Me and My Girl

This classic, twice Olivier Award-winning musical tells a typical rags-to-riches tale. The noble family of Herefords need an heir to continue the family line and fortunes; their continuation, however, lies with Bill Snibson (Geoff Lee), an uncouth Cockney. The ‘old dragon’ of a Duchess (Lauren Deen) attempts to make something of him, and demands that he rids himself of his Cockney girl, Sally (Sarah Sherred). If Bill fails to show upper class potential and obtain a suitably upper class lady, he won’t be able to touch the money. Beset by social rigours and a ruthless seductress, Lady Jacqueline (Clare Donovan), it seems that Bill is going to be forced to choose between his inheritance and his girl. Or will he?

Me and My Girl takes a light-hearted look at class divides, mocking the upper class of the 1930s while at the same time applauding Bill’s gradual transition into it and impressing upon the audience the importance of familial obligation. The main qualm about the production is that there appear to be too many cast members on a small stage; with the result that the biggest numbers such as ‘The Lambeth Walk’ feel crowded and cluttered, without room for a proper display of dancing.

The solo songs and dances are well-performed and fill up the space nicely: in particular Donovan’s crystal-clear voice projects and encapsulates her character well. The physical performance of Bill is another highlight of the show; his attempts to learn party etiquette result in some hilarious hat-chasing, slapstick moments, which go down well.

The musical luckily doesn’t delve too deeply into camp, instead the acting is comic rather than over the top. There are a few moments of indulgence, however, and some overly flamboyant characters: a particularly suggestive London policeman and a Scottish solicitor (Richard Townsend), whose song ‘The Family Solicitor’ failed to work choreographically – the lack of style here amply patched up with enthusiasm.

Finally—despite the constrictions—Me and My Girl is a charismatic production, with a real sense of frivolous fun.