Originally written (and set) in the 1930s, “Me and my Girl” was revised in the 1980s by Stephen Fry and Mike Ockrent and ran on both the West End and Broadway. It tells the story of Bill Snibson, a Lambeth market stall trader, who discovers he is the new Earl of Hareford. Bill is brought to Hareford Hall where his newly discovered aristocratic relations attempt to educate him into the ways of the gentry and separate him from his Cockney girlfriend Sally.
The result is a great deal of comic chaos facilitated by Fry’s fast-paced script which is punctuated by Noel Gay’s uplifting musical numbers, including familiar songs like “Leaning on a Lampost” and “The Sun has got his hat on”.
Bristol Light Opera Club bring us a charming production of the show. Michael Griffiths is delightful in the role of Bill. His combination of physical comedy with a strong singing voice makes him an ideal leading man. He is joined by Sophie Thorne who plays Sally with a perfect balance of comedy and pathos. Other notable mentions go to Chris Parslow (Sir John), Faye Banks (the Duchess) Jessica Bell (Lady Jaqueline) and Jaryd Evans (Gerald) who provide much of the humour. And a special mention must go to Tom Carron who is outstanding in the role of Parchester, the family solicitor.
When you are watching this production, it’s very easy to forget that BLOC is an amateur company made up of performers and production staff who have other jobs! Everything about the show is lavish and both the set and costumes are beautifully designed, evoking a strong sense of an opulent bygone age.
The story moves seamlessly from Harford Hall to the local pub and even onto the streets of London, before ending up back at the family mansion for a celebratory ball. Supporting members of the cast provide an important background throughout and come into their own in the big song and dance numbers.
The showstopping song is undoubtedly “The Lambeth Walk” in which the lead characters are joined on stage by a host of pearly kings and queens who lead the entire cast in a fast moving and joyous rendition of the song, complete with spoon playing!
Deep and meaningful drama this is not. It’s fast, funny and farcical and audiences left the theatre in high spirits, whistling the memorable numbers. Me and My Girl is at the Bristol Hippodrome until Saturday 5 October.