IODS Theatre Company, Ipswich’s leading adult community drama society, continues to put on performances which are a level above ‘amateur dramatics’ with their latest musical comedy production Sweet Charity.
Charity Hope Valentine is a hopeful romantic in NYC in the 1960s and after a run of falling in love with the wrong type of man and trying to fulfil her dream of getting out of the dance hall, she begins to make different choices, but will it lead to love?
This is a long show which not only provides a feeling of value for money, which we all need these days, it allows the telling of story at a pace where it does not feel rushed. The cast are able to breathe into their characters and make them come alive for the audience, alluring us deep into the story and getting us emotionally attached.
The simplest of sets being a wide set of steps to a thin platform at the near back of the stage, allowed plenty of space and easy access for the props to be wheeled quickly and effortlessly on and off the stage to accommodate the many indoor and outdoor scenes. It also enabled a live mini orchestra to be on full display at the back of the stage as they played all the music! There wasn’t quite enough room for the percussionists so they were up in the side balconies which worked a treat!
The many scenes flowed so well to tell the story and facilitate the comedy, such as when Charity was being rescued from drowning after her latest beau pushed her in the water and stole her money, she was unceremoniously turned upside down to drain the water from her lungs, being trapped in a lift with a panicking man, plus being in a full train carriage as the group shuffled across the stage.
The big scenes included the huge cast performing a number of great singing and dance numbers, a variety too. There was a brilliant monochrome ‘Austin Powers’ inspired dance routine and a wonderful hippy atmosphere with The Rhythm of Life scene. The choreography was enjoyable to watch and the cast gave the right vibes at the right times, if that makes any sense – they match the right energy to each scene.
There is lots going on in this show and I’ve not yet talked about the big musical numbers which included ‘Big Spender’, ‘If My Friends Could See Me Now’, ‘I’m The Bravest Individual’, ‘I Love To Cry At Weddings’, and so many more. The singing talent from the main cast was amazing and Owen Barry managed to belt out an incredible performance of The Rhythm of Life. Emily Watt was on the stage for most of the show and stunned us with her energy and facial expressions as she portrayed the hapless hopeful Charity.
This is a highly recommended show, not only for the wonderful heart-warming story, the humour, or the feel good factor but for the wonderful talent we have in our region. The standing ovation was proof enough of how enraptured the audience was with this performance – well done to IODS, a fabulous show!
Main Cast
Charity – Emily Watt
Nickie – Laura Mayhew
Helene – Abbie McQuitty
Vitorrio – Owen Berry
Oscar – Kevin Harmer