40 Years – Still not famous

A cabaret layout with supper was an evening of celebration of 40 years from North Ormesby Minstrels set to satisfy all.

A first half set in school brought some lovely singing from solos to full cast and choreography that was both set and rehearsed well.  The opening number in school costumes commenced with a solo verse from Theo Nolan, beautifully sung, and then joined by the other "kids" of all ages.  An intro was acted out in a lovely sketch from Jill Stephenson, Melissa Brant-Smith and Helen Brooks. The full cast with the teachers too, then filled the stage following with a pop number that was nicely set and well danced. Founder members Bill Edwards and Keith Lewis began a repeating interruption of “Brush up your Shakespeare”, providing lovely comedy moments through the evening.  A full cast number of “Thirteen” was done with good choreography, followed by “If only you would listen” that was sung with lovely harmonies. Mary Sproxton sung “Slipping through my fingers” beautifully with added drama giving a moving performance, and Gina McBride followed with a modern number “Facebook Song” set with humour and movement on drama boxes well done. The first half closed with a selection of Matilda including good choreography and clever use of the boxes and lastly with the full cast using the entire staging well and good choreography rehearsed well.

Following a lovely 2 course meal, served most efficiently for the packed venue, very impressive, while the projector showed a selection of past productions and film clips, Act II continued as a selection of cabaret style songs but starting with another sketch as a history moment. The programme was filled with selections from shows and pop with colourful costumes and mixing solos, duets, ensembles and full cast numbers.  Pop song “Sherry” was very well sung by the three Nolan brothers, James Foster and Thomas Allen, and followed by “My eyes adored you” with the other men and gave some really lovely harmonies.  Alice Maenami gave a great solo, “Popular”, with great animation and super voice. “Putting on the Ritz” was well choreographed with the tappers and joined by full cast to be followed by “Let’s Face the Music and Dance”, and the evening concluded with Karen Coates singing “Singing in the Rain” and being joined by the full cast with colourful brollies, in well drilled movement and a great finale.  

A great 22 songs selection, well performed, and good lighting and sound throughout gave a truly enjoyable evening. Well Done Minstrels, the next 40 years will be a doddle!

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