IN PICTURES: Review: Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Harrogate Theatre

This is an entertaining and fast-moving show which captivated the packed house right from the outset.

The emphasis was on the exuberant singing and dancing, with much of the dialogue falling to the two main characters: Adam and Milly.

These parts were played by Chris Mooney and Kayleigh Troupe, both of whom had strong voices and empathy with their characters. John Bilton and Carole Carpenter filled the roles of Gideon and Alice, providing charming and humorous moments.

This show is a team effort and all concerned enjoyed themselves.

The brothers were rumbustious, play-fighting and teasing one another, while occasionally being kept in line by their older brother Adam. The brides, having been abducted from the nearby town, were suitably frightened, concerned, then excited and ultimately in love with the brothers. The brides and brothers were supported by a number of townsfolk, including a preacher played by Paul Clayton.

Without strong choreography, good musical accompaniment and vocal excellence, Seven Brides for Seven Brothers would fall flat. The Deanery Players met the challenge in all these departments. The set was kept simple, maximizing the scope for the big musical numbers, and lighting variations were used to good effect.

The costumes were beautiful. The musical and technical teams provided by Jamie Hudson did a splendid job. But ultimate credit must go to Kath and Maurice Lunn who, as usual, masterminded production and direction.

Full cast: Chris Mooney, Kayleigh Troupe, Carole Carpenter, Katie Hynard, Jessica Cliff, Michelle Wright, Miriam Dolben, Natalie Wood, John Bilton, Jonathan Sherwood, Matthew Wielding, Stephen Fisher, Eddy Yates, Ash Howard, Paul Clayton, Derek Spence, Linda Davies, Casey Dimelow, Liz Alderson, Dane Wright.