ALL TOGETHER NOW

It was wonderful to, at last, take our seats in Rhyl Little Theatre and be part of the Company’s Welcome Back to the Theatre. Hundreds of amateur theatres nationwide, took part simultaneously nationwide over this special weekend. The licence holders MUSIC THEATRE INTERNATIONAL intended this project as a celebration that amateur theatre companies, could return to live performances once again.

The concert was a cocktail of many popular items from musical theatre, Directed by Jess Griffiths and Rhiannon Gordon with Gail Astle as Choreographer. The evening commenced with ‘Pure Imagination’ from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, which involved the whole ensemble.

One could see it in the faces of all on stage, how privileged they were being able to tread the boards again, and each player brought out the real meaning of each piece they were performing. The programme was very well thought out celebrating a broad spectrum of musical theatre and everyone had a chance to demonstrate their individual talent whether it be in song or dance. A highlight of the first act was a very powerful duet from Ashley McAllister and Nikki Renshaw of the ever popular ‘This is the Moment’ from ‘Jekyll and Hyde’. In contrast, Katii and Olivia’s contribution from their last production before Covid shutdown ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ of ‘Somewhere That’s Green was memorable’. Treasurer, Denise Murtha reflected on 2020 with many nostalgic moments.

Act 2 commenced with a video ‘Theatre Is’ with remarks from professional actors, musicians of what Theatre meant to them. ‘When I Grow Up’ from Matilda is always popular and the eight performers involved portrayed the characters to the delight of the audience. I loved ‘Supercalifragilistic’ performed by Delwen, Tom Katii together with a well-rehearsed Ensemble including all the hand movements – super choreography. Vice-Chair Nikki Renshaw stepped forward with a massive Thank You to all concerned, and I must mention the competent stage crew and all backstage, who carried out their tasks smoothly with no pause between items. The performance finished with a rousing ‘You Can’t Stop the Beat’ from ‘Hairspray’ leaving the audience and the whole company on a high.  

I was also delighted to present 14 NODA Long Service Awards to members of the company totalling 310 years, denoting their commitment to Amateur Theatre in this area.

Thank you everyone and I look forward to your production of ‘Sweet Charity’ next May. 

 

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