Synopsis
Cast Biographies
Production Team Biographies
Get Tickets
NEWS
Saturday 21st January
Men in Tights
To promote our pantomime Babes in the Wood we have produced a professionally filmed and very funny video of Men in Tights. Please click here to view it and share together with the panto details with your friends and family. The panto is from 15th to 18th February 2012, performances 7pm daily and 2pm Friday and Saturday. Tickets from £8 click get tickets above to find out more.
Sunday 8th January 2012
VIP Package eBay Auction
Bookings for Babes in the Woods tickets are going strongly, however we wish to offer a family the opportunity to have a very special VIP package. This includes four of the best seats in the house, a pre-show meal at the lovely Blend Café Lounge in Thornbury, show programmes, refreshments and ice creams in the interval, a back stage tour after the show with the opportunity to meet the cast including the Babes, Nanny Nicompoop, Robin Hood and Maid Marion, and finally drinks at the bar.
The VIP package can be taken on any of the Weds to Fri evening performances which start at 7pm. The package will be put on eBay starting at just 99p on Thursday 12th January and will be sold to the highest bidder after a 10 day auction period. Simply search for TMTG on eBay to find it or click here . The package for Jesus Christ Superstar was just for 2 tickets and sold to someone in Kent for a very respectable £52.
Sunday 18th December 2011
Panto tickets on sale in time for Christmas
If you are struggling for that last minute Christmas present idea, fear not, you can treat the family or friends by ordering tickets for our panto Babes in the Wood which takes place in the February half term. Our award winning pantomimes are great value. You can get a family ticket for less than the price of one for the Bristol Hippodrome's Peter Pan. Not only that, the ice creams are cheaper and parking is free! As well as great deals for families, we are offering discounts for group bookings. Please hit the "get tickets" button above to see ticket pricing details and how you can get them. Do not delay, particularly if you require matinee tickets as these are going fast!
Saturday 25th November
TMTG Concerts at The Mall on Tuesday 29th November
For the first time you can come along to The Mall Cribbs Causeway on Tuesday 29th November to see and support some free performances by TMTG. These will be on the hour between 6pm and 9pm in the food hall area. As the Christmas shopping season is in full swing, to add to the atmosphere we will be performing a medley of carols and traditional Christmas songs. If you like what you hear, any donations will be gratefully received and will go to the MS Society and group funds. We hope to see you there and of course we wont mind if you sing along with us!
Friday 28th October
Babes in the Wood Panto Auditions
Our next panto Babes in the Wood will take place between 15th and 18th February 2012. We are currently assembling the cast and if you would like a principal part there is a read-through on Mon 31st Oct at 7.30pm at Tytherington Village Hall, with the auditions at the same venue on Weds 2nd Nov at 7.30pm.
Auditions will be open (all done collectively), but only auditionees are allowed to be present in the hall. There will be a Production fee of £15 to take part in this show and only paid up members can audition for a part so if you are not currently a member please contact our Membership Secretary Karen (01454 853947) before the auditions. If you just want to be in the chorus come along to the readthrough or the first rehearsal on Weds 9th Nov. The annual membership fee is £25 but pro rata for brand new members for the remainder of the year.
We are also seeking two sets of Babes, preferably a boy and a girl in each pair. Do current members have children in your family who would like to audition? They should be aged approx between 10 and 12 and max 5 feet tall.
Childrens auditions will also be on 2nd Nov, 6.30-7.30pm and will be workshop style.
Wednesday 19th October
The show is underway!
The curtain went up last night to an almost full house and to quote one of our happy audience members who contacted us via the website straight after the show "What a fantastic show! Well done to everyone. We loved it."
Be sure you dont miss out, Saturday evening is already SOLD OUT. Get your tickets via this site for Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, still some left, but be quick!
September 26th 2011
VIP Package Auction Surprise
The bidding ending on the eBay auction of the VIP deal for a pair of tickets, meal at Blend, back stage tour and many other extras at a very respectable £52.20. We were surprised to learn the winner was Michael Stockbridge, from Kent! Michael and his wife will travel down by train and stay overnight in Bristol, just to see the show. Never having even been to Bristol before, they are just very big Jesus Christ Superstar fans, 70 shows big! They are eager to see what TMTG will do with it and we are sure we will not disappoint them. Normal tickets are only £8.50 and £10; call Karen on 01454 853947.
September 22nd 2011
Jesus Christ Superstar 18th 22nd October 2011
Not long to go now to the show and tickets are disappearing fast. Rehearsals have been going really well and are getting better and better. Confidence is sky high that this will be a cracking show not to be missed. There are still some bargain 3 for the price of two tickets available for the first night. The show is at the Armstrong Hall, Thornbury from Tues 18th to Sat 22nd Oct with performances at 7:30 pm each night except Saturday which starts at 6:00 pm. Tickets are normally £10 with concessions at £8.50. For the box office call Karen on 01454 853947.
September 15th 2011
VIP Package
You may have already heard that to mark the launch of the sale of tickets for Jesus Christ Superstar, TMTG has assembled a very special VIP hospitality package for two people that it will sell by auction on eBay.
The VIP package can be taken by arrangement on either the Wednesday, Thursday or Friday performance. The package will be put on eBay starting at just 99p on 15th September and will be sold to the highest bidder after a 10 day auction period. Interested in this auction? For more information on what is included in the auction and to even place a bid yourself, click here .
August 25th 2011
Rose Bowl Awards
Following our great success last year with Cinderella in winning the Rose Bowl award for best pantomime and Molly Gardner being nominated for her role as Annie, we have received the splendid news that we have two nominations again for 2011.
Chris Dixon-Lewis has been nominated for the Aardman Animations award for Best Actor (musical) for Dr Henry Jekyll and Edward Hyde in Jekyll and Hyde. Well done Chris, it was a great performance! And good luck with your role as Pilate in our current show Jesus Christ Superstar which opens on 18th October.
Our second nomination is for the Coup de Théatre Award (a special moment in theatre) for the very clever filming and projection of the orchestra under the stage after the final curtain in Jekyll and Hyde. This was the good work of the technical team and Director David Wrench who is also directing Superstar. Our last nomination for this award was in 2006 for the Roman soldiers on horseback in Forum.
We will find out whether we have been successful at the West Country's Oscars, the Rose Bowl ceremony held at the Winter Gardens, Weston-Super-Mare on Sunday 16th October.
August 9th 2011
Jesus Chris Superstar
The music has been learned, the choreography is well under way and the all-important blocking has begun. There is a buzz of excitement in the rehearsal rooms and all departments are gearing up and looking forward to opening night at the Armstrong Hall, Thornbury on Tuesday 18th October at 19:30. Productions will run until Saturday 22nd October. They will start at 19:30 from Tuesday to Friday, then 18:00 on Saturday.
This is a show not to be missed, so reserve your tickets online shortly or ring Karen on 01454 853947.
Our Patron
About Chris Harris
TMTG is very proud and honoured to have as our patron Chris Harris, the internationally renowned actor, director, writer and all round entertainer. He has been a supporter of the Group for many years, attending our shows, offering encouragement and providing theatre workshops. He even joined us on stage for a special performance to celebrate our 40th year in 2008.
Chris Harris was born in Bridgwater, and trained at the Rose Bruford College, the Jacques Lecoq mime and Theatre School in Paris, Ladislav Fialka's Pantomime Company in Prague, and for a short time at the Moscow State Circus School.
These days, Chris lives in Portishead, and is probably best known as one of the countrys most accomplished pantomime dames. For nine years he played dame and co-wrote the Christmas Pantomimes for BOV Company at the Theatre Royal Bristol. Since then he has directed and appeared regularly as dame in Bath Theatre Royals pantomime.
He is also well known for his five hilarious one-man shows particularly Kemps Jig. These are delivered with a unique blend of wit and charm, and have toured the world. His theatre pedigree is evident from his other work, which includes seasons with the Royal Shakespeare Company, the Bristol Old Vic, the New Shakespeare Company, and Lincoln, Salisbury and Worthing Reps.
He has many television appearances including; Tobias in Tobias and the Angel, The Virtuoso, The Magical Mystery Tour, Hey Look That's Me (nine series), Into the Labyrinth and After You Hugo. He has also worked on numerous documentaries
He has Directed theatre worldwide and his written work has been for theatre, television and books. Other skills are theatre workshops, talks and lectures, and after dinner speaking.
For more information about Chris please visit:
www.chrisharrisproductions_btinternet.co.uk
An Endorsement by Chris Harris, Patron - 2011
It has been my privilege to be the Patron to TMTG for the past 10 years and during this time I have witnessed a growth in the quality and diversity of the work produced. Locally it holds a special place of recognition and I have always admired the links that it fosters within the community. To a forward thinking performing theatre group, this is essential, if it is to have a relevance to a diverse community and a wide age range.
It is always seeking to improve this position and is progressive in its business attitude particularly in these financially hard times. Above all the artistic standard has continually improved and the awards received justify their position as one of the most successful in the area. A very happy theatre group....long may this continue.
Chris Harris.
Sponsor Links
If you would like your organisation listed in this area, please email webmaster_tmtg.org.uk
Old Down Country Park
http://www.olddowncountrypark.co.uk/
Blend Cafe Lounge: quality food, freshly prepared and served in a warm, friendly atmosphere
http://www.blendcafe.co.uk
Press Releases
ABOUT US
Thornbury Musical Theatre Group (TMTG) is a long established and successful group with a high reputation in amateur theatre. We perform typically 3 shows a year at the Armstrong Hall, Thornbury, starting with a traditional pantomime in the February half term, followed by a concert or review in June and culminating with a main show at the end of October. We regularly perform one off events at other venues or in publicity activities in order to promote the group. Our main rehearsals are at Tytherington Village Hall on a Wednesday for chorus and Monday for principals.
Despite our serious intentions, we are a friendly and sociable group with a real mixture of ages and skills. Our busy social calendar includes; workshops, BBQs, theatre trips, curry nights and weekends away.
The mix of shows presents ample performing opportunities, but there are many other key areas for our members and supporters to get involved. These include: directing, choreography, dance and musical direction; our technical team of lighting, sound and stage crew; set design and building; creative art and painting; costumes and props; front of house; publicity and marketing.
The group began back in 1968 as the Thornbury Amateur Operatic Society performing Oklahoma and an Old Time Musical at the Castle School. Today we still do traditional shows with guaranteed box office appeal, but also like to tackle new genres such as the successful Jekyll and Hyde which has been nominated for two Rose Bowl awards.
Please take the time to explore this website to find out more about us. Do feel free to contact us, join or support us, come and see our shows, and do tell all your friends and family about us!
Welcome current members! This area of our website is restricted for your use only. Please use the forum link below for access. There you will find; announcements, discussions, events and social calendar, important information and communication on current and future shows, list/contacts for fellow members and TMTG documents.
Links
Forum
Facebook
Twitter
NODA
Why not become a friend of TMTG? Join at any time for a fee of just £8 a year. You will go onto our mailing list and receive regular newsletters. You will be invited to our social events which include; trips, meals, quizzes, training workshops & BBQs. You will have preferential booking for show tickets, at a discounted price of £1 off per registered friend. You will also be expressing your support to TMTG. More information can be found using the following link.
friends of tmtg application new logo.doc
TMTG is very friendly group and we are always pleased to accept new members. Initially you should make contact with our membership secretary Karen on 01454 853947 or by email by clicking here.
If you are interested in performing, then Karen will arrange a short and informal audition, where you will have the opportunity to sing and read something of your choice. The main aim is to see that you can hold a tune; it is nothing to worry about we have all done it!
There are also plenty of opportunities for members to participate in the technical and production departments and during the shows with the stage crew or front of house. Members can also enjoy a busy social calendar and theatre workshops, and you will have the opportunity to influence the future direction of the group.
The annual membership subscription is currently £25. For each show you choose to be in as a performer, there is usually a production fee of typically £10 to £20.
© Thornbury Musical Theatre Group 2011 (except where otherwise indicated). No part of the material on this site may be reproduced in any form except with prior written permission of the Group
Wednesday 15th - Saturday 18th February 2012
19:00 nightly, plus 14:00 Friday and Saturday - Armstrong Hall, Thornbury
The story of the Babes in the Wood dates back to the late sixteenth century, and originally was a dismal tale of two orphaned children who end up dying alone in a forest! On their parents death, the babes are left in the care of their wicked uncle, who decides to have them murdered so he can claim their inheritance. He engages two ruffian robbers to take the children deep into the forest to carry out his evil wishes. In some versions the rogues end up bumping each other off instead or just cant go through with it. However, either way, the poor babes are abandoned and perish in the wood, after which they are covered with leaves by friendly robins.
But fear not, it is a much cheerier story these days. This unlikely story for a pantomime, was first performed as one at Drury Lane in 1827. In 1867 the story was embellished with the legend of Robin Hood, in order to flesh out the tale and help to make a happy ending. This did the trick because Babes in the Wood has always remained one of the countrys top six pantomimes.
Our version is traditional, with a few modern twists thrown in. You'll see the Babes and their rather large and quirky Nanny. Robin Hood has his Merry Men, Little John, Friar Tuck, Will Scarlett and other men in tights with less familiar names! The Sheriff of Nottingham is the evil Uncle who not only takes things out on the children, but tries to force Robin Hood's love, and cousin to King Richard the Lionheart, the beautiful Maid Marion, to marry him. There's lots of action and slapstick with witches, spirits and fairies thrown in. As for the rest of the gang and the happy ending you'll just have to come along and see for yourself!
It's worth mentioning that this is the first pantomime from the brain cell of Lizzie Lindsell and, she hopes, not the last! So expect to see new ideas flowing from the script to enhance Thornbury Musical Theatre Group's glowing reputation for delivering entertaining and award winning pantomimes.
An exciting and talented company has been assembled for this show, with plenty of experience in former leads for TMTG in pantomimes and other shows. There are also some fresh faces, notably in the roles of Robin Hood and, of course, the Babes themselves.
The principals are supported by an experienced, enthusiastic and energetic chorus and dance troupe. The principals are listed below in the order that they appear and followed by the production team:
Cast List
Arboris - Alison Hennessey
2012 will be Alison's 30th year with TMTG. Alison has played numerous roles over the years including Magnolia in Showboat, Mrs Bumble in Oliver, Dolly in Hello Dolly and Fiona in Brigadoon, plus various pantomime roles and loads of chorus! She has designed sets for pantomime and last year co-directed The World is a Stage. Ali was a Committee member for many years until 2006 when her move to the Forest of Dean made this less easy. In her spare time, she plays cornet with Pillowell Silver Band in the Forest - playing a Tree Sprite in this panto should come easy to this Forest loving lady!
Hubble - Karen Blount
Karen has been a stalwart for TMTG over many years. Performing in recent times she has been; Annas in Jesus Christ Superstar, Nancy in Oliver, and Judge Brandeis in Annie. In pantos shes often played goodie roles such as; Fairy Nuff in Sleeping Beauty, Fairy Godmother in Cinderella and Spirit of the Ring in Aladdin. So being a baddie witch may be an "unpleasant" but humorous transformation. Off stage credits include Producer/Director for the World is a Stage, Director of Godspell, Musical Director for Kiss Me Kate and Jekyll and Hyde, and to top it all she is currently the Chairman of the Group.
Bubble - Kate Coyle
Kate's first show for TMTG was as part of the chorus for Brigadoon in 2007 and she followed that by taking the lead role in the pantomime Goldilocks and the Three Bears. In her next panto she was dozy; or to be a little clearer she played the role of Dozy in Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. She has fitted a lot in since she joined the group - marriage, starting a family and joining the TMTG Committee. She returned to the stage for her first main show lead as Emma in Jekyll and Hyde in 2010. A great character actress, Kate's sure to leave you spellbound as Bubble!
Trouble - Bay Dimond
Bay's first performance for TMTG was in the chorus for Jekyll & Hyde in 2010. This then is her first principal role for us, but she has lots of local theatre experience with both Your Call and NYTC, as have other members of the Dimond family.
Miss Givings - Sue Smith
Babes will make it the twelfth year Sue has been treading the boards with TMTG, and she is still loving every minute of it! Her principal roles have included the parts of Maid Marion in Babes in the Wood (2002), Fairy Snow in Sleeping Beauty (2004) and Alice Fitzwarren in Dick Whittington (2007). Sue was a member of the TMTG Committee between 2001 and 2008 and was the Group's Publicity Officer for four of those years. Outside of TMTG, Sue played the part of Andy in the play Stepping Out in 2007 which raised funds for Macmillan Cancer Support, and regularly performs in the magic show A Touch of Magic with her husband Barry.
Sheriff of Nottingham - Geoff Kitchen
Geoff will be no stranger to pantomime audiences having played the baddie on many occasions. The last 2 years he has indulged in cross dressing, Dame last year and Ugly Sister Grizelda the year before in Cinderella. Other major roles have included King Arthur, Fagin and Captain Hook. Geoff also served as Chairman and Treasurer for many years, excellent training for the Panto baddie again this year.
Nanny Nicompoop - David Wrench
David returns to the role of Dame having directed the last two pantos Robinson Crusoe and the Rose Bowl award winning Cinderella. David also directed recent successful main shows Jekyll & Hyde and Jesus Christ Superstar. David though is probably best known to our audiences as pantomime Dame, which he had done for getting on for 10 years before his break. David has been responsible for set design for many recent shows and was Chairman of the Group up until June of 2011.
Maid Marion - Alice Walton
Alice was the choreographer in our last show Jesus Christ Superstar, but now returns to the boards. Alice's biggest previous performing role for TMTG was in our last panto, Robinson Crusoe and the Pirates in the leading role of Juanita. As well as TMTG Alice was with NYTC and is also involved in Your Call where she runs workshops and has co-directed with fellow cast member Bay Dimond.
Friar Tuck - Chris Dixon-Lewis
Chris's last role was as Pilate in Jesus Christ Superstar. Before that you may have seen him in Jekyll and Hyde and will remember his stunning performance in the lead role for which he was nominated Best Actor (musical) in the Rose Bowl Awards. Chris has been very active as a character actor with TMTG for the last few years. He played multiple roles in Annie, one of the gangsters in Kiss Me Kate, Bodget in the Rose Bowl winning Cinderella and Cross Bones in our last panto, Robinson Crusoe and the Pirates. He also has directed for Thornbury Youth Group Your Call, and has appeared for TADS and Octopus.
Robin Hood - Emily Costa
Emily is a new member of TMTG and this principal role is her very first with the group. Not an unusual concept for TMTG, she will be following in the successful steps of Levi James, Olivia Mills and Pete Berry to name but three.
Little John - David Walker
David has been with TMTG in many guises over several years now. In our last show Jesus Christ Superstar he was Assistant Director and has fulfilled different technical roles for other shows. Treading the boards, in our 2011 pantomime Robinson Crusoe he played Hocus Pocus and was Chambers in Cinderella. In Jekyll & Hyde he played Simon Stride coming to a very dramatic end in the final scene.
Polly A - Lizzie O'Brien
Lizzie is 10 years old. This is her first show with TMTG. Her elder sister Ellen is also appearing in the show in the chorus.
Ollie A - Joe Bennett
This is 10 year old Joe's first show with TMTG. He is an active member of the Olveston Primary School Drama Group and has appeared in several school plays. He recently played Thesius in A Midsummer Nights Dream.
Polly B - Bethany Wong
Bethany is 11 years old and is in her final year at St. Mary's C of E Primary School in Thornbury. She loves musicals, singing, drama and acting, and has always wanted to appear on stage herself. She participated in the TMTG workshop for Annie, but this is her first performing role for the group. She is a member of St. Mary's School's Drama Club and in July 2011 she really enjoyed playing the role of Little Alice in their production of Alice in Wonderland. Bethany's other hobbies include music - she plays the violin and is a member of Thornbury Music Centre, and writing stories - she was runner up in the Young Crime Writers Competition 2011 for the South West Region.
Ollie B - Joe Baldwin
Making his debut for TMTG, ten-year-old Joe is excited to be cast as one of the 'Babes' in this year's pantomime. He is an enthusiastic and active member of his school's drama club, recently playing the part of Flute in their performance of A Midsummer Night's Dream. He was also one of the Snow children in Olveston Parish Players' production of Carousel in April 2011.
Germ - Adam Dolan
One of the youngsters in the group but Adam has been performing for us and for NYTC for several years. Roles have included Nutty Nick in Robinson Crusoe, Lord Savage in Jekyll and Hyde, Dog Catcher in Annie, and Little Jake in Annie Get Your Gun. As well as these Adam has been a regular chorus member in shows and reviews
Measles - Gary Kennedy
This is Gary's first performing role for TMTG since Annie in 2009 when he played Oliver Daddy Warbucks in 2009. His is no stranger though to the comedy stooge role in panto and was Hysterium in a Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum back in 2005. He has written a panto script for the Group in the past and directed Annie Get your Gun.
Will Scarlett - James Barnes
James made his debut with TMTG in their last show Jesus Christ Superstar as a member of the chorus, an experience he thoroughly enjoyed. Will Scarlet is, therefore, his first principal role for the group.
Chorus and Dancers
Katya Banks, Katy Dennison, Liz Gayther, Michelle Galliott, Olivia Haigh, Harsha Parmar, Julia Taylor, Cat Wood, Josh Carter, Cameron Hall
Children
Jamie Curtis, Ellen O'Brien
Production Team
Director - Lizzie Lindsell
No stranger to pantomime this will be Lizzie's ninth with TMTG, but her first in front of the stage rather than on it. It's also the first that Lizzie has written - the realisation of a long-time ambition for her. She has played a variety of roles ranging from Scupper the Sailor in Dick Whittington to the wicked Queen Avarice in Snow White, which was her favourite to date. Most recently she portrayed the eponymous Robinson Crusoe in February 2011.
Musical Director - Roger Winter
This will be Roger's ninth pantomime with TMTG as Musical Director, a role that he has also filled for some of our summer concerts, for Godspell and main shows for local theatre group DODS. Over recent panto productions Roger has made a conscious effort to include more 'modern' musical numbers and to enhance the participation of the chorus in the productions. Greater use of the chorus has meant more opportunities for Roger to write some beautiful vocal harmonies, tailor-made for the ensemble for which TMTG has become renowned. Roger is confident that for Babes there are songs that will suit all musical tastes and the audience will be enthralled.
Choreographer - Natalie Britton
Having choreographed as part of a team previously for TMTG, this is Natalie's first solo venture. This is Natalie's fourth pantomime with the group, and she is now experiencing a whole new side to performance! The cast can expect to be put through their paces with some ambitious routines! Natalie is a regular in the chorus for shows and has recently performed solo in a fundraising concert.
Tickets are now available for the pantomime. Prices are:
Raised seating £11 and £9 for concessions
On the flat (front of the hall) £10 and £8 for concessions.
Family tickets (for four including at least 2 children) £35 raised, £30 flat.
Group bookings of 10 or more - 10% discount.
There are various ways to get your tickets. Possibly the easiest is to use the on-line request service (details and link below). Alternatively you could phone us, get them via a TMTG member, or directly at the box office (opening times to appear soon). But do not delay, particularly if you require matinee tickets as these are going fast.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Online Request Service
This service has been put in place to ask you all the important questions for requesting a ticket. Once you have filled out the form and submitted it to us, you will shortly receive confirmation via your chosen contact method. It normally takes under 48 hours to process your request. Why not give it a go now whilst you are online? Click here to be redirected.
Phone
You book your tickets directly with our box office if you wish, simply call Karen on 01454 853947.
In person
You can also visit us at Wildings on Thornbury High Street to book your tickets between 10am and 1pm.
2012
The Diamond Concert at Old Down
Sun 17 June 2012 (15:00 and 19:00)
This show will take place at Old Down Country Park and will celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with 60 year’s of music. Another new Director for TMTG, this time we welcome Keith Glasspole who appeared in JCS as Caiaphas.
Tickets are £10, concessions are £8 and children are £5. Alternatively you can get a family ticket for £25, for the afternoon performance only.
Main Show
Weds 24th to Sat 27th October 2012 (exact performances tbc)
Beauty and the Beast
For those that have seen Walt Disney’s version of Beauty and the Beast on the professional stage you will know that this is a fantastic show and one not to be missed. More details to follow.
2013
Pantomime
Weds 13th to Sat 16th February 2013 (matinees Fri & Sat tbc)
To be decided
An early date marker for this show
Tuesday 18th - Saturday 22nd October 2011
19:30 Tues - Fri, 18:00 Sat
SATURDAY SOLD OUT
This musical by Andrew Lloyd Webber, with lyrics by Tim Rice was their first produced for the professional stage. It was initially released very successfully as an album in a rock opera concept before its first staging on Broadway in 1971. The original album which topped the American album charts three times, featured Ian Gillan (Jesus), lead singer of Deep Purple, Murray Head (Judas) and Yvonne Elliman (Mary Magdalene). The rock arias are beautifully balanced with some great ballads and anthems that are universally known; numbers that include:
• Everythings Alright
• Hosanna
• I Don't Know How to Love Him
• King Herod's Song
• and of course "Superstar" itself
Superstar opened at the Palace Theatre in London in 1972, starring Paul Nicholas. The production was hugely successful, running for eight years and becoming the UK's longest-running musical of 3,358 performances at the time (its still holds the fifth longest-running record). In 1996, Superstar was revived in London, updated to appeal to a new generation of fans. It was also restaged for a successful UK and European tour and then released as a video.
The musical is a dramatised interpretation of the Gospels account of the last week of Jesus' life, beginning with the preparation for the arrival of Jesus and his disciples in Jerusalem, and ending with the crucifixion. It highlights political and interpersonal struggles between Judas Iscariot and Jesus.
Initially in the 70s the show was considered highly controversial and was condemned by some religious groups. Some Christians considered comments about the show by Rice to be blasphemous, the character of Judas too sympathetic and some of his criticisms of Jesus offensive. The musical was banned in South Africa for being "irreligious".
Views and the production have changed since those days. But do come along and make up your own mind. Enjoy the fabulous music, rangy sing and the drama of the show. The highly emotional ending is one of the most iconic images of musical theatre.
A very powerful and capable company has been assembled for this show, with plenty of experience in former leads for TMTG and most importantly some fresh faces notably to the role of Jesus.
The principals are supported by an experienced, enthusiastic and energetic chorus and dance troupe. They are listed below after the principal roles.
Although it may be a bit late to join us for this production, we always welcome new members. If you are interested in joining us for a future production then please contact Karen, our Membership Secretary, on 01454 853947.
Jesus -– Levi James
This is Levi’s 1st appearance for TMTG. He is no stranger to the show though, having previously played Jesus at the Cheltenham Everyman Theatre and he believes that JCSS is the best musical ever written. He has “had a few gigs professionally in theatre”. His credits include: panto tour for Chaplins playing ugly sister Fifi in Cinderella; the voice of the plant in Little Shop of Horrors (Listers in Dursley); Broyhill Jackson in Fat Shirley's Trailer Park the Opera. He is also a committed Christian.
For over 10 years he has produced and directed plays/shows for dramatics. He is also lead singer in Bristol based rock band Final Cut.
Judas -– Mark Collins
Mark has been a regular for TMTG in recent years; introducing him as the big guy with the effortless voice you’ll know who we mean. He is also no stranger to Biblical roles having played Jesus in Godspell for us in 2009. His many other leading roles include: Sky Masterson in Guys and Dolls, Frank Butler in Annie Get Your Gun, Tommy Albright in Brigadoon, Petrucio in Kiss Me Kate. In 2009 he also directed Annie for the group.
Mary -– Louise Hall
This is Louise’'s 2nd show for TMTG having played an imposing Lady Beaconsfield in Jekyll and Hyde. She has been appearing for several other local theatre groups doing it for fun as an amateur. She previously trod the boards in London’s West End and appeared in several professional shows including Les Misérables.
Pilate -– Chris Dixon-Lewis
Those of you that saw Jekyll and Hyde will remember the stunning performance by Chris in the lead role for which he has been nominated in the Rose Bowl Awards for Best Actor (musical). Chris has been very active as a character actor with TMTG for the last 3 years, he played multiple roles in Annie, one of the gangsters in Kiss Me Kate, Bodget in the Rose Bowl winning Cinderella and Cross Bones in our last panto, Robinson Crusoe and the Pirates. He also directs for Thornbury Youth Group 'Your Call', has appeared for TADS and Octopus and was highly acclaimed for his menacing role as Judd Fry in Oklahoma for NYTC.
Caiaphas –- Keith Glasspole
Another 1st as a performer for TMTG. In recent years Keith has focused on directing principally with the Western Opera Players (WOPS) at the Redgrave Theatre in Bristol where he last led Fiddler on the Roof. In the past Keith has played many lead roles and his return to performing is long overdue. Having said that, Keith will be directing TMTG'’s next summer production - concert at Old Down Country Park in 2012.
Annas -– Karen Blount
Karen has been a stalwart for TMTG over many years. Performing in recent times she has been Nancy in Oliver, Mrs Schuler Adams in Annie Get Your Gun, Judge Brandeis in Annie, Fairy Nuff in Sleeping Beauty, Fairy Godmother in Cinderella and Spirit of the Ring in Aladdin. Her role as Annas will be quite a change from panto fairies! Off stage credits include Producer/Director for the World is a Stage and Godspell, Musical Director for Kiss Me Kate and Jekyll and Hyde, and to top it all she is currently the Chairman of the Group.
Simon -– Adam Dolan
One of the youngsters in the group but Adam has been performing for us and for NYTC for several years. Roles have included Nutty Nick in Robinson Crusoe, Lord Savage in Jekyll and Hyde, Dog Catcher in Annie, and Little Jake in Annie Get Your Gun. As well as these, Adam has been a regular chorus member in shows and reviews.
Herod –- Pete Berry
Pete'’s first show for the group was in 2005 in the massive role of Pseudolus in A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum. He has enjoyed many parts since then including Utterson in Jekyll and Hyde, Captain Seasalt in Robinson Crusoe, Drake in Annie and MacGregor in Brigadoon. He has also done lots of chorus work and revues including; stealing the show with Katya Banks with Goodness Gracious Me in the World is a Stage.
Peter -– Peter Minshall
Peter has been with the group for many years and switches seamlessly between technical roles such as sound and performing. His last major performing role was in Jekyll and Hyde where he played the part of Sir Danvers Carew –- Emma’s father and Chairman of the Board of Governors.
Megan Baker, Katya Banks, James Barnes, Jo Barton, Heather Collins-Jones, Anita Dixon-Lewis, Janet Frost, Michelle Galliott, Olivia Haigh, Alison Hennessey, Ella Manley, Angie Moran, Harsha Parmar, Sue Smith, Alan Stansfield, Cate Welmers, Cheryl Wrench
Director -– David Wrench
David has directed several of our recent and most successful shows including Jekyll and Hyde which has received two Rose Bowl nominations, and the Rose Bowl award winning Cinderella in 2010. Other directing credits include the recent Robinson Crusoe and one of our most successful reviews On Air. David will though probably be best known to our audiences as the pantomime dame, which he had done for getting on for 10 years. David has been responsible for set design for many recent shows and was chairman of the Group up until June of this year. David'’s Assistant Director is David Walker.
Musical Director -– Chloe Allsopp-Jones
Chloe has worked with TMTG over many years often as Keyboard player in the orchestra for shows like Annie Get Your Gun and Kiss Me Kate, but also as pianist in rehearsals where she is very well respected. This is her first time as MD for the Group but she has loads of MD experience with the popular Olveston Parish Players.
Choreographer -– Alice Walton
Another first for Alice as choreographer, although she has taken co-responsibility in recent shows and has choreographed individual numbers in several shows for TMTG. Alice'’s biggest performing role for us was in our last panto, Robinson Crusoe and the Pirates as a leading part in the role of Juanita. As well as TMTG Alice was with NYTC and also works with Chris in 'Your Call'. Alice'’s Assistant Choreographer is Bronwen Collins-Jones.
Audience Feedback
Firstly, would you please give our sincere thanks to everybody on our behalf for what was a wonderful evening, not only does the group have some extremely good talent it appears you are also fortunate to have some of the nicest people anybody could wish to meet, we felt very welcomed by everybody and that added to what was a special time for us.
JCS is one of the most difficult of musicals to perform and we were glad to see you handled it with care and attention to detail...even the most challenging parts that many others tend to water down slightly to make it more 'acceptable', so it was pleasing to see it performed just as it should be and as I pointed out we have seen this show performed in many formats and usually with the aid of many thousands of pounds worth of technology. However I can honestly say that I cant recall a show in the last 38 years that was delivered with such passion and connection with those fortunate enough to sit and watch it.
Now we are safely back home we shall drink a glass of wine this evening and raise a toast to TMTG and you will all remain in our memories and our hearts for a long time to come.
- Malcolm and Linda
_______________
The show was completely excellent and I loved it!
Thank you.
- Lisa
The production was fantastic, quite stunning. Performances and staging spectacular, very many congratulations to you and the cast. Best regards, Nick
I just wanted to tell you how much I enjoyed the show last night. Judas and Jesus were brilliant, and Mary what a beautiful voice! I loved how Jesus was the little man it reminded me of the controversy of Anthony Gormleys fourth plinth in Trafalgar square. I was particularly moved by the curtain call. The script does not follow the story after the burial of Jesus but I thought the way the curtain call was done was really sensitive and gave room for resurrection and celebration. It was inspired to leave the audience waiting for Jesus to come back on stage and to announce his arrival with hosanna and celebration. Thank you.
-Meryl
What a fantastic show! Well done to everyone. We loved it.
- Sara
Feedback from those Buying Tickets on Ebay
We had an amazing time, thanks again.
Really enjoyed the show too.
Extracts from the Rose Bowl Report
Of the Production Team:
As far as the quality of the backstage teams was concerned there can be no doubt that they were more than merely just capable of making full use of the facilities at their disposal. No question either of the director not having the imagination, and theatrical know how to create the visual impact this show at times must have.
