Livingston Players' production was not to be forgotten

Jun 4 2009 by Alistair Watson, West Lothian Courier

THE Livingston Players’ first production in the new Brian Duguid Auditorium at the Howden Park Centre was not one to be forgotten.

The Scottish premiere of the stage musical, Rush, written by David John, took place from May 20 to May 23.

Rush has many aspects to it and although compellingly dark, it has elements of humour, tenderness, hope, courage and determination.

The title of this dynamic musical is appropriate on many levels as you travel at top speed for almost two hours, hitching an irresistible ride on its energetic journey.

Set in 1862 in the goldfields of New Zealand, Rush depicts the savage and unforgiving environment, especially for the immigrants in search of their fortune.

When Duncan and Sarah McKenzie (played superbly by husband and wife, John and Lesley Ward) arrive, they are brought news of gold strikes by the unsavoury Jackie O’Fea (a sterling and rather too believable performance by Alex Kemp).

Duncan grasps the chance of a better life for his family, unaware of the tragedy ahead. With friends Nathan (well played by Calum Haig) and Millie (a brilliant first principal part for Claire Doonan), Jackie O’Fea and his dodgy,

intelligently challenged nephews, Bill and John Lomax (super performances by David Hastie and David Bridges), he sets off to find gold leaving his family behind.

The flooding of the River Arrow in 1863 claims the life of young Nathan and the greed, always associated with gold, claims the life of young miner Dan Nolan (an appealingly cheeky performance by Fraser Jamieson), shot by John Lomax after a card game.

When Duncan strikes gold his euphoria is short-lived as he is wrongly accused and convicted of the murder of Dan Nolan. The judge (powerfully played by Jeff Robinson) refuses Sarah’s request for an appeal and Duncan is led to the gallows and hanged.

After Millie is widowed she forms a bond with Sarah and is cared for by Joe Lawson ( a great performance by Scott McGillivary) who has a soft spot for her.

After Millie is assaulted by the evil O’Fea, she confides in Sarah and before long, Duncan’s death is avenged.

A mysterious woman shoots the Lomax brothers in their cabin, and just as O’Fea is about to murder the hooded intruder, the ghost of Duncan McKenzie intervenes turning the tables and causing O’Fea to stab himself.

Love blossoms between Millie and Joe and Duncan’s prosperous claim ensures that Sarah and their five children have a secure future.

The Prospector (John Doonan) introduced scenes with a wonderfully deep and strong singing voice and powerful stage presence, and hotel owner, Meg (brilliantly played by Nicola Payne) brought a refreshing raunchy humour and huge personality to the show.

The entire cast sang the wonderful songs beautifully and were an absolute credit to director, Colin Peter and musical director, Margaret McAdie.

Unfortunately composer, Kevin Lynch, died in 2008 in Arrowtown, New Zealand, after a battle with cancer.

The band, Margaret McAdie, Alastair Gammie, Billy Young and Colin MacRae all did a fantastic job, and the set design, set management, sound, lighting, set graphics and wardrobe all contributed to making this a superb and completely professional production.