Concept Players are putting on their first show of the year, Anything Goes. A hit broadway musical set aboard the ocean liner S. S. American, where nightclub singer Reno Sweeney is en route from New York to Southampton. The Concept Players cast and crew are currently hard at work rehearsing, so we spoke to the director about their latest upcoming show.

What made you decide on Anything Goes?

It is the quintessential musical- full of comedy, cracking songs and big chorus numbers. It has basically stood the test of time and we thought that after the doldrums of the pandemic, the audiences would want something fun and uplifting especially as we come out of the dark winter months.

What can people expect when coming to see your version of Anything Goes?

A fresh take on an old classic. It is set on a transatlantic liner in the 1930s from New York bound for Southampton. On board is a mix of ill-met lovers, love-sick leading man, gangsters and nuns! The songs are ones everyone knows such as ‘You’re The Top’, ‘Friendship’, ‘Blow Gabriel Blow’ and, of course, ‘Anything Goes’. It is a breath of fun, fresh air.

How’s the rehearsal process going so far?

Really well! We had hoped to present this musical last year but with the pandemic restrictions, rehearsing proved beyond us. But this year we have come back with vengeance and the rehearsal period has been immense fun (and hard work).

What has been the best part of putting this show together?

It is an ensemble show and that is what Concept Players do best. We have a fantastic front line of principles but an equally fantastic chorus, band and backstage crew. Everyone has put in a lot of effort especially around the choreography- the tap number is brilliant- a true team effort which we can’t wait to share.

What have been the challenges?

Challenges have been having to recast many of the parts from our first attempt last year to this year as quite a few of our original cast were no longer available That has meant a lot of changes not only of faces, but of direction and costume.

Concept Players will be performing ‘Anything Goes’ at the Paget Rooms from the 9th – 11th March. Get your tickets here!