ALISON CROOSE King's Lynn Corn Exchange

ALISON CROOSE

Whip crackaway – what a cracker!

Amanda Arterton led by example in Hanover Productions' sizzling production of the Hollywood musical classic with an exuberant performance as the gun-toting tomboy.

It is a hugely demanding role but Amanda has the talent and experience to meet its challenges which she did with great gusto.

The sharp-shooter who is “careless with the truth” is nevertheless an engaging powerpack and not least of Amanda's achievements was her mastery of her many tongue-twisting lines.

She is the central figure in a fast-moving production by director Robert Marlowe who used an excellent full set as the backdrop for the story set in the Indian territory of Dakota.

He ensured the showstoppers – The Deadwood Stage and Windy City – and the famous Doris Day number My Secret Love were high spots.

The stage was packed with talent as the company welcomed back Jamie Thurston who began his stage career at Lynn and was impressive as Wild Bill Hickock and Caroline Sheppard convincing as Adelaide “substitute” Katie Brown. No Hanover show would be complete without stalwart John Burgess in the cameo role of Henry Miller. Adding strength were Sharon Brindle, Neal Upton and Adrian Fennell. Another important ingredient was the orchestra directed by Fraser Goulding.