(by arrangement with Josef Weinberger Ltd.)

Book By RICHARD MORRIS and DICK SCANLAN
New Music by JEANINE TESORI
New Lyrics by DICK SCANLAN
Origional Story and Screenplay by RICHARD MORRIS for the Universal Pictures Film

Director/Choreographer DENISE ROBINSON
Musical Director TIM HARDING
Accompanist MIKE COTTON

LADIES CHORUS

Nicola Baker, Samantha Birch, Stacey Birch, Veronica Bould, Carol Dicken, Sophie Dimmack, Lisa Jones, Laura Kilvert, Dawn Melis, Emma Millward, Zara Phillips, Marcelle Rollings, Gemma Shield, Maggie Thurgur, Stacey Wall

GENTLEMENS CHORUS

James Alien, Richard Astbury, Adam Bal, Kip Barrett, Alan Compson, Jon Dempsey, Phil Drinkwater, Hal Ellis, Jonathan Green, Pip Harper, Tim Harper, lan Hunter, Eric Page, Dan Smith, Phil Terry, Stan Till, David Walters

NON ACTING MEMBERS

Claire Andrews, Jo Bolton, Lloyd Brookes, Nick France, Joan Grice, Jerry Hobbs, Stan Holmes, Sherly Lea, Stephanie Lea, Clive Marklew, Mick Moreton, Peter Morris, Andy Poulton, Tammi Poulton, Denny Robinson, Peter Rollings, Keith Rowley, Yvonne Salt, Jenny Smith, Tracey Spencer-Smith, Andrew Starkey, Nick Sullivan, Graham Tarbuck, Theresa Thompson-Starkey, Jean Wadsworth, Doreen Whild, Jan Wolverson

LIFE MEMBERS

Jackie Andrews, Kip Barratt, Jean Beard, Ron Beard, Joyce Brookes, Jenny Darlington, Chris Duff-Cole, George Ellis, Bob Frost, Chris Frost, Lyn Frost, Michael Kemp, Rosemary Moss, Anne Palmer, Wendy Peterson, Maria Robbins, Olwen Rowley, Maggie Thurgur

HONORARY LIFE MEMBERS

Wyn Duff-Cole Hinks, Pauline Whittaker

Based on the 1967 Oscar winning film. Thoroughly Modern Millie is the story of Millie a young girl from Kansas who has come to New York in search of a new life for herself in the Roaring 20's. She has a plan - to get a good job as a secretary to a very rich man, and then marry him. Of course, nothing quite goes according to plan. She is residing at the Hotel Priscilla catering for single young ladies, orphans preferably. The owner, the sinister Mrs Meers with the help of her two Chinese cohorts, is running a white slave traffic to the Far East. Meanwhile her rich boss is slow in proposing marriage and the guy she eventually falls in love with is as poor as a church mouse.

SYNOPSIS OF SCENES & MUSICAL NUMBERS

Music by Jeanine Tesori, Lyrics Dick Scanlan
(unless otherwise stated)

MILLIE DILMOUNT - Tasheka Brown

Tasheka joined MUSCOM in 2002 for GUYS AND DOLLS. Her dance training began at the age of four with the Katherine Taggart Dance Academy and she now continues her classes at the Denise Robinson School of Dance. Her musical theatre training began at Thomas Telford School and in 2000 she gained a BTEC Higher Nat DIP in Performing Arts. Later in 2000 Tasheka worked as a resident vocalist/dancer at Brean Leisure Park in Somerset and later signed to RCA records temporarily as a member of girlband "Mosaic" in 2001, Whilst studying a degree in Media Communications at Wolverhampton University she worked with Zip Theatre and the Funki Feathers Dance Troupe as a backing dancer for a number of tribute acts, Previous principal roles have included Kathy in Disco Inferno, Carmen in FAME, Ado Annie in OKLAHOMA, Narrator in JOSEPH, Joanne in GODSPELL and Morgiana in TIN PAN ALI, Tasheka has thoroughly enjoyed playing the part of Millie and would like to thank the cast for all of their help and support.

JIMMY SMITH - Jonathan Dudley

Although only 18 years of age, Jonathan joins MUSCOM with a wealth of theatrical experience. Previous roles include Baby John WEST SIDE STORY Danny GREASE, Joseph JOSEPH AND THE AMAZING TECHNICOLOR DREAMCOAT, Enjolras ES MISERABLES, Nathan Lukowski THE FULL MONTY and Simon JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR. Recently completed a 6 weeks run on the professional stage in the pantomime SNOW WHITE at the Swan Theatre Worcester.

RUTH - Holly Stringfellow

Holly joined the company in 1992 as one of the children in MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS, followed by another child role of Freddie in THE ROGERS FOLLIES. Appeared as a dancer in OKLAHOMA, GUYS AND DOLLS and COPACABANA, as Lorraine Flemming in 42nd STREET, Victoria in HALF A SIXPENCE and Irene Roth in CRAZY FOR YOU. Also gained experience with Bilston Operatic Company in ANNIE and SCROOGE, not forgetting BUGSY MALONE and LI'L ABNER with the Funcky Chicken Workshop. Started dancing at the age of four with Marilyn Harris School of Dance and at the age of thirteen spent three years with Carol Suttie, performing in many dance shows with both schools.

GLORIA - Kimberley Robinson

Kimberley has been singing, dancing and performing since the tender age of 3 years and has appeared in many musical productions with her Dancing School in Penn. She joined Wolverhampton Musical Comedy Company in 1994 and has appeared as a dancer in MACK AND MABEL, OKLAHOMA, GUYS AND DOLLS and COPACABANA. Her first leading role was as Phyllis Dale in 42nd STREET, followed by Kate in HALF A SIXPENCE and Tess in CRAZY FOR You. Kimmy is proud of her longstanding family connections with Muscom and is looking forward to playing the part of Gloria.

RITA - Rachel Mower

Rachel joined the company in 2005 as part of the ladies chorus in CRAZY FOR YOU. In 1995 Rachel joined the Welsh National Opera as part of the children's chorus in LA BOHEME, She decided to study a degree in Music and Drama in 2002 and graduated in 2005, Also in 2005 she became part of PUSS IN BOOTS pantomime for Hurricane Productions taking on the roles of the Princess and the Wicked Witch, Rachel is delighted to be performing for the first time for MUSCOM as Rita in THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE and has enjoyed the challenge.

ALICE - Jacqueline Harper

This is Jacqueline's third show with the company having joined in 2004 and she has appeared as a dancer in HALF A SIXPENCE and CRAZY FOR YOU. Jacqueline has been dancing and acting since the early age of three, a passion which she has continued in to her career as Head of Performing Arts at a local Wolverhampton High School. This is Jacqueline's first principal role with The company and she is looking forward to playing the role of man-eater Alice.

ETHEL PEAS - Beth Peach-Robinson

First appearance with the company but no stranger to the amateur stage. Trained at the Taggart School of Dance to the age of 11, and as a member of Central Youth Theatre played Tallulah BUGSY MALONE, and the Queen in ALICE IN WONDERLAND, Currently a student at Wolverhampton Girls High School recently played Eliza Doolittle in their production of MY FAIR LADY. Thrilled to have been given the part of Ethel peas and thanks the company for their help and support.

CORA - Liz Dovey

Liz first joined the company in 2005 to pursue her interest in musical theatre and her love of singing. She has appeared in previous shows HALF A SIXPENCE and CRAZY FOR YOU, as a member of the chorus. Liz is very much looking forward to performing in THOROUGHLY MODERN MILLIE and feels proud to be a memer of Muscom.

LUCILLE - Liz Bolton

Liz started dancing at the age of 7 and attended Ballet, Tap and Modern classes at the Marilyn Harris School of Dancing for 9 years, In 1995 Liz joined MUSCOM as a dancer for their production of 42ND STREET, She then studied at Leeds University during which time she also gained her Grade 8 singing, Liz returned to MUSCOM in 2001 for OKLAHOMA and has now been a dancer in the company for the last six years performing in GUYS AND DOLLS, CORACABANA, 42ND STREET, HALF A SIXPENCE and CRAZY FOR YOU in 2006.

MRS MEERS - Gail Hutchison

Gail first appeared on stage in THE KING AND I at the age of seven and has trod the boards ever since! Gail is a long standing member of MUSCOM where she has played many principal roles including Katie Brown in CALAMITY JANE, Irene in CRAZY FOR YOU. Dorothy Brock in 42ND STREET, Ado Annie in OKLAHOMA and Gladys in COPACABANA. She trained at the famous Italia Conti School in London and attended the summer course for professional actors at the Birmingham School of Acting. She has appeared for the Birmingham Rep. Theatre as Judy Whitmore in the highly acclaimed RIDIN' THE NUMBER 8 and last year played the leading role of Heidi in the world premier of 3-1 -6 for Aardvark at the Custard Factory Birmingham.

DOROTHY BROWN - Samantha Strutt

Samantha has been performing since the age of eight as a member of both Central Youth Theatre and Manchester Youth Theatre. When she was fourteen she Joined the Birmingham Symphony Youth Chorus and performed in many concerts at the Royal Albert Hall, St David's Birmingham Symphony Hall. She currently studies singing with Terrence Bailey and has been guest soloist with Penn singers and The Friday Night Choir. Samantha's recent theatre work includes playing Hildy in ON THE TOWN, Donna/Oolie in CITY OF ANGELS, 'Andrew' in JESUS CHRIST SUPERSTAR, and understudy Sarah Brown in GUYS AND DOLLS all at the University of Birmingham. She has also played Sally Bowles in CABARET. This is Samantha's first show with MUSCOM and she would like to thank them for giving her this wonderful opportunity.

CHING HO - Dom Napier

Dom studied Tap and Modern Jazz at the Cecilia Rossington School of Dance from the age of 7 till 12. Having "Rested" for 20 years pursuing other interests he is excited to have joined MUSCOM and is looking forward to playing the part of Ching Ho in his first production with the company.

BUN FOO - Karl Harris

Joined the chorus of CRAZY FOR YOU last year, he later took part in the Summer Revue at the Perton Community Centre. He is delighted to have been given the part of Bun Foo and would like to thank the company for their support and encouragement.

MISS FLANNERY - Carol Porter

Carol has danced since the age of 3 and has been a member of MUSCOM for 32 years, During that time she has played Josie in GEORGE M. Victoria in HALF A SIXPENCE, a sister in WILL ROGERS FOLLIES, Patsy in CRAZY FOR YOU and Agatha in GUYS AND DOLLS, One of her most memorable and forgettable performance was as the leading lady's "body double" in the shower scene in COPACABANA. During the past few years Carol has choreographed shows for Trinity Operatic Society and Old Fallings Players and was Treasurer for Muscom for 15 years. Carol says that she is really looking forward to playing Miss Flannery and feels privileged to work with such a talented and enthusiastic cast.

MR TREVOR GRAYDON - Chris Wolverson

Chris joined the company in 1997 for SOUTH PACIFIC in the role of Lt.Joseph Cable, Since then he has played Pete CALAMITY JANE, Mingo CRAZY FOR YOU, Freddy MACK AND MABEL, Curley OKLAHOMA, Sky Masterson GUYS AND DOLLS, Pat Denning 42nd STREET, Young Walsingham HALF A SIXPENCE and Mingo in CRAZY FOR YOU, Made his stage debut in 1976 in OLIVER, His many roles include Perchic FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, Bob CHRYSANTHEMUM. Judas GODSPELL, Gerald AN INSPECTOR CALLS, Sebastian TWELFTH NIGHT, Japhet A VOYAGE ROUND MY FATHER, Captain Barton TEN TIMES TABLE, Bill Calhoun KISS ME KATE.

MUZZY VAN HOSSMERE - Jayne Blakemore

Jayne started dancing at the age of four at the Rome Weekes School of Dance. Joined the company as a dancer in 1999. She was later cast as Lottie in MACK AND MABEL, Anytime Annie in 42ND STREET, Flo Bates in HALF A SIXPENCE, and the lead role of Polly Baker CRAZY FOR YOU, With South Staffs Musical Theatre she played Sally Smith ME AND MY GIRL, Poopsie THE PAJAMA GAME and minor parts in CABARET and MY FAIR LADY.

DOROTHY PARKER - Angie Astell

MUSCOM for COPACABANA in 2003 and has thoroughly enjoyed every show since, Previous credits with other societies include Mrs Eynesford Hill MY FAIR LADY, Lady Battersby ME & MY GIRL and various principal roles in pantomime. Her professional career began here at the 'Grand' in the early seventies, Following this she went on to appear in many shows and cabarets both in England and abroad, These include 'The Black & white Minstrel show','The Ken Dodd show', 'The London Great Magic Show' and 'Karageorgis Cruises'. Choreography is also a passion in Angie's life which stems from her love for dance and musical theatre, She is delighted to be in 'Millie' and very much hopes you enjoy the show.

PRODUCTION OFFICIALS

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Our Patrons' and you the public for your continuing support,
The Manager and Staff of the Grand Theatre
United Reform Church, Penn Road for rehearsal facilities
The support of our advertisers
Properties by Howorth Wrightson of Manchester
Sheila and Kelly of Centreprint
Coles Furnishers of Bilston for transport
Dom Napier for Programme photographs
Wigs by Gary of Evesham and The Wig Room Basingstoke
Health and Safety Graham Tarbuck
Claire Andrews for rehearsal photographs

MESSAGES

Message from the President

Hello everyone

Once again it gives me much pleasure to welcome everyone to this very lively new show - indeed I could enjoy doing it myself. So much work is needed to produce a show to this standard and credit must be given to everyone involved. I recall over the years, the vitality and enjoyment shown by all on stage, and I know that this year will be no exception. I hope the show will be another success followed by many more.

Next year being the 70th anniversary of Muscom the company has decided to produce two shows, the ever popular "HELLO DOLLY" and "FAME". I was present at the 50th and 60th year celebrations and hope to be there for the 70th. However for the time being sit back and enjoy the show and thank you for your continued loyal support.

Richard Calkin - President

A very warm welcome and many thanks for coming to see the West Midland amateur premiere of Thoroughly Modern Millie. It becomes increasingly difficult for amateur companies to select musicals that will entice the general public to patronise them. It is with this in mind that Wolverhampton Musical Comedy Company regard themselves as very fortunate to have the opportunity to perform this lively, funny, colourful 1920's show.

Next year 2008 is our 70th anniversary and we hope to revive an old MUSCOM tradition of performing two musicals during the year. This will entail a lot of hard work and commitment, a challenge I am certain will be met with the usual enthusiasm of our company members.

In addition we have plans to produce a funny commemorative calendar for 2008 available for purchase from September 2007. If anyone would like to purchase a calendar please contact our patron or membership secretary or visit our website www.muscom-operatic.co.uk for more details.

All that is left for me to do is to encourage you to relax and for the next few hours lose yourselves in the magic of live theatre.

Marcelle Rollings - Chairman

As this is the first time for many years that I have tackled social events, I am a bit unsure of what to do - however we have just had quite an enjoyable buffet dance at the Quality Hotel, with 85 people attending, from Bilston Operatic and our own company, Our NODA councillor presented long service medals - 30 years to Jackie Andrews, 35 years to Jean and Ron Beard and a magnificent 50 years to Maria Robbins and Anne Palmer.

During our show week we shall have parties from the company visiting English, Italian and Indian venues, with a musical gathering in the bar on Saturday night.

At Christmas we had a 'Sandwich and a Pint' at the Holly Bush on the Penn Road - when over 70 people attended - plus our annual 'Bumper Hamper' raffle. Our Summer Supper Show at Perton was well attended and we have given, so far, two amounts of money to the Cystic Fibrosis Society and the Deansley Centre where we are sponsoring the quiet room refurbishment.

We look forward to the weddings of leading lady, Tasheka Brown, Joanne and Liz Bolton and Lynne Frost.

Raffles are held at our social events and back-stage at the Theatre - also the Summer Show. All monies to our social fund for charities.

Enjoy the show and join us again next year.

Olwen Rowley - Social Secretary