Perth's Titanic: The Musical starts with new crew

Apr 4 2008

PERTH Amateur Operatic Society’s most exciting and challenging production to date, ‘Titanic: the Musical’, sets sail in Perth Theatre tonight, with a new and exciting production team at the helm.

Wielding the baton as musical director will be local music teacher Allan Kelman, while Ewan Campbell, who is already known to the society as co-owner of Utopia Costumes, takes over as director.

Both Allan and Ewan have brought their own particular skills to the production and, although neither had any real knowledge of the show before undertaking their positions, they both saw it as an exciting challenge.

Allan is well-known in Perth music circles, having sung with both Chanson and Spectrum, and he was instantly attracted by the symphonic nature of ‘Titanic’.

“This is a show which is led by the music and, under his direction, the Society hopes to bring out the power and emotion of the score. Although a very experienced musician, Allan’s previous experience of musical shows was limited to school productions, so working with PAOS has certainly proved an ‘experience’. Happily, he seems to have retained his sense of humour, so we hope it was a good experience,” said the Society’s Alan Stewart.

“This may be Ewan’s first show with PAOS, but he has vast experience in both direction and choreography, having been involved in the production of more than 60 shows throughout Tayside and Fife over the last 20 years.

“Like Allan, Ewan jumped at the chance to work on the production of ‘Titanic’ and he has enjoyed getting to know the cast and working with Perth Theatre staff. He is particularly looking forward to seeing everything come together on the stage and to see the clever set and lighting plot in place.

“Both Allan and Ewan are sure this thrilling show – which is new to Perth – will provide audiences with some unforgettable entertainment. It has been challenging for all involved, but the end result promises to provide an evening filled with both laughter and tears for all who come along.

“Audiences can discover the dreams of the Third Class passengers, the aspirations of the Second Class and the expectations of the First Class as they sail towards tragedy.”

‘Titanic: the Musical’ is in Perth Theatre from tonight until Saturday, April 12, with a matinee on the final Saturday. (There is no performance on Sunday). Tickets are available from Perth Theatre and Perth Concert Hall (tel. 0845 6126320) or www.horsecross.co.uk (tickets for the opening two nights are only £10).

“With powerful music, wonderful period costumes and the moving story of one of the worst disasters of all time, this really is a show you won’t want to miss. Get your tickets now – and don’t forget to bring your hankies,” added Alan.