BAOS Underground

BAOS presented a fabulous programme of (in their own words) Underground, Underrated, and Unforgettable songs, you didn’t know you’d love. I personally loved the selection of songs chosen, some faves of mine amongst them. There was an excellent range of styles, groupings and paces to ensure plenty of variation – essential for a successful concert.

Right from the start the company showed they meant business with “Larger Than Life” from &Juliet, performing with so much energy and enthusiasm. I was truly blown away by the incredibly high standard of singing and dancing throughout. Everything was so slick, from the choreography to the seamless passing of microphones and the smooth transitions between each number. Every single person on that stage, gave 100% it was brilliant to see.

The fabulous 4-piece band were positioned at the back of the raised stage on a further raised area, a star back cloth behind, two smaller raised staging in front of this to give some levels, but keeping the stage mainly clear for the 23 strong cast. The cabaret table style seating at the front worked well. The simple staging worked really well and properties, where used were effective.

The Lighting for a small venue was very impressive in terms of quality, depth and type - from the excellent range of colour and effect coverage, through to the star-cloth, stair LEDs and side flats. These were all well-used and varied to enhance the performance – ‘Mad Hatter’, ‘Tango D’Amor’ and ‘Who Wants To Live Forever’ being particularly memorable. The Sound did have some difficulties with balance on occasion; the hand microphones seemed to work better than the radio mics in terms of clarity. Costumes worked well with a loose theme, with suitable make-up.

As previously mentioned, the programme, was very well thought out with some great numbers included from solos, duets, small group and full cast numbers. We can’t mention every number but personal highlights for me included “ Larger Than Life” from & Juliet, such a great opener and performed with gusto, “My Junk” from Spring Awakening, which was beautiful, “Hard to Be The Bard”, brilliantly characterised, and great choreography, and “One Knight” from Wonderland, which was brilliantly staged and performed, you really got the boyband feel down. MD Tom De Val had developed/ sourced some great arrangements. The close harmonies were so well drilled and performed so well, just beautiful.

I note there were 10 choreographers credited in the programme, but the choreography felt seamless, it was so slick and well executed by everyone. The dancing was a real feature of this concert and so strong throughout.

Overall, this concert was a great evening’s entertainment and well done to all involved on a fabulous concert. I have scanned the QR code in the programme and added the songs to my Spotify already, a great idea. 

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