BRILLIANT! That is not too high praise for this marvellous production which is based on the love story of poets Elizabeth Barrett and Robert Browning. Superb lead players, notably Graham R Edgington (Robert Browning); Irene Bowers (Elizabeth) and Ernest Dawson (Edward Moulton-Barrett), whose acting and singing talents are exceptional, lead a remarkably strong cast.

I, and I suspect many of the audience, had not seen this musical before. Despite the absence of obvious "hit" songs it is a moving and often humorous tale. But the dark, obsessive side of Edward Moulton-Barrett's fatherly love for Elizabeth is revealed, especially during the dramatic "What the World Calls Love".

Director Audrey H McL Raistrick has directed with flair and is blessed with a plethora of talent not often seen in one production on the amateur stage. She uses that talent intelligently and imaginatively. Mention must be made of the men's chorus who were excellent. Space permitting, I would name every member of the cast because they so richly deserve it. Their interpretation and enunciation of the lyrics could serve as an example for some professional productions I've seen.

Costumes and scenery are outstanding. I urge you to see this show — if you can book a seat.

Doreen Crowther

After a period of some 25 years, the society again chose to present this rarely performed show. It is a pity that more societies don't try it for, although it is not considered box-office (and there is a perceived lack of obvious 'hit' numbers), the storyline is strong and there are many parts for the cast to get its teeth into. The challenge was duly taken up and what an excellent job was made of it.

Whilst the chorus and dance numbers are a little restricted by the structure of the show every single members of the society, principals, chorus and backstage alike, can take a great deal of satisfaction from their performance - this was a splendid show indeed.

Based on the love story of Elizabeth Barrett and Robert Browning, the cast was headed by strong lead characters, notably Graham R. Edgington (Robert Browning), Ernest Dawson (Edward Moulton-Barrett) and Irene Bowers as Elizabeth. Their acting and singing talents were generally of the highest order although Irene did struggle a little with the musical score. The different moods and nuances of the story were played to perfection and none more professionally than Ernest Dawson who captured the rather possessive and sinister nature of Edward Moulton-Barrett with respect to the members of his family. At this point there is a temptation to list the many other good performances but column inches will not permit. Suffice it to say that all deserve a mention.

The interpretation of the storyline by the producer Audrey McL. Raistrick was excellent. She used the substantial depth of talent presently available to deliver the drama and humour to the best advantage. The set designs were inventive and some fifteen scene changes were carried out smoothly.

To omit to mention the costuming of the show would not complete the picture. They added the finishing touches to the overall picture. It was also my pleasure to present Anne Windsor (Wardrobe Manager) with her well-earned 25 year medal along with Sylvia Fishwick who received a 40 year bar.

Glyn Neary