Lerner and Loewe’s classic musical, Camelot, is not done very often and, after seeing Walmsley AODS version of the show, I found myself wondering why? A fantastic score, great costume plot, factual storyline and the added bit of magic — all presented to a high standard under the skilful direction of Nora Howcroft.

In my humble opinion successful shows are based on strong leads, and this is just what we had, a strong principal line up supported by a well drilled ensemble. Steve Benson as King Arthur is outstanding. Steve never disappoints and this performance was no exception. Vocally strong and well balanced characterisation, a great performance. Lindsay Farnworth is delightful as Queen Guenevere. She sings faultlessly through the score and her subtle acting ability makes for a believable performance, beautifully portrayed. John Preston turns in a strong performance as Sir Lancelot. He has some cracking songs to sing and belted them out to their full potential — If Ever I would Leave You was beautifully sung. Comedy is provided by Mike Donohue as King Pellinore. A good character part played just right with energy. Adrienne Wormald gave us an enchanting Morgan Le Fey whilst Meredith Collinsons’ portrayal of Mordred was sinister with the right amount of wickedness. Alan Hitchen gave a nice performance as Merlin, with flouncy cape to boot.

Musical director Mike Pinder creates some excellent vocal harmonies from both principals and ensemble. Fie on Goodness was particularly pleasing to hear, as was confirmed by the sustained audience applause. The orchestra also deserve a mention; they played through the score effortlessly. Camelot calls for a detailed and authentic costume plot. Wardrobe team Mary Pyecroft and Julie Kirby have pulled out all the stops to ensure no stone was left unturned and provided us with elegant costumes of the period. I thought the Maypole dance, choreographed by Lara Crombie was well executed. The ribbons plaited without getting tangled! A nice opening to the scene.

This was an all-round good production with attention to detail evident in every department. If you want to relive the legends of the Knights of the Round Table, there is no need to travel to Tintagel in Cornwall, nor do you need to get the bus to Wigan to look for it — just nip up to Walmsley Parish Hall Theatre in Egerton and be transported back to the 5th Century — you won’t be disappointed.

Paul Cohen

Never having seen this musical I was really looking forward to the show. From the opening number with a great set and beautiful costumes the audience were in for a night to remember.

Steve Benson was stunning as King Arthur. His acting and vocals were top rate. Little wonder that Guenevere falls in love with him. Lindsay Farnworth was well cast in this part looking gorgeous in the lovliest of outfits. The solos and duets with Arthur and Guenevere were really well sung. However Lancelot appears on the scene, well acted by John Preston. He falls in love with Queen Guenevere and she with him. By now Arthur has now formed the Knights of the Round Table. Merlin (Alan Hitchen) tries to help as does Pellinore brilliantly played by Mike Donohue. Trouble is lurking in the form of the evil Morgana Le Fay, well acted by Adrienne Wormald, and Meredith Collinson who was a brilliant Mordred, set on bringing down Camelot; a brilliant performance.

Plaudits must be given to all the cast for excellent chorus work especially the men playing  the Knights, you were super. Many thanks for the care given on my visit, I had a great evening.

Jackie Kay