25 Years in the Spotlight

25 Years in the Spotlight

Bridlingtion Amateur Operatic and Dramatic Society

 

Director & Choreographer’s Becky Arundel & Katy Maynard, Musical Director Geoff Allanach

31st July 2025

From the moment you stepped into the venue, you could feel the warmth radiating from both the audience, the performers and the crew. 25 Years in the Spotlight wasn’t just a show – it was a celebration of talent, community, and the sheer joy of musical theatre. The whole evening was relaxed and thoroughly enjoyable, packed with a mix of numbers from musicals old and new. It struck a beautiful balance between light-hearted fun and some genuinely moving moments – a rollercoaster of emotions in the best possible way. The set design really added to the magic: a multi-level stage added depth, and the clever use of projected backdrops made transitions smooth and seamless.

But what really took this show to another level was the way the space was used. The cast didn’t just stay on stage – they broke the fourth wall completely, entering from every door and moving through the audience. It created an immersive experience that made you feel like part of the action. Hats off to directors and choreographers Becky Arundel and Katy Maynard, who clearly put so much thought and heart into every aspect of this production. And of course, a special shoutout is due to the show’s musical rock – Geoff Allanach. As musical director, he didn’t get a moment to breathe, playing nonstop and even getting involved in the show at times. His seamless playing kept the energy flowing from start to finish – a true star behind the scenes (and sometimes, in front!).

Costumes were spot on too – helping the cast really become the characters and adding to the overall polish of the production. The opening number of Act 1 was a big, bold medley that brought the full cast out swinging, setting the tone perfectly. And Act 1’s closing Wizard of Oz section was pure energy – it built up such excitement you couldn’t wait for Act 2 to begin.

With so many well-loved musicals featured, we got treated to multiple songs from fan favourites – and what a treat it was! A mini Chicago trilogy dazzled in Act 2, starting with Becky Arundel leading a slick ‘All That Jazz’ with Manda Holderness, Daisy Wynn, Rebecca Smith, Livvy Kitchen, Erin Jones, Chloe Cocking & Maddie Fisher – a true Fosse moment. Then came a fierce and fiery ‘Cell Block Tango’ featuring Katy Maynard, Daisy Wynn, Hannah Gilson, Rebecca Smith, Millie Gladstone & Millie Matheson. Rounding it off was a cheeky, whimsical version of ‘Razzle Dazzle’ by Rick Windley, with support from Rebecca Smith and Millie Matheson. Oliver! came to life too with a rousing ‘Oom Pah Pah’ led by Laura Jenkinson and som =e of the cast accompanying and a delightful ‘Pick a Pocket’ from Pauline Pope and Toby Hatt. Les Misérables brought the goosebumps – Adam Cockerill’s heartfelt ‘Bring Him Home’ and Miayh Rollisson’s emotional ‘On My Own’ were both stunning, pin-drop moments.

Among the many brilliant group numbers was a sweet and smile-inducing version of ‘Rockin’ Robin’, and the always-charismatic Liam Hatt leading a joyful ‘Dancing Through Life’. The comic moments were top tier too – cheeky, clever, and downright hilarious! Lloyd Robinson shone as a very cheeky Bert in ‘Chim Chim Cheree’, while Hannah Gilson had the crowd in stitches with ‘Sexual Happening’, joined by some brave (and very funny) male cast members. There was a beautiful nod to the late, great Victoria Wood with Victoria Mitchell’s fab take on ‘Let’s Do It’, and the audience was in absolute fits of giggles during Rick Windley and Chris Dart’s perfectly timed performance of Hairspray’s ‘Timeless to Me’. Caitlyn Painted also deserves huge applause for her professional and poignant rendition of ‘Nothing’ – it was just spot on.

The duets were just as impressive – a tearjerking ‘Dear Theodosia’ from Adam Cockerill and Liam Hatt, and a stunningly delivered ‘Suddenly Seymour’ from James Ireland and Livvy Kitchen. Ireland returned with Rick Windley for ‘Otherside’ from The Greatest Showman – an incredibly tight piece, full of complex choreography and clever prop work that really showcased their musicality and timing. Other joyful highlights included Mike Sheldon and Giannabella Craven with the classic ‘I Don’t Need Anything But You’, and Maggie Davison and Chris Dart going toe-to-toe in ‘Anything You Can Do’ – brilliant stuff.

And then… that final number. From Now On brought the whole cast together in a powerful, unified finish. It was moving, beautifully executed, and left the audience on a high but with a tear in their eye. The perfect end to a truly heartfelt celebration. What made this show so special wasn’t just the incredible talent or clever direction – it was the feeling of love and togetherness that flowed through every scene. A touching tribute to a much-loved member, this show was a true testament to how much this society cares for one another – on and off stage.

Honestly, I could go on for pages about each and every song, but instead I’ll say this: I’ve already booked to see it again – and I can’t offer higher praise than that. If you haven’t seen it yet, grab your ticket and prepare for a night full of warmth, laughter, and outstanding entertainment.

Bridlington Spotlight – congratulations on 25 amazing years. Here’s to many more.

 

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