70 YEARS CENTRE STAGE

What a well thought-out compilation show, giving the audience a taste of who Letchworth Arcadians are and their past productions.

The choice of music gave us so many emotions synonymous with musical theatre, along with humour and marvellous attention to detail.  Compilation shows often become a run of songs, with not much else, but this was a treat for both the eyes and ears.  I thought the music was well-allocated to singers who were very talented and able to accept the challenge of many diverse songs.

The premise of the ensemble being on stage sat around tables was very inclusive for the audience, and I noticed that everyone on stage was fully engaged with the action too, which made it more pleasing for the audience.  It was very slick and well-rehearsed, with plenty of energy, and everyone enjoying a ‘good sing’ whilst making it so skilled and enjoyable.

The ladies all looked good in their various attire, mostly keeping away from complete black, with some nice pops of colour, with the men all very smart in their dinner suits.  Simple but effective.

Lighting was simple but good, and sound was excellent.  The balance between stage and band was well managed, so we always heard the performers but the accompaniment was interesting.

In a compilation show it is very much an ensemble show, and there were so many diverse and wonderful numbers with some stand out singers.  In a way it isn’t fair to single out performers, but I need to mention Adele Walker - such a beautiful full, rich voice, Gilly Mackilligan – skilful dancing in her numbers, Stephanie Seal – elegance, with lovely musicality and expression, along with some younger cast members with super voices.  Of the men, Harry Pearce and Ben Austin gave us real showmanship.  However, that should not take away from the rest of ensemble, who all sang their hearts out with expression and enthusiasm, with wonderful swells of sound in the big ensemble numbers and some lovely harmonies. 

I particularly enjoyed Mary and Robert Driver’s duet, and the finale was a definite favourite.

My thanks to Letchworth Arcadians for their hospitality, we had a thoroughly enjoyable and uplifting evening. 

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