Bohemians Reimagined!

This was an extremely well constructed programme of musical numbers, many familiar but also several which were less well known to me. It is always refreshing to hear something different and this was certainly the case here as songs traditionally sung by female characters were sung by men and vice versa hence the fitting title ‘Reimagined.’

What was most striking was the tremendous wealth of talent and versatility in this company. With every number as impressive as the one before and with so many excellent soloists it is impossible, almost unfair to single out any individual or number.

‘Hello’(Book of Morman) got the evening off to an interesting start and was followed by a well choreographed ‘I’ll Make a Man’(Mulan). The three gents blended so well vocally ‘At the Ballet’ (A Chorus Line) while ‘Elephant Love Medley’ (Moulin Rouge) soloists had a real chemistry and connection. ‘Once We Were Kings’ (Billy Elliot) showcasing the strength of the choral singing was extremely emotive and contrasted with ‘Sit Down You’re Rockin the Boat’ (Guys and Dolls) with it’s dynamic singing and dancing. ‘Not a Day Goes By’ (Merrily We Roll Along) was sung with real sincerity as was ‘Burn’ (Hamilton), a new one to me. One of the most amusing numbers was the men in ‘Cell Block Tango’ (Chicago) delivered with panache.The powerful ‘New Music’ (Ragtime) and ‘You’ll Be Found’ (Dear Evan Hansen), another unfamiliar number, once again demonstrated a wonderful blend of voices. ‘You and I’ (Chess) was beautifully sung and calmed the moment before the energetic, boisterous ‘This is Me’ (The Greatest Showman) where the entire company had a real blast closing the first act.

The male soloist,complete with high heeled shoes and moving through the auditorium delivered a most interesting arrangement of ‘You’ll Never Walk Alone’ (Carousel) and more fun was to follow with ‘Summer Nights’ (Grease) with the male Sandys and female Dannys. I did enjoy ‘Natural Woman’ (Beautiful) with a strong soloist and backing group. ‘Avenue Q’ is a show I haven’t seen but the most exuberant two gents in ‘Schadenfreude’ were a real treat. The pace was changed with ‘You Matter to Me’ (Waitress) sung with great feeling and a haunting ‘Being Alive’ (Company).

One of the most difficult numbers ‘You’re Gonna Love Tomorrow’ (Follies) was very well put across as was the jazzy ‘Summertime’ (Porgy and Bess) and ‘Fine’ (Ordinary Days) where the duo oozed personality.‘I Got Rhythm’ (Crazy For You) also demonstrated some fine dancing as did ‘You’re the Top’ (Anything Goes). ‘Blue Skies’ (White Christmas) went with a swing and the final two numbers ‘Boulevard of Broken Dreams (American Idol) and ‘It’s Your Wedding Day’ (The Weddding Singer) once again showcased the fabulous choral sound and energy apparent throughout the evening.

This was a most impressive production of a consistently high standard both vocally and in performance. Orchestrations and vocal arrangements are to be applauded as is the imaginative, energetic choreography by the team of four choreographers,

Excellent soloists, strong choral work and slick choreography resulted in a fabulous, polished evenings entertainment obviously enjoyed by both performers and audience.

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