With a well-disciplined cast of 40, the talented youth group ACT Too provided an evening of great entertainment that delighted the filled-to-capacity audience.

The story of gang warfare during the prohibition era is dealt with in a light-hearted way with battles being fought with splurge guns and custard pies.

The character of Bugsy Malone is a difficult one that tests not only the acting skills of the cast but also singing and dancing ability. Joseph Otway, in the title role, gave a delightful and assured performance.

Sarah Milner and Leanne Jones, as the two women in Bugsy's life, gave excellent, contrasting performances - one sweet and naive, the other a vamp.

The music and lyrics are difficult for young voices, providing a challenge that the cast met well.

However, while they received good support from the live orchestra, there were times during solos when the music needed to be quieter - but this is a minor quibble when weighed against the stregth of the production.

With the whole cast showing so much talent and enthusiasm, it is no wonder the entire run was sold out.

Review by Barrie Jerram, features@theargus.co.uk