Thoroughly Modern Millie

As a show, Thoroughly Modern Millie doesn't take itself too seriously, so as an audience it would be churlish if we did not approach it in the same way and as such it is an entertaining enough night of theatre with some excellent moments and a few flat moments. Joanne Clifton as Millie can sure dance, but we knew that, and can sure sing but her acting was a bit too gauche even for the raw Millie. This may have been a directorial decision as the moment there was music she was fine again - she can certainly hold the stage and some of the set-piece dance numbers suited her to a tea.

Lucas Rush was a delightful Mrs Meers, playing the role(s) with gusty and obvious pleasure. Graham MacDuff as Trevor Graydon, the straight-laced boss who goes off the rails was fun but I fear his antics were milked somewhat and pulled focus rather too much - an excellent physical comedian though with great skills, timing and panache. Catherine Mort's Mrs Flannery was a hoot and the rest of the cast delivered their roles well - the office numbers were particularly effective, especially given that we are near the end of a long tour - good to see the energy and effort still there.

This is a bit of fluff and fun and none the worse for that but it seemed a bit long and at times lost pace which allowed too much thinking time for an otherwise appreciative audience ...