It would be difficult to
fault almost any aspect of the
staging of the show. Forty
talented youngsters meticulously
directed by Nicci Hopson,
interpreted a taut plot, told
largely in music, with sincerity
and maturity.
Based on a true incident,
Parade tells of Leo Frank, a Jew
from New York, now living in
Atlanta, Georgia, who is accused
of killing a 13 year old girl.
Danny Greg as Leo stood out
in a cast where the overall
quality of singing was above
average judged against almost
any non-professional standard. A
hard-working, introspective man,
ambitious to provide well for
Lucille, his wife, Leo expresses
his unease at living in the
south in How Can I Call This
Home? His later It's Hard To
Speak My Heart was equally
sincerely expressed.
Greg showed his dancing
skills in a welcomed fantasy
interlude when he allegedly
invited Lorna Heppell, Kate Hume
and Lizzie Jay to Come Up To My
Office, in a routine
imaginatively choreographed by
Bev Locke.
Lucille, played with insight
by Marisha Jenkins, showed her
loyalty when she proclaimed You
Don't Know This Man and her
exasperation at his attitude
when she railed at him to Do It
Alone. Their duet This Is Not
Over Yet was ideally balanced.
Simon Fellingham was
everyone's idea of a sleazy
newspaper reporter and Patrick
Bartlett came through strongly
as the Governor who, belatedly,
reopened the case.
Rebecca Guez and Ben Hopkins
as Mary, the girl later murdered
and Frankie, her boyfriend,
injected a light touch to their
early The Picture Show. Hopkins
was impassioned when he vowed
vengeance at her funeral. Sian
Watkins brought fervour to her
role as Mary's mother.
Josh Attwood sounded
plausible as the slick,
unethical prosecutor. The five
black performers in the cast
added authenticity to the night
watchman and the cleaners, who
combined for Rumblin and a
Rollin.
The Dream Of Atlanta and
Where Will You Stand showed the
ensemble at its considerable
best.
Musical director Judith
Finlay proved throughout that a
trio can make as big a
contribution to a musical as can
a full orchestra. T Flook
RENT the
musical
May I take this
opportunity to say how much Andy, Jasmine and I enjoyed Rent. In
fact words don't do justice to just how much we enjoyed it - it
was AMAZING! The calibre of your cast was breathtaking. Having
been in every performance that Haywards Heath Operatic Society
have done over the last three years, I am sure I would struggle
to come close to the standard of your cast and we've just won an
award for 42nd Street. There didn't seem to be a single weak
link and just where do you get all those men from? Although the
content of the show itself was a bit too fruity for my taste,
that didn't spoil it for me. And the music! Being Bon Jovi's
no.1 fan, I felt like I'd died and gone to heaven! Not only
that, some of the cast teach my children! I feel my money is
very well spent and I'm so glad I stumbled across Ariel last
Jan. Well done to you and the whole team.
-----------------------
"Well done, I loved every minute of RENT and wish I could have
seen it every night!!!"
-----------------------
My name is Tom and I saw your production of Rent yesterday and
was utterly blown away by it. Being a big fan of the show, it
was fantastic to see so much hard work and effort being put into
the show to deliver such a stunning and well rounded
performance. Especially well- done to all of the principals who
carried their parts with confidence and conviction. A fantastic
show all round and well worth the hour and a half trip to come
and see.
---------------------------
Laura Child Brilliant performance last night. Thoroughly enjoyed
it.
-----------------
we came to see the show on Friday night and thought it was
incredible!, probably your best one yet!, Great Work :-) Thom &
Hannah"
-----------------
"Amazing best show ever!!!"
-----------------
"Even better 2nd time round!!"
----------------
We saw you on Saturday afternoon, 6th June. FANTASTIC! The cast
were so well put together. Amateur???? No way...........simply
the best show I've ever seen and I felt very emotional,
especially when Angel died. From beginning to end i was
spellbound and would just like to say well done to all involved
and i would be happy to travel from Salisbury again and again to
watch you guys. xx
--------------
I thought that the
UK could not
perform RENT. Oh My GOD was I wrong. This is on a
par with the Broadway that I saw three years ago. I have booked
for Friday and Saturday. RENT is alive in the UK. Thank you
Ariel
--------------
I am not long back
from the opening night - amazing, well done everyone! My
friend's comment as she left the theatre was that of all the
amateur productions she has ever seen, this was by far the most
professional. Have to say I agree with her!
--------------
Tonight was GREAT!!!! You should be VERY proud of such an
AMAZING show
SC
--------------
you were fantastic tonight! It was a brilliant show! Well done
to everyone
K McB
-------------
500, 25000, 600 minutes! can't get that song out of my head!!
Great show G, well done
AS
--------------
standing ovation on the first night of RENT! amazing first night
and can't wait till tomorrow
MW
--------------
is loving Rent at the Hawth
KY
--------------
You were all ace, I really had a great night and was thoroughly
surprised at the excellent quality of the singing and acting,
top marks!!
RB
--------------
thought everyone in RENT at The Hawth was brilliant
--------------
Opening the 2nd act with Seasons of love was fab and my friend
and I were wondering if you would actually be able to pull off
the high note in "measure your life, Measure your life in Love"
to which you did by 2 different actors one in the opening of 2nd
act and the other in the finale.
R McD
---------------
The emotion and passion that the cast put into this was immense
and us, the audience could realy tell that the cast were realy
feeling the part..
---------------
Credit goes to the band as they were also fabulous with a great
score.
---------------- Roger
aka Alex is cute in a rough sort of way in this mmmmmhhhhh lol!
-----------------
I take my had off to all those performers, They were unstoppable
on stage.
------------------
525,600 minutes is about the length of time I could sit and
watch these fantastic performers. I really love this musical
-----------------
In my opinion Alex Brown as Roger really stole the show, Playing
that character had to be hard for anyone an aspiring musician
trying to find himself and deal with the fact his girlfriend had
killed herself whilst also coping with his own disease and
trying to make a go of a relationship !! Not a hard role to take
on but my god did Alex do this to perfection.
-----------------
Lin Fever OHH what a voice !! It was spot on and truly heart
felt !! Amazing
------------------
James I thought was an actual mimic of Mark himself !! again
completely spot on.
-----------------
Melanie and Melody Fabulous I loved it they were all in all a
true imitation
of the girls great performers
------------------
Simon as Collins !! well although i think i was talking to your
mum after the show so it may be a bit biast I thought you really
did it well all the compassion the desire and the lustfulness
was there It was great.
---------------
Performance and direction was spectacular definite 5* performers
and show.
----------------
I went to the opening night of Rent on 2nd June 2009, not
knowing quite what to expect. I was simply blown away by the
quality and excellence of the ensemble's singing voices. The
production was superb and beats many shows I have seen in the
West End.
If
a 61 year old grandmother can enjoy this production then you all
can - It really is a must to see.
-------------------
"You all rocked - we thought it was BBBrilliant!!! Good luck for
the rest of the week! x"
--------
Its great, i saw it last night and it was fantastic. Everyone
should see it. !!
------------------
Neil what a night last night!!!! You should all be very proud of
yourselves. Si surprised me yet again the little bugger.
Everyone one was on top form. Coming again Saturday so hope to
see you after.. Good luck with the rest of the run xxxxxxx
Costumes were fantastic...
--------------------------
wow! it was amazing we all loved it. u were amazing and Phil
would have loved it too! u sent goose bumps ! congrats on the
show.
---------------------
really, really enjoyed the show, well done to everyone involved
it was great xx
-------------------
Fab show boy's and i enjoyed it
powerfull voices ..... they gave me Goosebumps
xxxxxxx
-------------------
incredible!
-------------------
Melody Warnett has had the most mental week doing Rent, made
some amazing new friends and feels so lucky to have been a part
of such a wonderful cast and team. Love you all very much xxx
-----------------
Lindsay Marie Carr had the best time doing rent.......love you
all xxxxxxx
---------------------
Gray Panton cried...it had been a long time coming...but it
happened...thank you RENT team - you mean the world to me! Xxx
---------------- Tony
Chesterfield Its Over....Thank you all, cannot tell you how nice
it was to work with you all XX
-------------------------
Dan Clark i have had such, an amazing week of performances...and
rehearsals....in past few month's i didn't want to end...i was
emotional tonight...but a little a bit loool X
------------------------
"Even better 2nd time round!!"
-------------------------
Neil , I can only say two words , THANK YOU xxxx and Nicci xxx
------------------------------
Tracey Buckland came to c it last nite, Fantabulous!! xx
--------------------------
Anna Stanley Congrats on such an amazing show! The cast was
fantastic...great evening!! xx
---------------------
"Just wanted to say
congratulations to you and everyone involved with Rent, another
fabulous success from Ariel!!! We thoroughly enjoyed it and I
wished I'd booked to see it again, once just wasn't enough!!
xxx"
---------------------------
James Hadden Can't believe this is goodbye
-----------------------
Simon Fellingham has 525,600 very precious memories from a
fantastic cast, crew and audience. Thanks!!!!! xxx
----------------------------
Robert Willis RENT was stunning.......Ariel did it again!!!!
------------------------------
Angela Wragg I really enjoyed rent fantastic show well done xx
---------------------
Anna Fellingham Well done for a fab show everyone...so proud of
you all x
----------------------
Nick Pritchard is still blown away from Rent last night
---------------------------
Melody Warnett has had the most mental week doing Rent, made
some amazing new friends and feels so lucky to have been a part
of such a wonderful cast and team. Love you all very much xxx
---------------------
Jennifer Cliff hello melody, just wanted to say you were sooo
good in rent last night, the show was amazing, xxx
----------------------
"RENT was awesome, really enjoyed it. Thanks guys x"
----------------------
Saw the matinee show yesterday.
To be honest I thought it would never live up to my
expectations; having seen Broadway before. But it was honestly
sterling. Brilliant performances as soloists and as a group.
Well Done guys!
----------------------- My
name is Tom and i saw your production of Rent yesterday and was
utterly blown away by it. Being a big fan of the show, it was
fantastic to see so much hard work and effort being put into the
show to deliver such a stunning and well rounded performance.
Especially well- done to all of the principals who carried their
parts with confidence and conviction. A fantastic show all round
and well worth the hour and a half trip to come and see.
---------------------
saw the show last night and oh my god what a fantastic
performance. I saw two other amateur productions of Rent earlier
this year but this one was by far my favourite one and most
professional looking one. I was in tears by the end of it. well
done guys!!!
---------------------
wow! an amazing show, well done everyone. u looked fab and
sounded brilliant! enjoy your last couple of performances. x x
--------------------
Am not long back from the opening night - amazing, well done
everyone! My friend's comment as she left the theatre was that
of all the amateur productions she has ever seen, this was by
far the most professional. Have to say I agree with her!
--------------------
I didn’t get “Rent”, until last week. Fifteen plus years on
Broadway, fine, but I chose to dismiss it as America espousing a
worthy cause (here the fight against AIDS), and dousing it
liberally with schmaltz and self-indulgence. How delightful to
be proved so wrong.
Ariel Company Theatre always ploughs a brave furrow, and this is
a difficult show to produce. Darkly edgy, it requires a
vibrant, young, capable cast devoid of inhibitions – Ariel of
course met this challenge and some, to live arguably its finest
hour yet.
At surface level, Jonathan Larson’s piece, adapted loosely from
“La Boheme”, follows struggling artists in New York’s Lower East
Side as they battle with life, love, homelessness and AIDS.
Scratch the surface and here are the key elements of true
existential theatre – a search for meaning in life, the ultimate
pointlessness of it, and most importantly how we deal with it.
We might choose to revel in the characters’ attempts to live
what’s left of their lives exulting hedonistically in the “love”
they have for each other and their clique, but as the piece
continues, we see all too clearly their fear of what is to come,
and how real is the hell they have helped make for themselves.
Theirs is not the only way, and their “love” is no more
justified than that shown to them by their families in a series
of poignant phone messages. We sympathise with their plight, but
Larson is not necessarily saying they’re right. Other ways are
permitted, and this objectivity is the strength of the piece.
We see the action through the eyes of Mark Cohen, a narrator
desirous of belonging, but forced by definition to be an
outsider.
Does
he exist? “I am nowhere” he says in a new year’s monologue,
trapped in his role as the eyes and ears of the audience. Ably
played by James Hadden, with cool alienation, Mark is an
outsider.
Mark’s roommate Roger, played with ease and intensity by Alex
Brown (showing a maturity and towering ability beyond his
years), seeks to “create” before succumbing to the inevitable,
miserable end. This is his creed. It is ironic that his number
“One Song Glory”, about wanting to write the perfect song, comes
pretty close in a show that contains a good clutch of powerful
songs. His love for Mimi is sincere and touching, and their
moments together are real highlights. Mimi’s fragile beauty was
translated with ease by Lin Fever, and gave the flawed heroine
true credibility.
Maureen Johnson, the powerful creation of Melody Warnett, was
destructive, predatory, and drew her naive lesbian lover, Joanne
(played by Melanie Legg, as ever a class act) into her web as
would the most vicious spider. Maureen’s number “Over the Moon”
was superbly executed, and enthralling.
The charming relationship of Collins and the transvestite,
Angel, is central to the piece. Angel is a beacon of hope to the
others in the way he/she faces off to life, all too soon snuffed
out by the disease, leaving despair in its wake. I wouldn’t dare
to bring accepted religion into the debate, but perhaps the name
of Angel is not insignificant. Certainly, life takes seemingly
great pleasure in stamping out Angel, whose death throws are
agonising. Matt Godfrey and Simon Fellingham gave these
characters just the right touch, and earned our sympathy along
the way.
In summary, not an easy night of theatre, but one that makes you
sit up, take notice, and think. Plaudits all round to the
fabulous cast, the rocking band of Mark Heppell, and the bravery
of Neil Hopson and his production team, taking the leap of faith
and staging this gem. Part of the profits also being passed to
the Freddie Mercury AIDS Foundation, the Phoenix Trust.
Admirable.
Daniel Ackroyd
7th June 2009 --------------------------
Amazing yet again! Well done to all in Rent! What a show. :)
------------------------
Thought Rent was amazing! Well done everyone! :)
---------------------
Well done guys, I loved it and it gave me the chance to whoop at
inappropriate moments in front of my mother
-------------------------
Came to watch Rent last night.
OMG i think I'm in love with everyone in it. aha. it was
amazinggg. :). So im taking my mum and dad to go see it again
tonight. :D. Enjoy it. The last one.
------------------------
Wow! I had always wanted to see Rent live and this show did not
disappoint! From the very beginning it was amazing! The songs
'Rent' and 'La Vie Boheme' were particularly performed
brilliantly!
The actors who played Mark and Roger were incredible . . Mark
for his voice and Roger for the pure passion put into the
performance.
May I add that Tom Collin's heartfelt rendition of 'Ill Cover
You (reprise)' bought tears to my eyes and show cased just how
talented these actors are!
I travelled from Salisbury and would be very happy to do it
again and again if it means seeing such quality for such a good
price!
Congratulations to all the cast for such a success and Good Luck
in the future!
xXx
-----------------------
Saw the show (Rent) on Friday night - just superb! Lin was as
good as any Mimi I've seen or heard, including the Broadway
cast. The whole ensemble were outstanding - thank you!
-----------------------
WE WI
LL ROCK YOU
My
thoughts on coming to Chequer mead on a Thursday night
to see yet another amdram version of WWRY was ‘God not
again’. Another bad casting with too much staging and
‘Oh lets try to get a video wall like the west end’
grrrrr. But my girlfriend loves the show and Queen so
one must do as the boss says. I say back and looked at
the number of lights and the very large speakers. Here
we go again. But no the sound was clear (apart from a
mic problem later) and the band quality outstanding. My
Girlfriend turned and said this sounds just like Queen,
it’s gonna be good. So Ariel I can now say I have seen a
true reflection of the power and great feel that the
west end version has by non professionals. I will not
class this production as amateur in any way. What
changed my mind was the attention to detail in the
acting, timing, singing, dancing, staging, lighting,
styling and the real though of how to not copy the west
end but make it real in a smaller theatre. Bloody hell
did thiswork. I was captured from the very first
visuals. The cast had the most amazing voices I have
heard during my WWRY penance and boy what casting.
Scaramouche and Galileo had that bounce of personality
in the comedy moments you
need
backed up with West end power voices, Killer Q &
Khashoggi were perfect with KK having Mazz’s voice and
attitude (not seen before out side of the WE). Khasog
was large and dominant, but had the right sound for
7seas and the correct comedy timing and great size
difference between the two worked so well. Kerry Ellis
Meat is back (at last), Anna Fellingham’s song made me
cry for the right reasons since seeing the first cast, I
applaud her sincerity! Now I have an issue with
Brittney. It is now apparent that that’s how we men
should all look according to my Girlfriend (thanks). He
commanded the stage, whilst bringing that lost Vibe back
to the character (and played in the band too.. Nice
one.. Now I feel even more inadequate) Great
performance! I will now state in person the best Pop I
have seen(having seen three WWRY in two weeks
and 20 since release). Your Pop had the right look and
gave superb comic timing in all his delivery. But what
he did best was allowing us to believe him as a
character and wanted to listen to all his dialogue. We
therefore embraced the story and loved all his little
interjections. Even I wanted to ‘feel his tits’(nice
change in the line as well much better)! So you should
be so proud of a truly professional production. I was
most impressed that when Britney’s Mic failed he just
calmly took a hand held and carried on without a
breaking a stride (this has been the down fall of a few
others that I have seen as was bad sound- but not here).
So with out a shadow of a doubt I can honestly say. The
best of all I the WWRY’s I have seen . So now I’m a
believer that holy axe and the vibe really did exist for
a week at Chequer Mead! Rock on! ... Dan
Thank
you all for a wonderful evening. A Fantastic show, this
is the first time we have seen it and it was an awesome
night. We laughed, screamed and danced the night away.
My son is now a Queen fan. Thank you and we have now
booked Planet tickets.
...Jones Family
I came
to see We will Rock You on Saturday afternoon with my
family. What a great time we all had. We all loved it.
Please pass on my congratulations to the cast. This is
by far the best show we have seen in a very long time.
Please can you post your other tour dates as we would
love to see you again somewhere....Julie
Had to
write saying that I thought Your We Will Rock You was
brilliant. Saw it last year and was some what
disappointed, however this now rates as one of the best
shows I have ever seen. It was a real pleasure to see an
adult cast give such outstanding performances that would
have graced any stage. I heard lots of comments in the
interval and afterwards that mention the words
professional and West End. These are often thrown about
by exuberant parents and relatives without realising how
difficult it is to emulate or even come close too. But
you guys deserve all these comments and more. I work in
the West End and my time is precious and it's like
bringing coals to Newcastle with me. So when I say the
best 3 hours entertainment ever. I think the ten minute
standing ovation by the whole theatre says it all. Pure
Brilliance, The Cast and Live band were outstanding.
Trying to find an evening free to see Planet with some
of my colleagues. I will bring Coals from now on to se
you guys. Brilliant
.....Elliot
What more
can I keep saying about you guy's? Another
professionally stunning production! I must admit for the
first time, I had concerns that you could pull this off
having recently seen it at the Dominion. But yet again
your attention to detail and the truly talented troop of
actors that you as blessed to have, created more
atmosphere and attention to comedy, rock, dance and
visualisation that made this show become more intimate.
A truly phenomenal (as you mentioned on your adds) rock
triumph!
I normally like to single individuals out, but for
once every single member of the troop deserves 110%
credit. I have never experienced such euphoria whilst
laughing out loud at the one liners (especially Pop’s –
Great timing and he knows how to work an audience an old
pro I think?). Your energy and tightness of all the
routines amazed my wife (and ex Bluebell girl). She
commented that most pros would not be that tight and
they never faltered from start to finish (Arlene would
have been proud)!
As all past shows the singing was amazing from
principles down to the off stage explicit harmonies
augmented by the perfect true Queen sounding band...
(Plus cast members Phew). No mean achievement as I would
think most would use backing tracks and just make do.
But hey that’s what I have come to except from Ariel,
noting but perfection.
This show needs to have visual impact and the costumes,
design/styling through uniformity of gaga then the
eclectic mix of the bohemians needs to be right and as
ever it is worthy (as is the whole production) of
gracing the Dominion. Sound and Lighting plays a very
key role in ensuring this shows gives us the VIBE (as
stated by my May). Well Friday blew the cobwebs away
from the start great sound and lx. The addition of the
live graphics was a treat as I was not expecting them
here, But boy were they great, being closer they made
more sense.
So as I keep saying you guys need to make the next jump.
You obviously have huge talent and buy reading Pop’s
name in most areas or production, he and his guys have
the right mentality and vision to drive you into the
hard lane. Long may you entertain us….
Thank you all for stunning production for a lovely
cause… (Hope we can get to Planet again)
Shane........
Totally
brilliant!
I loved the beginning of the show, with the projected
writing, very funny! As for the effects, the lighting
was superb!
The staging of the show is a major plus; and if you,
like me, enjoy the humour of Ben Elton and the music of
Queen you would have been both laughing and clapping all
through the show.
Overall, an extremely funny production, fabulous music
and an electric atmosphere! Thoroughly enjoyed the whole
thing. I left the theatre with my hands stinging and the
music ringing in my ears. In fact, I going to see planet
now! ... Mike
I
absolutely ADORED We Will Rock You, even after the third
time in two weeks I just want to see your show again and
again and again ... (but no tickets were left boo
hoo)the music was fantastic, the cast incredible and the
whole experience just blew me away ..... I fell in love
with David, Matt & Neil's Pop especially his Tit's (you
had to see it to belive it!)... I have always liked
Queen's music, but was never a huge fan ..... and I am
sure Freddie is looking down and is sooo proud .......
you forget you're in the theatre, it's more like being
at a concert!
An incredible night out! ....... Sally
"We
Will Rock You" was FANTASTIC! I've waited for ages to
see it and it was definitely worth it! The cast were
brilliant and the singing was amazing, especially
Scaramouche, Killer Queen, Pop and Meat! Scaramouche was
brilliant, as was Meat and both were so funny and sexy.
A very funny story line, with superb projections during
"another one bites the dust.".. Christina
"Fantastic show Neil, I really was impressed and
thoroughly enjoyed myself (as did we all!). Just wanted
to say well done again; looking forward to seeing
'Planet' again especially since everyone I spoke to
tonight said it was better and funnier this time. It was
amazing last time, so I look forward to seeing it 2nd
time round! Probably see you there if not before!
....Kirsty x"
Hi not
long got in form theatre just wanted to say well done to
you and teh guys on another fantastic show and thanks
for letting me work the show again was good fun to do
and what a great cast. The standard of show you push out
each time just continues to be fantastic and i find it a
real pleasure to work for your company at shows ,it is
always a pleasure and nota chore ! this is my third
show now with Ariel and hope that it wont be my last!!
.... Neil
I am looking forward to coming to see planet
Hey there crazy lady!! sorry
had to quote pop. just wanted to say again well done
with WWRY it was amazing. After seeing that and Tommy
its made me wonder how I can find out when
auditions4Ariels next show is? Is there a mailing list I
can join ?x" .... Claire
TOMMY
The best just got even better, 'How do
you think they do it. I don't know, what makes them so
good'...... CM
A true professional show in every sense
of the word... JLM
Better than the west end version,
especially the second half, left me in crying with joy and
sadness.. BS
Raised the roof of the Hawth, so slick,
powerful and Amazing... LM
___________________________________
I came to see the Ariel Company Theatre's production of Tommy
last night at The Hawth theatre. I brought one of the students
from the QEII School who also attends your youth drama group on
Saturday mornings. I felt I had to write this little note to let
you know that I thought it was an absolutely fantastic
production. I enjoyed it so much that when it came to an end I
was really disappointed and hoped that you might be coming on
for an encore! Everything about the show was so professional -
the acting, the timing, the singing, the music, the
choreography, the costumes, the make-up, the casting
(particularly that character actress you had slipping in to
several of the scenes!!), the setting, the lighting, that
revolting uncle, those gorgeous little boys..........what more
is there to say! Please thank everyone involved so much for
giving us such an enjoyable evening. I can't wait to see your
next production!! Linda Pothecary
_______________________________________________________________________________
My name is Alan Chivers and I took a party of 4 to Tommy
at the Hawth last night. You ask for feedback so here is mine.
The two boys playing Tommy were beyond excellent in what was a
very difficult role. The lighting was extremely good. The whole
company performed at the top end of great.
_______________________________________________________________________________
What a night! Great show on all counts – I have been telling
anyone who’ll listen how you have gathered the different
ingredients you have at your disposal together to create an
amazing show. Great set, great lighting, great band and of
course a great cast. A very striking performance that surpasses
what many pro-shows, both on tour and in the West End, manage to
achieve. A great atmosphere among the cast and crew as well –
also very nice to see. I look forward to Les Mis – and I’ll see
you at your concert on the 23rd. Stephen C.
_______________________________________________________________________________
The show was truly amazing! We were really impressed and a
credit to you all. Look forward to the next one. Faith
_______________________________________________________________________________
I thought Tommy was wonderful. Move over Tina Turner, Claude is
the tops. There were outstanding cameo performances from David
Goodall and Mark O’Connor who really got under the skin of their
characters. They must have been tempted to go professional full
time. Interestingly enough, I went to the West End last night to
see Lord of the Rings. The person playing Strider had a very
weak singing voice and David Goodall or James Hadden would have
run rings round him (excuse the pun). Good on you for such a
great evening’s entertainment. Kind regards, Dianne Jones,
Mid Sussex Times.
_______________________________________________________________________________
Just to say thanks again for having us on Friday night - the
show was simply great and I hope that Saturday went just as
well. Well done and we'll look forward to seeing you for the
next one!! Caroline and Damien from JW
_______________________________________________________________________________
I saw Tommy tonight at the Hawth and
wanted to say how brilliant & professional the actors/actresses
came across.
The vocals were superb throughout & the set was as good as any
professional show I've ever seen outside of the West End
Elliot Mason
Hi there just have to say as a member
of the crew that is working on Tommy this week and having got
through the first show what a great show you have there!! I was
amazed at the quality and professionalism you all showed. The
singing is fantastic and you have one of the best sets I have
seen in a long time too. My congratulations to the team for
securing such a great set and lighting such a great show. I urge
anyone who has not seen this show to go and see it. I would also
like to say I know its only been first night tonight( Tuesday)
and a "newbie" to the group, this being my first production
working with Ariel, I
just wanted to say how great all you guys are, very friendly,
and say a huge thanks to you all. I really enjoyed working the
first night ,but also wanted to thank the cast member who came
round to thank the crew after the end of first performance !
that was so good and such a nice and refreshing change. Very
often when you work as crew you are all to easily forgotten. I
hope to enjoy helping you guys out for the rest of the week ,and
all of you have a fantastic rest of the week with the show - U
guys really know how to rock !!! Neil - Crew
I came to see your production of Tommy
at the Hawth last night and felt I had to write to say how good
I thought it was. I think it's probably the best amateur
production I've seen round here (and better than some
professional productions!) The singing was fantastic as was the
band and the set. We had a great evening - thank you so much.
Sarah Leppard
What an absolutely amazing spectacle.
There were so many wonderful things happening on that stage last
night that my brain is working to fast get them all down. Neil,
you've really outdone yourself this time .... talk about wow
factor. The staging gets harder and harder for you and this
comes over in the vision.
Not since Sweeney Todd have I heard such a complicated score.
The band sounded great, you guys are certainly not hearing the
magic through your fold back, coz it was amazing out front.
My favourite choreography to date, really worked well and the
dancers (all great by the way) were obviously into it. All very
exciting to watch. Couldn't keep my
eyes
off Gemma, wonderful presence.
James, performance as Tommy, moved me so much, I can't tell you.
I could listen to your voice night after night after night. I
have worked with an awful lot of singers in my life and I
couldn't imagine one of them moving me vocally the way you did
last night. You have this magical charisma and aura about you
and you light up the stage. Every time it was you and the boys,
I found it so haunting it was difficult to control my emotions.
Anna, as Mrs Walker you blossom with every performance that I
seen you in. A truly wonderful actress who just happens to be an
awesome singer.
David H, as Mr walker just when I think your voice can't soar
anymore, it just does. A very moving performance from you.
David Goodall as Cousin Kevin It's rock and you rock!!!!
Claude, as the Acid Queen I don't know you, but a truly
commanding performance. Your singing was too amazing to mention
but it was your whole physical presence that blew me away.
Mark, as uncle Ernie....... I blame Neil!!!! have to say though
baby, wow! big respect, you PULLED IT OFF brilliantly!
Jo, you just have one of those voices again that I could listen
to night after night. You told me you couldn't act. Liar!!!!!
Both the boys, You made me so proud. Both of you gave the most
mature and haunting performances.
Nicci, I hope you are very proud of yourself. You looked
absolutely beautiful and your vision and skill in costume design
made everyone look beautiful. Well done.
Another brilliant professional show! Karen Draper
MUSICALITY2
(an
evening of)
'Fantastic show.
Absolutely the most professional thing I have seen for years yet
again. How can you keep this up. Marvellous '
M. H.
'yet again another
slick professional show from what undoubtedly is the company to
follow.
C.
G.
'Every number portrait each show as if I was there. Truly
spectacular. it made me cry.
J. B.
Each time a new
number started yet another stunning professional voice appeared.
What a cast to die for. Ariel are so lucky & talented! C. B.
The talent Ariel houses is
incredible, what a professional performance! The sincerity and
expression projected by the cast is moving to say the least.
Musicality2 - a collection of
numbers from internationally acclaimed shows such as Les
Misérables, We Will Rock You, Mamma Mia and many more.
‘Only The Good Die Young’ (from
the hit show We Will Rock You) brought tears to my eyes as did
‘Come What May’. I loved this song in the film Moulin Rouge
when sung by Nicole Kidman and Ewan McGregor but Ariel’s
rendition was performed with such feeling a lump came to my
throat.
‘Lady Marmalade’ - also from
Moulin Rouge - was excellent, very powerful.
‘Girls Of The Night’ (from Jekyll
& Hyde), wonderfully performed - captivating.
Ariel’s
arrangement of Bohemian Rhapsody was amazing, very few artists
have managed to serve this classic track with the justice it
deserves but Ariel did - I was blown away and, may I add,
covered in goose bumps!
I could list each song giving
their individual merits but, as there were no less than 27
numbers excellently performed, I thought it best to name but a
few.
I would sincerely recommend you
go see Musicality2 for yourself, you’ll see then exactly what I
am talking about. Well may be next time as it's SOLD OUT! (Book
earlier next time so you don't miss it
Congratulations to
Neil Hopson and his team for another excellent show.
felt
compelled to write after the emotional and humorous journey I
went through whilst watching the final night performance of Art
last night.
I saw this play in the West End and hated it. I was bored and I
didn't understand it. As a supporter of Ariel's work, I read the
review of the first night's performance and thought I would give
it a go and I am so glad that I did.
The performance was brilliant and I immediately engaged with all
the characters. Having a "please others" driver I really
connected with Ivan.
His emotional plea towards the end of the play had me in tears,
I'd be his friend any day. This was immediately followed by
incredulity and anger at the throw away line from Serge "could
we try to steer clear of pathos tonight?". It left me wanting to
jump out of my seat and plant one on him, such was the
brilliance of this performance.
Outstandingly acted and directed - who needs the West End when
we have talent like this at home?
Well, what can I say about Art?????? I haven't seen a
straight play in absolutely ages. and what a FANTASTIC play to
see to get back into it! I came to see it twice as I couldn't
believe how good it was! Everything was thought about and there
wasn't one point in the show when I thought 'oh dear'.
The direction was perfect, all the actors had really got inside
their characters and portrayed them as people, not just as
parts. which is not easy!!
The set was so simple, but so effective. It could so easy have
been overdone but the fact that the
only thing that changed was the painting was simple to grasp and
made you focus on the acting.
The lighting was phenomenal. The actors knew exactly where to
stand so that they were lit (which in armature, and sometimes
professional productions doesn't happen) and the fact that there
was no colour in the lights was very effective, without making
everything else washed out!
The costumes were very clever, in the way that everyone was
wearing similar things, but their clothing was individual to the
characters. Which worked rally well!
Even the small section of music was a good choice! It stirred up
emotions, which made me want to cry at some points, and laugh at
others.
The olive scene was great, right down to the noise that the
pips made chiming into the bowl!! And when Ivan was looking for
somewhere to put the pip was absolutely class, and the whole
sequence looked like a new thought process every night!!
Amazing! Debbie
I had no idea what to expect before I went to the theatre but
knowing the quality of Ariel's productions I was not at all wary
of being bored.
An hour and twenty minutes of dialogue, against a white
background, between three men each with completely different
characters.
The simplicity of the lighting, set and music only enhances the
genius of the dialogue.
Friends for 15 years, the three men suddenly become aware they
have outgrown each other - moved on you might say! (well
temporarily at least).
This discovery is made only when one of them purchases a piece
of art and through this purchase the insecurities of the three
friends come to the forefront.
The characters are portrayed with outstanding reality.
Steve Butler as Marc brought this moody character to life ….. An
adult man having a temper tantrum the like of which I can only
describe as that of a 4 year old, the only difference being he
uses grown up words!
The Mother in me wanted to send him to his room until he’d
calmed down!
Chris Wilkinson as Yvan, always wanting to please and never
wanting to hurt anyone’s feelings. Chris portrays Yvan
brilliantly, I felt like giving him a hug and saying ”there
there don’t worry everything will be alright”!
David Goodall as Serge, the Professional who instigates the
upset by buying the piece of art because he loves it … he says …
although I suspect it is purchased more as a status symbol!
David portrays Serge wonderfully, as I sat there I could
visualise his apartment as being decorated in black, white and
chrome with a minimalist overtone so .. Yes the white painting
would fit perfectly.
The simplicity of the lighting, set and music only enhances the
genius of the dialogue.
My thanks and congratulations to all concerned … as always a
wonderfully entertaining evening courtesy of Ariel Company
Theatre.
We have been
yet again been inundated with genuine feed back on this production..........
here are just a few on Adult/young actors production of
Joseph.....................................
Joseph was a truly
stunning, magical, wonderful show that even our children asked
to come back and see again! Congratulations to all involved -
the kids were amazing and worked brilliantly with all the
adults. It was great to see a wide variety of ages and sizes in
the brothers - what talent!
I've seen 'Joseph'
several times professionally performed, but your show outshone
all of them by miles!!! Ruth & Angus
In the industry
you see lots of shows and are frequently asked to review scripts
and short films. I have now seen most of your productions. The
later being 'Joseph' at the original venue which I happened by
chance to see your 'Jesus Christ' a few year back. Let me say
this, I have never seen the constant passion, feeling, direction
and pure joy in theatre from (if you must be classed in this
field) A Non Professional (please note I do NOT use amateur
here) company as I have experienced with Ariel Company Theatre
productions. "JCS" was a deep meaningful dark rock tribute to
the feelings of spiritualism that is missed in this production.
"Planet" was an exhibition in perfection very rarely achieved
inside and outside of the West End (Please note! I do know what
I am talking about here). Now onto "Joseph"....... Ok a lot of
children on stage is every producer and directors living
nightmare (trust me). However once again you guys pulled off the
impossible to deliver what can
only be described as a colourful, warm, vibrant, slick,
professional new awakening of as you say on your web site "a
timeless classic". Every child radiated their love to be on that
stage and give the audience their all. The Adult principles
never once looked down on those kids but played as equals. This
ensured a truly magical evening for all in the theatre. I must
once again praise your direction, lighting, costume and staging
in what I now know (having talked with one of the technicians at
the theatre) is a nightmare to rig, with its various
restrictions in flying. The way you used the non LX (without the
usual OTT movers) was a masterpiece especially integrated with
the heavy haze.
Joseph is done every where, Schools, Churches, Tours and Summer
schools. (I know as I have seen a lot of them). However you
applied a new dimension to this show that deserved a bigger
stage and a longer run. Please don't let this version be
'chained and bound afraid alone' to coin the lyrics from the
show. Put it on again for future generation to see, what I can
only describe as my favourite version. Shane ______________________________________________________________________
To everybody
involved with the production of Joseph - I just wanted to write
to express my congratulations on a show well executed.
I came to see Joseph on Friday - my first ever journey to
Chequer Mead having seen Return to the Forbidden Planet at the
Hawth in June earlier this year.
I don't usually "go in" for children's shows but as I was so
blown away by your masterful planet production, I just had to
come and see what was next in store from you guys.
Was I disappointed ?? Was I hell !!! From now on, consider me a
convert to the Ariel Theatre Company way - I shall be coming to
see everything you guys do.
Once again - a huge "well done" to all concerned !!! J Colgan
Just
to say WOW and well done to everyone in Joseph! What a brilliant
show. As a friend who came with me on Friday said she had seen
another Joseph show but yours had "heart and soul" and everyone
looked like they were enjoying themselves and wanted to be
there. I went 3 times and looked forward to seeing it again
every night. Elvis was great, he made me laugh every time he
appeared on stage (bless him) Joseph was super and what a
voice!! The whole show was so professional and thank you
everyone for such an entertaining time. C Willett
Well done to everyone involved with Joseph. The energy of all
the performances and the sheer enjoyment of the Children was a
joy!
A stunning production!! M Roberts
Many,
many congratulations on yet another brilliant show!! RTTFP was
absolutely amazing and I can only repeat again! That I never
cease to be knocked back by the professionalism in all of your
productions. I had to stay in my seat during the interval (not
because the bar was heaving) because I was still shaking
emotionally from Cookies guitar solo!! I'm am still on a high
from it all and its over a week now - scary!!
So thank you SO
much Ariel for a fantastic show. I know only too well, how much
time and effort you put into it. Your vision! see you on in
September for ART.C.
Just wanted to
drop a line to say how much we enjoyed 'Forbidden Planet' - it
was really great! The set, lighting, direction, singing &
choreography were all excellent. It certainly had us rocking in
our seats. Well done! it was Dame Good. N & J
I can't stop
singing 'Young girl' and I didn't even like it much when it came
out. There were so many Excellent tunes in your show and you all
sang them so well - your so lucky! Unless you spent time 'out
front' you would not know how AMAZING the show was and Captain
Tempest was ......... So Funny C.
What an out of
this world show. I have seen 'Planet' over nine times and have
never felt this emotional and come away on such a high. This is
the best show I have ever seen here at the Hawth and in London.
I should know as I've seen most of em! Thank you so much. When
can I see this again I would be there every night? P. R.
Having
been to the Hawth recently. I was a bit sceptical to see another
amateur show so quickly in succession. I should have left that
feeling behind. From the first steps into the auditorium to my
last step out. I can say, that I have never experienced such a
wonderful journey, that as you state in the programme you will
take us on. I am greeted by a very sexy an beautiful ensign who
showed me to my seat and regrettably left to attend another
'passenger'. Then into a whirl wind of lights, sound, movement
and most importantly ROCK. This clever and brilliant musical by
'Bob Carlton' lifted the roof of the Hawth and was match in pure
harmony by its talented, professional and energetic cast.
A true company that can be classed as 'raising the standards' to
new heights in local 'Amdram' circles. Wow what an ACT too
follow. A dramatic piece! The only one, I have truly enjoyed
this year.
I had to write to
you, as I have just seen Planet and found it the most amazing,
Sensational, Mind blowing 'Planet' I have ever seen. The
Cambridge was dazzling and new. But this was fresh, alive,
vibrant, reborn, and most important of all true to what the
original would have been, if it was put on today for the first
time. Can you thank your Director, Choreographer, Cast and Crew
for bringing my love and need to see 'Planet' back after six
years in a vacuum! 'Live long and Prospero Ariel. Brian.
As a pro stylist
for major pro productions, I have to say that a friend of mine
introduced me to Ariel two years ago when I came to see JCS.
Then I thought that the mood and effect of the costumes was
stunning, next came your Musicality, that was inspirational and
extremely effective for the genera. Now I find that you have
taken what all other other production out side of the Cambridge
have fail to do. i.e. infuse 50s style sci-fi with modern day
colour. The sheer perfection on having the girls in the same
blue wigs and the Nav Officer as the only pink but in the same
style was brilliant. The men in those 'Galaxy Quest and spock
style black same cut wigs perfect. Many may have not noticed the
slight style change in the 'dancers' (but all cast moved
professionally) costumes with hot pants, so right. I like that
fact that Tempest was
NOT in the boiler suit and this
ensured continuity, where most companies would opt out for the
easy option. The captain hat was correct and ensured that same
ethos as the show dictated. Cookie fitted in seamlessly, where
as some opt for jeans or those bright coloured jester trousers.
Your black and white gave him that edge. Loved Miranda pink but
not too 50's grease reject as is some times the case. and the
gold dress well as it should be. but the greatest aspect for me
was to have Gloria in a silver version of the Girls under her
lab coat always hinting that Sexy under played side of the
ensemble (the thigh boots were brill). Loved so much Ariel with
his Black and Silver approach. This gave us the fluidity along
side the metallic look and feel he should portray. L.
WOW WOW WOW....
the show was absolutely brilliant, the BEST SHOW we have ever
seen, and whys that?.... because its Ariel That's why, what more
can we say!!! YOU ALL ROCKED XXX
I thoroughly
enjoyed last night show, well both shows, it was like going to
see one of Bob's production, it had the "feel good" feeling,
which sadly the Basingstoke production certainly didn't have! I
was blown away by the talent of your cast and I cannot believe
they are not all professional actors! You have a wonderful
Theatre Company there, I only wish I lived closer so that I
could get involved!
When I see Bob, I will tell him how good it was!
I was so
completely blown away by the whole thing. Not only the wonderful
performances but the lighting, costumes, musicians and whole
spectacle of it.
Ariel just gets better and better.
I consider myself to be an expert on that show having seen it
professionally 9 times. I have never been so moved by it as I
was last night. Mum ran out of tissues as I was blubbing through
most of it with sheer pride. Well done to everyone.
Oh well, on to the next.
I am a friend of
the Hawth and never in my time have I experienced a show that
have literally lifted my spirits to new heights. I was in awe,
wonder and amazement of this professional company. Now I'm even
more staggered to find on studying your programme that I have
seen some of your cast in previous amateur shows at the Hawth.
But never before like this. Then It all became clear when
I recognised the production team. I have seen Annie, Crazy for
You & Annie Get your Gun Directed and Choreographed by these
two. Long may you and your talented cast grace the Hawth. Others
need to look to your standards and not compromise any aspect of
the total production standards required. By bringing a truly
professional show to the Hawth.
Just wanted to let
you know how much I enjoyed the production - actually I thought
it was awesome!!!! Incredibly slick and fluent and very, very
funny!
This will be the
show of the year for me and no one will be able to fill your
boots as you stride about like a colossus!!!!!
Where do I start?
We saw Planet on Friday and can't stop talking about it!
Everyone was SO good - there wasn't a weak spot anywhere. We
were standing and bopping - as was everyone else! Cookie is a
genius, and I am in love with Miranda!
You and Nicci must be so proud to have set up such a
professional show. I won't ask how you did it!
I am a total believer - we will certainly be at all your
forthcoming productions.
I only saw the
flyer for the show by chance in the window of the Midi office in
Haywards Heath.
As soon as I got home I booked the tickets for Friday and then
to my dismay found that it was not the professional production I
expected from my previous visits .
Was I disappointed....was I hell!!!
What an absolutely bloody phenomenal performance!!! What a solo
by Cookie! and as for the finale.....brilliant!
After a gap of around seven years I found the planet again, and
what an incredible find.
Just
wanted to say thanks and well done. best thing I have ever
seen out side of the west end and the better than some in the
west end now! well done to you all! D.P.
The stakes just
went so high that how can we match it now? It will be a very
long time before anything like this comes to Crawley. Mind
blowing and to think that you are not a pro cast. What next we
ask!
The ultimate Hawth
show and I've seen many. Who are you guys? Planet rocks! . No
one and I mean No one could have sat down when then cast struck
up Great balls of Fire. I have never seen a whole audience
explode onto their feet like tonight and still scream and stamp
for more un believable.
Thanks Neil,
Speechless i am still trying to believe what I saw tonight.
Every time I see Ariel shows I think that they can't get any
better. But to raise it to this standards is amazing.
What a knockout show last night - must admit only went to see
Abi but what a revelation to see everyone so professional and
talented. Had a terrible day but this made up for it all.
Will be at all your shows in future. Nigel
Without a shadow of
a doubt the best Planet I have ever seen. The most recent ones
put me off. I now have my passion for Planet re-kindled. Your
whole cast moved as one, the dancing was amazing. Normally in
non professional shows there are the good and bad. But this was
sensational. Cookies guitar solo not only rocked but was Jimmy
Hendricks re born. He is a rock god in the making. I thought
that half way through it had reached its crescendo, but when he
played
the guitar behind his head at full pelt I nearly exploded! The
lighting to that and all the show was mind blowing. I can’t stop
thinking that this is the got to be the definitive new age
'Planet' Bob would be proud. Especially as all the cast could
sing, from Nav officers control of the audience for the drill,
Wipe out's cool duo drums (as they should be), into man's world
that sent shivers down our backs. It is not fair to single out
any performer. As this cast should be the official tour or West
End revival.... But Mr T. Oh My God his timing is perfection and
the added extras are sensational. Big thumbs up for Prospero, as
I was not sure of such a younger actor at first, but what
strength and power. I can see why he was cast. Inspirational.
Gloria, Well if she did not exude sex but with controlled power
especially in her voice. Her Go now was by far the best I have
ever heard and the emotion of the whole scene sent a 'shiver
down my back bone'. There is so much I want to say about your
show and I hope I don't miss anyone out, please forgive me if I
do But a special mention to Ariel & Miranda as these parts can
very often be over played of under played buy too actors far too
young. However once again your casting was impeccable. Ariel
excuse me here 'Bloody fantastic' his entrance spot on. he gave
a great balance
of
comic timing, great vocals, worked well as Gloria's taunted and
delivered the 'Shake Rattle and roll number with M & C to
perfection as did they. But hey I noticed that he played the
drum with his skates still on. Come on awesome or what! He is my
definitive Ariel from now on! I do have permission from the wife
to write this but 'I'm In Love', and Shaking all over' ... yes
its Miranda.... 'Wow what a Honey', Beautiful, can act, sing and
dance. I have to say she makes all those other Miranda’s I have
seen fade into oblivion.
One thing that always strikes me as weird in planet is that
Bosun is normal under stated and you sometimes lose him in the
show, not this time. Bosun was funny, Alive and what a voice. He
gave especially the camp bits a new whole persona, without it
being too OTT. Great Job. A big thumbs up to the damage control
crew. Now cynic’s would say no more that two to four is enough.
But you guys made them real and integral to the story, they
faded when they had too and burst upon us at the right times and
the sound they made with their harmonies was the icing on the
cake.
One very important thing I wanted to say and as I ramble on will
probably miss it is this. I saw the add and thought its was a
pro tour, until I checked the RTTFP web site, then found that it
was an amdram company performing Bob's masterpiece. However and
here’s the point. You guys got it all wrong! In my opinion as an
avid 'planeter'. I was privileged to pay peanuts to see a truly
professional production in every sense of the word. Please tell
your Production team that they have a convert and I will travel
from Norwich to see your 'Tommy' as you defiantly have a new fan
hear. 'live long and may you all PROSPERO'.... John & Judy.
Norwich.
Can't
believe I what I saw tonight!!!!! I heard that Neil (whom I saw
in panto) was involved in a show at the Hawth. But did not know
that this was his company. oh my god! I have never ever seen a
show like it. I never wanted it to finish. (I
LUuuuuuuuuuuVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVV COOOOOOOOKIE)
This is the best show and I wish I could have been in it. How
did you gat all those professional singers and the girls encore
(deep river) I loved it so much. Gonna tell all my friends.
tomorrow.
Thank you for the best show ever! A. D.
Just thought
I would drop you another note. I watch your JCS some time back
and thought that this was a fantastic production. I now know
that I was wrong! Why? Never before have I seen such an amazing
theatrical experience (and I've seen many) as your 'Planet' last
night. Pure utter Rock and Roll infused with amazing voices and
well the acting ....... Superb. If anyone reads your guest book,
then take advice go see 'Planet'.
I
have not stopped thinking about what I have watched. Your
timing, power and professionalism was truly inspiring. I could
not believe that you were not part of the official tour. Well you
should be. This production stands shoulder to shoulder with the
London production. Please pass this on to your casts & a special
mention to your production team, as they deserve as much praise
for what I assume was their vision and technical bravery! Still
could not believe I was not at the 'Cambridge' once again! Oh I
could go on all day. I will try to 'Return' on Saturday. Yours
Shane (a true supporter of your talents... Hear from me again
after Tommy).
n all my
years on then stage I have never cried
so my. This is the best show I have ever
seen. Chequer mead helper
Excellent.
The hard work that has gone into this
show really shows fabulous. had tears
welling up . the whole cast portrayed
real emotion throughout. a real team
effort. TC
I have seen
Les Misérables 5 times in the
West End
and only felt like crying. This
production had me in floods of tears. I
can't stop thinking about the wonderful
performances. So moving.....
Having seen
many schools production over the last
few years this intimate version is by
far the best, Well acted, amazingly sung
and the whole atmosphere of lighting,
staging and the look and feel was so
powerful. By far the best. I was so
surprised. Your Valjean is so good I
cried buckets after his 'God on High'.
He has real feeling an a pure voice.. (
he looks good too)!
Janet
Amazing.... In my 17 years of
directing I have never seen such power
and passion
'Head
of Drama
I
never cry.... But this is the most
moving & well directed Young adults show
I have ever seen ! 'Head of
Drama..'
Dear All,
You
know I could try to sit at my computer
and try to put into words my experience
of seeing Les Mis tonight but what would
be the point.
This is one of those occasions where
words aren't enough. What I experienced
tonight was a very deep emotion which
words cannot do justice to. When I
direct a play the overriding thing for
me which I always try to be
uncompromising with is to have an
emotional impact on the audience. What I
witnessed tonight was the most explicit
and eloquent example of emotionally
intelligent theatre. Whilst I would not
want to single out individuals it would
be dishonest of me not to point out the
impact of Launa's and Matt's
performances. I am aware that I
witnessed something very special from
both of these tonight and had the same
impact on me as when I see Anna
Fellingham losing herself in character.
How lucky and blessed we are to work
with such exceptional and humble people.
I hope all of you individually take
responsibility for the impact you have
had upon the cast I saw tonight (I and
know without the experience of seeing
them this will be mirrored with the
other cast).
I am aware from speaking to you all
tonight that you distance yourself from
the
feedback and deflect this to your cast.
Whilst being a beautiful and modest
quality in you all you also need to take
personal responsibility for this
feedback. By recognising the impact you
have on others, this amazing quality you
all have can only grow and develop you
and the people around you.
Finally I recognise, although would
never understand the unique challenge
you have faced along with your cast and
crew in having to keep this all going
with the loss of Emma. She will I know
be thankful and proud of you all as she
watches these performances.
You have my deepest admiration and I am
so very proud of you all.
Thank you for a truly emotional and
memorable experience. Love, Mark
Just
sent a message to Nicci too, just wanted
to say a big congratulations to you for
a fantastic show. The talent in Les Mis
is amazing and you must have all worked
so hard, especially as there's 2 casts!
wow! Mum and I loved it. Becs
Just to tell you
all, truly the most fabulous piece of
theatre I have seen in years. Friends
of Chequer mead.
I have
seen this show many times, I was
sceptical about seeing a kids
production.... Without a shadow of
a doubt one of the best if not the best.
So moving. Every little detail thought
about from costumes, styling, lighting,
scenery, movement and the direction of
the young performers was masterful. A
true credit to how the palace version
should be.... Well done one and all.
'X-factor think
that they are looking for talent, well in my opinion every one
on Stage tonight had more talent then they have, Outstanding!'
'I cannot praise
Musicality too highly. It was a brilliant show. Congratulations
to all concerned'.
'Just wanted to say that I really enjoyed Musicality on Friday
night. Good choice of shows, songs and performers. The video
screen worked nicely without being intrusive'.
'Really good performance from the cast, with a complete range of
songs sung professionally and with talent. A thoroughly
enjoyable evening for all the family'.
'Must say that I
thought Jesus Christ was a most outstanding piece of theatre far
surpassing any amdram status that could be beaten! My God was I
wrong! To say that I had just seen a concert was also wrong
(especially in a small venue). What I have seen tonight is
undoubtedly the most professional 'West End' show ever! I
applaud all your direction, lighting, staging and artistic
interpretations (especially in a studio), that were for a first
night was so together and tight you could not see any cracks in
any performances. Especially as this was your first night. This
in itself shows the vast difference between your company and the
many I have recently seen in the area and London over the last
year or so'
'I had a
tumultuous ride through the emotions and tribulations of the
modern musical experience! Well done! and I look forwards to
your next production'
'Ariel don't do
many shows, but what they do, do proves the point that it is quality and not quantity
that matters.
That was very evident tonight (Friday)'
'Bravo guys...a
serious well done!! I LOVE to see stuff like that where everyone
is on top of their game and still working together completely! ______________________________________________________________________
'Really enjoyed the show - some great numbers - loved 'Witches'
and 'Notre dame' excerpts and the visuals worked really well.. ______________________________________________________________________
'I was so so proud of you all and Abi tonight. My friends were
so impressed, and looked as though they were in shock, like I've
been. My best mate at work was in tears !!!!!!!! I just feel so
proud ' ______________________________________________________________________
'Can't wait so see
another Ariel show, how professional, beat anything I have seen
in the West End for years and the bonus is you are here so I
don't have to travel to London'
______________________________________________________________________
'Just wanted to write and say congratulations for Musicality.
The audience absolutely loved it
'
'The whole company
are brilliant! what a refreshing change to see an amdram show at
the Hawth where 100% talent resides. 2 hours of pure spell
binding genius, when will we see Musicality 2?
Just to let you know that I went to see the show on Thursday. It
was
truly brilliant.
"Above all, a superbly directed Piece, very powerful and
evidence of a lot of hard work and thought. It had Ariel's stamp
well and truly on it, and I think Ariel can be justifiably
proud".
"the lads worked
really well, especially Steve Butler (Mark) who was flawless as
always. Nicely measured and thoughtful performance. '
perform RENT. Oh My GOD was I wrong. This is on a
par with the Broadway that I saw three years ago. I have booked
for Friday and Saturday. RENT is alive in the UK. Thank you
Ariel
Roger
aka Alex is cute in a rough sort of way in this mmmmmhhhhh lol!
f
a 61 year old grandmother can enjoy this production then you all
can - It really is a must to see. 
Tony
Chesterfield Its Over....Thank you all, cannot tell you how nice
it was to work with you all XX
ay
congratulations to you and everyone involved with Rent, another
fabulous success from Ariel!!! We thoroughly enjoyed it and I
wished I'd booked to see it again, once just wasn't enough!!
xxx"
My
name is Tom and i saw your production of Rent yesterday and was
utterly blown away by it. Being a big fan of the show, it was
fantastic to see so much hard work and effort being put into the
show to deliver such a stunning and well rounded performance.
Especially well- done to all of the principals who carried their
parts with confidence and conviction. A fantastic show all round
and well worth the hour and a half trip to come and see.
vibrant, young, capable cast devoid of inhibitions – Ariel of
course met this challenge and some, to live arguably its finest
hour yet.
Does
he exist? “I am nowhere” he says in a new year’s monologue,
trapped in his role as the eyes and ears of the audience. Ably
played by James Hadden, with cool alienation, Mark is an
outsider.
--------------------------
... Jones Family
.....Elliot
The vocals were superb throughout & the set was as good as any
professional show I've ever seen outside of the West End
eyes
off Gemma, wonderful presence.
'Fantastic show.
Absolutely the most professional thing I have seen for years yet
again. How can you keep this up. Marvellous '
M. H.
felt
compelled to write after the emotional and humorous journey I
went through whilst watching the final night performance of Art
last night. 
Just
to say WOW and well done to everyone in Joseph! What a brilliant
show. As a friend who came with me on Friday said she had seen
another Joseph show but yours had "heart and soul" and everyone
looked like they were enjoying themselves and wanted to be
there. I went 3 times and looked forward to seeing it again
every night. Elvis was great, he made me laugh every time he
appeared on stage (bless him) Joseph was super and what a
voice!! The whole show was so professional and thank you
everyone for such an entertaining time. C Willett
Many,
many congratulations on yet another brilliant show!! RTTFP was
absolutely amazing and I can only repeat again! That I never
cease to be knocked back by the professionalism in all of your
productions. I had to stay in my seat during the interval (not
because the bar was heaving) because I was still shaking
emotionally from Cookies guitar solo!! I'm am still on a high
from it all and its over a week now - scary!!
Having
been to the Hawth recently. I was a bit sceptical to see another
amateur show so quickly in succession. I should have left that
feeling behind. From the first steps into the auditorium to my
last step out. I can say, that I have never experienced such a
wonderful journey, that as you state in the programme you will
take us on. I am greeted by a very sexy an beautiful ensign who
showed me to my seat and regrettably left to attend another
'passenger'. Then into a whirl wind of lights, sound, movement
and most importantly ROCK. This clever and brilliant musical by
'Bob Carlton' lifted the roof of the Hawth and was match in pure
harmony by its talented, professional and energetic cast.
A true company that can be classed as 'raising the standards' to
new heights in local 'Amdram' circles. Wow what an ACT too
follow. A dramatic piece! The only one, I have truly enjoyed
this year. 
____________
introduced me to Ariel two years ago when I came to see JCS.
Then I thought that the mood and effect of the costumes was
stunning, next came your Musicality, that was inspirational and
extremely effective for the genera. Now I find that you have
taken what all other other production out side of the Cambridge
have fail to do. i.e. infuse 50s style sci-fi with modern day
colour. The sheer perfection on having the girls in the same
blue wigs and the Nav Officer as the only pink but in the same
style was brilliant. The men in those 'Galaxy Quest and spock
style black same cut wigs perfect. Many may have not noticed the
slight style change in the 'dancers' (but all cast moved
professionally) costumes with hot pants, so right. I like that
fact that Tempest was
NOT in the boiler suit and this
ensured continuity, where most companies would opt out for the
easy option. The captain hat was correct and ensured that same
ethos as the show dictated. Cookie fitted in seamlessly, where
as some opt for jeans or those bright coloured jester trousers.
Your black and white gave him that edge. Loved Miranda pink but
not too 50's grease reject as is some times the case. and the
gold dress well as it should be. but the greatest aspect for me
was to have Gloria in a silver version of the Girls under her
lab coat always hinting that Sexy under played side of the
ensemble (the thigh boots were brill). Loved so much Ariel with
his Black and Silver approach. This gave us the fluidity along
side the metallic look and feel he should portray. L.
I was so
completely blown away by the whole thing. Not only the wonderful
performances but the lighting, costumes, musicians and whole
spectacle of it. 
ed a show that
have literally lifted my spirits to new heights. I was in awe,
wonder and amazement of this professional company. Now I'm even
more staggered to find on studying your programme that I have
seen some of your cast in previous amateur shows at the Hawth.
But never before like this. Then It all became clear when
I recognised the production team. I have seen Annie, Crazy for
You & Annie Get your Gun Directed and Choreographed by these
two. Long may you and your talented cast grace the Hawth. Others
need to look to your standards and not compromise any aspect of
the total production standards required. By bringing a truly
professional show to the Hawth.
Where do I start?
We saw Planet on Friday and can't stop talking about it!
Everyone was SO good - there wasn't a weak spot anywhere. We
were standing and bopping - as was everyone else! Cookie is a
genius, and I am in love with Miranda!
Just
wanted to say thanks and well done. best thing I have ever
seen out side of the west end and the better than some in the
west end now! well done to you all! D.P.
Without a shadow of
a doubt the best Planet I have ever seen. The most recent ones
put me off. I now have my passion for Planet re-kindled. Your
whole cast moved as one, the dancing was amazing. Normally in
non professional shows there are the good and bad. But this was
sensational. Cookies guitar solo not only rocked but was Jimmy
Hendricks re born. He is a rock god in the making. I thought
that half way through it had reached its crescendo, but when he
played
the guitar behind his head at full pelt I nearly exploded! The
lighting to that and all the show was mind blowing. I can’t stop
thinking that this is the got to be the definitive new age
'Planet' Bob would be proud. Especially as all the cast could
sing, from Nav officers control of the audience for the drill,
Wipe out's cool duo drums (as they should be), into man's world
that sent shivers down our backs. It is not fair to single out
any performer. As this cast should be the official tour or West
End revival.... But Mr T. Oh My God his timing is perfection and
the added extras are sensational. Big thumbs up for Prospero, as
I was not sure of such a younger actor at first, but what
strength and power. I can see why he was cast. Inspirational.
Gloria, Well if she did not exude sex but with controlled power
especially in her voice. Her Go now was by far the best I have
ever heard and the emotion of the whole scene sent a 'shiver
down my back bone'. There is so much I want to say about your
show and I hope I don't miss anyone out, please forgive me if I
do But a special mention to Ariel & Miranda as these parts can
very often be over played of under played buy too actors far too
young. However once again your casting was impeccable. Ariel
excuse me here 'Bloody fantastic' his entrance spot on. he gave
a great balance
of
comic timing, great vocals, worked well as Gloria's taunted and
delivered the 'Shake Rattle and roll number with M & C to
perfection as did they. But hey I noticed that he played the
drum with his skates still on. Come on awesome or what! He is my
definitive Ariel from now on! I do have permission from the wife
to write this but 'I'm In Love', and Shaking all over' ... yes
its Miranda.... 'Wow what a Honey', Beautiful, can act, sing and
dance. I have to say she makes all those other Miranda’s I have
seen fade into oblivion. 
I
have not stopped thinking about what I have watched. Your
timing, power and professionalism was truly inspiring. I could
not believe that you were not part of the official tour. Well you
should be. This production stands shoulder to shoulder with the
London production. Please pass this on to your casts & a special
mention to your production team, as they deserve as much praise
for what I assume was their vision and technical bravery! Still
could not believe I was not at the 'Cambridge' once again! Oh I
could go on all day. I will try to 'Return' on Saturday. Yours
Shane (a true supporter of your talents... Hear from me again
after Tommy).
West End
and only felt like crying. This
production had me in floods of tears. I
can't stop thinking about the wonderful
performances. So moving.....
ou
know I could try to sit at my computer
and try to put into words my experience
of seeing Les Mis tonight but what would
be the point. 
feedback and deflect this to your cast.
Whilst being a beautiful and modest
quality in you all you also need to take
personal responsibility for this
feedback. By recognising the impact you
have on others, this amazing quality you
all have can only grow and develop you
and the people around you.
Just to let you know that I went to see the show on Thursday. It
was
truly brilliant.
On JCS
