UK Theatre Network

                  


Seven Brides For Seven Brothers

UK National Tour

Reviewed at Darlington Civic Theatre

In her hit of 1959, Dinah Washington pondered What a Diff’rence a Day Makes. For the purposes of this review, I’m changing two words: ‘What a difference six months makes.’

I last reviewed Seven Brides For Seven Brothers back in September and was less than impressed. However, credit where credit is due, last night’s performance at Darlington Civic Theatre had a new energy and vigour that just about leapt from the stage and into the auditorium.

The plot revolves around Adam Pontipee, played by Steven Houghton, and his six brothers who are in desperate need of the care and attention of a good woman. Thus it is decided that Adam should venture into town at the earliest opportunity and return with a suitable bride.

In the town restaurant he encounters Milly, a local girl who isn’t afraid of hard work, can cook and is pretty, too. Adam quickly sweeps Milly, played by Susan McFadden, off her feet and proposes marriage, omitting to tell her that she will have to cook, clean and mend for seven men rather than just one.

Determined to build a home for herself and her new husband in which they can raise a family of their own, Milly sets out to reform Adam’s uncouth siblings into eligible bachelors in an attempt to get them paired up and married off.

Steven Houghton has a fine singing voice and looks every inch the macho American frontier farmer, with his strong and chiselled features. Susan McFadden’s Milly is charming, beautiful and as wholesome as apple pie and her voice is wonderful, too.

The musical numbers are delivered with gusto and enthusiasm and particular highlights are the chorus numbers involving the other six brothers and their prospective wives. These are further enhanced by inspirational and acrobatic dance routines choreographed by Chris Hocking and perfectly executed by a highly energetic ensemble.

The costumes, by Elizabeth Dennis, add a splash of riotous colour and the set, designed by Charles Camm looks extremely authentic and is utilised to maximum effect.

Sometimes it is worth giving something a second chance and, in the case of Seven Brides For Seven Brothers, I’m glad to say that the production didn’t disappoint in the least. Furthermore, the packed auditorium clapped, cheered and whooped their approval too.

Steve Burbridge.

Seven Brides For Seven Brothers is at Darlington Civic Theatre until Saturday 7th March 2009.