"Paris" Review

Although I enjoy watching all forms of theatre, the Golden River Theatre Group production ‘PARIS -the Musical’ (which opened on Thursday June 3rd -2010 at the Faulkner Pavilion, Barham) had a lot going against it from a purely personal perspective.

Firstly, I don’t care much for musicals —in fact I struggle to sit through ‘GREASE’ and the new television series ‘GLEE’ I find completely unbearable. Secondly, everyone knows the story of Helen of Troy and the Trojan Horse so I wasn’t expecting a surprise conclusion. In fact I thought that the entire performance may prove quite boring — a belief that was quickly blown away within the first few seconds of the opening act!

The sets, the sound, the energy and the talent of every single participant in ‘PARIS’ was simply incredible. I sat back and enjoyed listening to the amazing singing voice of Helen (Courtney Guy), cringing at the lovesick impulses of Paris (Matt Hustwaite), laughing at the humorous antics of two Greek drunkards (Bradley Haw and Heather Milley) and cheering on the sword fighting heroics of Greek solider Achilles (Keegan Byrne) and Trojan Prince Hector (Simon Oster) — in fact the entire cast were outstanding and the show was executed without a single flaw; it was non-stop first class entertainment from start to finish.

I never cease to be amazed at how well our local troupe pails off such impressive theatrical productions; their interpretation of ‘PARIS — The Musical’ kept me riveted to my seat and constantly in awe of their obvious dedication to perfection.

Don’t just take my word for it — ‘PARIS’ the musical is still running until June 19th 2010. Support you local theatre group and enjoy an unforgettable night to boot.