WWOS - Director's thoughts

3 Weeks until Wizard!

2009-10-23T22:27:00.002Z

Is it only 3 weeks to go?
95% set now ..... and the Company Sunday Rehearsals are about to begin ..... It's all looking Magical, and the exciting part now begins as we add all the elements together.
(That's the Company, the Principals, the Kids, the flying, the scenery, the lights, the sound AND The Dog!)
Keep selling the tickets .... we can always sell more!

Push the Wed & Thurs perfs (the rest will sell out, if they haven't done so already) call Louise ASAP ... tickets will be returned to the Churchill a week before the show!

Thanks ...

Kevin xx

4 and a bit weeks to go!

2009-10-13T20:16:00.002Z

Back at Th62 tomorrow, for Full company Rehearsal ........ starting at 8pm! (please turn up on time)
Small munchkins are dong very well, hopefully won't show up the Larger ones when we fit the whole Munckin scene together.
Tickets are selling well, but still need a good push so we can SELL THIS ONE OUT!
Call Louise soon on 0208 658 5117 and book more tickets ... particularly push Wednesday & Thursday evening performances!
Exciting huh?
PLEASE post your comments, problems, questions and gripes on this blog ..... it usually makes good reading!

Byeeee f'now

Kevin (GRRRRR)
x

6 Weeks to go!

2009-10-08T21:17:00.003Z

Weeks going by quickly ......... and another number set .... Poppies Act I finale will be marvelous once we've added some flashes & bangs and a bit of Flying (and the Dog!)
The costumes are looking FAB .... Charlotte & Josie are attending each Wednesday trying on bits. This week it was the Trees ..... all looking very Tree Like!
Keep selling them tickets ... try and push the Wednesday & Thursday evening performances ... the good seats for all other performances are in short supply! (Call Louise now on 020 8658 5117)
Back at Wickham Theatre Centre next week (Hurrah!)

See you all then

Kevin (GRRRRRrrrrrrr!)

PS ... all comments welcomed!

Well Done

2009-10-04T06:11:00.002Z

A HUGE Pat on the back to all the WWOS Music Hallers for the 2 performances last week at the Churchill and the Storming Music Hall last night at Farrington School.
All shows went down extremely well, with excellent feed back and additional funds for the society (we need them)
THANKYOU

Kevin (Humble Chairperson) x

7 Weeks to go

2009-10-02T22:33:00.002Z

It's going great guns!
We've set 2 large company scenes ... and everyone is Munchkinned out! (You all look stupid & it's great!)
We meet the 40 Youngsters who are joining us for the show on Sunday, for their first rehearsal. John, Sally and Emma will be putting them through their paces ... should be a noisy and fun afternoon ... We'll be loading them up with Handbills and info!!
Tickets are going well, but we should still be pushing to sell the show, particularly for the earlier performances ..... Call Louise now and reserve those tickets. The good seats are selling fast and Saturday afternoon is ALL GONE!
Charlotte & Josie are sewing 24 hours a day, creating some wonderful costumes ....... it's going to look amazing .... SELL SELL SELL!
1 more Music Hall tomorrow, as part of the Chislehurst Festival (and to promote The Wizard Of Oz)
Byee for now

Kevin x

Somewhere Over The Rainbow!

2009-07-06T07:01:00.004Z

As the Pink Dust settles on The Producers, (which, although an artistic success, lost us a large sum of money!) ... the Yellow & Green Sparkle of The Wizard Of Oz is seen in the distance.(Already selling well at The Churchill!)
We are all cast, after some Fab Auditions and agonising decisions ... and away we go.
Dance Auditions this Wednesday, then a couple more Wednesday Company Rehearsals before the Summer Break.
If you are taking part PLEASE come to these rehearsals .. or ... contact me as We need exact numbers to plan and work on production over the Summer ... PLUS the Simpson Wardrobe Dept (Charlotte Simpson & Josie Simpson are masterminding the making of most of the costumes .....oooooh) need to have exact numbers !
See ya soon .....
Kevin xx (Grrrrr)

Keep It Gay!

2009-05-13T07:28:00.003Z

Good rehearsal Monday ... alot tidied up & polished!
Costumes & bits tonight ....... and then a full runs on Friday and Sunday eves ready for the real thing next week.
Please keep pushing those tickets, although you will now have to send them directly to the Churchill Box Office 0870 060 6620
Bye for now

Kevin x

2 weeks to go

2009-05-01T11:12:00.002Z

2 weeks to go & we should get about 4/5 runs in hopefully.

Attendance is VERY important, as is Learning the rest of the words, remembering the deft foot work and SELLING the tickets.

We had a production meeting at The Churchill last night and they are all very excited about The Producers (well ... what the said was that at least it isn't another Annie!!!!)

See you all on Sunday ... starts at 2pm

Yours excitedly

Kevin x

The Key words are LEARN & SELL!

2009-04-23T07:50:00.000Z

Tidied quite a lot up last night ……. We all have to study words & music at home before the next rehearsals (download your music files NOW from the website!)…. Only 3.5 weeks to go, so this is getting serious!
Tickets also need a push! Mainly from those of the cast who have yet to order any yet!
Sunday is a Principal run, with all musical numbers …. So anyone involved please turn up All Are Welcome. There is also a dance rehearsal for all dancers to attend and all this is taking place at The Methodist Church in Hawes Lane West Wickham
Onward & Upward
Kevin xx

4 weeks to go

2009-04-20T10:55:00.002Z

Good rehearsal yesterday at The Methodist Church .... at one point there where 3 halls being used at once .... A Veritable Hive Of Entertainment!
Loads of bits tonight with various parties .... then, apart from the Finale ... all is set!
4 Weeks to go .... exciting huh?

Kevin x

4.5 Weeks to go!

2009-04-16T14:15:00.003Z

Its all coming together .... some great dancing from the Men last night (ish) ... it'll be even better when they all learn which is their right foot! (Howard ... we missed you!)

Just making it crystal clear about next weeks rehearsals ………
MONDAY EVE at Emmanuel Church, The Grove, WW, we will be doing (in roughly this order)
8pm Accountants scene …. Needed are David Finn, Jonathan Faint, David O'Hanlon, Chris Cahill, Cory & Barry and Anthony Harris
8:30 ish Police scene ….. Needed are Cory, David O'Hanlon, Graham Copeland, Micheal Hall and Max & Leo
9pm ish ….. Keep It Gay scene……Needed are all Rogers production team …. Roger, Carmen, Max, Leo, Howard, Andrew, Anthony, Kerry, Phillip H, Cory, Barry, Gary, Jeremy, Luke
9:30 ish Audition scene …. Any one who is in it who is already there including Roger, Carmen, Chris C, Rory, David F …….
If you cannot come please let me know ASAP … as this will be the only chance to set these scenes both musically and settings and we may have to find replacements!!!
Wednesday Eve … West Wickham Meth Church … FULL COMPANY!!!!!!
Thanks and …. See You There

Kevin xx

oh ... and ... Sell Tickets NOW ... call 020 8658 5117

Springtime, Springtime, Springtime!

2009-04-09T09:20:00.000Z

Well …. Wasn’t that exciting last night ….. The whole of Springtime For Hitler is set and looking fab …. Once we have a full cast (dig, dig!) two tanks and the flashes & bangs (pyrotechnics) it will be amazing!
Oh … and the Music needs to be learnt!
I cannot repeat enough the importance of the back stage vocals …. If you are not on for a particular part of a scene you will be standing at the mikes singing your little hearts out!
95% of the show is now set …… and now comes the exciting part of putting it all together and polishing it (and learning the rest of the words!)
Oh ….. and one more thing ….. TICKETS!
Have a good Easter and see you ALL next Wednesday at Emmanuel Church in The Grove at 8pm

Kevin xx

Goosestep, goosestep, waltz, clog and kick!

2009-04-02T07:28:00.001Z

Hitler Auditions started …. Seeing the men’s chorus performing Arabesque, prepare, pirouette and twirl, goosestep, goosestep, waltz, clog and kick was worth the ticket price alone!
Prisoners Of Love also set …. Nearly there!
Springtime For Hitler next week, with the Bavarians only at 8 and the Follie Girls, Brown Shirts, Stormtroopers and tanks at 8:30. Looking forward to it already.
Keep selling them tickets hard!

Kevin x

If You've Got It, Flaunt It!

2009-03-26T08:58:00.000Z

I’m sorry if the rehearsals seem a bit bitty at the moment … but it’s the nature of the show. There are a lot of individual parts to each scene which have to be rehearsed individually and then put together which, unfortunately results in some people sitting around a bit …… still, at least we can sit around in the bar!
Next Wednesday will be a call for ALL MEN at 8pm, with the Ladies joining us at 9pm ….. We’ll try and do the Hitler Audition Scene and Prisoners Of Love (please look at the Music)
The following week will be devoted to the big production number SPRINGTIME FOR HITLER which involves everybody, either as Bavarian Peasants, tapping Brown Shirts, Follie Girls with Sausages & pretzels on their heads or Formation Goose-Stepping Storm troopers! (This may start a new trend!)…. Should be fun!
Keep learning the words and flogging them tickets

Kevin xx

ps ... a few comments please!

We were helpless, we were hopeless .....

2009-03-16T08:57:00.001Z

Oops … didn’t update the Blog last week …. A bit busy at the moment …
Last Wednesday was, again, a bit bitty, with lots of small pieces to rehearse & prepare. The Producers is a very strange show to rehearse due to the number of scenes needing different groups of oddballs.. The groups range from First Nighters to Street walkers and Roger’s “Happy” Friends to a gang of randy octogenarians ….!
Next week Sue has called the Zimmer Frame Old Ladies for 8pm and then the rest of the old biddies for 9 …. Everyone else has a night off!
Tickets are ticking over but no real rush yet … It is now we have to start pushing the group orders so PLEASE take some handbills & push the show wherever and whenever possible.
Thanks

Kevin xx

Nice to be back home!

2009-03-05T08:30:00.000Z

Isn’t it lovely to be back at WTC (Th62)!
Bitty rehearsal last night but we got another chunk of the finale set and Sue now has a walking frame at home to sort out the rest.
The new Churchill Brochure is out this week so, hopefully, tickets will begin to sell at The Churchill. It is important we get the handbills distributed throughout the Borough. According to The Churchill, ticket sales in general do not appear to have fallen off in the recession …… AND, believe it or not, we are one of the cheapest shows on at the theatre in the current season!
So START PUSHING THE TICKETS NOW …. Call Louise on 020 8658 5117 or email her on boxoffice@wwos.org.uk
See you next week

Kevin x

How We Miss WTC!

2009-02-26T17:27:00.003Z

What a strange hall St Marks is!

Last week we were in an aircraft hanger, and this week McDonalds party room (without the burgers!) still........ nice comfy chair for David!

Opening polished a bit (as well as fitting in latecomers and absentees!)

Finale started ..... a bit more to do on that ..... thankfully back at WTC next week!

Louise is still waiting patiently for the ticket orders to start flooding in ... COME ON ... START SELLING PLEASE! 020 8658 5117.

Dancers rehearsal (storm troopers) on Sunday (see rehearsal schedule....) please be there promptly.

Bye for now

Kevin x

2 Weeks in .... 11 weeks to go!

2009-02-19T09:58:00.001Z

Good rehearsals this week ……. Principal Mondays are going well, a lot to get covered with a lot of fiddly business (all VERY camp!) ….. and last night …. Good attendance (well, nearly) and a lot of ground covered ……. It’s a long opening sequence but good stuff involving Everybody!
Nice big hall as well, makes a nice change rehearsing in an aircraft hanger!
Next week is another hall …. This time St Mark's Hall in Breamer Gardens (Road off the other side of the High Street, (behind the Carpet Shop!))
PLEASE start selling those tickets and start organising those Large Party Bookings, …. Louise is waiting for your phone calls on 020 8658 5117.
Bye for now

Kevin

Music Hall Marvels!

2009-02-16T08:47:00.003Z

I know it's got nothing to do with The Producers .... but well done to all those who took part in the Oxted Barn Music Hall on Saturday ..... an Excellent Evening was had by all .... followed by a Group Valentines Chinese Meal (We all knew, of course, it was just an excuse for Tracy to get me to a restaurant on valentines night! Luckily for me, 22 others turned up!)
Money raised for the worthwhile charity MIND and WWOS .......
Thanks to ALL

The Producers!

2009-02-12T10:08:00.001Z

Good floor rehearsal last night …. A bit bitty but it will all fit together into a FAB opening ……
The “First nighters” set it off … then the “Odd New Yorkers” come on for King of Broadway … and then All on for the end & play off …….There is a bit more Dancing for ALL the New Yorkers to set, before the First Nighters come back on…. And then the final bit … should be able to finish it off next week.

The rest of the Bits/Cast list is now nearly completed & will go on the website later this week ….
Next week is at Emmanuel Church (Griffiths Jones room on Monday and the large hall on Wednesday …( thanks to Elizabeth for wangling that one as we have NEVER been allowed in there before … a first for WWOS!))

Oh, and Louise is patiently waiting at home for those ticket orders … go on, call her now on 020 8658 5117 and start booking them now!

Bye for now

Kevin x

2009-02-05T08:26:00.002Z

Thank you to all those who ventured out last night and made it to rehearsal ...... there was about 40 of us in total ..... with "snowed in" excuses from others living as far afield as Shirley and Beckenham!

Good Music rehearsal ....... allot of ground covered ... please look at the opening number and King Of Broadway for next week.

ALSO ... don't forget that next Wednesdays rehearsal is at The Methodist Church in Hawes Lane, West Wickham.

Full rehearsal schedules are now available .... and full details are also on the website.

Thanks & see you next week

Kevin xx

ps & don't forget Music Hall rehearsal on Sunday, Methodist Church at 2:30pm

See Ya Tonight

2009-02-04T08:25:00.000Z

THE REHEARSAL IS DEFO ON TONIGHT!
.....Wednesday 4th Feb ..... 8pm @ Th62
See ya there

Kevin xx

Tricky Stuff !!

2009-01-29T11:44:00.002Z

Good first FULL Music rehearsal last night, when we looked at the opening & Finale Act I ..... All sounds good ..... but we all need to look & listen to it between rehearsals!

The Marvelous handbills are out .... aren't they good .... really classy & professional! Keep giving them out & telling people of this amazing zany show ..... It is going to be Amazing BUT We Have To Sell It!!

Call our new Glamorous Ticket Secretary LOUISE on 020 8658 5117 and start booking your tickets NOW! (She is raring to go!)

See you all next week

Kevin xx

I wanna be a producer ...!

2009-01-26T08:35:00.000Z

Principal singing tonight &

Full Company Music on Wednesday

See ya there ........... plus, Louise is still waiting for those ticket orders to start flooding in ... call her on 020 8658 5117 ...

Kevin xx

Up & Going!

2009-01-23T08:12:00.002Z

Well, we are now up & going with a full cast and Box Office officially open!

For those of you who do not know, the WWOS box office for this show is to be run by Louise Gauntlett .... on 020 8656 5117 . I believe that Louise has some order forms and the official Handbills (brilliantly designed by P C Copeland) will be distributed next week.

WE HAVE TO SELL THIS SHOW WELL! We only have 6 performances to sell, wouldn't it be brilliant to Sell 'em all out!

In the words of Max Bialystock "We Can Do It!"

Se some of you on Monday & All of you on Wednesday

Kevin (a very excited little boy!) xx

So Far

2009-01-13T09:40:00.003Z

Great Auditions last night ....
Cast so far ....

Max ........... Kevin Gauntlett
Leo..............Jonathan Faint
Roger..........Jonathan French
Carmen......Paul Mont
Franz..........Simon Judd

More auditions on Wednesday, Watch This Space

K

Music .... Tricky but Marvelous!

2009-01-08T08:51:00.003Z

Good music rehearsal last night .... good attendance and some good new members auditions ... we have 6 New members (including 3 men!)
Auditions are next week, which I am looking forward to. Get the show cast then the real work begins.
Sue, john & I have all met up at various times to plan this extravaganza and I can promise you a busy romp of a show with allot of rushing about for all.
Good Luck to all Auditionees!
bye for now

Kevin x

Hello 2009

2009-01-05T09:13:00.002Z

Christmas & New Year celebrations are now over and we can now get on with THE PRODUCERS!

Auditions are only a week away ... here's how the next 2 weeks look:-

Mon 5th Jan – audition pieces (again)

Wed 7th Jan – full company for Music

Mon 12th Jan – Auditions (Max, Leo, Ulla, Roger, Carmen & Franz)

Wed 14th Jan – Auditions (all other parts!)

The society members can come & watch the auditions if they so wish!

Happy New Year to all ...... let us hope it proves a prosperous New Year for WWOS!!

Kevin x

Goodbye 2008

2008-12-16T10:49:00.001Z

Audition Piece rehearsal last night went well. ……. Plus an added excursion for 4 of us, to pick up the new WWOS piano for WTC … (WWOS now do Piano Removals at a modest fee!) no more semi-tone differences, the new electric model will make us all sound better! (yes, even Adrian!)
No more The Producers rehearsals until next year now!
Mon 5th Jan – audition pieces (again)
Wed 7th Jan – full company for Music
Mon 12th Jan – Auditions (Max, Leo, Ulla, Roger, Carmen & Franz)
Wed 14th Jan – Auditions (all other parts!)
It’s going to be WONDERFUL!

Christmas get-together on Wednesday 17th @ WTC

Have a very Merry Christmas …

Kevin x

ps Where's all the comments?

Away we go again!

2008-12-03T15:21:00.000Z

Opening Meeting Tonight.
WWMC @ 8pm

GO FOR IT!

2008-05-28T10:27:00.002Z

Nice couple of dress rehearsals ..... the set looks good, the company look good, Annie & the Orphans will steal the show!

Heads up now, vocal chords on MAXIMUM (& preferably in tune), left & right feet at the ready (& spare one in cupboard). brains in gear and AWAY WE GO!

Good luck to all and thank you for you hard work - to - date!

Kevin xx

SING OUT!

Lee's back! or was that Scott?

2008-05-22T10:47:00.003Z

Another good run!

Time is tightening up ... 1 hr 5 min 1st Act & 1 hr 7 min 2nd Act .... we can still shave a bit off that.

Needless to say, Annie & the kids will steel the show ... although there are some other great Duster Winning performances building!

Friday is the final run before The Churchill, could everybody please make a mental note on Friday of Costume changes & props needed so it doesn't come as a complete surprise on Monday!!

Wasn't it nice to see Lee last night ... better late than never!

Kevin x

THE END (clap, hand out!)

2008-05-20T09:19:00.001Z

Few bits sorted out last night, plus the final bit of Choreography.
A few words still seem to be eluding some members of the company, I’m sure they’ll be there on the night!
Tickets, Tickets, Tickets!
See you all on Wednesday (8pm start with Grace team) & Friday (8pm start with Oliver team)
DON’T BE LATE!

Thanks

Kevin xx

Last Push

2008-05-19T11:16:00.002Z

Saturday in The Glades went Marvelously ... a big thanks to Ian on the Piano, Philip for his piano & invaluable help, Gabby, Shannon & all the orphans for their performances and all the other supporters who turned up & gave out about 5000 handbills!

Sundays run was a bit limp! Everybody seemed like they were just going through the motions .... we all need a bit more energy (and words!)

Full company with Annies (no orphans) tonight .... Be there or be talked about! you have been warned!

Kevin xx

ps ... I'm learning my lines!

PEEEEEEEEEEEEEP! (whistle)

2008-05-15T09:53:00.000Z

Got lots of bits done last night, with the company & the orphans …. Plus the highly complicated Station Scene, in which there are a few Duster Winning performances!
SO….. Publicity drive this Saturday in the Glades … (Please turn up at some point & support the girls!)….. Orphans rehearsal Sunday Morning, Run show Sunday afternoon, the Full rehearsals Monday, Wednesday & Friday next week …. No apologies so far!!!
The ticket situation is not good, but we have a bit of Publicity & paid ads going out next week, and we must all keep trying & keep our fingers crossed. IT IS A GOOD FUN SHOW ….

Kevin x

Ps Tracy … stop talking!

2 weeks to go!

2008-05-13T10:13:00.003Z

2 weeks from tonight will be our final dress rehearsal ..... it's getting close.
Sunday's jog through was encouraging ..... it will be a good show.
The ticket situation is still bad ... particularly Thursday Eve performance. If anyone knows any association we can offload a group booking on at a low price PLEASE contact me now!

See ya Wednesday

Kevin

THE END!

2008-05-01T07:28:00.002Z

We've set everything now ........ even the Who's Bests at the end ........ now comes the polishing!

It's all looking good BUT EVERYBODY ... that's every member of the company, needs to do 3 things:-

1 Turn up to ALL remaining rehearsals (no more illnesses or part time plastering!)

2 Learn lyrics to songs & all dialogue (there are still plenty of goldfish on stage!!)

3 SELL TICKETS!

Thanks ... onward & upward ... it will be a very good show!

See ya next week

Kevin x (who will be learning his lines!)

3.5 weeks to go

2008-04-28T11:58:00.002Z

Excellent Orphans & Dancers rehearsal rehearsal yesterday afternoon, All Dolled Up will look great with the Company, Principals, Orphans & Dancers!(we'll put it all together on Wednesday)
The Orphans are working very hard & will be fab.
Tickets TICKETS TICKETS!!!!
See you all on Wednesday back at WTC, Th 62. (Principals, I'll see you tonight)

Kevin x

good run inish

2008-04-22T09:37:00.005Z

Good run - ish last night ... alot of work on words still needed, but well done for those of the cast who have made a huge effort at this stage with 4 weeks to go.

To echo one of the Comments to the last blog, the Orphans are going to be Fab, the dancing is looking marvelous and the singing sounding great.

Tickets are a big worry at the moment .... the Society alone are about 400 tickets down on the last show at this stage ..... please make an effort now to sell as many tickets as you can. We can offer, the group discounts, if needed to secure booking is. There are special school rates available, which we can offer for most performances. Please contact me or John to obtain further details.

Please note the selling points of the show.

Firstly, it is a new show, and we are presenting the London Premier.

Secondly, it is the sequel to one of the most famous musicals of all time-Annie.

Thirdly, as it is a family musical, and we are performing it in half term week, there are 3 matinee performances available on the Thursday Friday and Saturday at 2:30 p.m.

Fourthly, the music is wonderful, there are some great new songs and dances in the show.

Finally, the kids are great and worth the price of the ticket alone.

Please try and sell as many tickets as possible.
The rehearsal of this Wednesday is back at the Methodist Church. See you there.
Kevin xx

4 ish Weeks to go .....!

2008-04-17T13:07:00.003Z

Nearly there .... just a bit of Finale to set, then the complicated bows & we're done!

Looking good. Kids & adults, although alot of words & music still has to be committed to memory!

PLUS ... tickets need to be sold. The matinees are going slowly but surely .... but the evenings are looking very sparse ... it needs a kick NOW.

Please put your posters up & start badgering those sales.

Sunday rehearsal for certain Orphans & both Annies at the Methodist Church @ 2:30 ... Monday ALL principals at Emmanuel Church @ 8 and Wednesdays call is for FULL COMPANY at the Methodist Church again ... orphans & Annies @ 7, adults @ 8.

See you there

Kevin x

The Final Countdown!

2008-04-14T10:48:00.002Z

Back from short hols, completely tired & Chilled out (NOT)

Good Orphans rehearsal Sunday afternoon, still a few missing on Easter Hols ...... but with 5 weeks to go, we now have to get going and finish the show.

The set has now been finalised, with a couple of extra"bits" coming from Scenic Projects, including the Statton Island Ferry (looking very like a bit of The Titanic!)

It's going to look great .....

Keep selling the tickets ... if you know of any publication or website that could use a press release please email me & I'll send you one ( kevin.gauntlett@thackraywilliams.com ) We must get the message out there that this show is being performed. Posters can now go up ... Sell, Publicise & Sell NOW please!

See you all on Wednesday back at The Methodist Church

Kevin x

Only 10 each a week! (see below)

2008-04-03T13:40:00.005Z

Good rehearsal last night. Numbers better .... still no Lee, Scott or Phillip .... I live in hope!

All looking Cheesey & good. Alot of words need learning and moves co-ordinating ... apart from that ... OK

We are now working from the Yellow rehearsal schedule (unless you are an orphan, who have a pink version) ... please transfer the rehearsal info to your diaries, calenders and memories ....

7 weeks to go, about 4000 tickets to sell, which works out about 600 per week, divided by the 60 odd cast (including orphans) is about 10 each per week .... GO FOR IT!

Thanks ....

Kevin xx (a bit calmer this week)

The calm after the storm!

2008-03-20T11:46:00.003Z

Well, what a couple of weeks we've had!

Sadly, Jonathan French had to withdraw from the production due to his father's ill health. We will of course miss Jonathan dreadfully, not only on stage but his calm approach to everything ... We can only wish him well and hope his father makes a full recovery.

In his place we have been lucky to secure the talents of Tunbridge Wells favourite Simon Judd (He is a Solicitor with Twins ... so must be a really talented good bloke!)

Simon has quickly been set in most of Act I and will be marvelous.

Next Wednesday is an orphans only rehearsal ... (PLUS DANCERS from 8) ... so adults have a night off (to learn words!!!!)

Monday week ... 31st March ....will be All Principals in Act II to blitz it ... set the lot and then the Polish can begin!

2/3 more company scenes to set, including the Wedding that goes wrong and the Finale (happy ever after ... until Annie 3 .... )

Please note carefully all dates for future rehearsals and DO NOT MISS THEM ... Please!

Bye for now

Kevin xx (a bit less stressed today ... coming up for air!)

Somebody's done something about ........

2008-03-06T09:08:00.002Z

Orphans are looking good ... noisy but dancing well. Another Sunday morning rehearsal for them this week ... Starting at 10!

Adults ... Another company number set, with dancing set for all ... and looking good. Please all do a bit of homework on the music so we can put everything together next week. We will also set the proceeding scene with various comings and goings for all.

PLUS the usual revision.

Keep promoting & selling tickets please

Kevin x

2008-02-28T08:27:00.002Z

Wasn't it nice to be back at WTC .....

The kids are working hard & getting alot done and the adults ... turned up again.!

Although the story, action and dialogue maybe a little naff, the Music, as we are all experiencing, is a bit tricky and very good. The variety of songs (solos & concerted number) is vast and all audiences tastes should be met. We all have to do a bit of homework to learn the words & harmonies because it is not a well known show, like Annie, and because of that it is important it is done well.

Next week, apart from the usual bit of revision, we will be setting a new company scene so PLEASE do a bit of swotting up at home between now & then ... thank you.

Tickets are limping off the shelf ... but the new Churchill season brochure goes out at the beginning of March, so hopefully the public awareness will give the tickets a kick start. WE HAVE TO SELL THIS SHOW!!!

Bye for now

Kevin x (PS Replies, comments, back-stabbings, gossip and ideas are all welcome!)

GRACEful rehearsal!

2008-02-21T17:15:00.002Z

Thanks .... we got the GRACEful number finished, fitting in the missing bods (and coping with others going missing!)
The Orphans are working (and Talking) hard ... and will, once again, outshine the adults if we're not careful!
Rehearsal schedule has been given out ... if you need one, let me know (I can email you a copy if you are desparate!) simarly, if you want a cd of the music, let me know!
COSTUMES ... Men, please find yourselves a 1930s suit again (if you want to know the style, speak to Eileen or Lucy ... or look at what Adrian wears!) and Ladies, we will be looking for you to possibly find a 1930s dress .... (Must be Blue ..patterned or plain... start looking) All uniforms will be hired, but if we can find other bits ourselves it does save alot of money!
KEEP SELLING THEM THERE TICKETS
And, see you next week back at Th 62 (WTC) Horrah!

Kevin xx

Oops .... New Blog (at last)

2008-02-14T08:44:00.002Z

Back on course again!
Good rehearsal last night, for both the kids and grown-ups!
As with Annie, there will be an overlap between the Adults & girls rehearsals so to set the bits with us all in.
We set most of the GRACEful number last night .... it will be interesting next week fitting the missing few in. We will finish it next week and also look at the opening number which we set 3/4 weeks back (when Stephen was plastering!)
Start thinking about and arranging those block bookings and generally selling this show .... we still have to sell about 5000 tickets.

Thanks & see you next week at WWMC once again at 8!

Kevin x

Annie W

2008-02-01T16:14:00.000Z

1 Floor rehearsal down and 1 company number set ..... we only have to add 15 orphans, a dog and Grace. (... oh, and a plasterer!)
Next wednesday is at the WW Methodist Church! Anyone who reads this please pass on this fact to others!
Thanks and See you next week

Kevin

Annie ain't just Annie anymore!

2008-01-22T10:31:00.000Z

The music in Annie Warbucks is tricky but Very Good! .....
1st principal music rehearsal on Monday sounded good .... Daddy & Grace have both got some beautiful songs. Still waiting for set designs .... so no idea of entrances & exits yet and we start setting soon!
The Churchill have finally included us on the Website of forthcoming productions and we should start selling the show. Please take some handbills on Wednesday and start passing them round.
Auditions on Wednesday and then AWAY WE GO AGAIN!

Lovely!

Kevin x

They're Back!

2008-01-14T09:45:00.000Z

Aaaaaaah ,,.....,,,,..... Lovely to see all the Annie girls on Sunday, Singing their little hearts out. I think Ian was only expecting about 6 in each team, so was a bit surprised when 30 noisy urchins turned up!

Alot of Music was covered and rehearsals sorted and (most importantly) handbills given out to SELL tickets!

Another Music rehearsal for the grown-ups on Wednesday ... see ya then.

Kevin x

That Sun's Coming Out Again!

2008-01-11T16:18:00.001Z

Fab first rehearsal following Christmas festivities under the Firm but fun hands of Mr Skipper (Sir) …….. The music is a bit trickier than the bog-standard Annie!
First rehearsal with the girls on Sunday ….. it will be nice to see them all together again (I wonder how many of them will now be above 5’1”?
Next Wednesday is another Very Important Music rehearsal, then the Auditions and away we go.
It’s going to LOVELY!

Kevin

Happy NewYear

2008-01-01T23:02:00.000Z

Happy New Year to all! ... Well, that went quickly didn't it .......... it doesn't seem like 5 minutes ago we were all congratulating Tracy for winning the raffle AGAIN at the Christmas bash and now both Christmas & New Year are over and it's back to the grind stone!

And well done to Polly for spotting my deliberate mistake in my last post ... yes, the first rehearsal is not tomorrow (the 2nd) but next Wednesday on the 9th! .... see you all there.

Annie Warbucks is now well and truly underway!

Bye for now

Kevin

PS ... please post some cryptic replies/comments , to prove someone tunes in & reads this!!!

Another Show Begins!

2007-12-06T10:58:00.000Z

It was good to see so many at rehearsal last night .... the beginning of a new show!

It was also good to have Ian Skipper back at the helm! He has been away too long!

Annie Warbucks will be a good show for all involved ... so Onwards & Upwards.

Next week will be our last rehearsal this year and we will begin again on Wednesday 2nd Jan at WTC (Th 62). The auditions will take place mid-Jan.

See you all next week.

Kevin x

Another Tomorrow Musical!

2007-12-05T16:03:00.000Z

The last blog was meant to go on the Les Mis blog ....... Technical glitch .... never mind.
Annie Warbucks officially starts 2nite .... Ian Skipper & I shall be there to get going on the latest WWOS epic .... another London Premiere ... and another one no one has a clue about .... It will be a good company show and a good fun show I promise you .... and hopefully will sell to enable us to go on & choose other more risky shows again ....

See you all tonight

Kevin x

Wow, did we Hear The People Sing!

2007-12-05T15:53:00.000Z

The production team were all blown away by the talent at the Les Mis auditions last Sunday .... and a cast of 28 Boys and 34 girls was cast ...... these members form the company out of which we will cast all the principal roles and solo parts and go on to present the most exciting project to reach the Churchill in some time!
Monday last, the whole Company came together for the first time and produced an amazing sound! ... alot of the cast seemed to know the whole score by heart already. It is going to be an amazing show .......
As the weeks go by it will be interesting to read the views of the cast on this blog .......
Principal auditions will take place on Monday at Wickham Theatre Centre (Th 62) top of corkscrew Hill, starting at 7:30. .... I am Really looking forward to that!

Yours, excitedly

Kevin x

The Sun DID Come Out!

2007-11-06T09:26:00.000Z

Well, it's all over & I think it went VERY well. Both Annies and both teams of orphans were marvelous we put on a very polished performance!

Highlights include:-

-Sandy, the dog

-Gary the Apple seller

-Michelle the stripper

-The Boylan Sisters, the latecomers

-Gary, the dancer

-The car

-The first Trombone for keeping his cool while the second trombone threw-up!

-Gary, the sound effects man

-The staff at the Churchill

-& EVERYBODY INVOLVED!

Thanks ..... I loved every minute of it ... & role on the Sequel (Un-navigated Waters for us all!)

Kevin xx

Tomorrow finally came!

2007-11-01T12:33:00.001Z

Thursday morning & 2 shows down. Both Annies & both sets of orphans have proved themselves to be amazing ... stealing the show! Big thanks to them & their parents/chauffeurs!
The whole company (on stage & back stage) have pulled together a very slick & professional show .... a big thank you to the Churchill backstage staff as well!
The ticket sales have picked up & Friday & Saturday shows are practically sold out. ....
Highlights include The dog & Gary Grinham! (in that order!.... & height order, tallest first!)

LOL....... Kevin x

Tomorrow really is just a day away!

2007-10-27T09:20:00.000Z

Good last run .... a few last minute fluffs & notes ... I'm sure it will be marvelous.... BUT, please, between now & tomorrow(!) please look at words & go through any moves you are unceratin about .....

It's going to be the usual hectic few days to pull all the bits in, but it will be fab!

Go oir it Gary!

Bye for now

Kevin xx

The Last Push!

2007-10-26T07:04:00.000Z

Wednesday was a good run ... the whole thing looking like a show .... and the story finally making sense, albeit very cheesy!!

Mr Challis .... where were you?

The costumes looking good, apart from the fact that the Dancers French Maid costumes made the look more like Old Maids! .... there are VERY short ones on their way (& I mean SHORT!)

See ya Friday for Gabby's team run .....

Remember, it's still not too late for WORD,TICKETS,WORDS,TICKETS,WORDS,TICKETS etc

Kevin x

The Show's A Week Away!

2007-10-22T21:50:00.000Z

Good Principal tighten up! .... Radio Scene & Presidents scene hopefully a bit smoother!

& final scene done over & over again!

Tickets still need a good push for the early part of the week so ALL PLEASE now send a group email out to EVERYONE YOU KNOW telling them about this Wonderful show at The Churchill next week! Get them to call Churchill on 0870 060 6620 and book now!

See you all on Wednesday for a run ... & costumes (don't forget to bring a bag to take 'em home in!)

Kevin xx

Just think, A Pig Farm!

2007-10-22T07:57:00.000Z

Nice run ... getting quicker. A few lines could still be learnt / refreshed to speed up Act II

Highlights:-
Both our Annies
The orphan's Dancing
Chorus numbers as a whole
Jonathan's full body wax!
Gary's lines

Low points:-
Act II dialogue
Men's Movement in "Need The FBI"
Singing at end of same number
Singing at end of NYC

But overall looking good with a week to go!

We need to sell a few more tickets for the beginning of the week ..... Please push 'em now! (Through the Churchill box office only now!)

Kevin x

PS .. I have a couple of single tickets for Sat Mat if anyone needs one!

The Final Push

2007-10-17T22:26:00.000Z

Only 4 rehearsals left before we are in the Theatre ....! and only 3 of those are runs .... so for all those who still are unsure of words, moves or anything else ... please do something about it NOW before it is too late!

It's looking good, but it could be better. All the company numbers have to be slick and automatic, this cannot be achieved if you have to stop & think of words, moves or steps ... so please do some homework on those bits that are still problematic!

It will be marvelous ..

Kevin x

Gary, Where Were You?

2007-10-16T07:12:00.000Z

Principal tidy-up rehearsal last night ... Gary, where were you? ... I suppose it's difficult to work on perfection!
Good tidy up, and a bit of setting for the final scene ... Lookin' Good!
Tickets ... we are now well over 50% for the whole week ... but the end of the week is filling up at the expense of the earlier performances! ... Please make an effort to push the Tues, Wed & Thurs performances NOW ... we only have 2 weeks 'till the first night!

STOP PRESS ... the scenic design people have come up trumps with a Fab Set for Annie Warbucks, it will look spectacular! It will be a very busy show for all involved, and it will be another London Premier!

Let's get Annie I going first!

WORDS, TICKETS, WORDS, TICKETS, WORDS, TICKETS!

Bye for now

Kevin x

Phew, wot a scortcha!

2007-10-15T09:40:00.000Z

Wot a weekend!

Full marks to all, and I mean every single one of the Orphans, for their supreme efforts on Saturday. They sung & danced from 9am until 4:30 ... and I'm sure sold quite a few tickets!

The Sunday run went extremely well, I was very relieved ... just a bit of tidying up here & there & we have a very good show!

The Wed & Thurs eves still need a ticket boost ... so Please direct your ticket sales there! (I have an order for 6 today for the Wed eve!)

Thank you everyone ... keep up the hard work ... it's going to be great ...

WORDS, TICKETS, WORDS, TICKETS, WORDS, TICKETS...........

Kevin x

Only 2 more Wednesdays!

2007-10-11T06:40:00.000Z

The countdown is upon us (no Adrian, I'm not talking about Carol Vaudaman & Des O'Connor) ... the Countdown to Annie 07!
Three weeks today, we will have had 2 shows and will be preparing for the Thursday Matinee ... and , by the look of it, some people will still be learning words & moves .... Is it really that tricky?
Sunday will see the first run ... and all the separate bits that we have been working on will be put together .. that's the Orphans singing, dancing & acting, the principals, the dog and the Company as a whole .... Exciting huh?
Tickets need a push ... call John Stocks with an order a day please ...!
It's going to be lovely!

Moving house tomorrow, All day at the Glades on Saturday, and rehearsing most of Sunday .... Busy,Busy,Busy!

Kevin xx

ps ... well done Gary, your Apple Seller I'm sure will be an award winning role for you!

"...also known as Danny The Dip!"

2007-10-09T07:09:00.000Z

Principal rehearsal last night back @ WTC ... it was nice to be back!

The 2 Annies are working very hard and will both be wonderful.

I'm still a bit concerned that we will have this wonderful show playing to partly filled houses in the early part of the week.It is up to us NOW to push these tickets .... It will be too late to sell the Tues, Wed & Thurs evening during the week of the show WE HAVE TO SELL IT NOW!

bi-weekly web-moan over

Keep up the hard work ..... (or, for some of you ... Start it!)

Kevin (..... also known as Monty the Mouth!) xx

Tomorrow's just a day away!

2007-10-07T19:24:00.000Z

1 Sunday rehearsal gone ..... 2 to go ...... it's getting close!

All company numbers done (except NYC) & looking good, a few word to learn & homework to finish!

Rushed over to the Orphan rehearsal after the adults ... & they are looking great! Please try & pop along next Saturday to support them in The Glades ... We will be there from 9am 'til 6pm ... a long day!

Tickets are looking good ... but we must keep selling to maximise any profit ..... Sell Sell Sell! Wednesday & Thursday evenings and Thurs Matinee need a push, so Push 'Em!

Wednesday @ 8pm back @ WTC (Th 62) ... see ya there!

Kevin x

Lookin' Good!

2007-10-04T07:04:00.000Z

Another Company rehearsal over .... and our last trip to the Hawes Lane Methodist Church (apart from the Orphans on Sunday)

WORDS, WORDS, WORDS! They have to be learnt ... I know it's a bi-annual moan of mine, but it is important ... it's not as if you have many to learn .. Please make it a priority this week!

Oh, and sell a few tickets!

A few new members asked me why we prefer sales through our own box office .... The reason for this is that we pay a charge for each ticket sold by the Theatre (a charge not paid if sold through WWOS) there is also a booking charge per ticket if you book through the theatre over the phone and a further charge to WWOS if you use a credit card. If you use WWOS box office it benefits you And the Society!

See you all for the Sunday rehearsal back at WTC (Th 62) @ 2:30

Kevin x

ps ... work on that characterisation Gary!

Wow!

2007-10-02T07:27:00.000Z

What a good rehearsal we had last night!

President's scene is set & looks great!

Radio scene is set & it looks Fab!

Easy Street dance is .... almost set & Tracy & Susan look Great! (& Jonathan is trying hard!)

And ... most importantly (is there such a word?) We have our Dogs ...!

After tough auditions, a few temperamental mutts, we have 2 beautiful canine stars to share the role of Sandy.

A worthwhile evening of hard work!

Wednesday is back at the new venue, The Methodist Church in Hawes Lane ... Please all arrive on time 'co we have a lot to get through ... and don't forget Sunday's rehearsal at Th62 ... starting at 2:30 pm .... ALL ARE NEEDED!!! There is a separate orphans rehearsal on Sunday at the Methodist Church 2:30 - 5:30!

It's goin' to be a Lovely Show!

Kevin x

Tomorrow is a day away!

2007-09-27T07:31:00.000Z

New venue last night ... Hawes lane Methodist Church..... We eventually all found it!

Big number set ....... starring Drake & Grace ... 2 more company numbers to go, plus a few joining bits. It's all looking good ... The orphans are FAB .. put us all to shame the way they pick up dances quickly & learn all their words!

Next Monday is a rehearsal for all those involved in the radio scene and the Presidents office. It will take place at Emmanuel Church in The Grove (The Griffiths Jones Room) @ 8. We have the Dog auditions @ 7, so if anyone knows of a scruffy medium sized, obedient, sandy coloured Mutt, who who would like to be a Canine Star ... please let me know & bring them along next Monday @7!

Thanks .... Learn & Sell!

Kevin xx

The end is in sight!

2007-09-25T06:56:00.000Z

Principal & dance rehearsals last night, in the halls to the rear of Emmanuel Church (Not the easiest to find if you have never been there before! ... so says Jonathan!)
John brought a voice coach along to help Annies & others ... very useful ... plus we did a bit more Act II setting & revision.
Words now have to be learnt, so we can put our books down & polish!
Tickets are up to about 33% with 4 weeks to go ... so they need a push!
Posters need to go up & please, putt in your Diaries Saturday 13th October (it was the 6th ... but was moved) for a publicity drive in the upper part of the Glades (outside Zara's). The girls will be singing & dancing BUT we need grown-ups there all day. We have to have 4 adults there At All Times to supervise & handout leaflets. We have to be there from 8am - 6pm!!
See ya Wednesday at The Methodist Church in Hawes Lane West Wickham ... Starts at 8 ... bring your own refreshment!

Kevin xx

Tomorrow, tomorrow, I love ya' Tomorrow

2007-09-21T06:37:00.000Z

Good rehearsal on Wednesday, despite sharing the hall with the set of Th62 next offering!

We managed to hack our way through everything set to date, which is all Act I involvement and most of it looks OK. A few words maybe missing here and there! please look at them NOW and do not leave it until TOMORROW!

Next week WWOS break new ground as we try out a new temporary rehearsal venue in Hawes Lane .... and we start Act II ... please be prompt.

Plans for Annie Warbucks are well underway with a set being designed / put together (bits from Oklahoma, Mack & Mabel, Hello Dolly, Me & My Girl and Annie ..) It will be a completely new show for ALL involved, so the words "Last time we did this!" will not feature at all!

BUT we have to sell this one first!

See ya next week

Kevin xx

ps ... We are on the move! From 12 Oct 07, Kevin, Louise, Ellen, Max, Kate & Oliver will be found at 107 Hayes Way, Park Langley, Beckenham, Kent, BR3 6RR ..

tel 020 8658 5117

I Think I'm Gonna Like It!

2007-09-13T07:15:00.000Z

NYC (With car and Senior Students) set last night ... and looking good!

Next Wednesday will be a recap & some extra bits to join Act I together so BE THERE OR MISS OUT!

Please have a look & reminder of Words & Moves between now & then so we don't have to remind EVERYONE where they are & what they should be doing!

Tickets need a push. Over 50% of the adult cast have not ordered a single ticket next! ... others are doing an amazing job. It's the same people making an effort ... so a message to those not selling ... Why Not Try A Bit Harder!

Don't forget to start looking for Hooverville costumes (look on Ebay for a coat for example!) and 1930s suits & general garb!

Bye for now ... I'll see some of you on Sunday, Some on Monday and the rest Next Wednesday

LOL Chef xx

You're Never Fully Dressed Without A Smile!

2007-09-11T07:11:00.000Z

Ooooh, it's gonna be good.

Shannon & Gabriella worked very hard last night, as did the rest of the principals and the majority of Act I is set .... please all now learn words for scenes set so the polishing and slight amendments can take place ..

Only 7 weeks to go ....

See you all on Wednesday

Kevin x

Sell Sell Sell

It's The Hard Knock Life!

2007-09-06T07:26:00.000Z

A long rehearsal for some of us last night …. But we got the new number set, and managed to go over last weeks setting as a reminder. Please learn the words to at least the songs we have set! …. NYC next week!
Another basic practise is the giving of apologies if you are going to be away … there were 5 people not there last night without any notice (and 2 had given apologies / excuses!) If you know you are going to be away PLEASE email Graham (link on Rehearsal Schedule page of Web site) with dates … we have to know who is there and who is not.
And Finally … Please Start To Sell Tickets NOW …. We have to get public awareness NOW that Annie is on at The Churchill … wherever you go (Doctors/Dentist surgery, Libraries, Waiting rooms, Other theatres, Offices etc….. ) take a pile of handbills and leave them there … Start putting posters up EVERYWHERE (They will be available from next week)If you know of any newsletters going out, see if you can slip them with an Annie handbill … We Have To Publicise This Show NOW!

See ya next week

Kevin x

ps .... Well done Gary!

Push Them Tickets NOW!

2007-09-04T07:26:00.000Z

Good principal rehearsal last night … we have 2 very talented Annies! … the rest of them aren’t bad either …

We only have 8 weeks left and tickets need a Push …. After the initial hype we now have to bring Annie to the forefront in peoples minds and get tickets booked. With only 8 weeks to go we are only 20% sold.. Which is on a par with Titanic & Carousel ….Not Good Enough, This is ANNIE! so SELL, SELL, SELL, (it’s that Blog Time Warp again!)

See all at Wednesday @ 8 … unless you are an orphan when I will see you @ 7.

Kevin x

ps please post any comments, ideas or moans regarding the selling of tickets, because we need everyones input now, before it's too late!

Blog Loop

2007-08-30T07:31:00.000Z

A Good rehearsal last night, with a lot set for the adults and the kids!
The orphans were very good as well!
A lot of words still have to be learnt (Am I in some sort of Blog loop …. I seem to have said this in a previous Life/show!) … if you learn the words to the numbers we set as we go along it is a lot easier than learning it all at the last minute!
We only have 8 weeks to go to set the whole show and sell all the tickets. Please start pushing the tickets NOW!
We are now fully cast … full cast list is accessible from the Annie web page …. I will be setting both the Radio Scene and the Presidents scene (a lot of parts) on Monday 1st October … so anyone in those scenes PLEASE make sure you turn up for that Monday principal rehearsal.
One other point … you will note from the schedule that we have the Glades booked on Saturday 6th October for a publicity drive. This will be ALL DAY … the 2 sets of Orphans will be performing at times throughout the day … but we need as many of the Company as poss to be there at sometime to support the girls and hand out the leaflets ….. Please put it in your diaries NOW!

Ta
Kevin x

I Think I'm Gonna Like It Here!

2007-08-28T08:03:00.000Z

Ooops, forgot to post Blog last week!
Last Monday we lost & found an Annie! Unfortunately one of our Annies, Caroline Riley, had to withdraw from the production, however, we had such a lot of talent at the Mammoth Annie Idol Auditions that we were able to call on Gabriella Bishop (Who was one of the little girls in Witches Of Eastwick) to fill the role … she will be great! … We have 34 Wonderful Orphans!
The first Principal rehearsal went well, with quite a few still on holiday, we managed to block quite a bit ….
This was followed by a Company rehearsal last Wednesday … again quite a few away, but Hooverville was set and we had time to do some Music at the end.
Monday (yesterday) was Bank holiday … however the dancers met at WTC and the Choreographic Task Masters Danielle & Charlotte worked them hard in the blistering heat!
Wednesday is another Full rehearsal, starting at 7 with the orphans and Full Company at 8.
See ya there, don't be late ....!
Kevin xx

Annie Warbucks .... the Future

2007-08-03T06:24:00.000Z

You will see from the Future Shows page that we are now going to present a musical called Annie Warbucks next May .... !
The change from the planned The Full Monty to Annie Warbucks came about because The Churchill have given us the May Half Term Week to perform in, and we really had to find a show that would draw in the kids. I have been researching Annie Warbucks for sometime, and it seemed the perfect choice to follow Annie!
Annie Warbucks is the musical sequel to the Broadway hit Annie. Written by Thomas Meehan with music by Charles Strouse and lyrics by Martin Charnin, It originally played off-broadway but never made it to London.

Annie Warbucks delivers all of the fun that made the original an instant classic. The action picks up right where Annie leaves off. A child welfare commissioner, Mrs Doyle (The new Baddie!) arrives on the scene to inform Daddy Warbucks he must marry in sixty days so the newly adopted Annie can have a proper mother. If he doesn’t marry, then he can’t adopt!
When the legality of this pronouncement is confirmed by his lawyer, Daddy Warbucks responds by speed dating every woman he can find except Annie's choice, his assistant Grace Farrell. His wealth, which is in stark contrast to the plight of most depression-era Americans, makes him quite a catch. The prospect of sharing his affection with any of the prospects drives Annie and Sandy to take advise from her orphanage friends and then hop a train for parts unknown. After a little adventure and some good advice, she is ultimately returned safely to Daddy Warbucks, who has once again called on his friend President Roosevelt for help in his search for Annie!And …. Yes there is a happy ending ….. Again!

Yes, it has the orphans in it! (kids sell tickets)
Yes, there's loads of new chorus numbers & lots of parts
Yes, The dog returns!
Yes, Daddy Warbucks gets the girl (Grace) in the end....
AND...... NO Annie doesn't sing TOMORROW AGAIN!

It has never been presented in London, so it will be another London Premiere ...

If you want to hear the music, contact me after the hols and I will lend you the CD of the off-Broadway production (An ebay treasure!)

Kevin

Summer Hols R Here

2007-08-02T22:41:00.000Z

Quite a few missing last night at rehearsal ....

The Orphans were great .... they are gonna steal the show!

Please all look at the rehearsal schedule NOW & note in your diaries all the Sunday rehearsals as well as the Friday before the show .... YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!! (Lee)

For the first rehearsal back after the hols (22nd August) Adults, please learn Hooverville ans Orphans please learn the words to Hard Knock Life.

Dancers, you have 2 rehearsals on Weds 8th & 15th Aug @ WTC (Th62)

A lot of work is needed after the break 'cos we only have 8 weeks to put it on AND Sell it out!!

Happy Holidays

Kevin xx

Rehearsal Confusion!

2007-07-31T07:52:00.000Z

Just to clarify (as if Crystal Clarity isn't enough!) There is a FULL (That means EVERYBODY Lee & Gary) rehearsal on Wednesday 1st August (That's TOMORROW if you are reading this TODAY) and then a 2 week break for most of us (Dancers .... Danielle & Charlotte are arranging something for you) and we start again on Monday 20th August for a Full Principal Call and Wednesday 22nd August for a Full Company Call ..... is that understood?
See you all TOMORROW (or if you are reading this Tomorrow, see you this evening!)

Kevin x

It's over!

2007-07-23T10:49:00.000Z

Saturday was Amazing! ..... They just kept arriving!
We managed to reduce the numbers from about 250 to 92 recalls ... but the overall standard was SO good.
Grahams organisation of the day was first class, and we received a lot of good feed back from the Churchill and participants parents as to how smoothly the whole day went. Thanks must also go to all the members who turned up to help ... It was a great day
Sunday morning at WTC (Th62) was just as amazing and hard work, as we had to reduce the top 92 down to the 32 orphans + 2 Annies needed .... a very difficult task, as they were all so good ..... but we did it and we have 34 lovely & talented "Little Girls" joining us for the production, a few you may know, but all you will get to know in the next few months!

Kevin

PS again! don't forget the WWOS OTMH will be appearing at The Whitstable Playhouse on Friday 27th July as part of the World Famous Whitstable Oyster Festival .... if you can, please come and see us ... it's a beautiful little theatre in a lovely town!

************STOP PRESS*****************

WWOS OTMH Troup will also be appearing LIVE on BBC Southwest Today @ 6:30pm!!! LIVE From Whitstable

The TOMORROW MUSICAL is cast!

2007-07-19T07:24:00.000Z

Great auditions last night ..... full cast list on the web-site (there is a separate page if you follow the link on the Annie page)
There are numerous other parts to cast after the Summer break including the Lovely Boylen Sisters, Mr McCracken & Wacky, Jimmy Johnson, Officers Ward & Dibble, Annette & Cecille and, of course, Sandy the dog!
Tickets are on sale now and , YES, this is my first of many ticket pushes ... start thinking now of potential group bookings and programme advertising 'cos after the summer break there will only be 8/9 weeks until we are on!
So ... next Monday is the Dance Auditions (male & female) Next Wednesday is an Old Time Music Hall rehearsal, the following Monday 30th July is a full principal call and then Wednesday 1st Aug will be FULL COMPANY! (orphans from 7 and Adults from 8) before the 2 week summer hols!
It Will Be Lovely!

Kevin xx

PS don't forget the WWOS OTMH will be appearing at The Whitstable Playhouse on Friday 27th July as part of the World Famous Whitstable Oyster Festival .... if you can, please come and see us ... it's a beautiful little theatre in a lovely town!

Leepin' Lizards, 280+!

2007-07-17T07:04:00.000Z

Audition sing through last night & after 3 people putting their hands up last Wednesday indicating they would be present, about 15 turned up .... They should be a strong set of Auditions on Wednesday .... making the Audition Panel's job a tough one again.
There are plenty of parts in Annie, and if anyone wants to be considered, Please let me know beforehand as we intend to cast the show on Wednesday!
Then will come the Girls' auditions, The Annie Audition Count is now up to about 280 and Graham has had to close the books to any new enquiries .... we only have the rooms at the theatre until 4pm ... Hopefully 7 hours will be enough for round 1, and then comes round 2 on Sunday morning at WTC (Th 62) ... we still need a few more helpers!
It will be a Great Show ...!
Please see the Rehearsal Schedule on the Web Site, 'cos it gives all the dates and most of the venues ... NB the 2 week break at the beginning of August and the last rehearsal before the break when ALL are needed on 1st August @ WTC (Th 62)
Bye for now,

Kevin x

Little Girls, Little Girls, Everywhere I turn I Can See Them!

2007-07-12T21:11:00.000Z

Good music rehearsal on Wednesday, with a few audition pieces played and a few New Member Auditions ... Welcome to the New Members ....
We now have an adult cast of around 45 members .... add to this the 16 (x2) orphans it should be another bumper cast .... We Need To Sell As Many Tickets As Possible!!
The adults auditions are next Wednesday ... with Audition Piece sing thru on the Monday before .... and then, on Saturday we have Annie Idol at The Churchill starting at 9am ... so far we have over 270 little girls turning up ... AARGHHH! ... round 1 on Saturday and Round 2 (the Call Backs) on Sunday ... we still need some help on the day with the auditionees (and their parents, grandparents, aunties, uncles, brothers & sisters etc..) so if you are free and can help for any period, please contact Graham and offer your services!
It Will Be A Lovely Show!!!

*******STOP PRESS******

The Dancers' Auditions Will Take Place On Monday 23rd July @ WTC .... Please spread the word!

Bye for now

Kevin xx

Easy Street!

2007-07-04T22:20:00.000Z

Lively AGM last night, watch this space for further discussions on our name etc .... & if you have any suggestions please let the Council members know.
An Annie audition followed, with John taking us through some of the Music. As announced, there will be a music rehearsal next Wednesday, with New Members Auditions at the end of the evening. The following Monday 16th will be audition piece sing through, with the Adult Auditions on the Wednesday 18th.
The Annie Audition Count is now just short of 200 (and rising!!) Let's hope there is plenty of excellent talent to choose from. We want 32 little girls in all (when I say little, I mean under 5'1")
Bye for now

Kevin X

The TOMORROW Musical

2007-06-28T07:05:00.000Z

Oh dear ..... Wickham Halls looks a little sad following yesterday fire. The entire roof (or what's left of it) is on the floor of the main hall. It is unclear at this point, exactly the extent of the damage but let us hope it is not too severe and works can begin soon to restore it to it's former glory.
Annie rehearsal's will go on back at the club and following next weeks AGM (please all come) we will have a Music Rehearsal. Any new members should note that the New Members auditions will be the following week, on Wednesday 11th July, the week before the adult auditions on 18th July.
The Annie Audition Count is now up to 170, with 3 weeks to go!

The Sun WILL Come Out Tomorrow!

Kevin x

Away we go again!

2007-06-21T13:55:00.000Z

Nice to see some old, some new and some familiar faces at last nights first rehearsal.
Another music rehearsal next Wednesday, at Wickham Halls again and then back to Wickham Theatre centre the following week for the AGM .... please try and come to the AGM, as it's your chance to speak out!
The ANNIE AUDITION COUNT (The AAC) is up to 139 .... with 1 whole month to go! ... should be a long day (& night!)

Just Thinking About Tomorrow....

Kevin x

2007-06-18T10:08:00.000Z

The witches have now flown into the distance in a blaze of glory! And Daryll has been put to bed (again!) and we move onto The Return of Annie ……

The rehearsals have got to begin straight away, as we only have 4 months to put it on! Annie has a lot of components … there’s the Adult company, the Adult principals, the little girls, Annie herself and, of course, The DOG!

We are on the lookout for 32 little girls (16 each night) and, so far we have about 120 signed up for Annie Idol, which is due to take place at The Churchill on Saturday 21st July. If there is anyone who can help on that day (between 9am and 4pm) please let Graham know!

The show itself is very busy for the whole company, with at least 6 full company numbers (plus complicated walk-downs and loads of walk-on parts) and rehearsals will continue over the summer with full company on a Wednesday & principals on Mondays (see rehearsal schedule!)

The blog will continue and your comments, questions, suggestions and gripes are most welcome!

The Sun Will Come Out Tomorrow!

Kevin x

Phew

2007-06-06T07:24:00.000Z

Opened last night after a couple of fraught days, but it was all worth it, the end result is AMAZING!
It must be one of the most technical shows we have done, with the large set, flying, whizz-bangs & large cast ... but looks FAB.
Thanks over the past two days must go to Maggie, Alan & her team, to James, to the chaps from Freedom Flying and to the Churchill back stage team ... all of whom have been priceless ...
Good Luck for the rest of the run

Kevin X

Almost There!

2007-05-31T07:54:00.000Z

Last nights run was what we expected ..... a few just going through the moves without any real performance ..... we now have to step up a gear and start going for it!
This time next week (& I'm typing this Thursday Morning) we will have had 2 performances ... it is not far off! and it is vital that everyone now looks at their moves & words before tomorrow and turns up at 8pm @ Wickham Halls ready to give 110% to the rehearsal.
It will be an amazing show / experience, the principals are marvelous (I've still got that tingle going down my back!) and the company as a whole will be great.

Thanks for all the hard work so far ... just a bit more needed!

Thanks ... see ya Friday @ Wickham Halls!

Kevin x

Sounds Good!

2007-05-29T14:18:00.000Z

Worthwhile music brush up rehearsal I think we all agree ... a few of those lost harmonies re-discovered (and found for the first time for some)
Top BBQ as well! thanks to Lucy and all the cooks!
See you all on Wednesday for a faultless run!

Kevin

It's Raining

2007-05-28T16:17:00.000Z

Looking forward to the BBQ this afternoon, despite the forcast ......!

Yesterday went very well, despite the missing persons ..... does anyone ever put rehearsals in their diaries at the beginning of the rehearsal period ... it's obvious that on the final Sunday we will have a rehearsal .,..... and the schedules were given out at the beginning ....

It's all looking excellent ... just a bit of tidying up needed, and the all important Music Rehearsal today ... ALL ARE NEEDED!

See ya later, in your wellies ..

Kevin xx

"Gonna Be Good!"

2007-05-25T06:54:00.000Z

Production meeting last night, with Maggie, Alan, James & Ivan to finalise the timing for scene changes, flying (scenery & persons), lighting cues, sound cues, mike plot, sound effects, Whizz bangs .... etc .... It is a very busy show, but will be AMAZING ....
We may need some volunteers the Saturday before, to collect some bits ... can you please check your diaries .......
Oh, and slight costume change for the Wedding at the end .... all Ladies, after The Glory Of Me are going to remain in thier choir robes for the wedding scene ... Men, it is as originally planned, you will have your single-breasted dinner suits on under the robes and just loose the robes for the wedding scene ....
I'll run through this again on Sunday ('cos I'm picking up the robes from DAODS on Sunday morning!)
Oooooooooh I love this lovely show!

Kevin

4 to go!

2007-05-24T07:45:00.000Z

Four more rehearsals to go ........ then we are in the theatre.
As shouted, sorry ... as said last night, next Monday (as well as the BBQ) we will have a Singing / Music rehearsal with a bit of movement ..... ALL are needed ...
Costumes are arriving and looking good, and it's all coming together.
The first time we will have a full cast (100% attendance) will be the Sunday tech/dress !
Keep selling, Learning & Dancing, it's going to be FAB

Kevin x

Phew, it's here!

2007-05-22T06:48:00.000Z

Another worry to tick off the list .... Jonathan's red 50's suit has arrived, and It Fits!!! (isn't Ebay a wonderful thing!)
We tidied a few bits up last night, going over the scenes that didn't flow as the should have in the Sunday Run ..... Anthony is getting better at the kissing ... I think the practise has done him the world of good!
Wednesday will be bits .... but ALL are needed, plus we will be doing a couple more publicity shots ... so, please comb your hair!
It's getting to that exciting stage .. pulling all the bits together ... Ooooooo I Love It!

Kevin x

Nearly there!

2007-05-21T07:33:00.000Z

Sunday run was good ..... thank you to all those who have had a word learning blitz! and hurry up & get on with it for the few who haven't!
Tickets still need a push!
Work is going on behind the scenes while rehearsals plough on, the flying & pyrotechnics are going to be spectacular .... more Bangs and flashes than firework night!
James is doing his magic with the lighting design & the stage crew are working out how to move the huge set on & off in 5 seconds ...and how to motorise a bath with Daryl & Fidel in it! .... It Can Be Done!
Monday (today)and Wednesday is more tidying up bits that need it .... including getting the men on for the Dance With Devil scene ....
Keep selling and don't forget to tell Vickie F when you are going down to the Churchill to hand out the leaflets .... it should be at least 2 each performance, but the more the merrier!
Learn & Sell, Learn & Sell, Learn & Sell.........

Kevin x

A plea from the heart (and wallet!)

2007-05-17T07:32:00.000Z

Now we are getting somewhere!

If only the tickets would start to sell!

With only 2 ½ weeks to go we all (and I mean ALL) have to push every ticket and sell this spectacular show. Can everybody think of at least one radio programme, television show, publication, newsletter or anything else to write to publicising The Witches Of Eastwick ….. We have 4 or 5 press releases that have been prepared on several aspects of the show, plus a few press photos which can be sent, giving a taster of the show. If everyone in the show can write of email one or two publications advertising this Fab Show, by the process of numbers, something must be published (?). So, please put your thinking caps on & contact me to send to you a press release & photo … kevin.gauntlett@thackraywilliams.com Do it NOW Please.
We must ALL make an effort and not leave it to the usual 2 or 3 to sell!

Moan / Plea over …… It’s looking good, lets sell it!

Kevin x

Onward & Upward!

2007-05-14T22:24:00.001Z

A few poorly people today … but we ploughed on tidying up the bits that went a bit awry in yesterdays run. We had a long debate concerning a hat stand …. And hope the audience will get the point …..

Ticket sales are still a big problem and we all have to give them a push. Everyone must make an effort and not leave it to the usual few! Please tell everyone how spectacular it will be, and how they cannot miss this show.

See ya Wednesday (@ 8pm)

Kevin x

2007-05-13T20:59:00.000Z

Well, we got through it, with relatively few stumbles. A few were missing, which was a shame .... but with only 3 weeks to go let's hope the attendance will be 100%!
Still a few words to be learnt but on the whole it looks great ..... the first run is always a good measure as it tells me what is in need of a tidy-up or slight re-think, and gives the cast an idea of what it's all about as well as what you have to do before the opening night!.
Wednesday will be a tidy-up night as well as setting the Who's Bests and the next Sunday another run!
Another quick reminder that Bank Holiday Monday 28th May is a full rehearsal ... for Full Company (it's the week before the show!)

Oh, and don't forget to keep pushing the tickets!

Yours, encouraged

Kevin x