Danny

USER: UK Theatre Web (09Aug01): An unashamedly sentimental production, Danny, a new musical by Barrington Brown, directed by Duggie Brown, makes no attempt to challenge Irish stereotypes or provide some new and profound insight into the effects of war. Essentially a comedy, it nevertheless delivers the occasional moment of highly-charged emotion as it portrays the often overlooked impact of World War One on an Irish family. Danny provides some memorable musical numbers under the musical direction of Paul Mellors although there is scope for fewer Irish folk songs that contribute little. The presence of a narrator played by Duggie Brown is of dubious value although his comedy contribution as Father O’Loughlin successfully drives the entire production. Darren Johnson in the title role and Patricia Hughes as Mary play their respective roles convincingly and deliver the musical numbers strongly, whilst Deborah Winn provides a near faultless performance as love-interest Peggy and Drew Brown performs ably, if briefly, as Michael. However, Ross Michaels as Timothy is disappointing – he plays the role adequately but lacks vocal ability for the musical numbers. Danny may not have deserved the standing ovation it received and clearly still requires work but nevertheless it has potential and is worth seeing. Marcus James