Brigadoon

Lately Lerner and Loewe’s Brigadoon seems to have fallen off the musical theatre radar so it was a nice opportunity to rediscover the joys of this classic musical mounted by Queensland Musical Theatre. It’s a good show for amateurs with its colourful characters, many dance routines and large chorus.

Ruth Gabriel astutely cast her principals with performers who were not only right for their roles, but had the experience to do them justice. From her first song, “Waitin’ For My Dearie” you knew Cathi Brown was going to be the perfect Fiona. She didn’t disappoint with lilting performances of “The Heather on the hill” and “From This Day On”.

Likewise Maxine Montgomery who gave a spirited reading of Meg and delivered her songs, “The Love of my Life” and “My Mother’s Wedding Day” with gusto. Andrew Whitaker and James Rogers as their male counterparts, Tommy and Jeff, were likeable and believable as the two jaded New Yorkers lost in this Scottish highland fantasy. Whitaker sang the heart out of “Almost Like Being In Love”, while Rogers excelled with his dry line-delivery.

There were lots of highland fling-type dances, reels and jigs, and the 50 strong chorus sang well, especially on the title tune. The sets were simple but effective and the costumes appropriately were awash with tartan.

Only sour note in the entire production was the orchestra in the second act with some off-key brass, particularly in “The Chase.”

Lerner’s book these days comes across as long-winded and wordy, but his and Loewe’s score is still as charming as ever. It was the highlight of the production.

Peter Pinne