It’s rare to leave a theatre performance with nothing to criticise, but this was one of those exceptional occasions. The production was a perfect recipe: inspired casting, an abundance of talent, a stylish set, and flawlessly executed technical elements.
The Island Savoyards once again demonstrate why they are regarded as the crème de la crème of amateur theatre on the island. In fact, several aspects of this production would not feel out of place on a West End stage.
The musical centres on a new series of The Great British Bake Off, featuring an endearing group of aspiring bakers alongside familiar-style judges and presenters. The script is packed with humour and clever wordplay, balanced by touching moments of sincerity and warmth. The rapport and camaraderie from a cast that barely leave the stage was apparent, cementing the ensemble vibe.
Director Jake Alabaster can no doubt take pride in the audience’s delighted reaction as they leave the theatre.
Nathan Meller delivers a heartfelt performance as Ben, a widowed detective, sharing particularly moving scenes with Maisie Walker-Green as Lily (in the performance I saw; Maisie shares the role with Harriet Feist). A remarkable young talent, Maisie more than holds her own among some of the island’s most experienced performers.
Holly Gardiner brings both humour and emotional depth to the role of the lonely Gemma, combining strong acting with impressive vocals. Meanwhile, Steve Jones as Phil and Kim Ball as Pam are wonderfully playful, capturing the spirit of their television-inspired counterparts. Both perform their musical numbers with flair, with Pam’s tap routine standing out as a particular highlight. Special mention must also go to the costume department—without giving too much away, it provided one of the evening’s most memorable moments.
Laura Priddle gives a deeply emotive performance as Francesca, moving the audience with her powerful delivery during her solo number. Pete Stockman offers plenty of comic relief as Russell, with sharp characterisation and excellent timing, while Traci Reader shines as the innuendo-loving Babs, with great back-and-forth with Phil.
George Sales makes a strong impression as Hassan, showcasing such talent at only 16 years old, while Charles Johnson lends his ample stage experience to the role of Dezza.
Ellie Warne provides the perfect performance as sharp-witted Izzy, showcasing both vocal strength and confident stage presence.
Alexis Mackness and Rob Bingham complete the principal cast as presenters Kim and Jim, sharing excellent chemistry.
Vocally, the production is outstanding. The show is rich in musical moments, with each performer given the opportunity to shine, supported by a well-balanced orchestra. The ensemble of six dancers enhances every number, executing complex choreography with apparent ease.
It’s worth noting that reviews like this are not written lightly; I genuinely enjoyed every moment of this two-and-a-half-hour production. The only disappointment was that it wasn’t a full house, as this is a show truly deserving of one.
There is one final performance on Easter Sunday – tickets available now at a special discounted price of £17 to entice you (if you still need a reason to buy a ticket!) from Shanklin Theatre – https://www.shanklintheatre.com/events/the-island-savoyards-present-the-great-british-bake-off-musical/
