Oliver! - (3)

A very brief addition today; I have not been able to post anything for a few days because of computer problems, so this is short and hopefully sweet.

The setting and costumes for Oliver! lend themselves to an imaginative approach. The original West End production design by Sean Kenny was highly innovative, having a revolving set that moved with the action. This, however is beyond most amateur companies in technology and cost, much as they might wish for it. It is however possible to suggest many of the settings with dressing rather than large scale scenery.. Your props team might not forgive you for a minimalist set that has to be furnished with a lot of dressing, but it can be done.

Costumes can be colourful or sombre, depending on the mood of your production. Traditionally Nancy wears red, but this isn't set in stone, and there are many shades and variations. Much of the boys' wardrobe is ragged so can be produced from their own old clothes. It is the men's costumes that most need to be authentic in style. Particularly Mr. Bumble in his beadle's uniform, and the “better off” male characters who need frock coats and waistcoats, plus appropriate hats. The more flamboyant Widow Corney and Mrs Bedwin, who can be in uniform or just a more genteel style of Victorian dress, are not too difficult as one off pieces.

The Music Man - (3)

The settings for Music Man are of the main street of River City, the interiors of the Library and Gymnasium, and Mrs Paroo's house and verandah (Indoors and out), and of the park with a footbridge, where courting couples meet. Quite a challenge for set designer and stage crew, with multiple changes, especially if presented in a small community hall with limited flying facilities. Depending on available space there is also the arrival of the Wells Fargo wagon at the end of Act One, bringing a plethora of brass band instruments for the children. Of course it is possible to dispense with a practical wagon, and have parcels being “unloaded” in the wings. Or at the other extreme, with unlimited space and budget, one can bring in a horse(or pony)-drawn wagon to complete the climax before the interval.

This can be a spectacular show, with costumes and setting becoming brighter and more dramatic as the story goes on, culminating in the arrival of the uniformed Boys' Band. The epitome of shimmering trumpets, clashing cymbals and thundering timpani. 

Music is the central focus of the whole show with piano, pianola, and brass marching band  all featuring in the action.