What Is Putting It Together?

“Putting It Together” is a selection of various musical numbers from several Sondheim shows, linked together. The songs follow the emotions of guests at an anniversary party, experiencing their highs and lows as they contemplate their lives and how they feel about themselves and those around them.

Incorporating many of Sondheim’s best musical works we explore the jealousy, rivalries and friendships of the guests as they interact with each other to ultimately determine whether they are happy as they are or would like to change aspects of their lives. Is being single being alive or are old friends more important?

Directors Notes:

The rationale behind this production of “Putting it Together” is simple. It was an idea that I discussed with my dear friend Roger during visits to see him when he was ill, giving him a focus and direction for a future theatrical production that he had not previously considered. During these visits we discussed a show that I had seen at the Edinburgh Fringe festival which seemed the ideal choice for About Theatre’s next production as both Roger and I were great Sondheim fans and this was predominantly a music/dance production which would suit us both. On many occasions, Roger and I had worked together, with him as director and myself taking on the role of choreographer/musical staging and these productions included both Girls Night Out and Company for Roger’s About Theatre and we also worked together on Little shop of Horrors and Bugsy Malone for Lancaster Footlights.

It was during these early discussions that we pursued several aspects of the production including early cast choices and venue, however, during the later months and conversations it became clear to us both that this production might not materialise. Roger’s positive outlook, strength and encouragement during his illness led me to believe that I could carry this production forward in my own first directing role. Roger and I had so many things in common during our friendship which began in 1987 at LADOS in West Side Story. When I was diagnosed with breast cancer in January 2003 Roger showed great support and friendship, however, when he himself was diagnosed with a type of skin cancer he often commented how melanoma got no real publicity and yet everywhere he turned people were wearing pink (this coming from a guy who wore orange, red and purple at the same time!) I knew he meant no offence but I also knew where he was coming from. It was this observation that finally provided the stimulation I needed to direct a show that would be able to raise money for melanoma charities in Roger’s memory.

All members of the cast, production team, technical crew and front of house are friends of Roger’s and giving up their time to support this worthy cause; The cast, you see in Putting It Together was established during our early conversations, as were the musical director and singing coach - both Roger and I had in mind people we would like to see play the various roles and these were discussed regularly during my visits to Morecambe. The company you see is a culmination of these discussions.

I hope you enjoy our production of “Putting It Together” and find it to be a fitting tribute to Roger who was a great friend and entertainer of so many people in the local community.

Hey, ‘Old Friend’ this one is for you…

Sharon Bell

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