Ok, let me start this review by saying that when it comes to the musicals of Mr. Stephen Sondheim, I wear my heart well and truly on my sleeve. I am a huge fan! I don't often travel all the way to Altrincham (for me it is a 3 hour round trip!) but sometimes, it just has to be done! 'Company' is a seminal work not just in Sondheim's oeuvre but in the world of Musical Theatre in general, and only comes round every so often. It is not an easy show to either produce/direct or perform in, but for those who get the opportunity to do so, it is usually well worth the blood, sweat and tears shed to bring it to fruition.
In this particular production, by Sale And Altrincham Musical Theatre (Amateur) at Altrincham's Little Theatre, director Edward Prophet's vision was clear and defined, there was a definite 1970's vibe to the show - in keeping with the time when it was first written and produced, and despite the non-linear structure of the show, he managed to hold on to the storyline with ease - not an easy ask with any Sondheim show to be honest. The story centres around Robert (Bobby), a 35 year old single man in New York, whose friends are now all married and he flits with singleton ease from affair to affair, currently holding three girls on a line. However, deep down he is ready and wanting to get married, whilst conversely his "happily" married friends all can't wait to divorce and be single again! The show is therefore all about marriage, relationships, and that certain age when comfort and familiarity are all very well, but not at the expense of excitement...! But this is a Sondheim show, and so every single word counts! His genius lies in his ability to write lyrics that are both sparkling with caustic wit and succinct without wasting even one syllable, and as such are notoriously difficult to sing and interpret.
SAMT's cast was a true ensemble working excellently together, complementing and aiding each other nicely throughout, and, despite the few "hiccups" during this evening's show (things which can easily be rectified for future performances), this was a most sensible and sensitive portrayal of middle-aged ennui, desire, and people on the edge. A very minimal set was used, preferring to utilise different hues of lighting against the bare brick rear wall, and this worked excellently. The company's decision to use backing tracks for the music however did cause a couple of problems. When using pre-recorded tracks it means that the singer has no option but to sing it in the key, at the speed, and the way in which is was laid down in, which is not always the best for that particular performer who would have shone clearer had the song been transposed or slowed down just a tad. However, in general, the cast coped with excellently and although every nuance and every word was not always correctly placed or clear, we understood and forgave.
The show is an ensemble cast of 14, and perhaps it would be unfair of me to single anyone out in particular since all are integral and are inextricably weaved into each other - suffice to say that all worked extremely hard to bring their characters and performances (all individual) to the standard they did. I shall simply state that my favourite two musical numbers this evening were 'The Little Things You Do Together' and 'Getting Married Today'.
Reviewer - Alastair Zyggu
on - 27.3.25
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