Back Inn Business

Back Inn Business is a World Premiere musical presented by University Dramatic Society for a very short season in the beautiful Centre for Performing Arts at All Saints College. Back Inn Business features a large enthusiastic cast, a quirky storyline and solid production values/

The story of a young hotel owner in financial trouble, desperate to save her hotel, the intervention of a reality TV program and a plethora of subplots including rogue racoons, sisterly relationships, and scheming showgirls. Possibly there are a little too many plot threads, but the show moves swiftly, and the characters are likeable and funny.

Performing to a quality backing track, singing and harmonies sound solid and well prepared. Unfortunately, on Opening Night sound balance was uneven, and it was difficult to discern lyrics in many of the songs. Diction cold also have been stronger.

Eva Hill was strong as central character Eloise, with a beautifully sympathetic performance. Her sister, reality producer Skylar, was given credence by Alexia Skipper. 

Nice cohesion between cast playing hotel staff. Paris Findlay brought a little glamour to receptionist Clarole, Jacob Stephenson appeared to be having fun - working with puppet racoons (puppeteered by Maya Djurdjevic). Will Oxlade was charming aa Eddie, our romantic lead of sorts. Jordy Littlewood-Johnson seemed very at home as fitness instructor Geordie (Was this role written for him?) Charlotte Williams was good fun as struggling chef Luis, while Chloe Lazaroo brought strong vocals to maid Becca. 

A quartet of show girls dance very well and add colour, as well as a plot line of their own. Led by Emily Lyons as Mary, they include Katy Anderson, Kelsey Biddulph and Ella McGuire.

The Reality TV team also have great rapport. Hosts (and Bachelorette Winners) Daphne and Ryan are played with flair by Jayda Corunna and Drew Morgan (although some revelations about Ryan came as no surprise. Crew Maya Djurdjevic, Taea Maher-Delaney and Estella Glencross worked well. Builders Toren Edwards, Steph Hair and Samuel Bennett had lovely swagger. 

The trio of producers made a great team, with the song lead by Jamie Hilton, Blake Mathieson and Tom Hemery being a show highlight.

The set, designed by Charlotte Williams, has more tinsel than a 1970s Variety Show, but serves the production well, with Una Minello’s costume design being a great indicator of character. Strong choices were made by Lighting Designer Joel Brooker.

Great to see a new show, with lots of potential, being performed by a hardworking and dedicated, young cast. Well done to UDS for taking a risk - and fabulous teamwork.

Kimberley Shaw