TOPS on Stage, having just completed a run of Rogers & Hammerstein’s South Pacific at the Thameside Theatre in Grays are straight on with their next production and this time, a little performed but ever popular musical is soon to be underway. THE MUSIC MAN, probably better know for the song “Seventy Six Trombones” and Paul McCartney’s hit of the 60’s “Till There Was You”.
The all singing all dancing musical is a delightful uplifting and extreme funny show which gave Robert Preston his big break back in the early 60’s when it was turned into a film. Local well known actor, Luke Coldham is to star in the show playing Professor Harold Hill, the somewhat dubious travelling salesman who travels all over America convincing small townships that they need to start a cultural adventure for the children in the form of a Marching Brass Band, and upon selling them the idea, sets about to sell the parents musical instruments and uniforms just before he disappears from sight; leaving them without any way forward.
However, on this one occasion, however, he meets and falls in love with the local Librarian Marion and despite his many attempts to run away and leave the town stranded without musical direction he is finally hoodwinked into leading the band himself!
TOPS are now looking for 12 local school children to join them in the show and play the sadly enthused children whose parents are encouraged to support by buying the expensive band equipment.
Tops rehearse weekly in Grays, and would love to hear form any local children who’d like to try their hand on stage in a musical. TOPS are well known for working with local children having previously staged such shows as OLIVER, BLITZ and THE KING & I.
Anyone interested and aged for 8 to 14 years old should firstly give the group a call on (01375) 371722 NO EXPERIENCE is necessary and the children do not have to play musical instruments.
Or visit the Group website www.topsonstage.co.uk
