Review: Copacabana, Theatre Royal

You've got to hand it to Barry Manilow, creating a spectacular two-hour show from a three-minute pop song is no mean feat.

And you've got to hand it to Nottingham Operatic Society for triumphantly transferring his Broadway hit to the amateur stage because that is no mean feat either.

Manilow's story about a show girl named Lola who arrives in New York from Hicksville searching for fame, falls in love, gets drugged, kidnapped and almost murdered, is as pacy, dazzling and dramatic as it sounds ... and NOPS rise admirably to the challenge.

Talented acting school graduate Andrew Regester, who takes the lead role of Tony the struggling songwriter, is a real bonus for the company with his professionalism and confidence, and those assets rub off on the rest of this enthusiastic cast who attack the work with a real sense of fun.

Cathy Miller does a great job as Lola, ditzy and dishy in equal measure; Vanessa Christian relished her tough girl role as gangster's moll Conchita, and Dan Armstrong as Rico, the villain of the piece, also gave a powerful performance.

And there was strong support from Jayne Russell and Lyndon Warnsby, plus a camp cameo by Paul McPherson as Willie the waiter who raised a laugh every time he quickstepped across the stage.

Sparkling costumes and witty choreography all added up to an enjoyable night and I wouldn't be surprised to see this production in the running when the amateur awards are handed out.

ANDY SMART