It takes a special type of theatre group to take on the challenge of a new work and one can only admire the sheer commitment to excellence demonstrated by Act One Theatre Group during their recent production of Destiny at the St Paul’s Church, Withington.

Destiny is a musical which deals with injustice, loss, love and revenge in an intriguing plot which combines the classical themes of stories like Jekyll & Hyde and Frankenstein. When two opposing spirits return to life in an effort to put to rest unfinished business on earth we are confronted with a story which asks us to question whether or not there is life after death and whether or not our spirit does live on when we die.

A talented cast of local singers of all ages took their audiences on a journey of mixed emotions which demonstrated the skill of the team and their director Susie Poppitt in mixing the moments of good verses evil. What was most impressive was the quality of singing voices and the convincing portrayals given by the principal actors. Each gave excellent performances, which on more than one occasion brought a lump to the throat when needed and even a chuckle when the cleverly dispersed moments of fun came along. The chorus worked well and sang beautifully the often difficult harmonies providing us with a light and shade in the dynamic flow and moods of the music.

Here was a company of actors and crew who had passionately embraced the challenge before them, setting mood and atmosphere with dramatic lighting, special effects, furnishing and costume to transport us back to the early 1900s.

The complexities of the music, the twists and turns of a powerfully rich story and the very guts to present something as thought provoking as Destiny, made this an evening to remember and all connected to it need to give themselves a big pat on the back for giving us a great night out and memorable and moving theatrical experience.

Words by Spencer Jacobs

Top of page