A Touch of Class
The Lowestoft Journal - 10 May 2002

Hollywood musicals flourished throughout the 1930's because they provided an escape from the 'Great Depression'. So for a cold, wet Sunday afternoon in Lowestoft 'Hollywood Party' promised to be the perfect antidote. But it takes more than just accomplished musicians and singers to successfully recapture the ambience of an era. For the Golden Age of the Hollywood musical it takes "style" and "you've either got it or you haven't". The Piccadilly Dance Orchestra, who are the resident band at the Savoy Hotel, definitely have it. As the curtain rose to the wonderful nostalgic tones created by the orchestra the audience were transported back to that Golden Age.

Musical director and soloist, Michael Law, trained as a baritone opera singer but it was obvious from his interpretations of music and lyrics that he is completely at one with the composers of the 1930's. His superbly mellow voice and seemingly effortless style, reminiscent of Astaire, was ideally suited to the material. As was the voice of elegant, vivacious Helen Goldwyn who delighted the audience with her excellent solos. The two soloists sang together in perfect harmony for duets which they performed with sophistication and panache; their lyrical phrasing exploring the nuances of each song.

The orchestra of outstanding musicians displayed their virtuosity, playing contrasting tempos from mellow mood music to jumping jazz. The mood of each piece enhanced perfectly by clever lighting, designed by producer, Alan S. Bennett.

From the first song to the last encore the orchestra had the audience dancing in their seats; feet tapping, fingers clicking and bodies bouncing. There were even ladies singing in the loo during the interval. A rejuvenated audience left the theatre with words like 'marvelous' and 'wonderful' on their lips.

I strongly recommend a visit to Snape Maltings on 31st August to see the orchestras' other programme 'Stompin' at the Savoy'.

Kate MacLean
The Lowestoft Journal - 10 May 2002