A Grand Night For Singing

Brierley Hill Musical Theatre Company (BHMTC) were celebrating 75 years of musical theatre and as the title states it really was “A Grand Night for Singing” as the appreciative audience were taken on a magical musical journey through some of the favourite more traditional musicals.

Also more modern up to date selections had been chosen along with a couple of compilations to show the true versatility of the company members.

Compère Chris Psaras opened the proceedings with a brief introduction adding a few facts about the past history of the society, he also went on to mention many names of past members throughout the evening, it was very interesting  to read the back of the programme where we were able to read the story of how BHMTC developed and grew into the current society.

“Another Op’ nin’ Another Show” was a rousing start enabling the large chorus to show their best strengths. Claire Halfords ‘I Don’t Know How to Love Him’ was sang with such tenderness, it was beautiful. “I Could Have Danced All Night” was performed with light and shade by Sian Hickman .We were then treated to some excerpts from the show “Matilda” by the talented youth group, always the stars of the future. One of my  favourite performances of the evening was that of Jess Skidmore singing ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’

Following the interval, we were in for a treat with Stephen Homers charismatic soulful ‘Luck be a Lady Tonight’. One of my favourite musicals ever is Jekyll and Hyde” and I was delighted to see “Someone Like You” on the agenda, performed effortlessly by Jess. I also really enjoyed Kellie Homer along with the chorus singing “A Million Dreams”.

Without mentioning each number listed in the programme I would like to add comment that there was something for every musical taste. Included in the evening were two very comprehensive medley sections, the first being “Wizard of Oz”  which included the songs, “Ding Dong The Witch is Dead”, “Yellow Brick Road” and “We’re Off to See The Wizard” amongst them.

Also a selection in Act 2 from “Hairspray” with great energetic choreography, unfortunately the singing couldn’t be heard at this point.
High light of the evening for me has to be Meg and Rhi Luckins with a number unknown to me “Harden My Heart” from The musical “Rock of Ages”, Thank you as is now on my playlist.

In the tradition of saving the best until last, we were introduced to a very special guest the lovely Betty Banks who did her rendition of “Hello Dolly!” which was superb. BHMTC you have some very talented people in your company, looking at your audience and how much they enjoyed the evening you appear to have a great number of supporters. I am also so impressed that you are still able to make charitable donations when times are currently so hard in amateur theatre following Covid, I am sure every penny is truly appreciated.

Finally, Thank you for making myself and my husband feel so welcome and taking time to have a chat beforehand, we both had a very enjoyable evening.

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