Rock Nativity Will Provide Cash Church Repairs
Haverhill Echo, January 24, 2002
Go Go Gabriel cast [Credit Haverhill Echo]
Rock n roll ballads and even rap were just some of the diverse range
of musical styles evident during a sparlking performance Of Go,
Go Gabriel in Wickhambrook on Saturday.
Staging a rock nativity as it has been dubbed by creators Andy
Salisbury and Jim Fieldsend, was quite a change for the village.
For many years pantomime has aIways been the traditional choice
but the decision to break away from the norm was vindicated with
an engaging matinee performance.
The nativity story was told in 25 scenes with original songs used
to narrate the action in each.
Ten year old Henry Lengyel who played Gabriel, was not only word
perfect but sounded fantastic. This young man is certainly one to
watch out for.
Mary, played by Sarah Wall, and Joe, played by Nick Wall were also
on top form.
Sarah's voice in particular seemed well suited to the acoustics
of All Saints' Church whether she was singing the beautiful Bethlehem
lullaby or the more upbeat How Do I Tell Joe?
Credit is also due to 15 year old Heidi Stubbings, who was one
of Gage's Angels but also choreographer.
Routines were fresh and energetic and carried out with enthusiasm
particularly by fellow angels Beth Mayhew, Christine Bye, Hannah
Salisbury, Harriet Thomas and Lauren Salisbury.
All of the cast performed extremely well to give the audience a
real treat and because there was no scenery to speak of and not
much in the way of costume the focus was on the performance and
the music.
Although I felt the Instrumental score by Andy was fantastic, more
could have been made of the vocal arrangement.
Lyrics by Jim, were easily understandable and told the story but
also had humour which helped the audience, who were very cold In
the old church, interested.
The cast began rehearsals in October, but at the last minute things
looked doubtful as financial backing from the Wickhambrook Players
was withdrawn a week before Christmas.
A show must go on attitude was adopted and proved the-right choice
as Go, Go Gabriel looks set to be a hit.
Performances take place tonight, tomorrow and on Saturday.
Money raised will be to help with the £250,000 restoration of the
church.
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