Miss Saigon is set in Vietnam just before the American forces withdrew. Veronica Alonzo who plays Kim is the picture of innocence and she arrives in Saigon for work at the tender age of 19. Jeremy Curtin who plays Chris is a young officer, disillusioned with the war and wants something real; they fall in love. Kim hangs onto her dream of living with Chris in America, as she is sadly left behind. Chris however has moved on and when Kim finds out it is too much, it could almost be a Shakespearean tragedy!
The staging in this production was unbelievable particularly in the second half, I was completely blown away a couple of times. I am not going to tell you more about that as I don't want to spoil it for you. I could go on and on about the staging and lighting. The attention to detail even down to the red lanterns, it was probably the best I have seen in a very long time, certainly the best amateur production. The three main characters Kim, Chris and Engineer (Mike Curtin) were well cast, strong singers and carried the production very well. Mike in particular seemed very at home in his role. Daley Chaston who plays John also had a superb voice and his performance stood out. The orchestra did an amazing job particularly as it wasn't that large. There were only a few string players and this shortfall, at times, was noticeable. The sound quality was good, however I did think there could have been more contrast between the songs. I felt they were all belted out at full volume rather than a few quieter more tender numbers. The only other slight negative comment I have was some of the set dance routines, I felt sorry for one girl, she looked so uncomfortable, it didn't last long which was good. I personally found it very entertaining but probably not in the way it was intended! But really these negative points were only minor and certainly didn't detract from the superb performance overall and certainly shouldn't deter you from going.
This should be playing to a full house every night, Anne Veitch the Director and all those that had a hand in the stage design and lighting should be extremely proud. Lastly, I shouldn't forget the costumes which also stood out. Well done Chatwood Musical Society!
Click here to get your tickets now, the last show is Saturday 12 May.
(Picture by Alan Roy. Kim and Engineer)
