WHEN it comes to scene setting this company has few equals. Apple’s audiences were transported into a New York complete with ‘stars and stripes’ tablecloths, flags and napkins, night lights set in apples, twinkling skyscrapers, street signs and scrolls detailing the American constitution – and that was just in the auditorium.
The stage itself had a marvellous NYC harbour backcloth showing more skyscrapers, a cruise ship and the Statue of Liberty – a little artistic licence in the latter perhaps, as I doubt it could really be seen from the show’s supposed Bronx setting. But I’m probably being picky, because the effort that went into both sets and costumes was phenomenal.
In fact, the company’s all-round effort was plain to see, from writer/director Ann Whitaker’s well-constructed script to the enthusiasm of her cast. True, there were occasions towards the end of the show when things pointed to a possible lack of rehearsal time, and some of the musical numbers were a little over-ambitious. However, the story line, set around two young people who go to the ‘Big Apple’ looking for fame and fortune, was strong and believable, and the performances sincere.

Linda Kirkman
Courtesy of the Bournemout Daily Echo