'Ask Me, How do I feel. Ask Me now that we're cosy and cling-ing! Well sir, all I can say is If I were a Bell I'd be RINGING!' 

-If I were a Bell, Guys & Dolls

Performing has always been something I have had great pleasure in doing ever since I was a 'teeny tot', dressed as a bird in a local production of snow white, but saying this- I have not had much of an opportunity in the past to play a leading role in a musical, especially a character that required both elements of class, dignity, and self-esteem embarrassment. This is why I was both delighted and excited about being cast as the role of 'Sarah Brown' in 'Guys and Dolls' at the Arts Centre, Aberystwyth 31st March- 2nd April 2011. 'Showtime singers' is one of Aberystwyth's oldest amateur society's and although (they won't mind me saying this!) they have not always been deemed the most popular, the local members and the students that are involved in these productions always give such dedication, time, patience and enthusiasm to the roles that they have been cast! As in all amateur society's there are always certain members that spend the best few months of the rehearsals moaning that they haven't got a big enough part, or that the society are not making enough progress- yet, as is true about most productions 'it's always alright on the night!!' 

I joined the society back in November, only expecting to be part of the chorus. As I am now a third year student at Aberystwyth university, I didn't want to be doing anything that was going to require a lot of time- especially when I have a dissertation to write! But, in order to demonstrate that I could sing I auditioned, alongside 16 other young amateur actresses, for the part of Sarah Brown. I know that people often say that they don't expect to get a part- but in this case I was adamant I was not getting this part! To my delight and surprise, the director must have seen something in me and ta-da I was cast as the goody-two-shoes Sarah Brown. I was a bit nervous about my partner, and who's face I would be 'snogging' three times within the space of half an hour, but luckily Tom Fotheringham, a second year Drama student, with his 'chocolate tone' baritone voice, was cast as Sky Masterson and I must comment that he was both helpful and easy to work with as my 'love interest'. I am grateful for the amount of times in rehearsal he remembered my lines as well as his own!!

I believe the success of the production relied on the endless talent of my younger leading cast members, that added that little bit of va-va-voom! The future of any amateur theatre society rely's on the participation of younger members, and although I was lucky enough to secure the part of Sarah I am sure that any of my fellow female cast members could also have done a different, yet successful portrayal of the character. I had a great time performing the part- and finishing my time here at university on a theatrical high!! Although this has been my first and last performance with 'Showtime Singers' I hope to be able to return very soon, to see what spectacle they perform next!    

Below are some photograph's from the production :)