Let Me Tell You Something You Don't Know!
"Impulses" slice of summer "in the heights" transports the Crescent Theatre audience straight to the neighbourhood of "Washington Heights". With easy on the eye semiotics and A static yet sensible & smart set. The attention to detail was sublime.
With a sizzling ensemble cast of truly fine actors lead by Jake Sharp who played the some what Greek chorus of the story overflowing with charisma and charm he brought a ease & naturalistic feel to his portrayal of USNAVI
With that said the evening belonged to "Katie Astbury" it's very rarely seen such fine acting from an actress of her age. Showing emotional maturity above and beyond her years. Then as an audience member to see her character "Nina" lost in her own mind and worrying she had let down her community then to see her fall gently in love with Benny played dashingly by "Stuart Sneade" was a relief. Within the crowd scenes "Astbury" held character though out and with sharpness and strength. With vocals that leave you breathless "Astbury" is a true definition a Star!
The comic relief of the production Daniella cleverly played by the beautiful beltress"Becci Steen" and the stunningly simple side kick "Carla" played by Alicia Albanese Was a match made in heaven.
A special mention to the younger member of the leading cast "Olly Derham" who held his own against this strong company .
The mature members of the company are a pleasure to watch
Kevin "Phil Jackson", Camilla "Debbie Owen" and the heart warming Abuela Claudia "Steph Coleman" delivered there songs with the perfect amount of power.
Bright bold and sassy choreography created by "Rebecca Haydon" was executed to a high standard & left the audience not knowing where to look. "Haydon" used every square-inch of the stage to her advantage. To her credit there is a fine line between a fall stage and a crowded stage and it never felt crowded.
The director of this piece is a director after my own heart. knowing exactly what the audience needs to see but not spoon feeding them. Allowing the audience to choose where to look to find the story for their selves which makes an audience member feel much more involved and emotionally attached to the characters. "Luke Renwick" and his attention to detail is a gift to armature theatre and deserves more credit then he gets for such a young director.
Www.impulse-productions.com
