Facebook here.
Rich
14/5/2015 06:18:11 am
Please! However worthy an amateur production is, it is never ' worthy of a west end production '. Actors train to be the best there is - they are professionals - not people who do it as a hobby . I'm sure it was a fine amateur production, but please be careful !
Love Midlands Theatre
14/5/2015 07:26:23 am
Hi Rich,
Jenna
14/5/2015 08:16:07 am
Rich, I wouldn't say "never". I have seen amateur productions that have been far better than professional, West End productions. Look at Let It Be, 20th Century Boy, and Carnaby Street.... truly awful "professional" shows. Some Am Dram groups spend £40k plus on their productions (such as Lichfield Operatic) and the shows they stage are truly incredible.
Jez
14/5/2015 12:12:24 pm
The production isn't just the actors but even allowing for this oversight, personally I've seen some pretty shoddy professional productions with actors with long lists of 'professional' training and experience who were well short of 'the best there is'. Just because an actor or crew member or production team member does 'it' as a hobby it does not mean that they are any less committed to being the best there is and there have been several non-professional productions and performances which judged alongside, are 'worthy of a West End production'. Be careful, I'm sure you didn't mean to belittle the efforts of the numerous non-professional people involved in theatre but your comments appear to be extremely sanctimonius.
UncleHenry
14/5/2015 01:33:14 pm
Thought I would just check the reviews for this show before booking some tickets for my wife who has hinted at wanting some.
(y)
15/5/2015 06:47:34 am
Hillarious comment!! & well said at the end there. 'Bell End'!!
RELLIK
14/5/2015 07:56:33 am
Rich, as a member of the cast, I have found great offence in your comment. Firstly, if a reviewer of theatre chooses to bless their subject show with such a kind and humbling review, it is their right to do so and with the wording of their choice.
UncleHenry
14/5/2015 01:34:16 pm
Boom!!
hello
14/5/2015 10:38:11 am
Hi Rich,
Jane
15/5/2015 05:47:41 pm
This is so subjective. Everyone's opinion is different and of course valid. Hat's off to any Company that takes on this terrific show. By the way Jenna , I loved 20th Century Boy! Good luck for your last show on the 16th
Jenna
17/5/2015 10:42:00 am
Jane, I respect your opinion on 20th Century Boy but it was truly awful. A weak plot, terrible casting, and mock electric guitars that weren't even corded up. Very poor. With all the talent out there the Creative Team could have and should have cast real musicians. Comments are closed.
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