Happy & Glorious

A series of concerts at local venues gave the audience a great opportunity to enjoy Colchester Operatic Society’s tribute and celebration in song for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.
From the 50’s through to the 00’s each section included songs which were popular at the respective decade which was very enjoyable. Starting with” Zadoc the Priest” the Coronation Anthem, and finishing with God Save the Queen, the selection was varied with so many solo’s it would not be possible to name them all but some of the “stand out” numbers included. Lydia Bell singing “Secret Love”, John Enfield & Nick Clough with “Wake up Little Suzie. Goldfinger was well choreographed, and “From Russia With Love” very well sung by Grant Boroff. “Annie’s Song” from the 70’s sung by the company was well balanced and good harmonies came through. It was evident that a few more men would have made for a fuller sound in some numbers. Twenty six ladies against twelve men, a big ask for the men.
I also enjoyed “Summer Nights” very much.
Then into the 80’s, “Anthem” very well sung by Michael Wiseman & Company was stirring, as was “One Day More” from” Les Miserables.A difficult number to try to get all the character parts coming through clearly. “Circle of Life” from The Lion King was excellent with David Rutter on the solo line. All the company numbers were enjoyable. I was not sure about the cast moving on and off during the performance but with other venues to consider perhaps this was taken into consideration and the best option?
Full credit must go to superb accompanist and Musical Director Robert Miles also Neil Somerville who did a good deal of work with the company earlier on.
Robin Fritz narrating the show was very entertaining with some interesting information conveyed in a relaxed manner.
A full evening of song was most enjoyable .I am sure that the audiences went away humming many of the tunes.

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