AIDA

Elton John and Tim Rice's 'Aida' has never been professionally staged in the U.K and so it is on the shoulders of this great youth company to bring us the North Wales premier and many of the audiences first viewing of this great show.

The musical took the Tony award in 2000 for the best original score and we were immediately reassured that this award winning music was in safe hands with Sophie Roberts as Amneris' impressive opening song. Later in the show Sophie had more scope to blow the audience away with 'I know the truth'.

Charlotte Forfar in the title role gave a powerful and honest performance, again with stunning vocals that bowled over the audience. Christopher Bewsher's stage presence gave the aura of a great leader. In short all of the leading and supporting roles handled the production with experience and maturity. Llandudno Youth Music is clearly an exceptional training ground for any young talent.

It would be remiss not to give huge credit to a vocally incredible ensemble. The company numbers were performed and sung beautifully and 'The Gods Love Nubia' sent shivers to the spine to end the first act. As well as having a company of strong leads, many of the chorus had a strong presence - Kayleigh Hoe Pike really caught the audience’s attention.

The company offered the warmest of welcomes and credit is due to all those who ensure their productions are a roaring success as 'Aida' most certainly was.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.