It's A Musicals Life

As the title suggests this revue was to follow the life of a ‘musical’ and the opening number ‘It’s Not Where You Start, It’s Where You Finish’ was a perfect choice for the beginning of this journey. “I have a Dream” was the first section and included solos, duets and ensemble pieces. I cannot go into detail about each item in the various sections but I will mention some of my favourites. All the ensemble pieces in this section were well sung, colourful and nicely choreographed and the Men excelled in ‘When I Get My Name in Lights’ and Ellie Mallinson’s interpretation of ‘I Want To Make Magic’ was, magic! The first sketch of the night was of a Ballet Audition where Barbara Ashmore was trying to impress director Keith Scott-Savage with her dancing skills which were indeed, outstandingly delivered and very funny! Sandwiched between this and another sketch ‘Twinkle, Twinkle Little Stars’- Part One about rehearsing for a school Nativity play, was a great song and tap dance routine ‘Gotta Dance’ performed by the ensemble. The next section was entitled “I Hope I Get It” and contained some really first-rate numbers. Phil Stanley was enjoying every moment with the Ladies in ‘I’d Do Anything’, the two numbers from Jersey Boys were splendid, especially the brilliant falsetto singing of Rob Chiltern in ‘Walk Like A Man’, Brian Counter and Michael Foster ‘Brushed up Shakespeare’ very well and the the closing three ensemble numbers were extremely well sung and choreographed - loved the clapping! Act Two was about “Life upon the Wicked Stage” and contained again, some excellent ensemble numbers with some polished dance routines. I particularly liked ‘Broadway Baby’ with Debs Mcpherson, Emma Brookes and Paul Brenham and ‘If My Friends Could See Me Now’. Then came Part Two of the sketch which was the actual performance of the Nativity in front of an ‘audience’ it was well acted but such a shame “that she couldn’t be Mary”!!! A lively dance routine of ‘Fame’ followed before we went into the last section ”There’s No Business Like Showbusiness”. This finale had eight ensemble numbers in it all worthy of praise and a taster from their next production, ‘Sister Act’, was a definite highlight. The revue ended where it started with ‘It’s Not Where You Start, It’s Where You Finish’ which was a fitting end to an exciting, lively, beautifully costumed, well lit show brought together by a great four piece band. Congratulations to all involved especially to the cast for all their hard work in learning all of those songs and the many and varied dance routines.

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