A Trip Down Easy Street

‘A Trip Down Easy Street’ was a wonderful compilation of all the shows performed over the past ten years by this vibrant group who under the expert leadership of this experienced Production Team, presented a superb afternoon’s entertainment.  As well as selecting the numbers used in this compilation, Choreographer, Amanda Tyas, had developed routines which suited the mix of ages and abilities on stage as well as ensuring that the whole presentation flowed.  Musical Director, Gareth Lloyd, had clearly supported the young people to give great performances of the musical numbers and Sallianne Foster-Major, as Director, inspired these young people to new heights.

The range of shows available to the group to perform was very varied as they always try to demonstrate great diversity in their selection of productions.  There were many strong solo performances and these worked well with the production numbers which included the ensemble.  ‘One Brick at A Time’ (Barnum) and the selections from Les Miserables were highlights for me in the first half, but every number was performed with enthusiasm and energy.  It was also great to experience numbers from 'Into the Woods' which saw the Easy Street Elite tackle this difficult Sondheim piece.

The younger members of the company gave a super rendition of ‘Food Glorious Food’ and ‘Who Will Buy?’ and the selection of songs from 'Sister Act' and 'West Side Story' was perfect to showcase the talents of this group.  Every number was well performed, with strong vocals, great movement and excellent use of the performance space. 

The Easy Street Alumni were invited back to be part of this production and the fact that so many of them participated demonstrates the value they placed on their Easy Street experience and their continued support for the group.  Their presentation of ‘What I Did for Love’ was stunning.

The conclusion of the afternoon’s entertainment was a wonderful production number from their forthcoming show 'Chicago' and it was an excellent promise of things to come as this group goes from strength to strength.  Easy Street champions everything that youth theatre should be – brave, bold, supportive, creative, inspiring and hard working - where wonderful friendships can be developed, difficult lessons learned (in a safe environment), all with a recognition that what happens on stage is only part of the journey and the life experience for the young people involved.

Congratulations to everyone who worked on this production and who supports Easy Street Theatre Company.  Here’s to the next 10 years!

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