T.C.O.S

The society recently said a fond farewell to one of it’s long established members.  Nan Hurley has retired after over 50 years loyal service as she prepares to move to the Lytham area to be near her daughter and son– in-law.  During her long association with the society, Nan has covered a number of roles including properties, publicity and wardrobe. Those of you who were at the AGM will have seen Nan presented with the societies’ Duxbury Award for outstanding service, named in honour of the societies 2 remaining founder members Ralph & Sheila Duxbury.

At Nan’s last rehearsal, Alison presented Nan with a parting gift and the members showed their appreciation for all the dedicated work Nan has given to the society.

Good luck Nan, you will be missed by all at TCOS.

Principal Cast of OKLAHOMA

Lisa Carolan recently won 5 awards at The Fleetwood Music & Arts Festival

 including 1 distinction, 2 commendations and a merit.

In addition to these,

Lisa was also awarded with a trophy for

gaining the highest mark of the day,

an impressive 89% for her “songs from the shows” entry.

Phil Swift has been taking lessons in rope swinging for his role as Will Parker.

A young Alfie Boe in our 1990 production before he went on to become one of the opera world’s biggest stars.

After 23 weeks of hard graft, we found ourselves at the hall for our final rehearsal.  The ladies responded positively to Howard’s tirade on Tuesday night as the rehearsal started with “Many A New Day”.  Due to other commitments David was unable to get there until at least 8 o’clock and so we managed to secure a late loan deal from Blackpool & Fylde Light Opera Company to secure the services of Jean Lee until David arrived.

Once more we ran the show from the top and it went very well.  An odd mistake here and there and a late entry saw Lisa and Jenny ad lib for all they were worth until the penny dropped with “the offenders”. 

Jean from wardrobe came up to me during the first half and asked if “somebody” would go in the loft to look for some straw boaters.  Many years ago, our former chairman, Bill Ballantyne, had a running joke going that whenever the phrase “somebody” was mentioned, it invariably ended up meaning him.  It would appear that mantle has now been passed to me!

After a frantic search for the keys (which resulted in Jean scouring the Duxbury Room and the hall for her coat, only to realise after 15 minutes that she had come in her leather jacket!) “somebody” finally began the ascent to the Aladdin’s cave that is the loft!!  Alison asked “somebody” if they would look to see if there were any props that would be suitable to dress the stage.  A milk churn and ladle, a couple of old stools (to sit on) and a couple of crates were given the nod from Alison as “somebody” brought each item to the door for her approval.  No sign of the straw boaters though so the mission was aborted just in time for “somebody” to make their entrance in the “Dream Sequence”.

We moved straight into Act 2 and another energetic performance of “The Farmer…”  One or two missed cues in the auction were put down to absentees and the show continued at a decent pace to the end.

Howard gave his notes before thanking the whole company for their hard work and commitment during the rehearsal period.  He picked Andrew out for particular praise for his help at principal rehearsals where he has read in for just about every character at some point  - his favourite being Ado Annie I believe!!!!!! Howard went on to say how much he had enjoyed being back with us and praised his principals for their work and co-operation.  Anne thanked Howard on behalf of the whole company for his work before Alison said a few words and presented David with a bottle to thank him (as he isn’t playing in the orchestra next week).

And so, that’s that. We have a busy day on Sunday with band call at The Marine Hall from 2pm and then technical rehearsal at 6.30.

This will be the last diary entry as from now on, it’s for real.  Monday night should be treated as our opening night.

It’s been a real pleasure once more writing these diaries and I hope you have enjoyed reading them.

Good luck to everyone next week.  You all deserve to have an excellent week and to those performing with us for the first time, I hope you have enjoyed the experience.

Cheers

Richard (aka “somebody”!)

Tonight’s diary is going to be riddled with quotations more akin to “Match Of The Day” than a musical so I apologise to any none-football fans amongst you!

It was a rehearsal of two halves as far as the chorus were concerned with certain ladies and dancers bearing the brunt of Howard’s half time talk.

As the company arrived, Kathryn was going through “Kansas City” with Junior and the dancers to sort out the dance part to incorporate Junior’s rope swinging a bit more.

We began to run the show from the top at around 7.50 and the opening scene went well with Giles, Lisa and Ann all giving excellent and natural performances.

Junior bursts onto the scene taking a dive over the gate before giving an energetic rendition of “Kansas City” with the additional bits rehearsed earlier.

Jenny and Graeme show excellent comic timing and Erik’s brash Mr Carnes adds to the humour with his rough delivery and his spitting! Helen’s laugh disappeared mid-giggle and she decided it was best to rest it for the remainder of the night! The scene between Giles and Joe is one that in the past, I have to confess, I haven’t looked forward to.  It is a very powerful and long scene and if it’s done wrong – which so often it is – it can appear to last for a week!  The way Howard has directed it and the way the two of them deliver actually make it a highlight of the act and each time they have done it, the room has been silent as we are all gripped by the drama. Following the dream, we had a break while Howard gave his points on Act 1.  A few suggestions and further direction to the principals was his warm up to what I would describe in footballing terms as “the Hairdryer” treatment.  After months of requests for certain members of the chorus to use their faces and smile he unleashed a tirade of frustration and anger that with one week to go, the same people are still looking bored and their faces are dead.  He has now given his final ultimatum and if the people he has identified don’t pull their fingers out on Thursday they will be out of the two numbers in Act 1.

The next half was their (assuming it’s not me) opportunity to show him what we could do, and what better way to do it than with our best effort so far of “Farmer and the cowpat”.  You could feel the energy as we gave it our all.  There are still issues with the lines and this will be addressed on Sunday at the theatre. The next contribution from the chorus was the “Oklahoma!” song and once again, I think it was the best we have done it.  My run through and theatrical stance receiving particular praise from Karen “Not So” Young! Prior to that though, the scene involving Giles and Lisa where Curley proposes to Laurey was stunning.  Again, the whole room watched in silence and as I looked around the room, every single person had a smile on their face.  At one point, Gail leaned to Erik and said “Oooh I wish I’d auditioned for Laurey” to which  Erik replied “So do I !!!”.  The scene received a well deserved round of applause and praise from Howard at the end as it is totally natural and believable.  The show came to an end with a rousing reprise of “Farmer…” and “Oklahoma!” 

Once more we sat and listened as Howard went through his notes.  It was also agreed that the company would sing the final couple of lines of “People will say we’re in love” as Curley and Laurey take their bow.  Howard’s analysis of the night as far as the chorus go was first half ……naff, second half……..spot on.  What we need to do now is take the energy we put into the second half and put it into the bits we do in the first half.  As for his earlier threat – it will happen so please prove him wrong as nobody wants to see it happen! Assume that we are all under threat and pull it out of the bag and show him what we can do!

I got a real buzz out of the show last night and things really clicked as far as I was concerned.

Keep up the good work and this time next week we will have had an incredible opening night.

See you all on Thursday

Thanks Richard

After a good rehearsal on Sunday at the school where we managed to run through the whole show, the plan last night was to tidy up a couple of bits, notably the lines and claps (again) in “Farmer…” and the final positions for the Oklahoma reprise. Yvonne was confined to watching as a result of her damaging ligaments in her ankle following her enthusiastic efforts on Sunday.  Unfortunately, the tidying up took well over an hour, however as Howard said, “It had to be done”.  We had a rolling brew as we started to run Act 2.  It’s fair to say now that overall, this number is ‘in the bag’ and once we are on the stage with the costumes and lights and orchestra it will be a real spectacle.  With just 2 weeks to go, it was disappointing that there were a few unaccountable absentees. Not good enough at this stage and it is only courtesy to let us know if you are going to be missing – which in reality, nobody should miss another rehearsal unless they are struck down with swine flu or worse. We worked through the act, the auction gets slicker each time we do it but again, several people are still unaware of what the word mime means. Howard told us we need to react more to what is going on around us when we are “live”.  The fight scenes were as effective as ever but Howard raised concerns again about the reactions and positioning of the men and the women in their respective quarrels.  “You are all in a neat semi-circle and you need to be on different levels and in clumps and REACT to what is going on”. The “Oklahoma” number is a real concern as there are too many people who simply don’t know it and those who do are going through the motions. “It has no bite, it has no pace, it has no purpose, it has no attack, it has no punch, it has no zip and if that isn’t enough, the singing has gone too” we were informed by both Howard and David.  The reality is that at this stage, WITH 2 WEEKS TO GO, it should be much better.  The responsibility lies with each and every one of us to think long and hard between now and Thursday about this routine and song.  Charlotte said she was unsure of the singing when we go into the “Okla” – “Homas”.  IT’S ALL ON THE WEB SITE. IT’S ON CD’S - WE HAVE TO HELP OURSELVES.

We are starting with this number on Thursday and the plea is to please retain it!!

It sounds a negative diary but there are plus points and on the whole the show is there it just needs everyone to be accountable for themselves and put right the bad bits.

See you on Thursday

Cheers

Richard

The first Thursday rehearsal for the whole company saw us without a pianist for the first half hour or so.  Howard used this opportunity to set the scene directly after the “Oklahoma!” number which leads into the “stag party” scene and ultimately the Annie & Gertie and the  Curly & Jud fight scenes.  The lines that were given out were re-iterated although this appeared to cause a bit of confusion to Peter whose line was changed slightly as he has to enter the house and carry Lisa out with Tony.  Danny (boy) appeared to deliver his line imitating Kermit The Frog which Howard picked up on and deemed a no-goer!  The fight scene was “walked through” before we were given our finale positions and the bows were set. Erik and his rifle being the key to the success of the bows!

Upon David’s arrival, we did the Oklahoma number and sorted how we will get into the final positions.  The key thing to remember in the reprise is that WE DON’T DO THE LAZY CIRCLES MOVE – WE MOVE BACK INTO OUT SMALL GROUPS AND CROUCH!!!

We then ran the whole of Act 2 which starts with the mammoth “Farmer and The Cowman” (which Howard informed us afterwards is 12 minutes long). Confusion reigned once more for too many people who seemed to struggle to adapt to the fact that we were facing the mirrors. I must admit, I failed to see why this should cause such mayhem as the position of the auditorium was exactly the same! We moved into the auction where once more, we had to stop to establish who said what.  By this point Howard was quite rightly frustrated, pointing out that we spent half an hour on Sunday on this.  Felicity wrote down who bids what and I will type it out and give all the men a copy on Sunday – but to be honest, it shouldn’t have to come to that.  We have to start remembering the bits we are given otherwise it will really pull the show down.

We were then treated to watching the principals for the first time as they worked through the act.  There were some excellent performances from all and some very dramatic and passionate scenes involving Anne, Lisa, Giles and Joe which were complimented by the comedy provided by Jenny, Phil, Graeme and Helen.  Giles was asked to remove the word “spank” from one of his lines as it generated the wrong reaction from the company and therefore, the likelihood is it would get the same “Oo- er Missus” reaction from the audience which would totally ruin the scene – it’s an example of how our language has changed over the years since the show was written.  Lisa was also asked to prolong the first kiss as Howard explained “you have to give Giles a reason to pull-off!” .  A comment which raised more than a titter from around the room.  We managed to get through to the end of the act and for a first attempt, Howard seemed pleased.  It is far from perfect though but the more we are able to run it, the slicker it will become as we get more familiar with it. During his notes, Howard asked that the “miming” during the auction is just that as one or two were overdoing it and this was distracting from the script.  As a chorus, we now owe it to the principals to make sure our contribution compliments their efforts as on last nights evidence, they have put a lot of hard work in and will all be superb.

We are at Anchorsholme for 2pm on Sunday where the plan is to run the show.  During Act 1 when the chorus are not featured, Kathryn will go through the “parasol” dance and the men will go through the auction bids to get them spot on.

Overall, another excellent rehearsal.

See those who are going to the pre show party on Saturday and the rest of you on Sunday.

Cheers Richard

With just 3 weeks to go until opening night, there was an element of panic in the room as the scale of the task still ahead hit home.  This was further enforced when Kathryn gave her opening address before the rehearsal started of her plans for the evening – “We will go through “Farmer ….” And sort out an end position, then we will sort out “Oklahoma” and the reprise, then the “Kansas City” girls will go through the dance for that and we’ll tidy up the “Parasol” dance.  Then we’ll have a brew”.  It was a big ask to get through all that but we gave it our best shot.

 Starting with “The Farmer….”. From the twiddly bits because it’s fine up till then we were re-assured.  The twiddly bits were ok so we moved onto the claps.  These were broken down …again and by the end, everyone was happy.  This format continued and people were given definite positions to move to during the “foot slap” bits. We got to the end of the routine and from a personal point of view, I feel much better about it.  We went through the whole thing a couple more times from the twiddly bits and it looked and felt much better.

We then went into “Oklahoma” from the “gonna buy you carrots” line and once again broke everything down slowly until everyone was happy with what they were doing and where they were doing it.  We got part way through before Kathryn succumbed and allowed us a break to get a quick brew.

During the break Alison mentioned tickets which will be available at the Marine Hall now.  We have kept some back so you can still get them through Mary (as Sheila is now away).  On the subject of tickets, we could do with selling a few more so please, please give it one final push.  Given the size of the company, we should realistically have sold more tickets by now and so please do your bit to make sure that all our hard work will be seen by someone!!!

We then sang “Happy Birthday” to Danny (Boy) – finally, Dani (Girl), Little Mike and Jean from wardrobe. There is another one coming up soon I believe……………..!

I then told everyone that the list for the next songs from the shows has gone up and invited people to put their names down to be in it.  I also mentioned a concert that we will be doing in February with the Greater Manchester Police Big Band.

Diane then gave us some info regarding the Pre Show Party on Saturday night.

We carried on the Oklahoma routine where we left off and Kathryn tidied up the last bit and made a few slight changes to the original.  It was decided that the reprise would be the same as the galloping horses bit just wasn’t working!  Chris barked out instructions relating to the singing before we did the whole song from the top.  With the changes made, again it felt much better and everyone appeared to know what they were doing.

By then it was 5 to 10 so we did “Farmer….” from the circles and then “Oklahoma” and the reprise once more from the top before Kathryn relieved us of our duties with the claim that both routines are 3,000 times better than they were.

Young Swifty and the Kansas City girls were put through their paces as the rest of the company left and the “parasol” dance will be polished on Sunday.

It was a fantastic effort from everyone last night and I’m sure you all left the hall knackered but much happier about everything.  To me the key thing was that almost everyone was there and that makes such a difference.  The important thing now is to go over what we did last night in your heads at every opportunity so it becomes second nature.

Howard will be back on Thursday and I’m sure he will want to see the results of last night so let’s all take responsibility and make sure he is impressed!

See you all then and thanks for your hard work.

Richard

Back on home turf, we were in the presence of our Honorary Patron, Jean Rigby, (for our new members, Jean is one of the professional opera world’s most acclaimed sopranos and the daughter of our much loved Tea Bird Margaret).  We were also graced with the presence of the make up artist Lyn who had popped in to say hello and have a chat with Howard about the requirements.

The plan of action was to set the “Dream scene” which involves the whole company in various guises and, to quote Cilla Black, a lorra, lorra music!

To warm us up on a chilly night, we started with “The Farmer……..” which was very energetic and Howard told us it was the best we have done it.  He still had a shed load of points to make on it though explaining that it is still lacking that little bit of pizzazz in parts.  He pointed out that there were people chewing and made a rather harsh reference to my stuttering attempt to say my lines during the song.  I tried to defend myself but even that came out as a stutter – maybe my best years are behind me!!!  He finished off his analysis of our efforts by saying he would pay £4 to watch it - which is a whole £3 more than his rating a couple of weeks ago!

He then asked the company to bear with him as the rehearsal was going to be very “stop and start” as various cast members would be involved at different stages of the dream.  Kathryn took over and started setting.  The girls were split into different characters ranging from farm girls to whores.  True to form, the evening involved a lot of sitting around but it also gave Jean and Christine an opportunity to sort out a lot of the costumes and bit by bit, the men in particular seemed to get kitted out with an array coloured shirts and hats.  Erik found a big black one (hat) which he put on and he looked like Jimmy Cricket!!!  We had our brew as Kathryn continued to block and we also enjoyed cake that was supplied by Danny (Boy) in celebration of his 18th on Sunday – he was thanked formerly at the end of the rehearsal but unfortunately he had already gone so we still haven’t sung to him!! Kathryn wanted the men to drag the whores onto the stage on their chairs.  This was deemed a difficult move and one which would do the hall floor no good at all so was duly changed.  A bit of business on the chairs from the girls followed by them gathering round Jud and gyrating resulted in Eve having a wardrobe malfunction in the trouser department. Ever the gentleman, I offered my hat to help her cover her modesty!!!

We called it a night at about 10.15 after going through the whole thing so far.  Kathryn informed us that there was still another 300 pages to set – I’m sure she was exaggerating, it’s probably no more that 250!!!

A few photos of Junior were taken with his lassoo for publicity purposes before a few die hards retired to the pub.

Principals only on Thursday at the hall and then it is a full company call on Sunday back at Anchorsholme School.

Next Tuesday, Stuart is coming before the rehearsal to take a full company picture so please be there for 7.15 in either your yellow tshirt, your hoodie or if you haven’t got one, a black top.  Please wear black trousers or dark jeans also.

Thanks to all for another good night.

Cheers

Richard

Apologies for the late entry of the diary – Wednesday saw me otherwise engaged so I never got chance to do the diary. 

We moved the rehearsal to Anchorsholme School to allow Howard to get an idea of how the extension will be used as the school hall is bigger than our hall.  As we entered the room, little Jean and Felicity had placed all the pre-ordered hoodies and polo shirts on the benches and several members of the cast had already changed into their new item of promotional clothing.  It has to be said, the polo shirts are VERY YELLOW!!!

Felicity also went around the room reminding those of us who hadn’t yet paid their show fee that they were due and duly collected a decent sum! 

 We started with “The Farmer….” which had Howard highlight that there are still too many people who don’t know parts of it and he emphasised once more the importance of going through it during the week to avoid the risk of having to “pop off”.  He also said it needed characterisation and faces that were alive and noise and power. Other than that, I think he liked it!!!!

Keen to progress, we set about doing some of the scene that follows – the auction.  Howard  divvied out lines amongst the men who were bidding for the baskets of food.  Fireman Andy is obviously on a budget as he won’t go over two and a half dollars.  As the plot unfolded Joanna worked out that the man who won the bid got the basket of food and the girl who had made it.  “So it’s a bit like prostitution then” she asked me.  I said “Yes but with cake”!!  Howard then explained that in the script there is a line that says something in the region of “Let’s go round the back of the house for the rest of the auction”.  “That’s bloody naff” he said and it’s just an excuse to get the chorus off.  With the extension, he is able to leave the chorus on stage miming the rest of the auction while Will and Ali can do their lib in front.  The chorus come back into it on a given cue and, 3,2,1, we’re back in the room.  Yet more lines were handed out – notably to Tony Tantastic as last years “lucky” winner of Ado Annie’s sweet pertato pie which gave him a 3 day belly – ache. (One more thing for him to moan about then!!).  Joe then entered the fray as a menacing Jud to join the auction bidding for Laurey’s basket before Giles as Curly sells many of his worldly goods to compete.  I was the nominated cowboy to buy his $30 saddle for $10 although, after being fleeced by Felicity earlier in the night for my show fee, I could only offer payment via Mastercard!!!  Andrew buys his gun which means Curley is able to outbid Jud and win the auction – although he got his sums wrong at one point and, after selling his gun, his bid dropped by about $20 – can’t blame a bloke for trying in the current financial climate!

 We had a brew and afterwards we utilised the rooms on offer.  The girls in the main hall doing “Many A New Day”, the men in a side room going through the auction bids to get the speed and impact of the bids.  Andrew made a note of who says what and will copy the pages for all next week.  Giles and Joe went to another room to set their fight scene.  The men and Anne G then went through the death scene and once more, lines were handed out.  Tommy risked sounding like MC Hammer as he repeated “Don’t touch him”.

We then reconvened in the big hall and set the bit that precedes “Many A New Day” before a final rendition of “Oklahoma!”. I am not even going to mention the reprise!!!

 A very productive and full rehearsal came to an end with the customary round of applause.

 Principles are back at Ritherham on Thursday and we are BACK AT ANCHORSHOLME again on Tuesday.  Please let anyone who was missing know.

 Thanks for another excellent nights work and see you all next week…..AT ANCHORSHOLME.

Cheers

Richard

PLEASE SEE REHEARSAL SCHEDULE!!

Howard had been called into an unexpected school meeting last night so was unable to attend.  Luckily, Kathryn was making a welcome return after a MONTH in Turkey.  With a broken car after so much time away, I picked her up and she was obviously thrilled to be back in England and the lovely weather our country has to offer!!!

 We were in the company of Mr Keith Painter, former NODA Rep and current scenery builder who had brought up the working gate for us to use in rehearsals.  He informed me that he was a regular reader of the diary which I was happy to hear!

In her absence, Howard has set the “Oklahoma!” number so it was always going to be a challenge for her to say whether we were right or wrong so we started with “The Farmer….” Having not seen it for a while, Kathryn seemed quite impressed at how it had progressed in her absence. Still scrappy in parts but overall, not bad was the verdict as once more, we broke it down into stages so everyone knew where they should be.  Janet and Peter are now in the first part of the dance as Janet explained that Howard had put them back in to increase the size of the circle.  The feeling around the room was that this must have been a private agreement between Howard and Janet because no-one else remembered!! The fight scene was much better although it brought about one of the most surreal moments I have ever experienced in 20 years at TCOS.  As Aunt Eller fired her gun to bring the fight to an end, Erik was in a compromising position bent over.  Danny Boy was on his knees (stay with me, it’s not rude) facing Erik’s rear end.  For some reason, Danny felt the urge to purse his lips and pretend to plant a smacker on Erik’s left cheek!!  Clocked by myself and Junior, we both looked at each other in disbelief and our faces were a picture as we both said at the same time, “Did he just do that?” We carried on, trying to get the image out of our minds.  It could trouble us for a good while to come though that one I reckon!!

We went through it all again before we had a go at “Oklahoma!”.  Again, it was a bit scrappy with the speed and with Chris shouting out the singing instructions – “Keep the notes short” he yelled.  Kathryn reckoned another line would be required to fit everyone on and it was agreed to look at that when we go to Anchorsholme.

At the break, Alison mentioned tickets, Little Jean mentioned the programme and we all sang Happy Birthday to Kathryn and Anne G. Giles, Junior and me tried on and claimed our cowboy boots from wardrobe.  Giles and Junior kept theirs on for the remainder of the rehearsal but mine didn’t look right with shorts!

Another rendition of “Oklahoma!” including the reprise – which was remembered perfectly by Lisa – followed by one final “Farmer….” brought about an early night for the men as the ladies had a go at “Out Of My Dreams”.  A sing through first before the majority of ladies were relieved of their duties whilst Kathryn, armed with a parasol began setting the dance with the girls.  Within 10 minutes it was in the bag!

Curley, Laurey, Annie & Will are called on Thursday and NEXT WEEK’S REHEARSAL IS AT ANCHORSHOLME SCHOOL.  If you speak to anyone who wasn’t there last night, please let them know.

 Thanks to all for another good night and see you all next week………AT ANCHORSHOLME SCHOOL.

 Cheers

Richard

Howard was missing tonight due to a prior engagement and with Kathryn still on holiday, Diane once more very kindly took the reigns and put us through our paces as we recapped both routines. She started by walking through the first part of “Oklahoma!” and everyone seemed happy to give it a go. We had a couple of sing through’s with Chris emphasising the short notes and ensuring we get the desired impact.  “It’s Oklahoma! not Thornton Cleveleys” he advised, “It needs to be sharp, punctuated and powerful”. Once he was happy, we were back with Di. Unfortunately, during this part of the rehearsal, I was called away on “official” business in my role as Vice Chairman, in Alison’s absence, so I missed the rest of the song as I didn’t get back until the break, although I have to say, from outside the hall (which is where I was) it sounded very good.

At the break, Little Jean explained that a zipped hoody was not an option and asked for names of who would want a hoody or t shirt.  A big thankyou to Little Jean and in particular Felicity who has been exploring avenues for the best deal on these and has been inundated with “helpful” suggestions of which colour to use.  An appeal for adverts for the programme was also made with Little Jean requesting confirmation by the end of August.  The posters and handbills have also arrived and several members took these away to display wisely.  Not wanting to miss any birthdays, I asked if anyone had one coming up and found out that Geoff is celebrating today (19^th).  As ever, the usual rendition was given. I took the opportunity to thank Di for taking the rehearsal in case I didn’t say it at the end.

We then went back to “Farmer & The Cowman” and the first time through was pretty good.  We are still a little wary in parts but you sense that for the majority of people, the steps are there, it is now just a case of having the confidence to go for it fully.  The claps still require a bit of work but again, we are yet to try it with a full compliment of clappers and I’m sure when everyone is in place there won’t be any problems. Tony and Little Jean took a fall during the fight scene as they fell over a quarrelling Tommy and Jackie – but everyone escaped unscathed!! We ran through the routine a couple more times and with Lisa’s help, we identified what happens for 8 counts that appeared to throw us each time.  Diane read out the orders of the lines for the up and overs and due to her lack of glasses, she introduced us to two new members – David & Tammy.  She was soon corrected by Dani (girl) and Tommy!!!

And so another rehearsal came to an end as Diane thanked everyone for their efforts.  Diane was given a well deserved round of applause and we all went to the pub!

Principals are required on Thursday night and see the rest of you next Tuesday.

Cheers Richard

Tonight’s rehearsal saw the return of Howard, fresh from a fortnight’s holiday along with a few more giving us a healthier compliment than we have had in recent weeks.  Only another couple of weeks of the holiday period!We started by showing him “The Farmer & The Cowman” and, although not perfect, it flowed and we got through it.  Howard gave his comments on his observations highlighting the need to make it big and bring some character into it.  He also pointed out that faces were dead and the routine was flat in parts – particularly the fight.  He pointed out that although it needed a bit of pizzazz, and punch, it was much better as a piece than when he went away and he was pleased at the evident work we have put in over the last couple of weeks.

Keen to crack on, we left that one and moved onto the title song, “Oklahoma!”. This starts with us in groups standing still for a whole verse before we swap sides and go into the routine proper.  This involves swaying arms, clenched fists, open hands, heels, toes, lassoos and head turns.  It soon became apparent that some had much better head turning hair than others and Young Swifty was the best equipped male for this particular discipline of the routine as his flowing locks spun like he was in a hairspray advert – (the puff).

At the break, Alison mentioned the concerts we have been asked to sing at that were mentioned last week and a few more names were added.  Little Jean asked all principals for a few words about themselves to accompany a picture in the programme and also conducted a survey about preferences of colour for Oklahoma! t shirts etc, with the likely winner being yellow with brown writing – Fireman Andy said we would look like a group of Brownies! Alison also advised of a change to the NODA Awards after the new rep had written to all the local societies for their feedback.  There are fewer awards now and each award has 3 nominees – a bit like a real award ceremony.  The society and several individuals have been nominated including Kathryn (for Anything Goes and Movies Were Movies), Erik (for AG & MWM), Judi (for AG) and The Full Monty routine from “Movies Were Movies”.  Unfortunately, the new rep has not included the annual Gail Carter award!!

We carried on with the routine which included the “Yippee Yi” section and we were each assigned a number 1,2 or 3.  Facing the back, the first “Yippee” is sung upstage before the number 1’s turn to face the front on the 2^nd “Yippee”. Number 2’s turn to the front on the 3^rd “Yippee” and number 1’s face the back. On the 4^th “Yippee”, the number 3’s join in. There was a bit of confusion as numbers were called out before Janet suggested the first “Yippee” is referred to as “Wait” instead of “One”.  This was deemed the perfect solution and Janet was duly rewarded with praise as if she had found a cure for swine flu!!

We worked on until a suitable point of the song to finish and we ran through the whole thing from the top.  The routine itself isn’t difficult but the moves are fast and need to be slick.  Add to this the fact that we are also singing in harmony, it is important to get the routine in our heads as quickly as possible.

Another excellent rehearsal – principals are there on Thursday and everyone else on Tuesday.

Cheers

Richard

(Phil's Footnote) Sorry for the delay in posting this diary - I've been away on my hols!!

In Howard’s absence, we were in the capable hands of Kathryn who had been given the task of positioning “The Farmer & the Cowpat”.  After several weeks of doing the routine in various places in the hall, we were finally given proper positions and partners.  With David also making the most of the glorious summer weather, we worked to a cd of the soundtrack initially before moving onto a tape (remember those) of David playing the “dance”. The question of the night was “Who’s Barbie” as Kathryn went through her list to put us all in place.  I think I was asked the question each time I moved into a new spot.  My sources tell me “Barbie” is actually Anne Duckworth and she is named so as a result of her likening for pink clothes and glitter apparently! It was a bit of a stop/start rehearsal as each stage of the routine called for people moving to a different part of the stage so this had to be set properly and within a certain number of beats. Kathryn had people standing in for those who were missing and Erik was the victim of an over enthusiastic finger from Yvonne which got him right in the eye!  By the time we got to the break, we were part way through the clapping routine and assigned our official A or B status for that particular part of the claps.  This caused the expected confusion and Jenny D was complaining that she couldn’t reach the far leg in the own, partner, partner section. 

At the break, once more, cold drinks were the preference as we attempted to cool down.  We gave a very high a’capella rendition of Happy Birthday to Eve who will be 21 on Friday and then our MD Chris advised that it is his birthday on Wednesday.  Given the previous attempt, he had to make do with a spoken greeting!

We picked up from the claps and quickly moved on to the next section.  The foot slap move that planned to move us across the stage was deemed nigh on impossible so Kathryn adapted it slightly to prevent it looking like a riot! We got to the end of the number and Kathryn’s requests to go through it a couple more times were met with worn out groans from the floor.  Joanna commented that when Kathryn says “just once more” it can mean anything up to 10 more times!! On this occasion it only meant twice though, although I must confess my contribution to the second time through was practically nil as my head was totally cabbaged and my feet were like lead – no change there then I hear you cry!

We finished at 10 past 10 and a few hardy souls ventured on to The Vic.

Thursday is a singing rehearsal for principals only and next week, we will go through the above and then have a recap on the singing as both Howard and Kathryn will be away.

Thanks to all, particularly Kathryn for another good rehearsal.

See you all next week.

Cheers - Richard

Not sure what happened to last weeks diary – after speaking with Karen she said she had sent it off so there are a few possible outcomes as to why it hasn’t appeared:

1. She sent it to the wrong email address

2. Phil has been busy with “The Likes Of Us” and not got round to putting it on – Good luck to all involved with that this week by the way

3. It was sent to the correct email address but it just wasn’t up to the usual standard!!!

(She assures me that it was and it even contained a bit of humour). 

We were depleted somewhat in numbers last night as a result of holidays, graduations, work commitments, toothache and the aforementioned “Likes Of us” which claimed Dani and Little Mike, as well as our MD and pianist.  Also Our Beverley & Janet are taking part in the Youth Theatre show.  If anyone has any spare time this week, please try to support.

Alison opened the rehearsal by introducing our Curly to the company and it’s a big welcome to Giles Ward who is joining us for this show after many years of threatening to come along!!

Howard gave a brief recap over what was done last week and the general feel was to just go for it from the top. It started well as everyone is now ok the first and second sequence.  The claps came unstuck again at the A/B split and then the timing went to pot a bit for the remainder of the routine which had Howard sat with his head in his hands!  After a breathy count to ten, he took to the floor to give us his verdict.  “The first part of it is fine and the claps will be ok once I’ve worked out who’s going to be doing ‘em” he said.  We worked through the next section slowly once more until everyone was happy before moving onto the bits that were set last week. 

At the break, Alison announced that Geoff had raised over £2,500 for Guide Dogs For The Blind with his efforts in the London Marathon and the collections after “Movies Were Movies”. Congratulations Geoff.  We also sang an a’capella (and in Kieron’s case – a deafening) rendition of Happy Birthday to Jordie. We then moved onto the song itself which opens Act 2 and we were joined by Helen who had come straight from running the “Race For Life” in 31 minutes – well done to Helen and all the best to anyone else taking part tonight (particularly the girls in the YES Team).  We all run on in an organised melee before splitting into Famers & Cowboys.  We form 2 circles and go round then in a snake before twizzing our partners.  There was initial confusion with the snake as we all aimed for our original partners without realising there isn’t enough music to get to them.  Once that was established the timing was better, although I then ended up with Joanna instead of Yvonne – life can be so cruel sometimes!!!

Erik & Anne as Andrew & Eller then come down and break up the noise to start the song.  It was during this section of the rehearsal that we heard the legendary phrase associated with Howard for the very first time….at 9.09pm came the quote “it’s got to ‘ave PACE”. As the song progressed, odd lines were handed out and once more, Howard called for “energy and power in your actions” as the heavens opened outside and hail stones came in through the windows .  We got up to the fight scene before calling it a night just after 10.  Howard expressed the need to put in the effort each week and “really emphasise the moves and make them big and bold otherwise it will look naff”.  He doesn’t take prisoners and his expectations are that everyone should work to the same standard as him.  We should all be absolutely worn out by the time the rehearsal ends!!!  With that in mind we retired to the pub, dripping, knackered but happy with another excellent rehearsal.  We will continue next week with the fight scene – I will be missing again as I am away, so enjoy and I’ll see you in 2 weeks.

Cheers

Richard

In the aftermath of last week’s auditions we gathered again for another instalment of the epic that is “The Farmer & The Cowman”.  With a couple of auditions still to do, we planned for another 9.30 finish for the company.

The outcome of these auditions mean that the production team and casting committee have now been able to cast the show with the following:  Curly – Giles Ward, Laurey – Lisa Carolan, Aunt Eller – Anne George, Ado Annie – Jenny Daniels, Will Parker – Phil Swift, Jud Fry – Joe Kerr, Gertie Cummins – Helen Hackett, Ali Hakim – Graeme Dow and Erik Blackburn will be asked to do Andrew Carnes. 

Alison began proceedings by thanking everyone for putting so much effort into their auditions.  Obviously, when there are only 6 or 7 parts up for grabs and 30 or so auditionees there is going to be an element of disappointment and I always think you only know what kind of company you have AFTER the auditions. The odd dummy has been spat out and sadly, that is expected as egos are deflated.  Fortunately, most of those who auditioned have been “dignified in defeat” and accepted that they can still play a major part in what promises to be a great show.  I am in a position where I have been in Howard’s shows as the leading man, supporting principal and chorus and I can honestly say, I have enjoyed each one equally – Howard is a director who values his chorus as much as his principals.

Once the announcements had been made, we were straight to work starting the “Farmer & the Cowman” routine from the top.  The first 2 sequences seem to be pretty much embedded now and the first part of the claps also – they came unstuck a bit at the A – B split as once again the awkward situation of being an A last week and vice versa, reared it’s confusing head!  We carried on regardless but it came to a sticky end during the sequence we set last week.  This was again broken down slowly and at one point Howard gave a direction of “hands on thighs” to which both Tommy and myself reacted in true style of an old joke and covered our eyes (i.e. hands on th’eyes) – you can take the boys out of Oldham………

A couple more attempts and we moved onto the final section.  This section involves more stamping, turning, slapping, stomping and sweating!  Diane was frantically writing down the steps as quickly as Howard was setting them. “I need it to be powerful and strong BAM BAM BAM” shouted Howard as his foot hit the floor, “You have to really stamp your feet down and travel, not skip!” he went on.  The suggestion that copies of Diane’s notes are made available to all was deemed a good one so that will be done asap and distributed accordingly.

At the break, once again cold drinks and the car park were the popular choices as we tried to cool off.  Alison thanked everyone for helping with the success of the Summer Fair and announced that we had made £1,000.  Andrew questioned that stating that we may have taken that but once everything has been paid out, the figure is likely to be more in the region of £700 - £750 – still a very good effort. We then sang happy birthday to Felicity who was celebrating that day and to Jane who celebrates at the weekend.The rest of the rehearsal was spent going over the routine before we ended with the now customary round of applause for Howard for his efforts.  The routine is now set – albeit still messy in parts but as Howard said at the beginning, he was keen to get it set as quickly as possible to give us plenty of time to perfect.   I know one or two may be worrying about the movement and whether they will pick it up if they have missed rehearsals – please don’t worry as there is plenty of time and there are enough people who know it well enough and are willing to go through it as much as is necessary.

Well done to all and thanks again for your hard work and another excellent rehearsal.

A few of us will be missing next week as a result of involvement in other shows so maybe somebody else who watches from the sidelines called Karen may do the diary????

Cheers

Richard

Another hot Tuesday night and another excellent turnout to go over the routine we started last week before adding the next section.  We got straight to work by attempting to do the routine from the start.  A few partner changes as a result of a few latecomers and absentees and it soon became evident that a bit of recapping would be required!  The steps to stage 1were broken down again before we tried them “at speed” before we moved onto stage 2.  Once again, this was broken down until everyone was happy before we went from the beginning again.  There was a bit of deliberation as to how many counts to get us into the second position and how many times we do the claps before Howard advised that each section is broken up into 16 counts.

We then moved on to the clapping section so we took our places on the floor – again a few positional changes from last week caused one or two problems as some had to revert from being an “A” last week to being a “B” this week!  On the whole, this section was pretty well remembered by most and certainly after a couple of goes it all came flooding back.

We broke for a break during which, many of us took the opportunity to say hello to Roz who made a very welcome appearance. In the absence of an ill Alison, I ran around like a blue bottomed fly trying to sort out audition pieces, find things for the summer fair and be questioned on all kinds of things as diverse as costumes and patrons letters.  Someone also came up to tell me about a birthday on Thursday but for the life of me I cannot remember  who told me or who’s birthday it was – I know it’s Gail’s on Thursday and it was my intention to announce it along with the mystery person so to Gail and whoever else is having a birthday on Thursday – do have a good one!!  Auditionees were told of the timetable  for Sunday and copies were distributed accordingly before Diane took centre stage to give the Summer Fair one final push for Saturday.  As we have said numerous times, please do your utmost to attend at St Hilda’s in Carleton from 11 am on Saturday.

Howard then took control once more as he showed us the next (and I think/hope the final) section of the routine which involves more heels, stamps, slides, claps and box steps.  As he bellowed each move from the front the new bit began to take shape.  I think Howard’s enthusiasm has really rubbed off on everyone and he has quickly endeared himself to the company.  The word that was used frequently in the pub after last week’s rehearsal was “buzzing” and everyone should be commended for the way you have gone for it!

We finished by going through the whole routine and after only 2 weeks, you can see it coming together.

The company left early to enable 6 people to audition.  These went well however the final one was hampered by a rather unsavoury incident involving our young friends who have decided to make the back of the hall their “patch” for doing whatever it is they do!!  Graeme’s audition was interrupted by a few bangs on the window before 2 heads appeared through the top windows.  A bit of verbal followed before I asked them in no uncertain terms to clear off!! Unfortunately we felt it necessary to call the police as the abuse was particularly unpleasant.  As expected they had disappeared by the time the police arrived.  It is becoming a bit more frequent that these idiots are hanging around the hall so just be aware when leaving the hall after rehearsals! On the other hand, I don’t wish to worry anyone so in the words of Nick Ross on “Crimewatch” – Don’t have nightmares!!

Good luck to everyone who is auditioning on Sunday and remember the auditions are at Anchorsholme School!!

See you at the Summer Fair and thanks once again for an excellent rehearsal.

Cheers

Richard

What better way to spend a hot Tuesday night than to share a rehearsal room with over 50 like minded folk toot-skooting and thigh slapping. Well that was the name of the game last night as the company had their first rehearsal with Howard Raw who is making a very welcome return to TCOS for the first time since our 2003 production of “Crazy For You”. Much has been said by those who know him about his enthusiasm and energetic approach in rehearsals and judging by last night – he hasn’t changed a bit!!

The hall was buzzing once more and by 7.30 there was a very healthy compliment – even Janet was there!! As Howard looked round the room he said to me “bloody ‘ell Rich, ‘ow am I gonna move all these?” However move us he did! The plan of the night was to teach us the routine for “Farmer & The Cowman” so we started by singing through it.  Gail asked whether we could do some yee-hahs to which Chris replied “You can sing whatever you want – you usually do”.

Following the sing through, Howard took over. The routine is broken up into stages so he set about teaching us the first stage which involved heels, toes, stamps, turns, ball changes and spins.  With the volume of people, we had to create 2 circles before splitting into two groups to go through it in plenty of room.  Once that stage had been set, we moved on to the next bit which had us in lines and more heels, toes, kicks, claps and stamps.  This was a bit tricky as it involved direction changes which left many of us totally disorientated and lost of any sense of what is left and what is right!

That took us to a well earned break where the choice of liquid refreshment for the majority was cans rather than tea or coffee.  Alison suggested selling some of the beer that was in the committee room ready for the summer fair!  During the break we sang happy birthday to Tony The Turk (it was his birthday last week so he missed being sung to – still he didn’t moan about it!), also to Carol who celebrates on Sunday and to Janet Smith who was celebrating that very day.  Andy H also announced that it is his next week but he won’t be here as he is working!. Following that, Alison once again plugged the Summer fair and appealed for bottles, chocolate and cosmetics for the stalls. She also asked us to sell and return raffle ticket money.  We were all advised to tune into BBC4 next Monday at 9pm to watch “The Secret Life of the Airport” which features our very own firemen Andy & Daz.  Andy told us that Daz can be seen running around with a hose in his hand – no change there then.  Erik took particular interest at that point and was seen to write a memo to himself to record it!!

After a recap of what we had done, we moved onto stage 3.  This involved us sitting down for an old favourite of Howard’s – the clapping routine.  “Some of you will know this cos we did it in’Crazy For You’ ” said Howard.  Now I can only speak for myself here, but I can’t remember any routines from the last show never mind one from 6 years ago!! This part of the routine was again broken down into stages with all eyes on Howard at the front as he worked his magic and had us clapping & slapping to our hearts content.  One particular stage was referred to as “Pass the clap” which starts at one end of the line and ends up at the other end.  As we practiced it, Danny passed his clap before it had reached him which had Howard exclaim “You can’t pass it till you’ve bloody gorrit!!”

The rehearsal came to an end with Howard confirming each stage of the routine and the request that we take what we have done and work on it for next week so we can pick up where we left off.  He thanked us all for our effort and in turn received a round of applause for his.

So now you all know what he’s about and if last night is anything to go by, we are in for an action packed few months.

We are going to have a read through of the show on Thursday night from 8.15 so for anyone attending, see you there and for everyone else, see you next Tuesday and thanks for an excellent rehearsal.

Richard

No diary as such for last night given it was a rehearsal for those auditioning on the 28^th and I spent most of the night in the committee room practicing for Kathryn’s forthcoming show that myself, Andrew, Don, Tony & Graeme seem to have been roped into!!

 A good turn out, particularly from the ladies and everyone was given the opportunity to go through the solo’s.  I hope everyone found it beneficial in their preparation for the auditions and for those who enjoyed a night off, I trust you spent it wisely!!

As I saw very little of the rehearsal I shall take the opportunity to remind everyone about the Summer Fair on the 27^th June.  Please, please start to bring things for the stalls.  There is a bottle tombola, a chocolate stall, Hilda’s mystery stall where she has requested perfume etc.  The fair is an opportunity for the society to make a decent amount of money so please do what you can to support it.  If we don’t have anything on the stalls, we won’t make any money!!

Finally, Howard starts working with us next week so please be there and ready to start at 7.30. I can guarantee it will be a very busy rehearsal but will be FUN!! There will also be a read through next Thursday (18^th) starting at 8.15.  Mainly for the benefit of those auditioning but if anyone else fancies coming down you are more than welcome.

See you all next week.

Richard

We were somewhat depleted in numbers last night – I believe the reasons for this can be summed up in 2 words - Summer Holiday – be it members watching or being involved in the production of this show at the Grand this week starring Young Swifty, official holidays being enjoyed by several members of the company or maybe one or two have enjoyed the tropical weather we have been basking in and felt an evening in the back garden may have been preferable to a sing song in the hall!  It shows how the membership has grown over the last few years when we appear to be depleted when we are down to 30 people!!!

Don won the best tan without going away contest as he walked in looking as though he had spent a month in the Caribbean when in fact he had been slashing around in his garden pool all weekend.

We started with “The Farmer & the Cow Pat” as it is now officially known.  My God it’s high which causes the men no end of trouble as some try to sing it in the higher octave and some in the low.  This caused David particular grief on the line “Be sure that you lock up your daughters”.  In the lower octave it could hardly be heard so David requested that we do it again and try it higher.  During this request, Tony decided to join us and as we sang it again, David exclaimed “That was better”.  Tony asked me if I thought it’s because he had arrived.  I told him it was very doubtful !!!

We moved promptly on to the title song to see how well we had remembered the harmonies we learnt last week.  The first attempt got a credible “Not bad” from David before he note bashed each part again, starting with the altos.  He then appealed to us to listen to the harmonies that are available on the website. 

We broke for quite a long break, during which Alison asked those taking place in Poulton Gala on Saturday to meet in the Civic Centre car park at 12.00 on Saturday dressed in something cowboyesque.  She also advised that Summer Fair raffle tickets will be available next week and Hilda took the floor to appeal for any unwanted perfume or smellies for her ‘unwanted perfumes and smellies stall’.  I also requested final payments for the dvd of the last show and explained issues with the sound brought about as a result of him using 2 cameras causing dips in the sound levels as the action skips from one to the other.

It was also announced that next week’s rehearsal will be used to concentrate on audition pieces to give those auditioning for parts the opportunity to go through the chosen songs with Chris and David.  There will also be a read through of the show on Thursday 18^th where auditionees will be able to read the parts they are going for.  The read through will follow Howard’s first rehearsal on the 16^th. We also sang “Happy Birthday” to Andrew who celebrated his birthday over the weekend.  Tony expressed concerns that he would miss out on being serenaded next week when it is his birthday. Ah well Tony….at last you’re not moaning about it!!!

Fireman Andy arrived straight from work and we got back to it with the men singing through “Oh What A Beautiful Morning” & “Surrey With A Fringe On Top” before the ladies sang “Out Of My Dreams” and “Many A New Day”. The men were back for “Kansas City”, the girls did “Caint Say No” before the men had a go at Jud’s tuneful ditty “Lonely Room”. David then said we’ll do “Poor Jud Is Daid” which got a unanimous “NNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!” from the men and had Dani declare it as the “Lady Fair” of Oklahoma!, referring of course to the worst song in “Anything Goes” last year!

We finished with a rousing rendition of “Oklahoma!” and the rehearsal came to an end.

See those of you taking part in the Gala on Saturday and remember, next week is for auditionees only so those not auditioning – have a nice week off and use your night off to listen to the harmonies on the web site because when you come back…….Howard will be let loose on you!!!

Thanks all for a good rehearsal.

Richard

Tuesday 26^th May

A big thankyou to Don for stepping in at short/no notice and producing a fine account of last weeks proceedings whilst I was basking in the fine Scottish sunshine!  I actually visited the old Brig O’ Doon whilst I was there and spent the next few hours explaining to Charlotte that Auntie Gail, Uncle Big ‘Un, Uncle Phil and Little Jean hadn’t really disappeared for the next hundred years!

The room once again was packed to the rafters – and that with a dozen or so absentees.  We started with “The Farmer and the Cow Pat!” which was a bit feeble at first.  David stopped us mid verse and requested that the men start again and really attack it – we did and it was much better – it’s chuffin’ high though!  The ladies then took over and gave a very nice rendition of “Many A New Day” before moving onto the harmonies for the title song.  These had been overlooked for the last couple of weeks as Chris concentrated on timing and getting familiar with the tempo etc so in his absence, David was able to concentrate on the harmony that he has created.  As ever we started with the basses. After a few goes we kind of had it and the tenors were invited to join in.  Andrew requested that they were given the opportunity to actually listen to their line beforehand and David eventually agreed to play it! The altos followed before the sopranos completed the jigsaw and we all sang it together.  With plenty more opportunity to go through it we have nothing to worry about.  The harmonies are also available on the website so please listen and learn your harmony via this medium. The rehearsal was disrupted briefly by a bang on the back door and Andrew followed by Joe went out to investigate.  A group of young ne’er do wells were approached by the pair and denied that it was them who banged on the door!  The next thing, Andrew & Joe returned followed by 2 of the young scamps who apparently expressed a desire to join up!  They sat down and had a quick look at the music before sloping off, I suspect never to be seen again!!!

At the break, the invitation was made to anyone auditioning to collect the audition pieces which had been arranged beautifully by Karen.  A list for anyone available to take part in Poulton Gala on June 6^th was also there. 

We were back at it soon enough with the Finale which is basically a quick snippet of “Oh What  A Beautiful Morning” & “People Will Say…” It only took a couple goes before it was deemed as fine with David stating that it’s quite possible that Howard will use different songs for the finale anyway.

The ladies then went through “Out Of My Dreams” and, following a brief discussion between David and Janet where various letter of the alphabet were passed between them, an alto harmony was created.

We wrapped things up with the “Encore” which is basically the Oklahoma number we had done earlier without the ‘Yippees’ and the ‘Eyes’ before a final rousing rendition of the full version brought proceedings to a close.

Audition songs will be available next week and auditionees will be given plenty of opportunity to go through their respective songs.  We also plan to have a read through of the show one Thursday night – maybe in a couple of weeks where auditionees will be given the opportunity to go through the show to get an idea of what it’s all about!

Thanks to all for a good rehearsal and see you all next week.

Richard

Here we go again…….another opening, another show.  Welcome back to the rehearsal diary and for any new readers, welcome to TCOS.

An excellent turnout of approximately 50 people found their way to Ritherham Avenue full of enthusiasm for the task ahead.  Included in that number were several new faces, which is very pleasing along with some TCOS legends making a return to the fold.

After listening to Howard’s plans for the show at the Jacob’s Join a couple of weeks ago, the mood was buoyant as the hall buzzed with excitement.

Alison gave an initial introduction and explained the reasons behind issuing the company with lyrics rather than full scores (the reason being in the last couple of years, several scores have not made it back resulting in the society and some members ending up out of pocket). As David tends to arrange his own harmonies anyway and the fact that very few of us actually read music anyway, the scores will be issued on a weekly basis and collected at the end of each night – that said, when we counted up last night there was still one that managed to escape so if you have it….please don’t lose it!!

Our Musical team was introduced – David Chadwick as chorus master and accompanist and Chris Andrews as Musical Director and we soon set about the “Oklahoma!” encore (including the twiddly bits that some felt the need to try during rehearsals for the last show!).  Chris was mainly concerned with establishing rhythms and who sang what and when more than anything so David will work on the harmonies from next week.

We then moved onto “The Farmer And The Cowman” with the men singing the male solo parts and the ladies singing the female solos.  A very wordy song that goes pretty high and  will no doubt involve a lot of movement.

We had a break for a brew and Alison mentioned the Summer Fair (which is quite early this year – June 27^th) and Poulton Gala where we intend to promote the show.  Alison asked if anyone had a van before a suggestion from the front came for a tractor – this was continued into the pub and contacts are currently being primed.  I phoned a friend to see if he had a “Surrey with a fringe on top” but it was a bad line and he phoned earlier to ask why I wanted a lorry with a fridge on top!!

We got back to it, having another couple of goes of “The Farmer And The Cowman” before we went through some of the solo songs – “People Will Say We’re In love”, “Cain’t Say No”, the uplifting “Poor Jud Is Daid” & “Out Of My Dreams” before a final attempt of the encore where Chris requested we sing it with some bloke called “Gusto”.  Chris seemed to enjoy our rendition as he clapped and yelled out the words all the way through it !!!

And so came the end of a very successful first rehearsal.  A vibrant rehearsal hall and a good sound after one night tells us already that we will have a brilliant show on our hands.

I am away next week so will be relying on somebody else (cough, cough Don) to step in and do the diary. 

I am off to Scotland for a week – now a funny thing happened to me the last time I went to Scotland when I got lost in a forest with Phil Hemming and came across a very strange old town and ended up in a pair of tartan trousers!!!!!! (if you are confused – please see the Past Productions page – 2006 Brigadoon). If you are still confused….just ignore me!

Have a good rehearsal next week and see you in a fortnight.

Richard