A BOHEMIAN BROADWAY

Billed as ‘A concert filled with hits from your favourite Broadway shows’ this was indeed a well constructed programme of musical numbers of various styles, tempo and moods.

‘Opening Up’ (Waitress) was a lively, fitting start to the evening with it’s lyrics so appropriate for a company obviously delighted to be back on stage after an enforced break due to Covid. There is an abundance of talent in this company with so many fabulous soloists whose performances were consistently high but also an ensemble whose choral work was very strong and harmonious throughout.

The ladies ‘At the Ballet’ (Chorus Line) had a lovely blend of voices whilst ‘Maybe This Time’ (Cabaret) was soulful and sexy. I was unfamiliar with the musical ‘Hadestown’ but found the number ‘All I’ve Ever Known’ quite compelling. This romantic duet was followed by a most stirring, punchy ‘At the End of the Day’ (Les Miserables) with great characterisation by all on stage who really threw themselves into the parts.

The contrasting change of mood of ‘He’s My Boy’ (Everybody’s Talking About Jamie) was extremely emotive as we learn of a mother’s love and support for her son and was portrayed with real passion and intensity. ‘Word’s Fail’ (Dear Evan Hanson) was one of those moments which had the audience transfixed as the soloist was immersed in the moment telling of the turmoil and trouble facing the young man. Evan Hanson. Extremely powerful and absolutely wonderful.

‘No Good Deed’ (Wicked) was belted out with real conviction and feeling. A neat, precise, lively ‘Supercalifragalistic’ (Mary Poppins) brought the first act to a rousing ending.

The second act got off to a cracking, stylish start with ‘Thoroughly Modern Millie’ (Thoroughly Modern Millie) and was followed by many more contrasting numbers. ‘No One Else’ (Comet) was another unfamiliar number but I was absorbed by this completely captivating performance. A plaintive ‘Old Friends’ (Merrily) was very well sung by the trio of friends and was followed by a most passionate, heart wrenching performance of ‘Back to Before’ (Ragtime).

The ensemble work, excellent throughout the programme, was perhaps at it’s best in the wonderful ‘Quiet Uptown’ (Hamilton) with strong choral singing but also convincing acting. The choreography and movement in this and all other ensemble numbers was imaginative, slick and executed with precision.

‘Losing my Mind’ (Follies) was yet another engaging performance as the mood built throughout the number. The duet ‘Seventeen’ (Heathers) was sung with utter sincerity.

‘I Don’t Need Your Love’ (Six) changed he mood and tempo once again with the six queens of Henry Eighth clearly telling their story and expressing their feelings about him culminating in a lively, raucous ending. A powerful ‘Nobody’s Side’ (Chess) demonstrated the vocal skills of the company.

This eclectic selection of familiar and not so familiar numbers combined to make an evening of fun and heart wrenching moments demonstrating the wealth of talent and versatility within this company. The cast and production team had undoubtedly put in an enormous amount of work and dedication to produce such an effervescent and diverse, smooth running production which was excellent both vocally and in it’s energetic , creative choreography. The small band also did themselves proud.

‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’ (All Shook Up) rounded off this most enjoyable evening giving a flavour of the Bo’s next full scale production in the Spring. I very much look forward to it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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