Review: HALF A SIXPENCE, Kilworth House Theatre

"No one's immune if you pick out a simple tune" is one of the lyrics from Half A Sixpence and it perfectly captures this all-singing, all-dancing spectacular production at Kilworth House Theatre.

Nick Winston, who also directed and choreographed Kilworth's recent Carousel (which was outstanding) returns for Sixpence and he serves up a dazzling treat that will leave you feeling overjoyed and wanting to reach for a banjo!

This version of Half A Sixpence first premiered in Chichester back in 2016 and has a book by Julian Fellowes with the original songs by David Heneker and new songs by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe. That production was critically acclaimed and transferred to London and this Kilworth reinvention.

The show follows Arthur Kipps, a draper's assistant, who inherits a fortune that propels him into an upper-class world he isn't ready for. A chance meeting with Helen Walsingham sets up romance leaving his childhood sweetheart Ann Pornick heartbroken. When things start to go awry, it's up to Arthur to learn what he wants and to make the right choices.

Taking on Arthur is the boundlessly energised Dominic Sibanda. Sibanda has endless charm and warmth, you instantly like him and feel in safe hands throughout the performance. Here is a triple threat all-out performance; he glides effortlessly through the dance routines, sings up a treat, and is importantly likeable throughout.

Laura Baldwin is super sweet as Ann but she also has a strong backbone, especially after she sees Arthur with Helen. Sarah Goggin is hugely impressive as Helen, it's difficult to not want to root for her. She has a gorgeous vocal range and presence. Matthew Woodyatt's larger-than-life strong Welsh valley Chitterlow is a source of light relief and he is excellent at delivering humour.

There are some great support performances by Ruairidh Mcdonald as Buggins, Ross Harmon as Pierce and Will Carey as Sid Pornick, all of whom do well in characterising the roles, but it's Tamara Morgan as Flo who steals the spotlight, she is magnificent throughout - the duet with Ann ('Just A Little Touch of Happiness') is a cracking innuendo-filled number.

Undoubtedly the best moments in the show come in the ensemble musical numbers, you can't beat the feet stomping 'Flash, Bang, Wallop!' or the brilliant 'Pick Out A Simple Tune'. You feel a sense of delight sweep over you as you're transfixed by the swell of music and dance. Winston's choreography is hugely impressive, with the company expressing feeling through movement with real skill. There's also a full company banjo curtain call which the cast has clearly worked hard at.

Philip Witcomb's set does a fine job throughout but it's his costumes that are most effective. The period costumes root you in the 1800s where the show is set. Chris Whybrow's strong sound design is clear and crisp even against the open air elements. An orchestra under musical director Christopher Mundy makes the music come to life and does a magnificent job.

Half A Sixpence delivers with lovely interesting characters, brilliant musical numbers, and fabulous choreography. A slice of the British seaside in the heart of Leicestershire. A heart-lifting triumph. 

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: Mark Johnson

Half a Sixpence plays at Kilworth House Theatre until 28 August, with tickets available here.