Seven Brides For Seven Brothers

Published Friday 10 October 2008 at 11:15 by Chris High

Seven Brides for Seven Brothers is a classic ‘old American’ tale of boy meets girl, cons her into marrying him in order to look after his six brothers, then convinces the same brothers to go into town and steal the girls that they have fallen for… maybe not so classic ‘old American’ talk after all.

This version of the book by Lawrence Kasha and David S Landay is an entertaining show, heavily laden with a rather corny feel-good factor. The opening special effects, where images from America’s West were beamed upon the curtain, are a bit unclear initially, but improved later, especially during the avalanche scene.

Both stars, Steven Houghton (Adam) and Susan McFadden (Milly) try their best to lead their respective “flocks” but both, unfortunately, do not appear to be old enough to have the control, or the presence on stage for that matter, that is so central to the roles. Added to this is their obvious singing talent only shines through briefly.

The whole production has an underlying comedic vein that has the audience laughing and smiling throughout, with the antics of the townsfolk being particularly amusing, and the choreography is outstanding. Choreographer/director Chris Hocking should feel proud of his work. With that said and although the brothers are all superb dancers, their transformation from backward hillbillies happened rather too quickly - Milly had hardly met the brothers before they were transformed into budding Nureyevs.

Overall, Seven Brides For Seven Brothers is something soft, light and fluffy and if you have nothing else to do and want to experience that feel-good factor then a trip to catch this production might prove worthwhile.