CHILDREN OF EDEN

Llandudno Youth Music Theatre (LYMT) are a shining beacon amongst Youth Theatres and this was my 3rd visit after seeing ‘Aida’ and ‘13’ previously. It was also the first time for me to see the much talked about ‘Children of Eden’.

This show is the account of The Creation in Genesis and it follows through to chapter six in which Noah is chosen by God to build an ark and save his family, along with two of each animal. Although it is my first time to see the show I am familiar and a fan of the music in the show. The show lends itself to a large company and offers many speaking and singing roles which makes it an ideal choice for youth theatres to perform. It also makes writing the review a difficult task having witnessed so many outstanding performances.

I must talk firstly about the company and how they owned the material. Children of Eden is by no means an easy sing and coupled with the band and MD being positioned behind the stage it meant that every member had to be very well rehearsed in order to produce the wonderful sound that they did on their opening night.

We were immediately introduced to the 3 characters that would lead us through Act 1. Sam Harvey’s Father was a delight and we were instantly assured we were in safe hands. His vocal range is impressive and he had such wonderful presence that the performer playing this part needs in abundance. Tomos Jones as Adam teamed with Kerry Parvin as Eve are perfect and are utterly believable as they face the challenges of life set before them. A favourite number for me was ‘In Pursuit of Excellence’ with Pedr Davies as Snake. Costumed exquisitely and choreographed in the style of Fosse this number was a real show stopper with Pedr showing he is a very accomplished performer.

The great success of LYMT is the number of young men who are part of the company. They must be the envy of adult societies throughout Wales, this is evident as we are introduced to a whole new principal cast for Act 2.

Act 2 took us to the next story with Daniel Bewsher as a strong Noah and Laura O’Hanlon Elms as his wife. It was Hannah Hornsby with her ethereal presence and her strong acting ability that wowed the audience in this story. She was well supported by the principals of Act 2 and her ‘Stranger to the Rain’ drew the audience in and ensured they were routing for her.

Technically the show was superb with great use of the open space. The costumes colourful and very suited to characters. I am looking forward to hearing what LYMT’s next production will be.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.