Encore - A Musical Celebration!

Encore! – A Musical Celebration – A true tribute to the 135-year legacy of TWODS, celebrating not only the society’s rich history but also the vibrant future it continues to shape. Remarkably, this milestone exceeds even NODA’s own history by a full decade. Despite being a one-night-only performance, TWODS spared no effort in making the evening a dazzling experience, from the opulent VIP tables to the diverse array of musical genres that are synonymous with theatre. It was a true pleasure to see former performers returning to the stage with their signature style and panache, effortlessly commanding the spotlight.

The evening’s program, inspired by the TWODS archives, highlighted the most iconic musical moments from the past 30 years. The result was a captivating journey through the society’s history, seamlessly woven into the performance.

The Front of House team deserves high praise for their meticulous preparation of the venue, transforming it into a glitzy, glamorous setting perfect for the occasion. The hall was divided into two sections: a raised seating area at the back, and ten round tables on the floor, each elegantly decorated to evoke the atmosphere of a chic nightclub or high-end gathering. This innovative layout perfectly complemented the VIP reception held beforehand, where guests were treated to canapés and interesting conversation.

The souvenir program was a real treasure—full of fascinating facts about the society and its performances. It offered a glimpse into TWODS’ legacy and included a special acknowledgment from director Rebecca Clow, who thanked those who work behind the scenes—backstage crews, front-of-house staff, and wardrobe teams—making clear that their contributions were celebrated just as much as those of the performers. The newly introduced NODA branding was also proudly displayed.

The performance took place on a simple yet effective stage, with rostra positioned at the rear stage right and the band carefully arranged diagonally on stage left. The props, though minimal, were thoughtfully used to enhance the action—for instance, the colourful umbrellas in the ‘Singin’ in the Rain number. A particularly touching moment of the evening featured a montage of archive material, showcasing performers of all ages and leading into a moving rendition of As If We Never Said Goodbye from Sunset Boulevard.

The lighting and sound were nothing short of first-class, with artistic and imaginative touches elevating the overall experience. The sound, in particular, was striking, ensuring that every note was crystal clear and every nuance was captured.

Though the nature of a compilation show doesn't allow for the full costumes of specific productions, TWODS skillfully conveyed the essence of each piece through subtle costume changes, smoothly executed throughout the evening. The band, led by the exceptionally talented Musical Director Cormac Dorian, demonstrated their versatility, masterfully handling a wide variety of musical styles. Special recognition also goes to Ben Knowles for his inspired arrangements and seamless transitions between numbers.

The cast’s performance was a triumph in every regard. Their diction and intonation were exemplary, and their close harmony singing was a true highlight. The choreography, too, was a standout, thanks to the creativity of the choreographers. The numbers for Macavity, Singin’ in the Rain, and Tonight were particularly noteworthy, with the cast fully engaging in every movement, their enthusiasm shining through in each step.

In summary, Encore! was a spectacular evening of glamour, music, and superb singing. The audience showed their sincere appreciation for the immense effort that went into creating this exceptional show. It’s a pity it was a one-night event, as it truly deserved more. A special mention must go to all the individuals who contributed to the success of Encore!, particularly those who coordinated the show’s content—demonstrating the exceptional talent that runs through TWODS.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.