The Pajama Game

The Pajama Game is a story of community, as employees of the Sleep-Tite Pajama Factory work together to secure a 7 and a half cent an hour pay rise. This production has the same feel as that very social factory. Proudly casting everyone who auditioned, this show had a lovely feel which transferred to the audience.

Sitting cabaret style (at nicely decorated tables) the audience feels very full and allows for a more social evening as you make and share food with new friends.

Simple settings and the use of projections allow for a swiftly moving show, while the director Carole Dhu’s colourful costumes place us firmly in the late ‘50s. Fun choreography from Carole Dhu and Cristina Treg allowed for a cast of varied abilities to participate with enthusiasm as the cast performed to a quality backing track.

Lighting design by Michaela Cosby and Joel Gal helped the emotional balance.

Bindi Jordan played leading lady ‘Babe’ Williams, making an impression in what I believe is her first leading role - singing well and bringing spunk to the role. She was nicely paired with Rowan Crewman, steady and strong as new superintendent Sid Sorokin.

Nice work from the men of the factory. Peter Bonner showed comedic skill as jealous time study man Vernon Hines. Andy Peckover had great authority as Mr. Myron Hasler. Thomas Pestrucci was solid aa Ted, Luke Williman had fun playing Charlie, while Stephen Sun and Allen Isaac nicely juggled a couple of roles each. While the men weren’t, as a rule, as strong vocally as their female cast mates, they certainly were not slacking, with energetic, well-prepared performances.

Tanya Regan was delightful as secretary Gladys, while Lord Anders brought warmth and maturity to Mabel. Lovely work from factory girls Mae (Charlise Varischetti-Ratigan, Poopsie (Nicola Bourgault) and Brenda (Elaine Daniels).

A fourteen strong ensemble provided enthusiastic support throughout.

Lovely to attend a golden -years musical where the audience was clearly having a ball. A fun visit to the theatre.

Kimberley Shaw