High Society

This musical comedy based on the 1956 film was absolutely superb. I think I was the only one in the audience unfamiliar with the story so I held on to every word, watching the plot twist and turn with more drama than any TV soap – and a better looking set and cast too. The 1920s/30s era was captured beautifully in a wonderful stage set. Every space was utilised and the story flowed effortlessly scene to scene with a revolving set. The lighting was perfect, connoting the richness of the The Lords’ family home. It was hard to pick a favourite character as the cast were all excellent from Sophie Bould’s Tracy to Keiron Crook as bumbling George. Michael Praed as Dexter carried off the role with the charisma of Dean Martin; Katie Lee was both likeable and annoying as the interfering little sister, while Alex Young as Liz Imbrie provided perfect comedy and singing (opposite the lovely Daniel Boys), reminding me of Drew Barrymore at her rom-com best. Sometimes the singing was not as strong as it could have been, but the stories, characters and set were consistently excellent. I urge fans of the film and the era to go see it – and new fans to discover its innocence and comic delight. Now to watch the film…

Congress Theatre, Eastbourne, 18 June 2013

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