The St. Mary’s Amateur Operatic Society’s production in February 1954 was The Arcadians, described as a show with a light, humorous theme, with good lyrics and attractive songs.
The Arcadians might not be a familiar to many today (I confess I’d not heard of it), but this Edwardian musical comedy’s plot was about some idyllic Arcadians who wished to transform wicked London to a land of truth and simplicity. Styled a “Fantastic Musical Play” in three acts with a book by Mark Ambient and Alexander M. Thompson, lyrics by Arthur Wimperis, and music by Lionel Monckton and Howard Talbot, it was first produced at the Shaftesbury Theatre, London, on 29 April 1909, and ran for 809 performances.
The review of the show did have some minor criticisms. It was Leslie Oates Underwood’s first production, and it was felt he could probably have instilled into the cast a little more sense of effective use of the stage. Other negatives included the chorus, described as being a little thin. And it was said that the mood of light fantasy failed to permeate the whole of the cast.
Furthermore the dialogue in the early part of Act II was stilted, but this switched with the appearance of Leonard Moore, as Doody, the jockey, with his mournful humour, which literally “brought the house down.” From then on he had the audience in the palm of his hand.
Many comedy highlights were supplied by Peter Sheridan, and his cross talk with Mary North was both smooth and witty.
Moira Kelly made a charming Irish girl, and “The Girl With the Brogue” was extremely well staged. Marie Judge and Rita Stubley played their parts in the natural manner that was required, with Rita Stubley’s voice being clear and ringing. Harry Brearley and Leslie Underwood gave polished performances, and the performance of Jack Meadows was described as especially pleasing.
Rita Sykes, Eileen Talbot, Gerard Walford, Patrick Cain, Peter Senior, Irene Kelly, Constance Sharp, Eileen Walker, Peter Jones and Peter Mann had supporting roles.
Margaret Ashwell, Margaret Atack, Marie Colleran, Joan Healey, Pauline Massey, David Broady, Tony Grogan and Joseph Stubley formed the chorus.
Mrs. M. Mullins provided the piano accompaniment.
Behind the scenes were Mr. C. North (musical director), Mrs E. Senior (dancing mistress), Mr. J. Finn (stage manager), Messrs. C. Leadbeater, N. Riley, S. Sharpe, H. Talbot (assistants), Mr. T. Brennan (electrician), Mrs. T. Brennan (perruquier), Mr. H. Moore (property manager), Mrs. H. Talbot (prompter), Mr. G. Wilson (call boy), and Miss M. Kilbride (wardrobe mistress).
The costumes were designed and made by Mesdames C. North and H. Talbot and me,Berw of the Social Committee. Scenery was built and painted by Messrs. H. Brearley and P. Sheridan.
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