What Where When editor John Gregory looks back at Douglas Choral Union's magnificent production of Les Misérables.---------------
SOMETIMES the only difference between an amateur musician and a professional musician is the fact that the 'amateur' does not play music as a full-time job.
They may be just as talented – if not more so – than those who make a full-time living from music.
Sometimes the same can be said of theatre productions and, in my opinion, this definitely applied to Douglas Choral Union's production of Les Misérables, which was one of the best shows I have seen anywhere.
A wonderful cast was headed by David Artus as Jean Valjean and Matt James as Inspector Javert.
Directed by Jeremy Tustin, who was also at the helm for their previous two shows, Annie and Thoroughly Modern Millie, Les Misérables was the most expensive show in DCU's history and featured a revolving stage.
And because of the musical's massive popularity worldwide the DCU were well aware they had to get it right.
Publicity officer Alex Toohey said: 'From start to finish, Les Misérables was 18 months in the planning and for it to culminate in 12 standing ovations out of 12 shows was far beyond anyone's wildest dreams.
'The decision to produce Les Misérables was a huge gamble for us as most people will be familiar with the West End show and would naturally compare the two.
'We really risked setting ourselves up for a big fall if we did not do the show justice. I guess that result was reflected by the fact that we completely sold out the show for the remaining four performances with the others being close behind.
'We would like to say how grateful we are for all the fantastic messages, emails, reader reviews etc that we have received from those who have come to see the show.
'It has been overwhelming and we feel so appreciative to know that we have pleased so many people – it's really made the whole process worthwhile.
'The success of our show is down to many factors as what you see on stage is only made possible by those backstage.
'Janet Norris and her make-up team, Mary O'Dea and the wig team, Debbie Beck and her wardrobe team, Lauren Norris and Gemma Barnes on props and Andy Simpson and his fantastic crew all worked tirelessly to ensure that the show was produced to the standard the Island deserves.
'Many people have asked "How are you going to follow Les Mis?". You could never expect to top it nor should you try – the important thing is that we've upped the standard and to maintain it is going to be the real challenge. A challenge that we are completely up for!
'We're very excited to say that one of our "Gavroches", on the back of his fantastic performance, has been offered the chance to audition for the same role in London's West End.'
Ben Karran, 10, was offered the opportunity by one of Sir Cameron Mackintosh's representatives last week and in addition to being put forward for Les Mis he has also been put forward to audition for Oliver! and the tour of Disney's Mary Poppins.
Alex added: 'We're all incredibly excited for Ben and wish him all the best. This again highlights the talent the Island has to offer as well as the diverse age range of talent.
'"Amateur" shows in the Island are ever increasing in their professionalism.
'Many people will assume that as the show is billed as "Amateur" then it may not be as good as they are expecting or wanting.
'We were inundated with requests for extra tickets and unfortunately there was none left at the end – however, on opening night we could have accommodated an extra 350 if we go by the number of the audience on the final night!
'As is the way with the Manx public, we always wait for the review of the show and word of mouth. This cannot always be relied upon as this may be too late so if there is a show on at the Gaiety, done by a local amateur society that you would like to see, then please show your support to the local talent and purchase your tickets before the show starts.
'The DCU would also like to thank the main sponsors of the production Phil O'Shea and all at Close Wealth Management Group for their invaluable support, all their life members led by Alwyn Collister who sold programmes every night, the staff at the Gaiety Theatre, Friends of the Gaiety but most of all the public for coming to see the show, many of whom came more than once.'
There is little doubt Les Misérables has raised the bar – and hopefully its success will benefit future productions in the Island, both in terms of ticket sales and because it fully highlighted the great talent in the Isle Of Man.
>> The DCU are always on the lookout for more members. If anyone wishes to receive information on how to become a member please contact membership secretary Samantha Flynn. Her email is
samanthaflynn74@yahoo.co.ukwww.douglaschoralunion.com
