This was a well presented, technically very competent and fast moving show. The pace of the show was excellent - especially the rehearsal scenes in Act 2. The chorus was well disciplined and the tap work excellent - coping with all levels of expertise. This was particularly clearly seen in the We're in the Money number with the use of dual levels and all cast members. Dorothy Brock was excellently portrayed. This was particularly demonstrated in the early scenes of Act 1 (especially the dressing room scene). Peggy Sawyer was very well played with good dance skills as well as singing and acting skills. Her variation of pace and style throughout the show was excellent. Maggie Jones was well portrayed comic actress who was choreographically very able. This was excellently demonstrated in Getting out Town and Shuffle off to Buffalo. Chorus girls Ann Reilly, Phyllis Dale and Lorraine Hemming - This trio was particularly good, keeping the show moving throughout. An excellent demonstration of this was in the early scenes of Act 1 - ensuring the pace of the show did not slack. Julian Marsh - Generally well acted and sung - towards the end of the show the light and dark of the part was particularly demonstrated. Bert Barry - This part was well acted and sung. His combination of acting and singing skills were suited to this role. Billy Lawlor - This was excellently and ably performed throughout. The contrast of the 'brash' on stage scenes and the quieter romantic moments was very well done. Mac - A well-characterised part portraying most characteristics of any stage manager. Pat Denning - Well acted throughout the show. My only query was why he was double cast into the opening audition number - there was a goodly number of chorus on stage without him being double cast. Abner Dillon - Well portrayed. This character added depth and suitable menace to the first act of the show. The costumes, makeup and hair styling were excellent - retaining the feel of the period beautifully. Be careful of one or two modern ladies suit jackets. The lighting was extremely competently done - making good use of the screen at the back of the stage. One particular scene that was made by the lighting was Dorothy Brock's dressing room scene in Act 1 - it was used to great effect. The lighting screen could have been more strongly used in the early scenes of Act 1 (the stage of 42nd street theatre and the Gypsy Tea Room). The stage area was creatively and effectively used (especially the different levels) and was very simply done. The only scene, which could have done with either sound effects or more stage effects, was the scene at Broad Street station in Act 2 (it lacked atmosphere when compared to the excellent staging of the remainder of the show). The back stage crew were also very slick and kept the show moving. The Pullman Car was particularly effective and simple. The orchestra were excellent and creatively placed underneath the built-up stage. Well done to the musical director on a disciplined performance. It would have been nice to have a list of the musicians in the programme and also to have some method of a curtain call for the orchestra and leader - especially after such a spectacular playout. Overall this was a well-produced show, which moved along at the correct pace throughout. The chorus merit particular praise - all were very able 'tappers'. Well done on an enjoyable and entertaining performance. Elizabeth Chamberlain London Area Secretary 22 June 2001