King and I -- Gosford Musical Society

The classic musical "The King and I" was performed by the Gosford Musical Society at the Laycock Street Theatre during July to August. There were 12 performances, including matinees -- all were virtual sellouts, so over 4,500 tickets were sold, and bidding was hot if anyone had a ticket that they were not planning to use -- especially as the word spread throughout the Central Coast and beyond that this was one hot show. As I had an involvement with the show (of a very minor kind), I can't give an objective review, but it's necessary to record the event. Ted Williams directed the show. Over the years Ted and his wife Isabel have run musicals at local high schools, and this has been one of the reasons for the healthy state of theatre, especially musical theatre, on the NSW Central Coast. Among the talents is their son, Mark, who was the musical director. Anthony George and Liz Herd were the King and Anna, and both were absolute standouts ; Anthony's dancing background and comic timing made the routine in "Shall we dance" a highlight of the show. Apart from that it would be unfair to single out any cast members, all of whom were great performers. From design to music, dancing, sound, lighting, singing, props, makeup, programme design, this was amateur musical theatre which, at its best moments, was as good as any professional presentation -- and I do mean any. At its few and rare weak points it was as good as amateur musical societies get. I mentioned in an earlier review of "Guys and Dolls" that it would be hard for the Society's older members to match the Juniors' show, but they succeeded. "Guys and Dolls" will return during the Christmas school holidays for a reprise. One of the great aspects of the production was seeing the stars of other GMS productions working sidestage or backstage, applying hair dye to children, sewing costumes, applying makeup, shifting props and selling programmes. An absolute ripper, so watch out for the next production, "Cabaret"!