FULL houses and a standing ovation every night confirmed the popularity of the Alexandra Theatre and the production of ‘The Show Must Go On’ by Newton Abbot and District Comedy Society last week.

Designed to showcase this wonderful Victorian theatre, the fantastic quality of the musical numbers, dance routines and concert hall humour, thrilled the audiences confirming the need for The Alexandra to continue as an entertainment and cultural hub for Newton Abbot.

Directed by Iain Douglas, with musical arrangement by Jeff Hocking and choregraphy by Sara Roche, the 35 strong cast romped through many big show numbers, including an Andrew Lloyd Webber medley, songs from ‘Chicago’ and some very funny pieces from ‘Spamalot’ and ‘Forbidden Broadway’.

The audience were enthralled by this example of the beneficial effects of live theatre.

For some people it was their first visit to the Alexandra as a theatre, their previous experiences having only seen it as a cinema.

They were amazed and delighted to see the auditorium functioning as it was always intended to be, a fully-functioning theatre.

Newton Abbot and District Comedy Society are pleased to be presenting ‘Sleeping Beauty’, the pantomime in January 2023 at The Alexandra Theatre.  The show will go on!

WHAT THE PUBLIC HAD TO SAY:

I have just been to watch the show must go on omg what a fantastic production well done to all the cast  and crew who put on this production I watched with a big smile, I laughed and at the end felt quite emotional seeing the reaction on the casts faces listening to the applause, whooping and a standing ovation.

I felt emotional as it really hit home what we could lose if we don’t keep the Alexandra theatre.

The Show Must Go On was as good as professional productions, in fact my dad thought it was a production that was on tour. Exceptional value for money, I’ve paid a lot more for a show and not enjoyed it.

The show was a great mix and it really showcased all your company what a talented bunch you all are. Thank you to all involved and I really do hope the show will go at our Alexandra theatre – K Stocker

So many amazingly talented local performers! There is nowhere else in Newton Abbot a production of this standard could be put on.

The Alexandra being used to show off its true purpose.

The show had something for everyone. So looking forward to your future productions. Thank you – A Swinbank

It was an absolutely fantastic show. – Cllr Alex Hall

Honestly one of the best productions I’ve seen locally.

It was an amazing, fast paced, slick production which showcased the incredible talent we have in the society.

I loved the mix of songs and clever production, and I really did laugh and cry throughout the performance. The show must go on! – A Turner

Watched the opening night – amazing performances from everyone! Loved the way each section was introduced on the screen and the images of past shows during the finale were truly moving.

Great choreography for the dancers to get their tap shoes into. Loved all the new material from shows for the future. A truly entertaining evening spent at the wonderful Alexandra theatre – thanks to everyone involved – I Burley

Absolutely amazing show, fast paced, a brilliant variety of songs, just fantastic! My face ached from smiling so much – K Parr

I have been tonight and watched my eldest grandchild Arlo, sister Marilyn and niece Fiona all perform, am so very proud of them and all the amazing singers and dancers, the show was absolutely brilliant, well done to all involved – J Sanderson

My daughter and I were lucky to win tickets for the opening night.

Thank you so much for a brilliant evening. The show was amazing.

So well performed and put together, and for a great and important cause. You must have all worked really hard. We can’t wait to see your panto in January! Thank you again – S Steele

I’ve just taken my mum to see this show, on all week at the Alexandra Theatre, Newton Abbot.

It was magnificent. Stunning staging. Beautiful choreography. Brilliant direction. Quality musicianship. But the talent on that stage? Quite, quite breath taking. I am in awe.

I clapped, whooped, laughed and yes, I also cried! So moved by the finale and photographic montage. I am proud to have played a very small part in the history of NADMCS and the Alexandra Theatre.

Well done, each and every one of you – A Jackson

Wow! That was some show. So much talent from all the performers, production team and technical crew.  Congratulations

We loved it. How can this lovely theatre be lost to the people of Newton Abbot and surrounding areas! – H Laugee

Huge, and deserved, congratulations to the entire cast, crew, and creative team for Newton Abbot and District Musical Comedy Society production of ‘The Show Must Go On’, directed by Iain Douglas. It was a really wonderful selection of songs and dances which were performed impeccably and with gusto.

Everyone showed how much fun they were having and the work they had put into the performances. It’s impossible to single people out as each performer added to and enhanced the show.

The music, under the direction of Jeff Hocking, was sharp and punchy and the vocals were well-drilled and bountiful.  Lighting, sound, and staging through William Glennon, Will Tippett, and Phil Spicer was slick and totally suitable for each number, serving to enhance and never detracting or distracting.

The Choreography, driven by Sara Roche, was tight and gave the dancers their time to shine, but also adding to the overall spectacle.

Every number painted a picture of emotion, passion, and fun, which encapsulates everything live theatre should be.

The Alexandra Theatre is a gem in Newton Abbot and this show proved, with it’s sold out run, that there is appetite and need for it to remain in operation. Teignbridge District Council, sit up and take note – A Malcolm