A Bohemian Fairy Tale

The Bohemians Fringe concert was billed as ‘A Magical Journey Through The Light And Dark Of Our Favourite Musicals’ and there certainly was plenty of light and shade in this extremely well balanced compilation of carefully chosen musical numbers. Beginning with the introduction ‘Once Upon A Time’ these magical numbers were linked with the occasional narratives which unfolded the fairytale story line.

This was very much a team effort with wonderful strong soloists and an ensemble which demonstrated excellent choral singing and real vitality.The playing area was used to great effect with imaginative choreography which was slick and vibrant throughout.

‘Touch the Sky’ got the production off to a cracking start and was followed by an animated ‘Macavity/He’s a Tramp (Medley). The two soloists complemented each other in a beautiful ‘Beauty and the Beast’ with the mood then changing to a powerful, animated ‘Monster' - Beth Crowley’. ’When She Loved Me’ and ‘Once Upon a Dream’ were both delivered with real feeling and emotion while the ladies ensemble ‘Hocus Pocus’ oozed personality and certainly did put a spell on us. The three ‘Witches of Eastwick’ had a wonderful blend of voices singing ‘Make Him Mine’.

The small of group of lads with fine voices gave a most relaxed performance of a selection of Sea Shanties and a rousing ‘Irish Rover’ which preceded the company’s ‘Little Mermaid Medley’. This section was extremely impressive both vocally and in it’s choreography. ‘Poor Unfortunate Souls’ was a real fun number which was well put across. ‘You Must Love Me’ was sung with real sincerity and I did enjoy the subtle interaction between the two performers. Things were really rocking in ‘Keep On Standing’ and the selection from ‘Kinky Boots’ with it’s soloists and full company in full swing was just WOW !

A fantastic ‘Holding Out for a Hero’ was sung with such panache and great ‘oomph’ and was obviously enjoyed by the entire company (and audience).

The final two numbers ‘Freak Flag Fly’ and ‘I’m A Believer’ gave a taste of what is to come in the Bohemians spring production ‘Shrek The Musical’ and was fabulous. A real positive advertisement for the show.

This was a first class concert with an extremely talented cast. The entire programme of contrasting numbers and moods was delivered with energy and style by all performers. All credit to the production team too who certainly brought out the very best in the company with fine singing and creative direction. The small supportive band was also in fine form.

This was wonderful hour of great variety and passion which I enjoyed immensely. Thank you.

 

 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.