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From the Croydon Advertiser - 3rd of December, 2004
Review by Peter Steptoe
The
musical is a favourite of mine and I worry whether amateur groups will
do it justice. I can truthfully say that ATG make a great success of what
is a charming, funny and sometimes moving musical adventure.
Based on the story of the Ugly Duckling, it has some additional characters
that are both eccentric and interesting in their own right. The cat, which
has an obsession about 'Duck a l'Orange' and the domesticated hen, named
Lowbutt with her feline companion called Queenie.
As you might imagine, Mother Duck has this mysterious egg which she hatches
and the result is bigger and taller than it's siblings. In addition it
is unable to say quack and can only utter a coarse honk.
The music is tuneful, George Stiles composed, whilst the book and lyrics
by Anthony Drewe are witty and apt.
Keith Harper as Drake does not have a lot to do but exudes the laid back
attitude of a reluctant father.
Teresa Skinner as Ida is the ideal mother and though I know it is a fairy
tale brings a lump to my throat as she looks throughout the long lost
son. She is the perfect musical comedy star with a strong Ethel Merman
type voice.
I like especially the ducklings Fluffy, Beaky, Billy and Downy, who are
Natasha Tickle, Jenna Godbolt, Max Godbolt and Magan Bruce. They look
a picture in the yellow outfits with baseball caps.
Jeremy Nicholls is 'Ugly' and one felt that there is an element of bullying
going on which is not politically correct. tall and gangly in short trouser
outfit with school cap he gains our sympathy. He can sing and makes a
great Swan in the transformation scene.
A special comendation for the Cat (Rob Anderson) who, moving with feline
grace, is the epitome of tuneful caterwauling. His greeting "Hello
Ducky!" is worthy of Julian Clary at his best. His dancing with Queenie
(Gabriella Brookes), sizzles with sexuality and she is definitely the
langurous female of chaise-longue.
Her friend Lowbutt (Christine Woodhead) is my ideal of the faithful spinster
and to see her legs demurely dangling from the extremely high settee indicates
perfectly their domesticity.
Karen Bruce as Bullfrog was a tour de force with her song 'Warts and All'
and this brings forth a well merited round of applause.
The flying geese are effectively costumed as pilots and their leader Greylag
(Rick Godbolt) was the 'Wizard Prang' type in the Group Captain's uniform;
ably assisted by Dot (Nicky Howcroft).
The supporting players, singers and dancers perform well. Director Steve
Palmer has obviously put in the work and this together with the efforts
of Music Director Simon James makes for a great evening's entertainment.
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