Conservatoire East have created a joyfully bonkers production of Amelie the Musical that rolls with it throughout.
At one point, a six-foot gnome and an air hostess dance off the stage like Morecambe and Wise. It was simply tremendous.
Originally made as a quirky French comedy film that was released in 2001, this version stays true to the original storyline that sees the main character embark on a mission to anonymously do nice things for random people.
Whilst finding fulfilment through these acts of kindness, it’s clear that all Amelie needs is love.
And we can all relate to a bit of that.
Set in Paris, the cast were able to create a delicious oasis of positive loveliness. If this version of Amelie the Musical was a drink, it would taste like a glass of vintage supersonic champagne.
Callum Mower was superb in Amelie the Musical that has been created by Conservatoire East and was performed at West Suffolk College.
The show has a double cast and in the version I saw, Lucy Sharman played Amelie and was charmingly charismatic.
Amelie’s love interest Nino, played by Max Doherty, had the libertine look of his namesake Pete Doherty - and put in a great performance that he should be proud of.
I thought little by little James West who (played Amelie’s dad) imposed himself and a spectacular supernova cameo from Callum Mower as the narrator (amongst other things) will make you want to live forever.
Whilst I’ve referenced Oasis throughout this write up, Mr Mower gets to play a certain other musical icon during a powerful end of first act dream sequence. I won’t give it away.
But suffice to say this gem of a scene won’t go breaking your heart. All of the amazing cast were able to cut loose during this lovely showstopper - so well done to everyone.
James West as Raphel Poulain (he also played Amelie's dadd and Frances Morris as Young Amélie.
Direction came from the irrepressible theatrical juggernaut that is Erica Dupuy, well done to Alice Levey for her toe-tapping musical direction and the technical team for their slick icing on this tasty cake.
Walking away from the show, I had a feeling similar to when you stay by the sea and hear a storm outside, but it doesn’t matter, as you are all warm and cosy inside.
One things for sure, you won’t be looking back in anger after this - you’ll be half a world away in a wall of wonder……..
The show runs until Saturday - tickets are available here: https://conservatoireeast.wsc.ac.uk/whats-on/