Bill Snibson has a lot of fun turning into a Snobson.
So does the audience watching him do it.
The transformation is an entertaining bend to the Pygmalion theme that has audiences delighted throughout Me and My Girl, with song, dance and laughter. Predictability is forgiven.
Bill Snibson is a cheeky Cockney chap from Lambeth minding his own humble business when he is discovered to be the lost Earl of Hareford. In order to lay claim to his fortune he must satisfy his new social hierarchy that he can be just as phony as they are. With a rocky start, "Aperitif my Lord?" "No fanks. I’ve got me own," Bill nonetheless perseveres, though at the peril of his romance with Sally Smith, his equally unpolished girlfriend.
Tory Doctor as Bill is fittin’ indeed for the role. He is loveable and laughable while singing, dancing, and cavorting his way around the stage, drawing out every ounce of fun from gags devised to satirize the wealthy, in quips involving the likes of a tiger skin rug.
Heather McGuigan, plays Sally well, though she is more convincing as she trades up. She does justice to beloved old songs Me and My Girl and her lovely solo, Once You Lose Your Heart.
Denise Fergusson, as Maria, Duchess of Dene, is the most likeable of the wealthy, while playing her role with authentic style, grace and beauty. Brian McKay, memorable from Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, is Sir John Tremayne, who learns much from the down to earth Bill.
Keith Savage transforms a small role as attorney into a big, giggling, gangly riot in his rendition of The Family Solicitor.
Kenneth Wickes, as Sir Jasper Tring, lends an endearing touch of the old codger with his ear trumpet and twinkling eye.
The company delivers non-stop energy and talent while backing up such favourites as The Lambeth Walk and Leaning on a Lamp-post, while performing multiple roles tirelessly.
The multi-award winning Me and My Girl has was originally one of the greatest hits in the history of London’s West End.
Director and choreographer Timothy French had his work cut out for him with this lengthy spectacle.The song and dance numbers just keep on coming with renewed spirit.
The scenery changes so quickly from luxury home to street corner to library but the players never miss a beat. Remarkable effort made to seem like none at all is accomplished by set designer Sean Mulcahy.
The library, for one, is an amazing spectacle with its wonderful painted portraits of ancestors who become ghostly animated images.
Costume Designer Jenine Kroeplin has created some beautiful outfits that represent the 1930s in impressive detail.
A feast for the eyes and ears, a resounding standing ovation closed the night to reward the deserving cast and crew.
Me and My Girl plays eight shows a week through July 18. Call the box office at 519-747-7788 or toll free at 1-888-449-4463. For more information visit www.stjacobscountryplayhouse.com.
