CABARET ON BROADWAY

Last night, Alnwick Stage Musical Society gave us CABARET ON BROADWAY in the newly refurbished Alnwick Playhouse, and we were absolutely ‘blown away’ by this hugely talented group of entertainers.

The packed auditorium held an air of expectancy as we arrived to witness a multi-level stage, nicely dressed, incorporating the excellent five-piece band at high level, with cabaret-style tables and seating on either side and to the front.

When the action began, Musical Director Peter Brown; from his own keyboard, treated us to a splendid rendition of ‘Wilkommen’ from Cabaret. He then carried on to be our host for the rest of the evening; providing witty and comic dialogue which linked the musical items beautifully.

This is much more than just an award-winning concert…. The idea was first conceived in 2017; written, developed, directed, choreographed and produced by Leonie Airlie and Kellie Hughes (aka L & K Productions)… it is a show in itself, ‘successfully intertwining the story of the struggles, hopes, disappointments and triumphs of life on the stage’. It is, also, in my opinion, a very saleable commodity, of which they should be immensely proud.

The excellent variety and quality of the thirty-two musical pieces provided a superb vehicle for every single one of the twenty plus performers on stage; all of whom delivered superbly and confidently throughout the two hours production. It was the last thing the Group performed and deservedly won an award for before lockdown, so it was only right that they revived it for their long-awaited return.

I know it is wrong to single out anyone for particular mention, especially when every one of the pieces was remarkable in itself; however, two of the items moved me very much – ‘I Remember It Well’ from GIGI - beautifully sung and acted by Arlene Cadman and Stuart Archer, and ‘As If We Never Said Goodbye’ from SUNSET BOULEVARD - emotionally portrayed by Diane Maughan. Both of which brought a tear to this writer’s eye.

After a truly splendid and colourful show, excellently costumed and with tremendous lighting and sound, we were given a thrilling performance of the finale’ number; a cleverly concocted mix of ‘The Greatest Show’ and ‘We Will Rock You’, the audience was immediately on its feet with well-deserved rapturous applause.

This is the first time I have seen ASMS… I’m sure it won’t be the last!. Congratulations to the whole Team for a tremendous night’s entertainment , and also for the photo opportunity at the interval. It was a pleasure to meet you, and many thanks from National President Gordon, Regional Councillor Peter and myself for the invitation. We all enjoyed it very much!.

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