Into The Light

This was my visit to Orchard Players in Capel St Mary and we were made very welcome by Glynn Hill. He explained that this was their first production since Covid and all their members were keen to get back on the stage again after such a long break. They wanted to produce a happy and uplifting show with that feel good factor and decided on a review. All members were asked what they would like to perform and they came up with a varied programme so there was something for all tastes to enjoy. I must add that they are well blessed with some good confident singers and dancers and some very brave young soloists.

They opened with the whole cast singing “I’d like to teach the world to sing” which they performed with energy and enthusiasm. Then Lauren Broom sang “Waving through the window”, which she also signed with great emotion and feeling. An excellent and extraordinary performance by Lauren. There were performances by the Juniors aged 9 to 13 and their next piece was well choreographed by Gracie Seager also aged just 13.

Amanda Dack gave us “One on the way” with a country and western feel and injected with a bit of comedy. The talented ladies chorus gave us some lovely pieces with good harmonies and solos. The first half ended with an energetic performance of “Time Warp” by the whole cast with, again, some nice choreography.

In the second half I must mention two of the younger singers Lola Miller and Analeigh Perera who delighted us with their solos. “Master of the house” was well performed by the adults with just the right amount of spice! The songs and dances just kept coming with some great performances. They ended with a few songs in tribute to “The Rat Pack” including “Mack the Knife” and “That’s Life” in which the men really excelled. This section was completed with a rousing rendition of “New York New York” with the singers mingling with the audience to good effect. As with all shows it is impossible to mention all performers by name but rest assured you all did very well.

Maria King, who was also involved in singing some of the songs, had certainly done a beautiful job and you could feel her encouragement going out to all her singers which was complimented by her 5 piece band. The numerous choreographers had all done a great job in getting the best out of their dancers. Costumes were all appropriate, with some bright, colourful and well fitting dresses. There was no set as such although the lighting was good in keeping a change in the moods for the different songs.

There is always a large production team required behind the scenes and thanks must go to them all. Well done to Glyn and all his cast and crew for giving us all a most enjoyable evening.

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