Oban theatre company brings emotion in spades to epic tale

Spotlight Musical Theatre Group delighted audiences once again in Oban’s Corran Halls last week, this time with its adaptation of Fiddler on the Roof, which was first performed on Broadway in 1964, writes Sam Ormiston.

A household favourite, Spotlight did not disappoint. Despite having to perform four shows in four days, the cast remained energised throughout and did not let their standards slip. More than 850 people came to see the show over the course of the week.

The show included some great vocal performances – from stunning solos to upbeat numbers from the ensemble. Some of the best vocals of the night came from Fran Melville, who was able to show off her impressive range in a number of her songs.

And my personal favourite track of the night, as clichéd as it sounds, was Ian Henry’s performance of If I Were A Rich Man. Henry really brought the character of Tevye to life, and he did so in a manner that was unique and entertaining.

There was also some impressive young talent on show. Lachie D’Arcy, who played the Rabbi’s son, had the audience in fits of laughter with some of his one-liners.

As the final curtain closed, the audience were left buzzing. Hundreds of happy faces exited the Corran Halls stage right, content after a night of family entertainment.

A special mention also has to be given to all the fantastic people behind the scenes, whose faces might not be known to the audience, but whose work is just as important to make sure everything runs smoothly on the night.

The sets were authentically designed, while the costumes really made the audience feel as if they had been transported back in time to Imperial Russia.

Henry was delighted with the show’s success. He said: ‘I feel so lucky to have had the chance to perform in such a great show, with such a wonderful cast. The audiences each night seemed to warm to the characters; it made all the work in putting it on worthwhile.’

Stephen Day, who directed the show as well as playing a minor role, praised the cast and the crew. He said: ‘So many people are involved in a show like this on and off stage, all volunteers, while doing their day jobs. It’s a real testimony to their enthusiasm that we can do shows like this.’

Day added: ‘Our audiences were enthusiastic, vocal, but equally, through some of the dramatic moments, you could hear a pin drop, and we can’t thank them enough for what they gave to us.’

After another successful show for Spotlight, it is clear to see why the people of Oban keep on returning to their performances. Now, we wait in anticipation for the announcement of their next show.