Big the Musical programme

As for musicals, the theatre has produced them annually over recent years. It was the late Sylvia Silver, of the Falcon Hotel in Bromyard, who previously brought West End classics to the Conquest, and now Rebecca Cook and her team have brought the amazing Chicago, Little Shop of Horrors and Legally Blonde to our stage.

For many people, the theatre is a lifeline, offering social interaction in a comfortable, safe environment, together with the opportunity to see

the arts at a reasonable cost without significant travel. Social events include Saturday coffee mornings, Shakespeare in the Woods, volunteers’ and actors’ social evenings and much more. For details, see conquest-theatre.co.uk.

We hope to continue doing this and more, and hope audience members like yourself can enjoy a stunning night of entertainment on your doorstep.

Conquest Theatre Management Team

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Welcome.............................2 Director’s notes.....................3 Scenes and synopsis............4 Vocal coach’s notes...........4-5 Adult cast............................6-9 Pictures.......................10-11 Youth Theatre leader............12 Youth Theatre cast..........12-13 Youth Theatre spotlight..14-15 Backstage crew ...................16 How the show’s made..........17 What’s on..............................20

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Rebecca Cook returns for her eighth show, arguably the most ambitious yet, having previously directed Chicago (2019), Little Shop of Horrors (2021), Legally Blonde (2022) and A Series of Public Apologies (2023).

Hello everyone and welcome to our production of Big the Musical! It’s a heart-warming tale inspired by the popular 1988 film starring Tom Hanks. When Josh Baskin’s wish to be ‘big’ magically comes true, he must learn to navigate the adult world.

With catchy, musical numbers created by David Shire and Richard Maltby Jr., this timeless story explores the magic of growing up and the importance of staying true to oneself. It has been a privilege to direct the Conquest’s latest musical and work with the most talented cast and crew.

Everyone has gone above and beyond to put the show together, whether it is learning lines, recording harmonies, sewing costumes, building sets, programming lights, sourcing props… the list goes on! It really is a team effort and that is what Bromyard does so well – brings the community

together! This year’s show has been made even more special with the addition of our very talented Youth Theatre. Our juniors, intermediates and seniors have brought so much fun, energy and enthusiasm to rehearsals and worked incredibly hard behind the scenes.

But as well as performing, it is their support of one another which makes them so special. I’ve been blown away and truly inspired by the determination of the cast, creatives and crew to bring this show to life.

Without their hard work, a production (no matter how ‘big’ or small) simply isn’t possible. So a huge thank you to every single one of you!

We hope you have the ‘Time of Your Life’ and that you’ll be left with a ‘big’ smile at the end of the performance.

Enjoy the show!

- Rebecca Cook

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THE SYNOPSIS

The classic 1988 motion picture fantasy bursts onto the stage in the unforgettable theatrical experience, Big The Musical.

Featuring a witty, moving, and insightful book by John Weidman (Assassins, Pacific Overtures, Road Show) and a dazzling, energetic, heartfelt, contemporary score by

David Shire and Richard Maltby Jr. (Baby, Closer Than Ever, Starting Here, Starting Now), Big is a perfect show for all ages!

Josh Baskin is sick of being an awkward kid. At a carnival, he makes a wish to the Zoltar machine to become ‘big’.

To his shock, his wish is granted. After an understandably awkward beginning, Josh is forced to do adult things like getting a job and a girlfriend.

In the end he discovers there’s much more to being an adult than he’s bargained for, and learns we must all grow up at our own pace, in our own time.

Complete with Zoltar, a giant floor piano and stand out roles for adults and children, Big is a family-friendly smash hit full of high-energy singing and dancing.

THE SCENES

ACT ONE

Scene 1: A neighbourhood in New Jersey

Scene 2: The Baskin house

Scene 3: A street / bus terminal

Scene 4: Macmillan Toy store

Scene 5: Macmillan Toy Company offices

Scene 6: Josh’s loft

Scene 7: A New York restaurant

ACT TWO

Scene 1: The mall

Scene 2: Susan’s office

Scene 3: Macmillan Toy Company offices

Scene 4: An Eastside Apartment

Scene 5: The roof terrace

Scene 6: The neighbourhood

Scene 7: A warehouse

Amy Burke returns to an important role within the production team as the assistant director and vocal coach. She’s also taking on the roles of arcade store clerk and Judy Hicks on stage, so even when the shows start, the hard work’s not over!

Amongother roles, you may recognise me from my 2019 performance as Mama Morton in Chicago here at the Conquest Theatre.

I was also assistant director and vocal coach for Legally Blonde, Camelot the Panto and in one way or another I’ve been involved in many more fantastic shows here.

An architectural designer by day and vocal coach by night, I have been helping the cast learn all of the vocal arrangements for Big the Musical.

As well as being a busy mum, I also run an a Capella choir, right here at Conquest Theatre on Monday evenings.

My favourite part about being a volunteer at the Conquest Theatre is meeting amazing people from all walks of life.

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It’s a very special place where all are welcome and encouraged to fully realise their creative potential. I enjoy teaching complex harmonies to the cast and hearing the end result when a song comes together.

I’m thrilled to announce that I will soon be directing Blackadder here at the Conquest, which will be performed in February and March.

If you, or someone you know, could be the next Baldrick or Lord Flashheart, check our website or Facebook page for audition details.

This year’s musical features an incredibly talented cast who have been a joy to teach and who have been working really hard every step of the way, giving up their time to bring something very special to the community!

I hope you enjoy watching the show, as much as I have enjoyed being part of making it.

- Amy Burke

THE SONGS

Overture

Opening Sequence

Say Good Morning To Mom

You’re A Big Boy Now Time Of Your Life

Fun (Tag)

Welcome To Macmillan Toys

My Secretary’s In Love

Macmillan Toys 2

Let’s Not Move Too Fast

Do You Want To Play Games?

Stars

Little Susan Lawrence

Cross The Line

It’s Time

Stop, Time

The Nightmare

Dancing All The Time

I Want To Know

Coffee, Black

The Real Thing

Josh’s ‘big’/Ballet

We’re Gonna Be Fine

SHOW HISTORY

The idea for a musical based on the film initially came from actress Didi Conn, wife of composer David Shire. At first, the composer baulked at the idea but after his long-time collaborator Richard Maltby Jr. penned lyrics for a song called ‘I Want To Know’, Shire had a change of heart.

In January 1994, composers Maltby and Shire played their score of Big for Mike Ockrent who immediately agreed to come on as director. Book writer John Weidman and choreographer Susan Stroman completed the creative team.

The cast featured Daniel Jenkins, Crista Moore, Brett Tabisel, and Barbara Walsh. Big The Musical held its out-of-town tryout in Detroit in February of 1996 but four songs were added to the first act, two songs were substantially altered and the main character of Josh was also largely rewritten before the New York opening.

Big The Musical opened at the Shubert Theater on April 28, 1996. After a six-month run, it was nominated for five Tony Awards, including Best Book, Best Score and Best Choreography.

In 1997, a 40-week national tour of a reworked version was announced. The tour launched in September, directed by Eric Schaeffer.

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George Chambers as Josh Baskin

This is my first production at the Conquest Theatre and I have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the process. I studied performing arts at University Of Gloucestershire where I have previously performed the roles The Lion in The Wizard of Oz, Don Lockwood in Singin’ in the Rain and Dewey Finn in School of Rock. I cannot wait to perform Big at the Conquest and hope you enjoy the production as much as we’ve enjoyed making it.

Sheridan Walden as Susan Lawrence

I have performed since I was 13, on cruise ships and in a successful wedding and events band. I’ve now moved back to Herefordshire to be closer to my family and work in the family-run business.

Since having my baby girl 15 months ago, I have missed singing and wanted to be part of a friendly community with like-minded people. That’s the reason why I audition for a role at the Conquest.

Catherine Crosswell as Mrs Baskin

This is my first show with the Conquest and the rehearsals have been a blast. My favourite musicals are Sweeney Todd and Little Shop of Horrors (which I loved seeing at the Conquest). Previous musical roles have included Mrs Lovett in Sweeney Todd, Mr Sowerberry in Oliver! and children’s chorus in Gypsy (I was 10!). I’m a writer, performer, musician, poet and a hoarder! I’ve written a few one-act plays and am currently writing my first-ever musical.

Hugh Farey as George Macmillan

It’s never too late to teach an old dog new tricks, but it does take longer, so I’m extremely grateful to Becky and Amy for giving me the opportunity to extend my reach further than ever before. Their patience and encouragement is awe-inspiring! It’s invigorating to be working with so many talented artists on and off the stage, especially those I’ve not met previously. They’ve been an inspiration when the going was tough and a joy to work with as it all came together.

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Joe Rolt as Paul Seymour

Performing at the Conquest is always a pleasure. I’ve performed in many shows here from Legally Blonde to Hi-De-Hi and I’ve also performed around the county in shows such as Vicar of Dibley, playing the character Hugo, who I’m sure you’ll remember from the TV series! It’s always so much fun both behind the scenes and on stage so if you’ve ever thought about having a go on stage, come along! I promise you’ll have a great time.

Emily Chambers as Mrs Kopecki, junior executive, street passer-by, salesperson

I first joined the Conquest in 2021 to play Audrey in Little Shop of Horrors. Since then, I’ve returned multiple times to take part in different shows including playing Serena in Legally Blonde in 2022. Recently, I co-directed and performed in Who Run The World? Girls!. When I am not on stage, I am a primary school teacher and I love leading choir and other music and drama-related things.

Kyla Davies as PA announcer, carnival goer, parent, street passer-by, customer, junior executive

I have been involved at the Conquest Theatre for the last nine years in various productions and behind the scenes but particularly love the high energy of musicals. After working with the talented director Becky Cook in Chicago and Legally Blonde, I jumped at the chance of Big. I do hope you enjoy it. It showcases the skills, commitment and hard work of our crew, front of house volunteers and cast.

Rob Finney as Mr Baskin, Ron Barrett, Nick

As a relatively newcomer to the group, I’ve been involved in a few productions including Legally Blonde and Camelot the Panto. I’ve enjoyed every second of being in this friendly group, in fact I’ve made some very good friends and class the group as a second family! It’s fantastic having been given the chance to be fully immersed in the theatre experience and to take on different roles on stage which is totally different from my day job of caravan sales.

GIFT VOUCHER

Do you know someone who loves films, music and live theatre productions? If so, what better gift than a gift voucher to use here at the Conquest Theatre? For more details, ask at the box office

GIFT VOUCHER Redeemable at the box office conquest-theatre.co.uk | 01885 488575 Conquest Theatre, Tenbury Road, Bromyard, HR7 4LL

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Jess Gilbert as Mr Kopecki, carnival goer, Arthur Lipton, street passer-by

Being part of the Conquest Drama Group is one of the best hobbies I have, I enjoy being part of something that brings fun and joy to Bromyard. Being on stage is so exhilarating that it makes me forget about all the negativity in the world. My most recent previous credits include Camelot the Panto, Hi-De-Hi, Legally Blonde and Little Shop of Horrors all here at the Conquest Theatre.

Lisa

Legge as parent, carnival goer, street passer-by, salesperson, junior executive, beggar

I’ve performed at the Conquest for years, enjoying all aspects the theatre brings. It’s beautiful, in the way it helps us escape reality. You forget about what’s happening for a while. You can just let your hair loose and have fun. I’ve met some lovely people through the Conquest, some of which I’d call friends for life! It really is a second family. I can’t wait to see what else this little theatre of ours can bring.

Mel McCluskey as Abigail, parent, street passer-by, junior executive, carnival goer

I started my Conquest life aged 36 after falling in love with the theatre. I watched Little Shop of Horrors, found myself hooked and was itching to audition for the next show. I have been in Best of British, Legally Blonde, Camelot the Panto and now Big. I have been bitten by the performance bug and made some amazing friends! Theatre teaches you so much about yourself and you’re constantly improving.

Jo Stanley as Miss Watson, parent, carnival goer

I have loved theatre and performance my whole life so I feel very lucky to be part of the Conquest Theatre family. Work brought me to Bromyard and my first show at the Conquest was Chicago in 2019. Since then, I have taken part in pantomime, a review show and Hi-De-Hi.

I’m excited to be back on stage playing Miss Watson in this wonderful community theatre.

Ben Swift as parent, carnival goer, Rick Birnbaum, Tom, junior executive

I grew up in Hereford and was a chorister at Hereford Cathedral. This instilled a love of performing at a young age and I’ve been acting and singing since. Always on the lookout for another project, I’ve acted in productions from Birmingham and Bromsgrove to Hereford and now Bromyard. The Conquest is a fabulous venue with a great stage and an intimate atmosphere. Hopefully, this will not be my last show here.

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Caroline Thomas as ticket taker, street passer-by, Macmillan’s store employee

I started at the Conquest Theatre by helping backstage with ‘Allo ‘Allo, making teas for the cast and crew. Then, slowly, as confidence grew, I took to the stage in pantomime with Beauty and the Beast Big the Musical will be my second musical with the Conquest. I’ve always enjoyed singing, following in the footsteps of my dad and auntie who sang in the church choir while growing up in Wales.

Tina

Lindsay

Tomkins as receptionist, parent, carnival goer, passer-by

I joined the theatre two years ago, and have been in Legally Blonde and A Series of Public Apologies. I love every minute of being on stage. The theatre gives you the opportunity to do something you love and express yourself which I think is so important. Everyone is so kind and supportive and the stage is definitely my happy place. I am so looking forward to being there again for Big!

Webster as bean bag toss lady, street passer-by, Macmillan’s store employee

I’ve been in amateur theatre for more than 50 years, starting in Zambia, then Dubai, Portugal and Maidstone. It’s great to be involved and the Conquest has provided me with many challenges since early 2017. These range from learning how to be a projectionist to learning dance routines, songs and just where I am supposed to be in the production at any given time. It’s all great stuff!

Dani Worlock as Dianne, parent, carnival goer, street passer-by, junior executive

My Conquest journey started in the Youth Theatre’s The Reunion but when I started teaching, it was difficult to fit in anything extra. When Legally Blonde came around, I had more flexibility so returned to the stage after 23 years. I was then cast in Camelot and Who Run The World? Girls!. The Conquest is a shining light of the community and it’s my escape and sanctuary from a busy life full of

VOLUNTEER WITH US

Are you interested in helping and getting involved in your community theatre? Enquire today! There are many roles available in different areas of the theatre from stewards, projectionists, coffee and bar assistants to wardrobe assistants and technicians. Find out more: conquest-theatre.co.uk/volunteer

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I’vehad the pleasure of working with the wonderful Youth Theatre on this show and they have been an absolute delight from start to finish.

We have been really excited to get the groups involved in a Conquest production, it’s been a fantastic opportunity for them to experience being a part of a full-scale musical with really high production values. The Youth Theatre have taken it all in their stride and have shown us just how talented they are – I couldn’t be prouder!

If you know a young person that would be interested in joining, we meet on Mondays at the Conquest, provide sessions for ages four to 18 years and love to welcome new joiners. To find out more, please email takepart@ courtyard.org.uk.

- Ellen Dorsett

Pippa McGeown as Detective Watts Harriet Plant as Lucy Birnbaum Thena Morgan as Phoebe Barton Kitty Morgan as Tia Willis Emilia Unwin as Young Josh Baskin Keeley Bryant as Layla Barrett Barnaby Seddon as Billy Kopecki Alana Haines as Charlie Kopecki

THE YOUTH THEATRE

The Youth Theatre gives young people the opportunity to learn through play, perform throughout the year and participate in a wide range of art forms.

It also helps to develop important skills such as communication, team building and problem solving. It’s also a great way to build confidence while making a new group of friends.

To find out more about joining the sessions at the Conquest, contact takepart@courtyard.org.uk or call 01432 346526

Poppy Stubbs as Annie Rose Theo Williams as Derek Roberts Matilda Tabberer-Catt as Miss Gilmore Arabella Tabberer-Catt as Cynthia Benson Harriet Barton as Holly Andrews Neve Geoghegan as Alice Bloom Penny Evans as Young Susan Lawrence Aria Evans as Caitlin Bennett Mabel Hatt as Mia Saunders Alfie Slaymaker as Buzz Babcock Ffion Randall-Jones as Lucy Taylor

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Bethany Perfect as Daisy Hudson

Margaret Dallow ran the Youth Theatre for 17 years. Hundreds of children came and went over her tenure, some even made a career for themselves in the theatre world. We caught up with her as the Youth Theatre plays a ‘big’ role in this show.

Thearts, and theatre in particular, are incredibly important for children – at least that’s what Margaret Dallow says. She should know, not only has she directed adult shows including Hi-De-Hi and Cider With Rosie, she ran the Youth Theatre here at the theatre for 17 years and the likes of Neil Ivison and Carl Davies are now professionals within the world of music and drama.

She says she’s had people come up to her, including a lawyer in Scotland, praising how the Youth Theatre gave them confidence to go on and make a good life for themselves.

They say things like “I can remember standing on that stage at the Conquest, it gave me confidence”, but Margaret says it brought people from all backgrounds together.

Fondly remembering her tenure, she says: “One teenager came in and said ‘I’m a naughty boy’. I said ‘you might be out there but you’re not in here’ and he never was.”

And it was that attitude that meant everyone

Did you know?

NODA was founded in 1899.

was on a level playing field and found the confidence to mix with everyone, an invaluable skill for life in Margaret’s eyes.

From the Pied Piper through the streets of Bromyard to the theatre’s foyer being dressed in hessian sacks for The Wizard of Oz, there was something for everyone and Margaret was always supported by an enthusiatic and willing team, including the producer of Big, Hugh Farey.

Did

you know?

“It’s all building a community,” she says. “I think of my grandson who has played football since he was five but can’t play in Bromyard. He