The American aviatrix Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly the Atlantic in 1928, landing in South Wales. In this poetic fairytale by Sharon Morgan, a Welsh girl, Betty, meets her while dancing on Burry Port beach. It proves a life-changing experience. Though poor and uneducated, Betty is inspired to realise that women can achieve success whatever their background, if only they will believe in themselves.
With her talent for dancing, she eventually escapes her harsh homelife to become the toast of Broadway, always spurred on by what Amelia continues to achieve.
In his staging for Hijinx, director Chris Morgan has invested the dream fantasy with a naive charm that proves most appealing. He is well served by the versatile Sian McDowall as the inspired dancer. Kath Dimery is outstanding as three contrasting teachers including the redoubtable Martha Graham.
Jessica Sandry catches convincingly the self-confidence of the ambitious Amelia, while David Lyndon portrays the men in Betty's life with three well-rounded characterisations.
The setting is designed by Sid Scott and Alison Callaghan; the music composed by Paula Gardiner on flute, with Richard Roberts on piano and keyboard. |
