The Pajama Game
How exciting could pajamas be? If a night out to watch a production of workers slaving away sewing up silk, satin and flannelette PJs for a money-hungry boss doesn't sound appealing, think again. The Pajama Game offers plenty of sass, sizzle and raunchy numbers to make the heart race.
Sleep Tite factory workers
The Pajama Game is a 1950s play that has had huge success on Broadway and was also produced as a film starring Doris Day. The story centers on the conflict between the factory workers at the Sleep Tite pajama factory who have been hopeful for a 7 ½ cent pay rise, and the head of management who is reluctant to increase wages for fear of decreased profits. Love is thrown in the mix between the head union representative, Babe, and the newly appointed factory superintendent, Sid. A battle of egos ensues between Babe's loyalty to the factory workers and Sid's determination to keep his job, a big step up from his previous job. The fight gets dirty, extreme measures are taken and a budding love affair turns sour.
Babe & Sid
The Pajama Game offers a delightful journey of musical numbers that take you from the factory floor, management's office, picnic grounds, and a snazzy nightclub. Each change of scenery is carried out within a heartbeat. The pace is kept lively with beautifully choreographed dances, an office picnic where an overzealous knife thrower shows off his questionable skills and everyone wants to catch the love bug. Faces are slapped, embraces are shared and a lonely soul finally finds his match.
Prez & Gladys
Outstanding vocal performances were given by love-struck Louise Harris (Babe) and Chris Catherwood (Sid). Excellent performances were also given by Becky Morgan (Gladys) who doesn't miss a glamourous beat, even when intoxicated. Her jealous-crazed fiancé, Hines, played by Leigh Harrison gives an energetic and humourous performance. David Todman (Prez) was the star comedian who commanded the stage the moment he walked onto it. Clay English's (Max & choreographer) dance performances were impressive as was Lee Patterson's (Mabel) performance. Credit goes to every cast member who looked like they were enjoying every minute of their time on stage.
Picnic dance
The visual appeal of the Pajama Game is enhanced by an outstanding set, props, and the elegance of 1950s fashion. I really enjoyed the multiple costume and set changes that breathed new life into every scene. The effort put into this production is impressive. The lighting is spectacular and the sound is superbly mastered and uplifting.
Babe & Sid
The Pajama Game is an extraordinary production beautifully directed by Stuart Lumsden; Mary Walters as musical director, and Clay English as choreographer. The pure enjoyment on the faces of the cast is infectious. The energy and vibrancy exuded throughout the production is uplifting. There are plenty of laughs. I saw a lot of smiling faces leave the theatre. This is a wonderful end of year production that should not be missed. Make sure you book ahead.
Hines & Mabel