4:39pm Thursday 4th March 2010
THIS is the third time that I’ve performed in Hello, Dolly! I first played the role of Barnaby with BAOS in 1994, and in 1998 I performed the show in Farnham with FAOS, when I played Cornelius.
Almost opposite to Cornelius and Barnaby (who are both very fun-loving characters), Horace is a reactionary, hide-bound spendthrift, who looks at the world in a very jaundiced way. He reminds me of a combination of Victor Meldrew and Scrooge, with a transatlantic twist!
I seem to be getting a reputation for playing this sort of role, which I hope is because I play ‘larger than life’ well, rather than any other reason!
I am also heavily involved off stage, as both production manager of the show and business manager for the society. I have also (somehow) managed to get involved with set design work for the show.
What people see on stage is the result of a very long process. The rehearsal period started back in September and since then we have been rehearsing every Tuesday and Thursday evening (although not everyone is needed each rehearsal) with a break over Christmas.
However, we have been working behind-the-scenes for the past year, arranging for permission to perform the show from rights holders, recruiting members of the production team – especially director, musical director, stage manager and choreographer – and working out the budget, which is about £25,000. There are also production meetings to ensure everybody knows what is happening, and works well together.
At BAOS, we firmly believe people should do the best they can and enjoy themselves into the bargain.
If you are interested in joining us, either on stage or backstage, please call 01256 475959 or visit baos.org.
I hope to see you there next week. Not only are we blessed with a wonderful venue, but the show promises to be a wonderful evening out with a fantastic orchestra, strong cast and amazing routines.
Hello, Dolly! will brighten up your day, so why not treat yourself for a night out, and you will leave humming show tunes with a smile on your face.
l Hello, Dolly! is running from March 9 until 13 with a matinee performance at 2.30pm on March 13.
Tickets, which are priced from £12 with concessions available, can be booked at the box office on 01256 844244, or online at anvilarts.org.uk.
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