This was a delightful production of one of the Lloyd-Webber/Rice musicals from their student days and only released recently for a limited period for amateurs to stage. The story of Dr. Barnardo's struggle  to help destitute children was told by a series of narrators with a variety of musical numbers in between.

The six main characters were well portrayed. We saw Berverley Moore as the vivacious Rose; Karl Constable and Natalie Stafford were a young couple and Nick Fletcher was an auctioneer. Barnardo himself (Rob Callaby) and Rebecca Jones as Syrie who became his wife were nicely matched. There was also a cockney chorus of adults and children who all sang and danced well.

For me the highlight of the evening  was the song 'Man of the World' sung most charmingly by a couple of the children. The set was a work of art which enabled scene changes to take place easily, the lighting was good and the costumes were excellent. Occasionally I felt the voices were over-amplified, but the orchestra's accompaniment was very pleasing. I was delighted to have the chance to this interesting show. Well done!

Anne Key-Huckerby - NODA Regional Representative