Setting the tone, pennants representing the rival schools of the story (Truman and Jackson) adorned the walls of this hallowed hall. But one sported a shamrock and the word ‘Leprechauns’. The penny dropped in humorous fashion later…
Before it did, we were treated to a show of energy, conviction and commitment that belied the fact it was a – on paper – non-professional production. The Edinburgh Footlights is clearly blessed with talent, Amy Stinton (Director) excellently harnessing the many elements of a musical but leaving room for it to flourish. One wouldn’t have guessed some of these characters were studying things like Maths, Politics or Economics (despite the close relationship between politics and acting). A swift pre-show peruse of the programme read like the introduction to University Challenge. Musical Director Eric Rogers (first year Maths & Music) marshalled the other four musicians in the pit, turning the pages like seasoned BBC session players from the Alyn Ainsworth era. Lucy McClure (fourth year, Music) dominated proceedings as Campbell, revealing a fabulous singing voice, Giulia Pesciarelli (second year, Psychology) peppered the stage with ruthless put-downs as queen bee Skylar, Gemima Iseka-Bekano (second year Mechanical Engineering) as Bridget appeared too fleetingly in the first act but made many of the scenes in the second. Mokkie Tebeila (Law & Sociology) bounced on to the stage as Danielle and it was a fabulous bonus to hear how brilliantly her vocals harmonised with Campbell’s later in the second act.
The most was made of a great script, hardly a moment, comic or dramatic, was wasted. Crucially, the accents failed, thank heavens, to raise a single wince (which can’t be said about a couple of large professional shows witnessed last year). Two key components of the story evolved at just the right pace; the Campbell/Danielle relationship ebbed and flowed before blossoming and Eva (Maria McStay, second year, Sculpture) mutated from nervous girl-next-door into the superb arch-villain (with a liberal helping of Veruca Salt) we always suspected she was.
The only gripe was with the lighting; in some scenes as the spotlight shone on the central character otherwise complimentary things were happening either side, but sadly in almost complete darkness. But that’s probably being excessively petty for overall it’s hoped that all involved took this as a triumph.
Playing for three more nights until 18th February, https://fixr.co/event/bring-it-on-tickets-309144382
Reviewer: Roger Jacobs
Reviewed: 15th February 2023
North West End UK Rating: ★★★