Best of British

It was a true pleasure to receive such a warm welcome from the Vane Tempest Theatre Group as they proudly presented their 2025 concert. In keeping with tradition, this year’s performance was titled “Best of British,” celebrating iconic songs from across the UK, both past and present. The concert also featured two short comedic sketches, giving the performers a chance to catch their breath while adding a delightful touch of humour.

The entire evening was seamlessly tied together by the multi-talented Ben Wardropper, who served as musical director, accompanist, and resident comedian. His witty interludes between numbers kept the audience thoroughly entertained.

One of Vane Tempest’s greatest strengths is their ability to deliver musical numbers with rich harmonies. With a strong cast of twenty-three women and five men, all dressed in black with red, white, and blue sashes, they certainly delivered.

The show opened with a powerful Queen medley, “We Will Rock You,” “A Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” and “We Are the Champions,” setting the tone for a high-energy evening. This was followed by a beautifully harmonized rendition of Coldplay’s “Yellow,” and a fun, spirited performance of the Spice Girls’ “Wannabe,” led by the charismatic Bex Crawford.

A tribute to James Bond featured Ashleigh Hallimond’s stunning vocals on “No Time to Die,” followed by a moving group performance of “Skyfall.” The journey then took us to Scotland, with a traditional folk ballad “Caledonia” sang by Suzanne Armitage and Sarah Hamblett, a lovely clarinet-accompanied “Mull of Kintyre” by Suzy Wake, and a rousing rendition of The Proclaimers’ “Sunshine on Leith.”

The first sketch, “Those Were the Days,” performed by Gemma Parnaby, Kerry Robinson, and Helen Southwick, was a humorous and touching portrayal of three elderly friends reminiscing—well acted and warmly received.

Carolyn Adgar and Keith Armitage brought great comedic timing to “Will I What,” followed by energetic performances of “Rock Around the Clock” and “Crocodile Rock.” A standout solo came from Charlotte Gibson, who delivered a powerful and confident rendition of “I Know I Have a Heart” from Cinderella.

Act One concluded with a medley from Oliver! a fitting tribute to one of Britain’s most beloved musicals.

Act Two opened with Kathleen Carter and Lindsey Southwick leading the chorus in a touching version of The Vicar of Dibley’s theme, “The Lord is My Shepherd.” A VE Day tribute followed, featuring Diane Henderson’s beautiful performance of “White Cliffs of Dover,” alongside “When the Lights Go On” and “We’ll Meet Again.”

The second sketch, featuring Ian Dodd, Charlie Patten, Diane Henderson, and Suzy Wake, was hilariously unexpected—who knew Vane Tempest had a Polish pole dancer in their ranks?

The chorus then showcased their vocal prowess with “Delilah,” “Holding Out for a Hero,” and the heartfelt “We’ll Keep a Welcome in the Hillside,” led by Ben Wardropper. The tempo picked up with “Making Your Mind Up” by Bucks Fizz, followed by a nostalgic performance of “The Lambton Worm” by Suzy Wake and Lesley Livingstone.

The highlight of the evening was Nick Thompson and the cast’s moving rendition of “Once We Were Kings” from Billy Elliot—a powerful number that beautifully teased their upcoming November production, The Bitter Taste of Coal.

The concert concluded with the uplifting “A Place in the Choir,” a perfect ending to a thoroughly enjoyable evening.

Bravo to the entire cast and crew! The audience loved every moment, and I am already looking forward to your next production in November.

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