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I have lived in Jersey since 1981 and have been dazzled by the amount of creative talent the island has produced over the years and continues to do so. Groups like the Jersey Amateur Dramatic Club (JADC) are leading the way in nurturing this talent.
The amount of young, up-and-coming talent currently in Jersey's theatre community makes me very happy. Many of them have honed their acting skills in local children's theatre workshop groups such as Stomp and the Progressive School of Music (PSM), and others have been instrumental in instilling creativity in our children—in PSM's case, from Tiny Tots. Thank you to you all!
The JADC is currently wowing audiences with EVITA, an Andrew Lloyd Webber musical with lyrics by Tim Rice. The musical follows the life of Argentina's iconic activist, actress, and philanthropist Eva Perón. Sitting in the front row last night, I was captivated by an incredible performance from the entire ensemble.
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One young actor's portrayal of the Marxist revolutionary Che Guevara caught my attention from the get-go. The last time I saw him perform, he was about eight years old and playing the part of the butler in The Aristocats. Bravo, Joseph Barette!
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And brava to Liberty Spears, who gave a stunning performance of Eva Perón. Despite your many public performances with the Hampstead Garden Touring Opera and Jersey's own Gilbert and Sullivan Society, it is hard to believe this is your first-ever leading lady role.
Other notable performances were from Guy Browning as Perón, Russell Nel as Magaldi, and Megan Barette as the Mistress. Another Suitcase in Another Hall never fails to get me going, and your performance did just that—I was the one blubbing in the front row. And to the Children's Chorus, I look forward to seeing you all again in future shows.
Behind the scenes, the music, directed by Tim Evans - it was nice to see you out front - briefly - supported by the creme de la creme of talented local musicians.
The JADC's production of Evita - an amateur production by arrangement with The Really Useful Group Ltd., runs from July 7th to 17th, 2024 at the RJA&HS (Trinity Showground). It was a full house last night., So, if you have yet to see it, click here to book and avoid disappointment!
Thank you to JADC, the cast, the crew, and everyone involved in this production. Your dedication and hard work have made this show truly memorable.