Hey Mr. Composer

South Shields Gilbert and Sullivan Musical Society's Hey Mr Composer was exactly what it promised to be – a joyous celebration of some of musical theatre's greatest songwriters, and what a celebration it proved to be.

Split into five themed sections across two halves, the concert paid tribute to the genius of Sondheim, Lloyd Webber, Kander and Ebb, Jason Robert Brown, and Pasek and Paul. It was a masterclass in how to put together a concert programme: thoughtfully curated, beautifully paced, and packed with emotion.

Huge congratulations must go to Steph, Rebecca, Julie and Karen for creating a show that embraced every feeling musical theatre allows us to experience. The arrangements, the staging the flow, and the band led by Jonny Winter - all beautiful. From laughter to heartbreak, nostalgia to exhilaration, the evening had it all.

What was particularly special was the way the concert showcased every member of the company. The joy and enthusiasm for performing positively tumbled off the stage in every number. From the moment the show began, the energy never dipped, and I genuinely didn't want the evening to end.

There were countless highlights. Stephanie’s performance of Children will Listen, captivating. Rebecca's performance of Uncoupled was delightfully hilarious, while Sarah and David's rendition of The Phantom of the Opera had the audience on the edge of their seats, - just wow! Di delivered Cabaret as a mini masterclass in storytelling through song, and Hazel's beautifully judged performance of Maybe This Time was simply stunning.

I also loved being introduced to songs and shows I hadn't encountered before. Opening with The Frogs, Rosie and Hazel offered audiences some witty and friendly theatre etiquette advice – an inspired touch. Rosie's performance of In Short from Edges was fantastic and left me eager to discover more from the show. And songs that aren’t performed as much such as the gorgeous Songs from a New World, performed to perfection by Sarah, Rosie, Stephanie and Dan.

Most of all, this concert reminded us why we love musical theatre: its ability to connect, inspire and entertain. Congratulations to the entire cast, crew and creative team for an evening that, in the immortal words of Pasek and Paul, truly was The Greatest Show.

I already can't wait to see what South Shields Gilbert and Sullivan Musical Society do next. Bravo to everyone involved.

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