Dannevirke: Pieces fall in place for musical

The cast and directors of the Dannevirke Theatre Company's production of Chess. Photo / Christine McKay

The director and choreographer for the Dannevirke Theatre Company's upcoming production of Chess, Melissa Martin, is thrilled with the exceptionally talented cast and crew who have stepped up for the show.

"Gary [Mitchelmore] and I were delighted to have been able to cast the show within one week," Miss Martin said.

Mr Mitchelmore is musical director for the show, which will feature a full orchestra for the first time in seven years. Not since Annie has an orchestra added to the drama of a production and Mr Mitchelmore, a musician himself, is enjoying the challenge of the musical side of Chess: "In the words of Freddie, 'I know I'm the best there is, but all they want is a show. Well that's all right - I'll be glad to oblige ...' and that's what we, the Dannevirke Theatre Company's cast and crew of Chess , are aiming to do, put on a show that is the best there is," Miss Martin said.

The chorus and ensemble for Chess together for the first time last week. Chess opens in the Dannevirke Town Hall in April.

"We were successful in casting the show within a week which is incredibly pleasing and a great start to the production and we are fortunate to have a wealth of talent, both on and off the stage, in all areas of the production."

The cast and crew came together for the first time last week and Miss Martin said it was a great opportunity for people to get to know each other.

Leading a star-studded cast is Dannevirke's Nathan Davis, the senior sergeant of the Tararua Police, in the lead as Freddie. Mr Davis has already made a name for himself, starring in Seussical the musical last year as Horton the Elephant.

"His is a very difficult role with very high tenor notes," Miss Martin said. "But I'm confident he'll cope well."