Parade

By Edfringe05,derek - 15th Aug 2005

Big orchestra, big cast, big challenge – which Guidecca Productions meet with style. This is a top quality production. The large orchestra must the best on the fringe though there are problems of balance against the singers’ voices. It is a strong cast throughout, with a convincing central performance from Christopher Colley. The director uses the stage and large cast imaginatively from solo spots to chorus numbers. The news hack lights up the show with his first solo. The score of this musical is beautiful, but the book is weak. There is insufficient justification for the sweep of the story or for the actions of the redneck vigilantes. An outstanding production of a flawed work; if you want a musical of West End standard, this is for you!

Derek Benfield

Southside 12:50 running to 28 Aug 4 Stars