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Scrooge The Musical, Ferndown Phoenix Musical Society, Barrington Theatre

ALL credit must go to Phoenix, and to first-time director Sharron Pearcy, choreographer Lisa Hopton and musical director Jean Roach for coming up with a super production that really invokes the spirit of Victorian London. The first-class set, beautiful costumes and wigs and attention to detail pay off handsomely, as does some great casting.

Charles Dickens’ old miser is extremely well portrayed by Phil Evans, although over-amplification of the keyboard made him and several others inaudible at times on the night I attended. Derek Chapman is impressive as his former business partner, Jacob Marley, and there are fine characterisations from Janita Welsh (Ghost of Christmas Past) and Bill Mason (Ghost of Christmas Present).

Lee Neal gives a superb performance as Bob Cratchit and young Bailey Hopton is a most endearing Tiny Tim, both being so moving that they caused this oft-jaded critic to have to wipe away tears. Bailey’s brother, Harrison, although cast only in a small role, also has the presence that marks him out as a face to watch for in the future.

In the words of Tom Jenkins, played with plenty of verve by a super Mike Leggett, thank you very very very much.

Linda Kirkman

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